The short answer
Cupping (拔罐) uses cups that pull the skin up by suction; gua sha (刮痧) scrapes the skin with a smooth tool. Both usually leave red or purple marks that can last several days. In Taiwan both are listed as non-medical folk practices, so a shop may not promise a health result. They are optional: agree to them only if you want the marks and the sensation.
- In Chinese
- 拔罐 (cupping), 刮痧 (gua sha).
- Where
- Usually back and shoulders.
- Marks
- Red to purple marks, usually lasting days. Plan around a swimsuit or a wedding.
- Price
- Often an add-on; ask the price first.
- Rules
- Both are named as non-medical folk techniques in the Ministry of Health and Welfare rules (point 2).
Before you agree
- Ask what it costs and how long it takes: it is usually extra.
- Ask what tools are used and how they are cleaned.
- Saying no is fine, even if it is offered halfway through a massage.
What to say
- 我不要拔罐，謝謝。
No cupping for me, thank you. - 我不要刮痧，謝謝。
No gua sha for me, thank you. - 請問這個要另外加錢嗎？
Does this cost extra?
All phrase cards, shown large for the therapist
When to skip it or ask a doctor first
Massage shops in Taiwan are registered as non-medical businesses and may not diagnose or treat anything. Our general guidance: ask a doctor before booking if you have pain that is new, severe or getting worse, numbness or tingling, a recent injury, fracture or surgery, a blood clotting problem or you take blood thinners, a skin infection or open wound, or you are pregnant. Sudden swelling, pain or warmth in one leg needs a doctor, not a massage. According to the US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH),
there have been rare reports of serious side effects, such as a blood clot, nerve injury, or bone fracture, and it suggests asking a health care provider if you are not sure massage is right for you. Relax.tw makes no health claims. Also our general guidance, for cupping and gua sha in particular: skip them with fragile or broken skin, easy bruising, or if you take blood thinners, unless your doctor agrees.
Facts on this page checked 9 November 2026. Prices and policies change: confirm with the business.