Shiatsu Rincon

I went in for a massage for the first time with the bf and the whole experience was fabulous, much better than I expected and I expect a lot from a massage! First we soaked in the soaking tub/​onsen after showering in the Japanese style shower. So relaxing and a nice with a nice view out the window! They don’t use chlorine in the water and sanitize it without harsh chemicals (yay for those of us with sensitive skin). Even the shampoo/​conditioner were Aveda.
Afterwards, we donned cotton kimono style robes and were led upstairs as Judy carried our clothes for us in a basket. We were massaged with the robes on. Shiatsu is deep, therapeutic massage (no superficial, light strokes here) and traditionally done clothed, and this experience stays true to tradition. No icky, greasy oils here, just a massage that truly makes you feel healthier, more flexible, more relaxed.
The bf and I were massaged upstairs in the same room which was so cool! Jack works very deeply and worked the kinks out of my low back by massaging my back, abdomen and hips. Holy cow! Afterwards, I felt loose and light, truly like walking on clouds. I had been having a low back spasm and I’d gone to my acupuncturist and chiropractor which helped, but the only thing that took it away was Jack’s deep Shiatsu!
We enjoyed our massages so much that we started discussing when we’d visit next as we drove away! Run, don’t walk to Shiatsu Rincon if your body is aching for massage!
Oh, and this is not some big massage store/​operation. The bf and I were the only ones there in their only soaking tub and the only ones being massaged. So book ahead.
Afterwards I told Judy that I’d give her a very positive Unilocal review and she told me that her daughter told her that they had a negative review. «HOW DID THAT HAPPEN???» I asked, not believing it. Apparently someone says Shiatsu Rincon canceled her appointment, which is not true. Jack and Judy were unable to fit that person in and apparently she wrote a bad review. Hello! Lying is BAD juju/​karma. I told Judy to write a rebuttal, but she is a Shiatsu practitioner, not a computer person, so I thought I’d mention it here.
The truth is that this place is a hidden gem, a bargain at $ 85 for one hour massage and ½ hour soak. $ 85 is a bargain for the wonderful, exceptional healing work you get here. I HIGHLY recommend them! And the bf and I will be back very soon since we decided this is likely to be our go-​to place for massage from now on.

Extremely unique and relaxing place. Just the drive out is amazing, and the setting is very beautiful and serene. You shower then soak in this amazing floor level Japanese-​style tub and can sit outside in the zen garden while you dry. After that you’re already feeling nurtured. Judy and John, the practitioners, know their stuff, they are two of the best shiatsu masters in California, both also knowledgable in oriental medicine and qi gong. So in addition to being relaxing, the massage is healing, revitalizing, balancing. I bring family members here when they come to SB and they can’t wait to come back. It’s always a special treat for me when I’ve accomplished something or finished a big project. This is my payoff.

I have not personally been, but they handled our potential business poorly! This was suppose to be the highlight of my bachelorette party only to find out via email at 9:00pm the night before they overbooked. No apologies or phone call to let us know VERY UNPROFESSIONAL! Based on this won’t ever go.

Shiatsu Rincon is truly a relaxing escape! A little over an hour from LA and just south of Santa Barbara, this gem is so close yet feels completely removed from our fast paced urban lives. I treasure my time spent here and am always thinking about my next visit. Lovely!

Really reasonable for a message in the SB area, a neat house with a zen like feel. We enjoyed an hour shiatsu massage, and then a 30 minute soak in a relaxing bath. Perfect to take away the stress!

Nestled in a hidden love valley six minutes from the Pacific, you can feel the serene energy as you first drive onto Gobernador Drive. As you approach Shiatsu Rincon, and let your gaze bring you into the surrounding hills a voice within is sure to remind you to stop and enter the moment. The real treat begins with the soak in a room where every corner speaks of mindfulness and intention in the artful selection of plants and a minimalist design choices that speaks of Asia. Light cascades into the room through open window doors that lead to a lush garden with a running stream. You can even let your body dry off in the sun for a special treat! Warm from the tub and the sun, you are now ready for what will probably be the best Shiatsu massage you’ve ever experienced. Judy and John are masters, working every inch as deeply as you request, while providing special attention to sore spots that reconnect you with your body, rejuvenate you, and refresh you until the next time you are lucky enough to visit.

Shiatsu Rincon is heavenly! Every friend that I bring falls in love with this place. It is only 15 minutes from Santa Barbara but arriving there, you feel like you have totally escaped from the busy outside world. Great massage, beautiful setting and design. A true gem!