What are the benefits of Shiatsu (massage)?

Shiatsu does more than loosen muscles—it activates the body's repair switch at a cellular level. The stimulation directly influences genes within cells, drawing out anti-inflammatory effects and increasing the cells' self-repair ability by about 30%. Rather than only relieving tension physically, Shiatsu helps place the body itself into a state where it can heal more easily from within.

Why is acupuncture effective for pain?

Because it powerfully activates the body's own natural painkillers. When a needle is inserted, a pain-blocking substance called adenosine increases by about 24 times at that site, while the brain releases endorphins—hormones with strong pain-relieving effects. Acupuncture can quickly reduce pain through both local and brain-based pathways.

What are the benefits of combining Shiatsu and acupuncture?

It allows you to block pain with acupuncture while promoting fundamental repair with Shiatsu at the same time, accelerating recovery. Acupuncture shuts down pain signals, while Shiatsu rapidly advances cellular repair. This dual approach resets the body more efficiently than either treatment alone.

Does one session provide lasting effects?

You may feel changes after just one session, but the effects are temporary. With regular treatments, however, cumulative benefits occur. For example, scientific studies show that receiving treatment once or twice a week for about five weeks helps maintain softer muscles and improved immune function even between sessions.

How often should I come for treatment?

We recommend a two-step approach: a reset phase and a maintenance phase. First, aim for about five weeks of focused care. If you have chronic tension or pain, visiting once or twice a week is ideal. Once your body stabilizes into a state where pain is less likely to return, weekly visits are no longer necessary. From there, you can shift to maintenance—such as once every two weeks or once a month—based on your lifestyle and condition, to prevent issues before they arise.

Is stronger pressure more effective?

Surprisingly, no. The most effective pressure is one that feels slightly painful but comfortable, around a 4–6 on a 10-point scale. Excessively strong pressure can cause the body to enter a defensive state, tightening muscles and potentially slowing recovery.

Do I need to bring anything?

No. We provide clothing for you to change into, so you can come empty-handed.

Yes, in many cases. Treatments by Shun Watanabe (acupuncture, shiatsu, massage therapy) may be (partly) reimbursed through your Dutch supplementary insurance, if your plan covers alternative care ('alternatieve geneeswijzen'). You receive an invoice after the treatment to submit to your insurer.

Japanese Massage, Shiatsu & Acupuncture in Amsterdam

The Difference

Why Choose Us

Nationally Licensed, Authentic Japanese Care

"The Only Place in Amsterdam Offering Authentic Japanese Therapeutic Care"

Our practitioners hold national licenses from Japan (Anma, Massage, Shiatsu, Acupuncture, and Moxibustion), requiring over three years of formal training—a standard rare in the Netherlands. We blend orthopedic knowledge with traditional techniques.

Deep Reset for Mind and Body

Your session begins with a careful consultation to identify the root cause. We perform orthopedic tests when necessary to pinpoint issues and provide precise, effective treatment followed by at-home care tips.

Olympic athletes and artists' choice
Orthopedic test based approach
Ideal for busy professionals

Pricing

Care Menu

Shiatsu deep tissue massage treatment at LOOPLE Vondelpark Amsterdam

Dry Deep Tissue (Shiatsu)

Amazingly precise pressure that targets your trigger points. You’ll realize this is exactly what you needed.

60 min €98 90 min €147

Acupuncture combined with shiatsu massage in Amsterdam

Shiatsu & Acupuncture

After Shiatsu, ultra-thin needles reach deeper muscles, improve circulation, and activate natural healing—working with Shiatsu to deliver deeper, longer-lasting relief.

60 min €98 90 min €147

Holistic Acupuncture

Restore inner balance with this traditional Eastern therapy that activates natural healing, easing stress, fatigue, and chronic tension without massage.

60 min €98 90 min €147

Cosmetic facial acupuncture treatment for skin tone and elasticity

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Cosmetic acupuncture improves skin tone and elasticity while easing eye fatigue, puffiness, acne, stiffness, and insomnia. A holistic treatment that supports both beauty and inner balance with deep relaxation.

60 min €108 90 min €162

Dry Head Spa

A waterless private head spa targeting eye strain, neck and shoulder tension, stress, and poor sleep—refreshing the scalp, neck, and arms without wetting hair, ideal for a quick reset during workdays.

60 min €84 90 min €126

All Gift vouchers are available upon request.

Professionals

Our Therapists

Shun Watanabe

Acupuncturist / Shiatsu / Sports Massage / Judo Therapist

Japanese-licensed therapist in Judo Therapy (non-surgical orthopaedic care), Acupuncture, and Shiatsu.

With over 20 years of experience in Japan and Australia, Shun founded Loople in Tokyo (2013), Amsterdam Zuid (2019), and Amsterdam West (2025).

He specializes in acupuncture, massage, and shiatsu—trusted by professionals, athletes, and artists alike.

Registered with Dutch professional bodies such as CAT and CKT for quality and insurance recognition.

Airi Oka

Acupuncturist

After a career in finance, she shifted to Eastern medicine to focus on the connection between mind and body.

She specializes in cosmetic acupuncture and scalp massage, offering treatments that promote deep relaxation, better sleep, relief from screen fatigue, healthier hair, and lifted facial contours.

She also provides prenatal and postnatal care, tailoring each session to support both physical and emotional well-being. Her approach helps clients restore balance and beauty from within.

Insurance · Vergoeding

Insurance & Reimbursement

Treatments by Shun Watanabe — acupuncture, shiatsu and massage therapy — may be (partly) reimbursed through your Dutch supplementary health insurance (aanvullende verzekering).

Shun Watanabe is registered with CAT-vergoedbaar and RBCZ, and affiliated with GAT (complaints and disciplinary body under the Wkkgz).

How it works

Check your policy: look for "alternatieve geneeswijzen" (alternative care) and the maximum per day and per year.
Book your treatment with Shun Watanabe.
After the treatment you receive an invoice with everything your insurer needs (AGB code, registration number and treatment code).
Submit the invoice to your insurer.

Good to know

Reimbursement comes from the supplementary insurance, not the basic insurance. The deductible (eigen risico) does not apply.
Reimbursement applies only to individual, curative treatments — not to relaxation massage.
Whether and how much you get back depends on your insurer and plan. We cannot guarantee reimbursement.
Most budgets run per calendar year. If you still have budget left this year, you can use it until 31 December.

Nederlands: Behandelingen door Shun Watanabe (acupunctuur, shiatsu en massagetherapie) kunnen (gedeeltelijk) worden vergoed vanuit uw aanvullende verzekering. Controleer in uw polis de vergoeding voor "alternatieve geneeswijzen". Na de behandeling ontvangt u een factuur die u bij uw verzekeraar kunt indienen. Of en hoeveel u vergoed krijgt, hangt af van uw verzekeraar en pakket.

日本語: 渡邊俊の施術（鍼・指圧・マッサージ療法）は、オランダの追加保険（aanvullende verzekering）から、一部または全額が払い戻される場合があります。施術のあとに、保険会社へ提出できる請求書をお渡しします。払い戻されるかどうか、いくら戻るかは、保険会社とプランによります。

Questions? Send us a message on WhatsApp.

Feedback

Client Experiences

"The best shiatsu in Amsterdam. Shun has an incredible knowledge of the body and found all the spots that needed work. I left feeling light and balanced."

Verified Client

"I had a combined acupuncture and massage session. Airi was so gentle and professional. The atmosphere is very peaceful. Highly recommended!"

Verified Client

"Finally found a place that understands chronic back pain. The Japanese approach is much deeper than what I've experienced elsewhere. Worth every euro."

Verified Client

Science & Knowledge

Restore Balance
to Body & Mind

Why Choose Us

Nationally Licensed, Authentic Japanese Care

Deep Reset for Mind and Body

Care Menu

Dry Deep Tissue (Shiatsu)

Shiatsu & Acupuncture

Holistic Acupuncture

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Dry Head Spa

Standard Care

Cosmetic

Head Spa

Our Therapists

Shun Watanabe

Airi Oka

Insurance & Reimbursement

How it works

Good to know

Client Experiences

FAQ

Vondelpark (West)