Acupuncture and Suction Cups Session at the Hospital

Getting a taste of traditional Chinese medicine while visiting Shanghai can be both fascinating and relaxing. This tour offers a one-hour session involving acupuncture and cupping therapy at a reputable hospital, giving travelers an authentic glimpse into age-old healing practices. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, pain reduction, or simply curious about Chinese wellness techniques, this experience might just surprise you.

In this review, we’ll highlight what makes this tour worth considering—such as the professionalism of the practitioners, the tranquil hospital setting, and the genuine cultural insight it offers. We’ll also touch on potential considerations like the session’s length and the nature of the treatment. This experience is ideal for curious travelers eager to explore traditional Chinese medicine in a safe, professional environment.

What We Like About the Acupuncture and Cupping Experience

Authentic medical environment: Conducted at the Longhua Hospital, this session is not a casual spa treatment but a proper medical setting, adding credibility to the experience.

Expert guidance: With a qualified practitioner overseeing the session, you can expect a safe, professional approach, especially if it’s your first time exploring acupuncture or cupping.

Multilingual support: The presence of English, French, and Chinese-speaking trainers makes communication clear, which is essential when dealing with such delicate procedures.

Holistic wellness focus: The combination of acupuncture and cupping broadens the benefits—reducing pain, fostering relaxation, and promoting detoxification—making it more comprehensive than standalone treatments.

Convenient location and timing: Starting from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM at Longhua Hospital, the schedule fits well into most day plans, and the proximity to public transport makes access straightforward.

Value for the price: At $148.16 per person, the session offers a meaningful introduction to traditional Chinese medicine with professional guidance, which could be especially valuable for those new to these techniques.

Possible Drawback: The session lasts about an hour, so if you’re looking for a longer, more in-depth treatment, this might feel brief. Also, personal comfort with needles or suction cups varies, so this might not be suitable for everyone.

Who this suits best: Travelers interested in health and wellness, curious about Chinese medicine, or those seeking a relaxing yet culturally enriching experience will find this tour appealing.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

Meeting Point and Accessibility

Starting at the Longhua Hospital—located at 725 Wanping South Road in Shanghai—the meeting point is easy to reach thanks to its proximity to public transportation. The hospital itself is a well-established medical facility, giving a sense of trustworthiness and professionalism. The activity runs daily from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM, offering flexibility for visitors with varied schedules.

What the Tour Includes

The package provides a comprehensive 1-hour session with both acupuncture and cupping (also called suction cups). The experience is led by multilingual trainers who can explain each step in English, French, or Chinese, easing any first-timer nerves.

The Acupuncture Component

You’ll start with acupuncture, involving the gentle insertion of sterile needles into specific points on your body. The goal is to stimulate the flow of Qi (energy) along meridians, an essential part of traditional Chinese medicine. The needles used are sterile, and the process is generally painless—many people find it surprisingly relaxing.

According to reviews, the practitioner’s technique seems precise, and the environment is calm, which helps you settle into a relaxed state. Travelers report feeling a sense of relief and increased energy after the treatment, along with a notable reduction in pain or stress. Some mention that the acupuncture sessions are tailored to individual needs, partly based on the practitioner’s assessment.

The Cupping (Suction Cups) Technique

After the acupuncture, the session transitions to cupping therapy. Specialized cups are placed on your skin, creating a suction that draws blood to the surface. This process is described as painless and even soothing—many find the sensation similar to a gentle massage.

The purpose of cupping is to promote blood circulation and detoxification—a practice that has been used for over 2,500 years in Chinese medicine. Reviewers often comment on how the cups leave round, bruise-like marks, which fade within a few days but indicate increased blood flow. This technique is believed to help cleanse Qi, improve skin health, and reduce muscular tension.

The Overall Feeling and Post-Session Benefits

After the session, most participants report feeling revitalized with better circulation, relief from pain, and a sense of overall well-being. The combination of therapies aims to balance energy, reduce stress, and foster relaxation.

One reviewer mentioned feeling “completely relaxed and refreshed,” noting that the experience exceeded expectations for a quick, professional treatment. Alternatively, some first-timers expressed slight nervousness about needles but appreciated the clear explanations and gentle approach.

Practical Tips

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points.
• Expect some light marks from cupping that will fade within days.
• Hydrate well after the session to help flush out toxins.
• Consider scheduling the treatment during a free day, as you might feel more relaxed afterward.

Cost and Value

At just over $148, this experience offers a solid introduction to traditional Chinese healing methods, especially considering the professionalism and expert guidance involved. For travelers curious about alternative therapies or wanting a culturally rich wellness experience, it’s worth the investment.

Potential Considerations

While the experience is generally positive, it’s important to note that the session is relatively short—about an hour—so if you’re expecting a comprehensive, full-day treatment, this might be too brief. Also, if you’re uncomfortable with needles or suction cups, this might not be the best choice.

Good To Know

• Authentic environment: Performed at a reputable hospital with qualified practitioners.
• Multilingual support: Staff can communicate in English, French, and Chinese, ensuring clarity and comfort.
• Well-rounded treatment: Combines acupuncture and cupping for a holistic approach.
• Convenient scheduling: Available daily with flexible hours at a central location.
• Value for money: Offers a professional, authentic insight into Chinese medicine for a reasonable price.
• Post-treatment benefits: Participants often leave feeling rejuvenated, with improved circulation and reduced stress.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers interested in Chinese culture and traditional medicine, particularly those seeking a safe, professional introduction. Wellness seekers looking for stress relief or minor pain management will appreciate the benefits. It’s also suitable for first-timers, thanks to clear explanations and the gentle nature of the treatments offered.

However, if you’re looking for a lengthy, in-depth wellness retreat or have a strong aversion to needles, you might prefer more extensive or alternative therapies. Those with specific health conditions should consult a physician beforehand, especially considering the hospital setting and the nature of treatments.

This tour provides a balanced blend of cultural insight, professional care, and relaxation—making it a worthwhile addition to your Shanghai itinerary.

FAQ

Is the session suitable for beginners?
Yes, the session is led by qualified practitioners who explain each step, making it suitable even for first-time participants.

Are the treatments painful?
Most people find acupuncture and cupping to be gentle and relaxing, with no significant pain involved. Some may experience minor discomfort from the needles or cup marks, but it’s generally mild.

What should I wear during the session?
Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended to allow easy access to acupuncture points and to stay relaxed throughout the treatment.

How long does each part of the treatment last?
The entire session lasts approximately one hour, with both acupuncture and cupping included.

Can I book this experience if I don’t speak Chinese?
Yes, the presence of English and French-speaking trainers ensures clear communication, making it accessible to international travelers.

What marks will I see after cupping?
You might notice round, bruise-like marks where the cups were placed. These are temporary and typically fade within a few days.

Is the hospital environment sterile and professional?
Absolutely. The session takes place within a reputable hospital setting, ensuring high standards of hygiene and professionalism.

This opportunity offers a meaningful glimpse into traditional Chinese medicine, all within a trusted medical environment. Whether you’re curious about alternative therapies or seeking a relaxing wellness break, this experience is worth considering during your stay in Shanghai.