Imperial stomping ground
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The six story Qinghua Spa offers a wide range of services.[Photo Courtesy of Qinghua Spa] |
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Outside the Qinghua Spa, a bronze statue demonstrates the Qing dynastic origins of their foot care practices.[Photo Courtesy of Qinghua Spa] |
Business for these technicians is strong, with the spa handling up to 1,000 people per day. Many are older people, but there are many young people coming too. "Young people have different foot problems than old people," Ms. Wang said. "Old people have problems like toenail fungus, while young people frequently have ingrown toenails due to the new styles of sneakers."
The spa wasn't always so busy. In the Qing dynasty, only wealthy people could afford these services. During the 1950's, business died down. Ms. Wang explained that shoes during this period were made mainly of cloth, which led to fewer foot problems. However, with the Chinese having more disposable income, they are taking better care of themselves, including their feet. The spa employs nearly 100 foot care technicians.
On the first and second floors of the massive 6-story spa, guests can get help for their foot ailments. The first floor includes an "express" style service, with technicians attending to rows of cubicles. Prices here range from 10 yuan per toe, or 25-35 yuan for both feet, depending on the issue. Pedicures and foot massages are available here.
The second floor is comprised entirely of private rooms, where patrons can select technicians based on skill and experience, with prices ranging from 10 yuan for the less experienced to 100 yuan for the master. For 50 yuan, your feet will be attended to by a specialist with over 20 years of experience. Technicians can be requested individually. These specialists are not only capable of fixing simple issues like ingrown toenails; they have been successful with more complicated fungal and inflammatory diseases such as paronychia and bursitis. All equipment is individually wrapped and sent for high-temperature sanitation after use.
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