Most recently I had a 60 massage with Eva who is one of the best therapists I've had here. I had an acupressure massage and she was very good, checked with me often about the pressure and was able to release tension in my neck that has been there for years. I have been going to this spa for a few years and have had consistently excellent experiences. I have tried every wet treatment , scrub and combo along with a variety of dry room massage services. The first time I had a scrub I was a little shocked at how effective it was. While the exfoliating technique is between medium and intense, the results are undeniable. The basic scrub is 30 minutes but I highly recommend going for the body scrub acupressure 90 minutes service. Having tried all the spas in the area I can say with confidence that the water temperatures at Imperial are the most reliable. The hot tub is perfectly scorching and the cold dip is perfectly icy, almost unbearable, as it should be. They offer hot and cold water, sometimes have tea. They have a really nice selection of hair dryers to use on the way out, Dyson style. I prefer to go during the week when it's slow but I have also found that during the busiest of times here, the staff does a great job of enforcing the rules of silence. Overall I have enjoyed every single experience here. I can't post pictures because it's not allowed to take photos inside, but the facility is clean, inviting and enjoyable. read more

First time checking this place out. Not bad for a $100, 45-minute "Swedish massage," though the technique was a bit unexpected. Instead of the usual kneading, there was a lot of poking, finger-tracing, and some elbow work. I ended up opting out of the back-walking part. The facilities are a bit tight--the parking lot only has five spots, and the steam and sauna rooms only fit about 4-5 people at a time. The men's and women's areas are separate, which is nice, but the shoe lockers don't actually lock (though you do get a bracelet for your main locker). A few quirks: the water cups are so tiny they are like shot glasses, and they leave the massage room doors open during the session. I think I'll try Kabuki Spa next time to compare. read more

After my mom passed away, I wanted to do everything I could to relax and take care of myself. I went to a spa and got massages a few times a week. I really need to take care of myself. I impulsively booked an appointment for a acupressure massage, jumped into my car and arrived about 30 minutes before my service to take advantage of the facilities. The outside of the facility was nothing to brag about, but the interior of the women's locker room is very nice. The steam room, sauna, jacuzzi and cold plunge were so relaxing. They also have a yellow-red clay room, which was a new experience to me. From their website, "The clay room is a heated sauna where the walls and ceiling are lined with clay. When this clay is heated with infrared light, it releases oxygen that detoxifies the body and helps with any fatigue, inflammation, infection, and menstrual cramps". The Acupressure Massage made me feel a little sore the next day, but by far one of the best massages and such a deal for 90 minute for $150.00 and the use of the day spa included. FANTASTIC. read more

I've been to this place 3x and it has been good. 4th time I brought my hubby - Front desk guy was very rude and insisted on giving our money back after misunderstanding. They told us to bring our own slippers (changad policy bc the past they provided slippers) but we can't wear the shoes coming inside. I mistaken! But the guy at the front desk was so rude and had very nasty behavior! He told us quickly he will give us our money back - his attitude escalated from 0 to 100! . After he insisted on giving our money back I didn't feel good about staying so we left and took the offer of getting the money back. I won't ever be in a place where I'm not welcome. After reading the other posts this was a blessing in disguise. Never going back there. The pearl spa is great! read more

Wow, and horrified at the policy changes at the Spa I have been bringing my daughter and friends here for well over 15 years. They insist and always provide sandals for you to wear because you have to visit the restroom area which can always have remnants of feces or urine around the actual toilets. As in any bathroom, In public, school's office, etc., and now they are now asking folks to walk around in the toilet area and then out in the spa areas on the furniture and where people lay down in the spas. This is pretty disgusting and a hard no. The shower areas are communal, which also means anyone who might have a fungus. You're literally showering in it. It's a sad day, but I'm headed to get a massage at another place. I won't be back to this place as long as they have unhealthy Practices. read more

I have been to this place a handful of times not in the past three years. Today's massage was good and after the massage I barely set up as it was 90 minutes deep tissue. I was pretty dizzy, and the lady immediately handed me her envelope and I said I don't have cash, which I already confirmed with them in the front before I even got inside. They said fine. you can pay with a card. Then I told the lady to text me her Venmo information but she wouldn't. She literally got me up walked me to the dressing area while I'm all dizzy and dehydrated. Waited for me to get my phone out to scan her Venmo to pay her tip. This is kind of shockingly unacceptable. People come here to relax from very busy lives and in other places where people take Venmo for tipping, they have a little chart in the front and you can scan the person's information and you tip them on your way out. Having this experience makes me question just about what they stand for because it's really not about your well-being but a ginormous business. Their people are absolutely not trained in hospitality or even wait until your dizzy customer is ready read more

Unfortunately this place has gone down hill and its cleanliness is the biggest issue! There is black alge mold on the floor and sides of the cold pool. I got a rash after I got a body scrub so I agree with the others who wrote a review about getting folliclitits !!! The hot tub water is brown and has pubic hairs floating and smells like rotting skin. They dont give you sandles no more ...so expect some type of foot fungus. The workers no longer specialize in Korean style massage or skin products. Also you can tell they dont want to be there. The staff seems sketch read more

Spare yourself and your $ and go across the street to the Kabuki. Imperial no longer provides slippers (gross); provides only one towel per entry fee & will charge you for an additional one. Horrible lighting; indifferent staff; has declined considerably in past decade; spa and steam room are cringe-worthy, outworn, & outdated. Unsupervised steam room with guys j**king off. Super tacky decor & furnishings. Never again. read more

Two days after visiting the spa with a friend who recommended it, I developed hot tub folliculitis and mastitis. Essentially they are red dots that appear all over your body caused by bacteria because the water is not properly chlorinated. Unfortunately, that same bacteria got into my right breast, and it became inflamed and painful to the touch whenever something brushed it, like my clothes. I had to go to the gynecologist because mastitis does not go away on its own. Plus, you need to take an ultrasound after you drink the antibiotics to ensure that the antibiotics is working. Like others mentioned in this Yelp review (which I did not get a chance to read before I came to the spa), they did not provide the slippers when you go to the bathroom, so you do not know if the water pooled near the toilet seat is wet from the spa or something else. In addition, I was not informed by the staff that I need to take a shower before and after the spa. I only knew it because my friend told me how it's done. Otherwise, the staff is nice. I would have given it a higher rating if I did not contract this. read more

See all

I showed up a little early (because they advertise free two hours before or after your service) the manager yelled at me to wait outside for 10 mins, when I stepped outside and received this email: He was so hostile, I don't even want to walk back in there to ask for an explanation. read more

Imperial Day Spa - Last minute cancellation from management - Day Spas Near Me - San Francisco, California

I had a very disturbing experience at this spa and felt compelled to share it for others' awareness, especially because I have been a customer here many times before and never experienced anything like this. I arrived at 7:56 a.m. for my 8:30 a.m. appointment. I walked in, but there was no one at the front desk. I called out to see if anyone was there. Seeing no one, I began to step back outside. At that point, a male staff member came out. I let him know I had an appointment later that morning. He immediately began yelling at me to leave and get out, aggressively ushering me outside (without physically touching me, but in a very intimidating manner) saying they were closed. I left and returned a few minutes later at 8:01 a.m., asking if I could come in at that time. He said yes. I then calmly explained that his earlier behavior felt rude and unnecessary, given the unlocked door and lack of staff at the desk. His apology was dismissive and sarcastic. He then walked around the desk and flipped the sign from "closed" to "open" in a confrontational way, rather than de-escalating the situation. When I told him the interaction was still very rude and uncomfortable, his behavior escalated further. He balled his fist, grabbed it with his other hand, and began breathing deeply and aggressively, which I found extremely threatening. After asking for his name (Jay?), he then began fumbling through items on the desk in a way that made me feel unsafe. At that point, I left the business entirely. The entire interaction is on camera. This was not just poor customer service--it was intimidating and frightening. Given my prior positive experiences here, this was especially disappointing. I would strongly caution others and hope management takes this behavior seriously. I will be report this to the BBB. The whole interaction is on camera. read more

I was hesitant to try this facility my friend recommended because of the recent negative reviews, but I ended up being pleasantly surprised. The inside is really nice--there are bathrooms, shoe lockers, separate lockers for your belongings, three standing open showers, three seated washing stations, a hot tub, a sauna, massage rooms, and scrubbing tables. They give you a bracelet with a number that matches your locker, and that's what they call you by. On the women's side, everyone is nude. I felt shy at first, but I quickly got comfortable because everyone is respectful and no one is paying attention to you. The scrub itself was amazing. It was a little rough at times, but never enough for me to ask her to stop or lighten up. Between each stage of the scrub, she poured warm water over me, which felt incredible. With my permission, she also washed my hair and scalp. The massage afterward was very good as well. Next time I'm in San Francisco, I'll definitely return and plan to spend even more time there. The only downside is parking--it was very difficult to find, and after circling several times, I got lucky when someone pulled out on a side street. I recommend going early. One more tip: they don't provide flip-flops, so bring a pair you don't mind getting wet. read more

Poor Customer service. No organization among staff. Not adequate communication with clients. Massage was just average quality, used too much oil and no good pressure. read more

It's declined. The first sign of its decline was when they stopped offering slippers. Every time I come here (I stopped) I would get a rash after using the hot tub. They don't clean out the drains often enough as hair would get caught and start to flood the area. The jets aren't as strong as they used to be. Even the snacks have changed and are just goldfish. They should also do better in reminding new customers to keep voices at a low and to not use their phone while in the areas. I would cross the bay to come to this location but the one past Oakland in San Leandro is of better quality at the same price. My recommendation is to head there. read more

I would def visit this spot again. Not as many amenities as some of the larger Korean spas I've been to, but still worth a visit. There is no co-ed area here, so just an fyi to those that want a co-ed space to hang.. this is not for you. You get a robe, towels, and slippers upon entering. The shower area is clean, and there is one hot and cold tub. They only allow a certain # of people at a time so it never felt crowded. There is a wet and dry sauna, which was nice, as well as a heated clay room. I really enjoyed the clay room, and felt my body totally unwind as I was laying there. I ended my time with a Korean scrub, and let me tell you, there is no scrub like a Korean scrub. Months worth of dead skin scrubbed off my body, yeah kinda gross, but my god... baby soft skin afterwards. read more

Imperial Day Spa is a hidden gem for those seeking an authentic Korean spa experience. From the moment you walk in, the tranquil atmosphere sets the tone for relaxation. The spa is clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed, creating a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The Korean Body Scrub - A Must-Try The highlight of my visit was the traditional Korean body scrub, and let me tell you--it's intense but incredibly effective. The skilled therapists leave no inch of your skin untouched, scrubbing away layers of dead skin to reveal baby-soft, glowing skin. It's both invigorating and deeply cleansing, leaving you feeling refreshed and renewed. Facilities & Amenities Imperial Day Spa offers a variety of hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms, read more

Imperial Day Spa - Jacuzzi & cold plunge - Day Spas Near Me - San Francisco, California

Amazing day spa! Has a saunas, steam room, cold plunge and hot tub. No bathing suits allowed in pools (which I thought was odd). I would've used it if I was able to wear a bikini in. The massage was just ok but the scrub was to die for!! The pineapple scrub consists of laying on a table (naked, with others of the same gender nearby by). They spray hot water on you, scrub you with a hydrating pinaple, massages it in. Then covers you up with the foil and puts hot towels on you. Then you get a facial while that's on. Then rinses you off with more hot water, then you dry off and then get a full body massage. After the massage she gives a shampoo scalp massage. Absolutly 10-10 recommend the scrub! read more

Imperial Day Spa - Day Spas Near Me - San Francisco, California

Wonderful jacuzzi, great staff I just wish there was a bit more instructions and communication for first timers. Definitely going again

I visited a wet skin scrub massage, which was not bad. However, the additional oil massage experience was horrible. Tina, who does not have a massage certificate, asked me to get onto a greasy bed that hadn't been cleaned after the previous client. I could barely understand what they were asking me. Tina applied oil to my face without my consent, covered my face with cucumbers, and then asked me to lean closer to her. I would never return to Imperial Spa. It used to be a good place when it was managed by a Korean owner, but the receptionist is rude and greedy and does not care about customer service. read more

I would give it 2.5 star. I have been coming to Imperial Spa for 20 years. It used to love it. The last 2 times I visited, I noticed the decline of amenities. They used to provide slippers just like any other Korean spa. Not anymore. They also used to provide 2 different types of crackers. Now they have goldfish or something. Even the bathing products have changed and have been watered down! GONE were the days when the Korean lady gave you scrubs. All the ladies here are Chinese and I agree with the above review that thia place now a Chinese Spa that is inspired by Jjimjibang ,but doesn't meet the standard. POLICIES were not enforced. There was a girl who applied hair mask at the hot tub area then went into the stem room, which left the hair product fagaurance in the room. It was pretty potent. The same girl was on the phone the whole time with her earpods. I'm sad that I need to look elsewhere. read more

This is where you will be totally naked (as will all the other guests) so this is not a place to be shy, scrubbed to death (or at least all of the dead skin from just about every crevice of your body will be sloughed off), told to turn over a few times, pounded on (sometimes in a painful way) and feel like you just might slip off the rather high table. This is also where you will come out extremely soft and clean, where you can get in a hot jacuzzi or cold plunge (skipped that one), a steam sauna or a dry one and, on the women's side, a clay room for detoxifying among other good things. After a soak, steam and whatever else (drinking lots of water too), your number will be called from the upper floor. Wander up to a room with a few tables for a purification scrub & oil massage or whatever you schedule. And it begins. Warm water is splashed on you. You are scrubbed. All over. This is not a namby pamby spa. This is no nonsense and they will WORK on you. The massage is rough but good and needed. They will even climb on you to work those muscles. And you'll also get cucumbers on your face, washed all over with warm milk and your hair will be washed and conditioned with a great head massage, too! Plus, the electronic locker key bracelet also doubles as a hair tie! I will definitely head back. And I will ask for Cindy to be my attendant again. read more

Imperial Day Spa - Day Spas Near Me - San Francisco, California

I've been going there for many many years for scrubs and massages. I purchased the day passes for $350 so that I could cold plunge after an injury. After using only one of my 10 passes, the cold plunge was broken; they told-me it needed a part and then it would be fixed in two weeks so I waited. I went back in two weeks and the cold plunge still was not fixed, then a month later still not fixed. I told him I bought the passes so that I could get the plunge to reduce inflammation due to an injury and that I would like my money refunded because I already waited too long for it to be fixed. They also could not tell me when it would be fixed. They were very unsympathetic, which is in my view, Very poor customer service. Unfortunately, they refused my refund even knowing that that's why I bought the passes; as result I will not be going back to Imperial.. read more

I love this place. They offer wet and dry treatments. The hot stone room is amazing. But the hot pool is WAY WAY WAY too hot!

Absolutely the worst spa experience I've ever had. I went with a friend for a scrub and massage, and both services were extremely rough and uncomfortable. I understand that Korean scrubs can be intense, but I told my therapist at least eight times that it was hurting and she didn't stop. The massage was also equally as rough, with no regard for comfort. A day later my skin broke out and I had some bruising and scratches. To make things worse, the staff were unfriendly from the start. They physically grabbed us/ shoved us instead of asking us to move during the treatment. Afterward, one of the masseuses insisted multiple times that we tip 20%, even though the experience was painful and unprofessional. When we declined, she screamed at us in front of other customers. This was not relaxing, healing, or professional in any way. One of the worst experiences ever and I would never ever recommend this spa to anyone. read more

UNSAFE FOR TRANS FOLX! I've been coming to Imperial Spa for years, but after what I witnessed, I'll never be back. I went with a trans friend who has a male CA driver's license. We checked the website--no mention of any genital policy. Everything was fine for hours... until two attendants pulled him aside. "Are you transgender?" "We had a complaint." A complaint. Because he exists. When we asked about their policy, they admitted: They segregate by genitals, not identity. They don't disclose this--until they enforce it. There's no written policy, yet they still police people's bodies. This is blatant transphobic discrimination. If you're trans, be warned: this spa does not welcome you. If you care about human rights, take your business elsewhere. Watch what happened for yourself: youtu.be/FbeAb0viPjM?si=9Gg7wv2u9ToiAKtx read more

Definitely feels like a change in ownership. While I thought the prior owner and workers were brusque, the new owners are even worse. It no longer feels like a Korean spa and feels like a cheap Chinese wanna be Korean spa. Gone are the days of getting two free masks if you pay in cash and the masseuses are just not the same. They felt inexperienced and just randomly "massaging" you. You're better off some where else. read more

I haven't been here for years. Didn't wanted to drive to Palo Alto area so came here since I was in SF. Pearls spa is only for females and my husband wanted a scrub etc so I was booking this for my husband. This place Never pick up the phone. Text message is also just auto. Make appointment through their auto text, then when you get there appointment isn't confirmed. Trying to call them numerous times doesn't pick up. What's the point having a voice mail box. Don't waste your time. Females just go to pearl's. They will seriously loose all their customers if they manage like this read more

I went back a third time because I am injured and it's close to my house. I said at the desk to the two managers who are always there. This is my 3rd attempt coming here, if something bad happens again im not coming back. As soon as I sat down to take my shoes off they inform me they no longer offer sandals - and there were none for sale. Pretty sure not only is that a HUGE risk for injury especially if you are old or injured due to WET TILE FLOORS EVERYWHERE. but also - gross- that is a breeding ground for infection etc. This place literally just needs to be purchased by someone new - Can you imagine going into a STEAM room - fully nude with bare feet and trying not to bust open your head? also - kitchen scrubber and Irish spring for a body scrub = janky AF read more

While my first experience here was good, my second experience was awful. They use a kitchen scrub brush for full body scrubs. A hard plastic bristle brush meant for scouring pans. I scheduled a massage and it was obvious that THE PERSON I WAS WITH WAS NOT TRAINED. SHE PUT GOBS OF BABY OIL ON MY BODY AND PROCEEDED TO SMEAR IT AROUND. She kept lifting my shoulders up off the table, as if that was a helpful move. I had requested deep tissue and THIS PERSON DID NOT KNOW DEEP TISSUE and didn't do anything that resembled deep work. I planned to go into the hot tub after my massage, but had an oil slick on my body. I contacted the spa, and they refused to offer a refund for the massage or to give me credit with another provider. Unprofessional customer service and below average practitioners. read more

Don't worry about getting naked in front of women you don't know. Don't worry about getting tossed onto a plastic covered massage table and being thrown hot water at all over your naked body by an elderly Korean woman and starts scrubbing every inch of your naked body. Yes, there and there too! I think I spent half the time wondering what's she's thinking of my body, my skin, etc, the normal anxious thoughts that occur when a total stranger is doing things to it that you normally reserve in private. As the lady is scrubbing away, she wants me to see the dead skin that she's taking away and I am AMAZED and APALLED at how much dead skin I had sitting on my skin! I gotta say, I love the hot water being thrown at my naked body and it was my favorite part of the experience! I didn't have an appointment but they took me in for a simple body scrub. It was the best $80 I spent! My skin felt so damn smooth! I'm a fan! read more

3 stars because the massage wasn't bad. Was a bit unsettling as soon as I spoke to the front desk. Only went for the oil massage ($90) that was verbally confirmed right before charging me $100 anyways. Was then told it was an accident and that I could get the refund or leave it for the tip (which I felt like was probably done on purpose to give them an automatic tip). I usually tip service providers so there was no need for that. Atmosphere of the place just did not feel relaxing but the layout of it was ok. Spacious enough for all the nakey people around. I personally walked around in a robe but my massage therapist was pressuring me too much "not to be so shy," which made me uncomfortable. Tried to ask for more tip in the end and asked me when I'd be coming back again. Also kept talking to me during the massage ‍ Overall just not it for me read more

Massage staff does not wash hand with soap after using the restroom (she quickly rinsed her hand with water only)

I tried again one year later. The place is either dead or you can't get in. In addition to closing early last time I was there, customer service is not gracious for the tiny place with limited service and spaces. There is rarely parking nearby in the evening. Maybe it's a good place for retirees who can go during the day. I showed up solo as a man was exiting the men's side. I was then told the men's side is "full"???? Maybe they just don't like me or white people in general. I highly discourage visiting this place. I have yet to have a single positive experience over multiple years of giving them a chance. read more

Prices went up. Bought gift certificate for mom for birthday and they made her pay extra. No fine print. No disclaimer. Was for specific spa package. read more

I grew up in a place that I got "scrubbed" each week (often time scrubbed to death). I have been looking for options for a very long time. Tried this place in May/22. These are my thoughts: - Location is pretty decent. But it is right next to a popular bakery shop (don't know what it was but there was a VERY long line in the early morning of a weekend.... So it has to be so good to wake up a whole bunch of people who are still hang overed....). Pros is that if you desire a hit of good pastry, it is literally right next door. Con is that it will take you some time and courage to park on the side of the street somewhere around in SF. It is not far from Japan Town. Plenty of shopping/browsing/eating before or after your treatments. - Scrub is pretty solid. I actually did enjoy the scrubbing and thought it to be very authentic. Super smooth skin and I had to have a nap when I got home (forget about shopping/eating etc) - The facility is, to be honest, dated and small. It is clean but dated. I got here first thing on a weekend morning. After my scrubbing session, it was packed. - The hair/skin products are moderate. So, nothing like Aveda stuff the other options do provide. This place overall reminds me of a homey neighborhood bath house back in the day. For the price, I would prefer a fancier option, which I did find. I think the killer for me is really the location of right in SF. I prefer to have a bathing/scrubbing session at night, heading home and hitting the bed right after. But coming here at night right now in SF, alone, parked at night, is slightly unsafe for a single person. I might come back for another visit when SF is more in shape. But this is, to me, a solid neighborhood bath house. Hitting pretty close to home. read more

Always a great experience been there more than a dozen times- the ladies give great massages and thorough scrubs-

Amenities were nice and the scrub went well! The place is a bit smaller than I expected, but it did the job. My skin felt nice and smooth. The price was good for what service I got. read more

Must visit! My experience was really nice. I had a very good time, and it was super relaxing after I was done with the session. It is an inclusive, safe space that made me feel comfortable. It's sad to see how some people are obsessed with their "victim" card (*cough**cough* Erik) that they forget the world doesn't revolve around them. But yes, It's Highly recommend! read more

Solid korean spa in the city offering decent services. The scrub I had here was good and the pricing is pretty cheap for the bay area as well. However, compared to other korean spas that I have been to, it is very lacking. The mens side only had 1 hot tub, 1 cold plunge tub, 1 sauna, and 1 steam room. I've been to other korean spas in LA that had co-ed areas, various types of sauna rooms and even food so in comparison it was disappointing but for what it is it's pretty fine! I'd say good deal if you're looking for a quick body scrub! read more

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=9vXBmHKQWz4 March 5, 2025 After handing me a key to the men's side of the spa, Imperial Spa then kicked me out, stating that they have a genitalia review policy by which they segregate transgender customers based upon. See the video above, which captures their employees violating both state and city law. Shame on Yelp for deleting my original review and those of other trans people who have experienced the same thing at this spa. The reviews were factual and based on experiences that trans people had at this business and violated no community guidelines. read more