What is nuru massage?
A Japanese full-body massage with a warm, smooth gel, done on a soft waterproof mattress. Here's where it comes from, how a session goes and what to expect on your first visit.
- A massage from Japan
- Warm seaweed gel
- 40, 60 or 90 minutes
Where it comes from
A Japanese massage, named after its gel
Nuru massage comes from Japan. Its name comes from the Japanese word nuru-nuru (ぬるぬる), which means slippery or smooth. It describes the gel that the whole massage is built around.
Instead of oil, the therapist uses a warm, water-based gel. It spreads in a thin, even layer and stays smooth for the whole session, so every stroke is long and continuous. The massage glides rather than kneads, which is why most guests find it deeply relaxing.
From Japan the style spread to spas across Asia. Today Bangkok is one of the best-known places to try it.
The gel
Warm, smooth and made with seaweed
Traditional nuru gel is made with nori seaweed. It is clear, and it is warmed before use, so it feels pleasant from the very start.
Because it is water-based, it rinses off easily with warm water and doesn't leave your skin oily the way massage oil can.
At BEST Nuru we use imported Japanese nuru gel in every session, on high-quality sheets that don't go mouldy from water and gel. More about our gel and sheets.
Step by step
How a session goes
Every session at BEST Nuru follows the same simple steps, so you always know what comes next.
Call ahead
Call 096 752 9565 to check that a room and a therapist are free. Choose 40, 60 or 90 minutes, or decide when you arrive.
Arrive at reception
We're in Phrom Phong, opposite EmSphere. You're welcomed at reception and shown to your private room. How to find us.
Shower in your room
Every room has its own rain shower. You start with a warm shower; fresh towels are ready for you.
The massage
Your therapist warms the gel and begins on the soft, waterproof mattress: long, gliding strokes at an unhurried pace, for the full time you booked.
Rinse and rest
Afterwards you shower again; the gel rinses off easily. Each room has a bed, so you can rest for a moment before you go.
Payment
Cash (Thai baht) or Thai QR. We don't take cards. Prices and payment.
Compared
Nuru, oil and Thai massage
Nuru massage
Warm gel on a waterproof mattress, with long, gliding strokes. Very smooth and very relaxing.
Oil massage
Massage oil on a bed. The therapist kneads and presses, and the oil can stay on your skin afterwards.
Thai massage
No oil or gel: stretching and pressure on a floor mattress, often quite firm.
Which to choose?
For deep pressure, choose Thai massage. To fully relax, most guests prefer nuru.
First visit
What to expect the first time
Many of our guests are trying nuru for the first time. A few things that help:
Nothing to bring
Towels, a shower and everything for the massage are in your private room. Just bring cash or a Thai QR banking app.
Arrive a few minutes early
It gives you time to choose your package at reception before your session starts.
Choose your length
60 minutes is a good first choice. Choose 90 for a slower pace, or 40 for a short break (Deluxe Shower Room only). All prices.
Say what you prefer
Tell your therapist if you'd like it slower or lighter. It's your session.
Private from start to finish
Your room has its own shower, so everything happens in one private room. See the rooms.
Questions
Nuru massage questions
Is nuru massage the same as Thai massage?
No. Thai massage uses stretching and pressure without oil. Nuru uses a warm gel and long, gliding strokes on a waterproof mattress.
Does the gel wash off easily?
Yes. It's water-based, so it rinses off with warm water in your room's own shower.
How long should I book for my first time?
60 minutes is a good start: long enough to relax, short enough to fit into a busy day. See all prices.
What gel do you use?
Imported Japanese nuru gel, in every session. About our gel.
Where can I try nuru massage in Bangkok?
At BEST Nuru Massage Bangkok, in Phrom Phong opposite EmSphere, five minutes from BTS exit 5. Open every day, 10:00–24:00. How to find us.
10:00–24:00
Open every day, ten in the morning until midnight.
You'll be welcomed at our reception. Call ahead and we'll have a room ready.
Call 096 752 9565