Maison Suisen

A few metres from the Picasso Museum, there’s a shopfront that catches the eye. Connoisseurs of the land of the rising sun will instantly recognise it. With a name like Suisen, no doubt about it, you’re about to enter the temple of Japanese-style wellbeing. The daffodil (‘suisen’ in Japanese) is the house emblem and the symbol of rebirth, of time out for oneself.

Step inside to discover a traditional Japanese inn (‘ryokan’). All the ryokan features are present, including bamboo flooring, a sculpted partition smelling of cedarwood, straw on the ceiling and walls covered with washi paper. And because every last detail counts here, the materials all come straight from the source.

But the spa doesn’t just look like a ryokan. Japanese hospitality - omotenashi - is the watchword here. All your senses are carried off to a world where there’s no room for stress.

Suisen Shiatsu

The massages are also loyal to Japanese tradition. Although they are not all performed on a tatami mat, they are inspired by the shiatsu technique. This method dating back hundreds of years is based on the principles of traditional Japanese medicine. Deep breathing and vital energy balance are a key part of each of the solo and duo rituals.

The 5 treatments available, with Japanese names, adapt to your needs and desires, but also to the season. From face to tummy, nothing is left out when it comes to freeing your body of stress and tension.

The Wa (balance) technique is performed in traditional dress on a tatami. It rebalances your energies, boosts circulation and stimulates the immune system. With Jaku (serenity), you lie on a massage table while tight pressure points are released. Sei (purity) aims to bring a fresh glow and firmer tone to both your face and body. As for Kei (respect), this massage focuses on the lower body to generate a sensation of lightness.

To round off in style, Fuku (joy) concentrates on the second brain: the stomach. This is where stress, toxins and negative emotions lie. The massages and deep breathing will leave you feeling soothed.

Suisen Tea

Each ritual ends with a cup of green tea, but without the traditional ceremony. This is simply a moment to take the time to reconnect with your inner self after a treatment.

The tea served at the spa is sourced directly from small plantations in Japan. Everything, from the massage oils to the beverages, is organic and 100% natural. Fans of green tea can pop into the Suisen boutique to buy some Matcha, Kukicha, Houjicha or Genmaicha to take home.

Need a little peace and quiet? Check out the prestigious sites of the Paris Region.