The culture of bathing in Japan has transcended the required utility of hygiene, into a social experience that espouses tranquility and a soul-deep wellbeing. Grand resorts have been dedicated to the art of omotenashi or hospitality as an artform - and at the heart of its service, is the bathhouse. The good news: spa aficionados no longer need to travel thousands of miles to indulge in quality, Japanese-inspired service. The first authentic health spa for you and your family, SM Kenko Spa is back.

The familiar hum of Roxas Boulevard traffic filters into the lobby, a constant rhythm against the gentle, flowing water of a newly installed feature. After a five-year hiatus, the doors of SM Kenko Spa have reopened, not just as a return, but as a complete rebirth. The air is fresh, scented with pine wood and a subtle hint of salt from the nearby bay. It’s a sensory experience that signals a new chapter for this beloved sanctuary, a place that first introduced the Philippines to the authentic Japanese health spa experience back in 2009.

Founded by the Jipang Group of Companies, a name synonymous with exceptional Japanese service in Manila, SM Kenko Spa has always been more than just a place for a massage. Its original mission was to bring a piece of "World class Japanese service within your reach," a promise it consistently delivered on for over a decade. Now, after an extensive and holistic renovation, the spa is ready to serve a new generation of guests, inviting them to rediscover the art of relaxation and rejuvenation. The tagline is simple and direct: "We're back and ready to serve." But behind those words is a commitment to an even higher standard of quality and an experience that seamlessly blends tradition with modern luxury.

The story of SM Kenko Spa begins in 2009, a time when the concept of an authentic Japanese-style health spa was virtually unknown in the Philippines. The founders at Jipang Group of Companies saw an opportunity to fill this void, to create a space that was not just about treating the body, but about nurturing the mind and spirit. They envisioned a place where families and individuals could escape the urban chaos of Manila and immerse themselves in a cultural practice deeply ingrained in Japanese life. The vision was ambitious: to build the first "authentic Japanese health spa, for you and your family" in the country.

The location was carefully chosen, a prime spot on the 6th and 7th floors of the Jipang Building, the very same building that houses the esteemed Networld Hotel. Five minutes away from the Japanese Embassy, 18 minutes from the airport, and located at the heart of the Entertainment City, this strategic placement in the heart of Pasay City, at the intersection of Roxas Boulevard and Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, made it easily accessible for both locals and travelers. The spa quickly became a local favorite, a hidden gem where people could experience the therapeutic benefits of Japanese baths and saunas without ever leaving the city.

For years, the spa thrived, becoming a trusted name for relaxation and wellness. The community it built was strong, with many guests becoming regulars, and many of the original staff becoming like family. Then, in 2020, the world changed. The global pandemic forced a temporary closure, a pause in operations that would ultimately last for five years. But this wasn’t a period of stagnation. It was a time for reflection, for planning, and for a complete reimagining of what SM Kenko Spa could be. As calls and inquiries continued to pour in from both Japan, and long-time patrons, the Management Team got to work to answer the call to service. The hiatus allowed the team to undertake a massive renovation, to modernize the facilities, and to elevate every aspect of the guest experience. The result is a space that honors its past while embracing the future of wellness.

So, how does one truly enjoy an authentic Japanese health spa? It's a question many first-time guests ask. The answer lies in the SM Kenko Experience, a thoughtfully curated, nine-step journey designed to guide you from stress to serenity. This isn't just about services; it's about a ritual, a cultural immersion that maximizes the therapeutic benefits of each amenity.

The journey begins on the first level, a tranquil space that holds the core of the spa's offerings. Upon arrival, you're greeted with warmth and professionalism at the reception area. The first step is to disrobe and shower in one of the private shower booths. This is a crucial part of the Japanese spa ritual, a practice of cleansing both the body and the mind before entering the communal baths. This is also where many first-timers might feel a bit of hesitation. As is traditional in a Japanese onsen or sento-style spa, you'll be in your "birthday suit." But there's no need to worry. The areas for men and women are, of course, completely separate and private. Communal bathing is a cherished cultural tradition in Japan, enjoyed by individuals, families, and friends alike. It’s a practice rooted in a sense of community and acceptance. Think of it as an authentic cultural experience, a chance to shed not just your clothes, but also your inhibitions - to metaphorically remove and lay to rest the burdens and expectations of the outside world.

Once you’ve showered, the next step is to take a dip in our onsen-style bath. The water is set at a blissful 40 to 42 degrees Celsius, the perfect temperature to relax your muscles and gently raise your core body temperature. The hot water relaxes sore muscles, and releases even the deeply rooted muscle tightness that many people beyond compare - cultivating a group of daily spa goers in its pre-pandemic days. It's a feeling of warmth and weightlessness that washes away the tensions of the day. We recommend soaking for no longer than 15 minutes to fully enjoy the benefits without overdoing it. This initial dip is the perfect prelude to the next stage of your experience.

From the bath, you move on to the saunas. Here, you have a choice: the dry sauna or the steam sauna. The dry sauna is a marvel of craftsmanship, completely fitted out with spruce and pine wood planks. These woods are ideal for dry saunas due to their mild, pleasant aroma and low thermal conductivity, which allows for a consistent and comfortable heat. For those who prefer a different kind of heat, the wet sauna offers its own set of benefits. The humid, misty air is excellent for hydrating the skin, leaving it with a healthy glow, and can also soothe the respiratory system. Both saunas are designed to induce a deep sweat, a process that helps to eliminate toxins from the body. This is a powerful form of detoxification that leaves you feeling cleansed and renewed, both inside and out. The dry sauna averages around 70 degrees, while the wet sauna is a more gentle 50 degrees, providing options for every preference.

After the heat, comes the exhilarating cold. The cold plunge is kept at a crisp 18 degrees Celsius, and it's a vital part of the optimal sauna experience. We highly recommend alternating between the hot amenities—the bath, the dry sauna, or the steam sauna—and the cold plunge. This practice is known as "contrast therapy", a technique that uses the effects of heat and cold to stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote muscle recovery. It’s excellent for the body, and many sauna enthusiasts describe the feeling as "euphoric." You are welcome to rotate between the different amenities as often as you like, just remember to stay hydrated. Water stations are conveniently located throughout the wet floor area, for guests’ convenience.

Following the hot and cold ritual, you can treat yourself to one of our popular services: a body scrub. We use a special exfoliating scrub infused with coconut milk and salt, a combination that is guaranteed to leave your skin smoother, softer, and noticeably brighter. This service is a favorite among our guests because it pairs perfectly with the sauna experience. The heat from the saunas softens dead skin, and , making the exfoliation process more effective. It's a holistic approach to wellness where you can exfoliate, detoxify, relax, and rejuvenate all in one session.

After you've completed your wet floor ritual, the next step is to dry off and change. We provide complimentary yukata and lounge shorts, a traditional Japanese garment that is both comfortable and stylish. Changing into the yukata marks the transition from the wet floor to the serene lounge area, a symbol of your journey from active relaxation to quiet contemplation. A well supplied vanity station is available to dry one’s hair, moisturise, and indulge in the minutia of grooming. This is one of the best times to find indulgence in one’s usual routine: as people find their skin rosy and smooth from the baths - their postures and features transformed into expressions more true to themselves, and satisfied. Even the usual lotions and creams will feel velvety against bath warmed, soft skin - giving a taste of why the Japanese are such avid fans of the daily ofuro.

For the complete SM Kenko Spa experience, we highly recommend a full-body massage. Our massage rooms are designed for ultimate comfort and tranquility. You can rest assured that you are in good hands, as many of our therapists are long-time veterans who have been with us since we first opened our doors almost 17 years ago. Their expertise and dedication are second to none, with our Trainors being TESDA certified and experts in the skeletal and muscular structure of human physiology. They have honed their art in Shiatsu, a reflexology oriented massage style that focuses on rooting out deep seated tension and stress, as well as the Swedish massages, which luxuriates in flowing strokes and improving circulation. For those seeking a more therapeutic style, we recommend a Thai massage, which emphasises stretching and relaxing the muscles to promote flexibility, or the traditional healing art of Hilot, a deep tissue massage that seeks to restore balance to the body. Our skilled therapists will tailor the session to your needs, ensuring you feel completely restored and rejuvenated.

Once your massage is complete, guests are invited to proceed directly to the seventh-floor lounge, still in their comfortable yukata. This area is the perfect place to unwind and reflect on your experience. You can enjoy a complimentary hot tea and find a comfortable spot in one of the lounge chairs or private booths. But the relaxation doesn't stop there. Guests can also order from the hotel's second-floor restaurant, Le Amoretto. Not many people know this, but Le Amoretto features a special Japanese menu, curated and managed by the hotel's resident Japanese chef - Shinsaku Hosono. Trained in Kyoto, the heart of culinary and traditional culture of Japan, Chef Hosono utilises his years of experience in kaiseki, or multi-course Japanese meals, into meticulously crafted and balanced meals. This means you can indulge in the Japanese chef curated specials, in hot bowls of authentic ramen, or a variety of expertly prepared Japanese sushi and maki, all while lounging in your yukata.

And for those who didn't opt for a full-body massage, the lounge offers other flexible options. One can find guests who have finally shed the day’s tensions, lulled into a gentle sleep, or idyllically browsing over magazines and books. You can avail of a seated foot massage or a head and shoulder massage right in your lounge chair. We also offer manicures and pedicures, allowing you to pamper yourself from head to toe. Imagine sipping your favorite drink, enjoying a relaxing service, and watching the famous Manila Bay sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors. It's a perfect ending to a perfect day.

SM Kenko Spa also has a special offer, to welcome back its valued and established clients in particular. We are pleased to offer an exclusive membership program, designed around our most popular services - to serve the complete SM Kenko spa experience. This special promotion is limited to only 50 members - after which registration will be closed once this membership count has been reached.

This promotion offers two membership tiers: Sakura and Tsubaki.

For inquiries, reservations, and to avail of this special promotion, we invite you to contact us at +63 2 8536-7777 local 6.

The SM Kenko Spa experience is a destination in itself, but it’s also just one part of the larger universe of leisure and entertainment offered by the Jipang Group of Companies. The Jipang Building is a true one-stop-shop, a place where your relaxation and entertainment needs can be met under a single roof.

At the core of this complex is the Networld Hotel Spa & Casino. The hotel itself is a beacon of Japanese hospitality, offering comfortable and well-appointed rooms for both business and leisure travelers. Its in-house restaurant, Le Amoretto, is a hidden culinary gem. While it presents itself as a charming cafe and bar, it holds a secret menu filled with Japanese classics like sushi, maki, and crowd-favorite tonkotsu ramen and tempura. This unique blend of a cafe bar with authentic Japanese cuisine provides a delightful surprise for guests. In the evenings, talented singers croon live jazz and pop and classical renditions of songs. There is also an open-mike portion, and guests are invited to let loose and serenade the night away.

For those looking for a different kind of excitement, the Networld Casino offers a thrilling atmosphere with a wide range of slot machine games. Game in privacy and comfort, as our account executives provide personalised care and service. Your luck is here!

For those who want to let loose and dance the night away, the newest addition to the Jipang Building is "The Basement," a vibrant dance club that features a mix of disco hits and modern tunes. There are dance instructors present to encourage even the newest dancer to be with easy to follow dance moves, and experienced couples there to enjoy the music and atmosphere. Talented DJs orchestrate the cadence on the dancefloor and lights flash to entice dancers to join in the rhythm, while drinks and laughter flow generously. Whether you're looking for a quiet dinner, a night of gaming, or a lively dance floor, the Jipang Building has something for everyone.

The Jipang Group’s commitment to providing world-class service extends beyond the Roxas Boulevard location. Soon, travelers passing through Ninoy Aquino International Airport's Terminal 3 will have a new place to relax and rejuvenate. The group previously operated "The Wings Transit Lounge" and "SM Kenko Spa" at the airport. In line with the airport management's goal of modernizing and upgrading facilities to world-class standards, these two establishments are coming together to create "The Wings Spa & Lounge." Scheduled to open at the end of the year, this new establishment will be the newest spa and lounge to be open to the public in Manila's airport. It will feature the best of both worlds, combining the renowned services of "The Wings" and "SM Kenko Spa." Travelers can look forward to massages, comfortable lounges, and short-stay accommodations in rooms and capsules. It will also feature an upgraded buffet option, where the combined talents of Chef Hosono, and the Papal Chef, Jessie Sincioco are set to shine. Having served Pope Francis during his state visit to the Philippines, various Presidents, and Heads of State, and championed the Filipino cuisine in various international competitions, Chef Jessie’s flair for excellence, combined with Chef Hosono’s skill, promises to further elevate your travel experience. The Wings Transit Lounge devotes itself that all your needs—from relaxation to nourishment—are met in one convenient, high-quality establishment.

In line with the Jipang Group of Companies’ fascination with wellness, comes its latest venture: Jipang Trim. In partnership with Nippon Trim, the largest market share holder of hydrogen electrolyzed water in Japan, Jipang Trim brings the benefits and convenience of drinking water to your own home. With a unique home subscription and maintenance service proposition, we ensure that your investment in health and wellness continues to serve you and your family. Discover why not all water is created equal, as we toast to your good health!

The Jipang Group of Companies also has a foundation, to support its advocacies and show its gratitude to the community that has also supported it. Since its inception in January 2004, the Jipang Foundation has supported the education of over 18 worthy scholars. From the fields of Education, BS Nursing, Accountancy, Architecture, Marine Engineering and many others, the Jipang Foundation has produced several licensed professionals, and continues to provide opportunities for these children's future. The Jipang Foundation also regularly hosts feeding programs, such as the Sopas and Mansanas event, which celebrated its 23rd year of conception last December 2024. It encourages its employees, and other volunteers, to join in the celebration of good will and thanksgiving, as they join children in chatting, playing games, and partaking of a nourishing and warm meal of sopas and mansanas together.

The grand reopening of SM Kenko Spa is more than just a return to business; it's a reaffirmation of a long-standing commitment to wellness, culture, and exceptional service. The new and improved facilities, combined with the timeless traditions of Japanese hospitality, offer a sanctuary from the demands of modern life. The SM Kenko Experience is a journey, a ritual, and a cultural immersion all rolled into one. It’s an invitation to detoxify, to relax, and to truly rejuvenate.

From the authentic onsen-style baths to the expertly delivered massages, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to provide a holistic and unforgettable experience. The ability to continue the relaxation in the luxurious lounge, with fine dining and stunning views, ensures that your sense of well-being extends far beyond the massage table.

So, for guests and travelers seeking a unique and restorative experience, we extend a warm welcome. Come and rediscover the art of relaxation. Come and immerse yourself in a piece of Japan, right here in the heart of Manila. The doors of SM Kenko Spa are open, and we are ready to serve.