Benefits
-
Energy Balance
Pressure along the meridians brings a sense of balance
-
Stress Relief
Steady, calm pressure helps the body relax
-
Restful Effect
The slow rhythm makes it easier to wind down in the evening
-
Neck and Shoulder Ease
Pressure points ease tension in this area
About
Shiatsu means "finger pressure" in Japanese. It brings together the meridian concept of the Chinese tradition and the Japanese tradition of hands-on therapy. No oil is used, and the session takes place on a mat while you stay clothed. Your therapist applies steady, calm pressure along the meridian lines using the thumbs, palms and, where needed, elbows.
What happens during the session?
- Getting ready: You change into the comfortable cotton clothing we provide; the session takes place on a floor mat.
- A brief assessment: Your therapist briefly observes your breathing and the areas of tension in your body to decide which lines to focus on.
- Finger pressure: Pressure is applied in time with your breathing, with a steady, "holding" rhythm, along the meridian lines — especially across the back, shoulders, neck and head.
- Closing: The session ends with calm, slowing touches, followed by herbal tea.
The session lasts 50 minutes with firm pressure; point pressure can feel intense in places and is adjusted to your preference.
Who is it for?
It suits those who want an oil-free massage, anyone looking for a practical session that needs no shower during a working day or while travelling, people who feel tension in the head, neck and shoulders, and those who enjoy a calm, meditative rhythm.
When to be careful
- Pregnancy (some pressure points are not recommended during pregnancy)
- High blood pressure, a heart condition or blood-thinning medication
- Osteoporosis or a recent injury
- Fever or an acute illness
- Frequent, severe headaches (consult your doctor first)
Shiatsu or another massage?
- Traditional Thai Massage: also oil-free and clothed, but built on yoga-like stretches as well as pressure, and lasts 70 minutes.
- Shiroabhyanga Massage: a 30-minute Ayurvedic session with warm oil for the head, neck and shoulders.
- Foot Reflexology Massage: another approach built on pressure points, this time on the feet.
After your session
- As no oil is used, you can go straight back to work or continue your journey.
- The points that were worked on may feel slightly tender for a short while.
- Drink some water and, if you can, keep your evening calm.
About Shiatsu Massage
Is shiatsu the same as siatsu?
Yes. The Japanese word "shiatsu" is often written "siatsu" in Turkish; both refer to the same technique of finger pressure along the meridian lines.
What do I wear for shiatsu?
We provide comfortable cotton clothing, which you wear throughout the session. As no oil is used, you do not need to shower afterwards.
Does shiatsu hurt?
The pressure is firm and can feel intense on some points, but it should not hurt. Pressure is applied steadily and in time with your breathing; if you would like it lighter, just tell your therapist.
What is the difference between shiatsu and Thai massage?
Both are given without oil while you stay clothed. Shiatsu comes from the Japanese tradition and focuses on steady finger pressure along the meridian lines; it lasts 50 minutes. Thai massage combines rhythmic pressure with yoga-like stretches and lasts 70 minutes.
How long does a Shiatsu Massage session take?
A Shiatsu Massage session takes 50 minutes in Istanbul and 70 minutes in Izmir. Choose your branch on the booking form to see its duration options.
Who is Shiatsu Massage suitable for?
Shiatsu Massage is suitable for those preferring oil-free massage, energy-flow practitioners, those feeling tension in the head and neck and guests wanting to unwind in the evening. Please let us know before your appointment if you are pregnant, have had recent surgery or have a chronic condition.
Which areas does Shiatsu Massage focus on?
The treatment focuses on meridian lines, back, shoulders and head. You can agree your priority areas with your therapist at the start of the session.
What is included in a Shiatsu Massage session?
The session includes cotton garments (provided), floor mat and herbal tea.
Where in Istanbul and Izmir can I book Shiatsu Massage?
Shiatsu Massage is available at the Aqua Plus branches in Bagcilar, Fatih, Sisli, Zeytinburnu, Pendik and Bayrakli. All branches are open seven days a week (10:00 – 22:00 / 23:00); choose the branch nearest to you when booking.
What are the benefits of Shiatsu Massage?
Key effects: energy balance, stress relief, restful effect and neck and shoulder ease. How long the effect lasts varies by person and with regular treatment.
How do I book Shiatsu Massage?
You can book online by selecting a branch, date and time slot, or contact the branch directly by phone or WhatsApp. We recommend booking ahead to avoid waiting at peak times.
Where to Get Shiatsu Massage
Shiatsu Massage is available at all six Aqua Plus branches. Choose the one closest to you; the booking form opens with the branch and service already selected.
-
ISTANBUL · BAğCıLAR
Shiatsu Massage in Bağcılar
Near: Güneşli, Kirazlı, Yenibosna
M1B metro line (Bağcılar–Kirazlı), the Mahmutbey–Bağcılar axis and the Basın Ekspres connection; metrobus via Yenibosna/Şirinevler.
-
ISTANBUL · FATIH
Shiatsu Massage in Fatih
Near: Çapa, Aksaray, Vatan
Reachable via the T1 Kabataş–Bağcılar tram (Fındıkzade / Çapa–Şehremini stops) and the M1A metro line (Aksaray).
-
ISTANBUL · ŞIşLI
Shiatsu Massage in Şişli
Near: Mecidiyeköy, Gayrettepe, Esentepe
The M2 metro (Şişli–Mecidiyeköy), M7 metro (Mecidiyeköy–Mahmutbey) and the Mecidiyeköy metrobus stop are within walking distance.
-
ISTANBUL · ZEYTINBURNU
Shiatsu Massage in Zeytinburnu
Near: Cevizlibağ, Topkapı, Maltepe Mahallesi
Reachable via the Zeytinburnu M1A metro / T1 tram interchange, the Cevizlibağ metrobus stop and the E-5 highway.
-
ISTANBUL · PENDIK
Shiatsu Massage in Pendik
Near: Kaynarca, Sapanbağları, Kurtköy
Reachable via the M4 metro line (Kaynarca–Pendik), the Marmaray Pendik station and the D-100 / coastal road.
-
IZMIR · BAYRAKLı
Shiatsu Massage in Bayraklı
Near: Adalet, Mansuroğlu, Manavkuyu
