If you’re seriously considering getting certified in Thai massage, Watpo & Chetawan Thai Traditional Medical and Massage School is the spot.

It’s not just that they’re the original, first officially recognized institute for Thai traditional medicine in Thailand—it’s how they evolved while staying true to authentic techniques.

When you drop by one of their branches (there are tons, by the way), you get the sense everyone knows what they’re doing.

Whether it’s basic Thai massage or the more specialized foot reflexology, oil-based treatments, midwifery, or even traditional pharmacy, they’ve got a course for just about every angle of Thai wellness. 

We also liked that their setup isn’t just about learning a couple of moves; you can go for a single workshop, sign up for basic skills, or take a deep dive with advanced and professional certifications.

The instructors seem genuinely invested, offering multilingual and detailed material, and keeping you motivated throughout the class. Clients highlighted this too, and added how their trainers explain things clearly!

Just a heads-up: you do need to book way ahead, because the popular courses fill up fast.

Skilled and professional teachers

“The teachers are very skilled and kind and respective. The class atmosphere is very soft and warm and relaxed. They are helping each other, laugh each other. It’s very peaceful mood. Anyone who like Thai massage and have time to stay in Bankok, I am recommend this class.”

Daniel Shin, Google Review

High-quality lessons and hands-on instruction

“I took a class here to learn Thai massage. It was a very good class and I learned a lot! Part of the class was receiving a massage from the instructor – which was the best massage I’ve ever had. And I’ve had at least 30 Thai massages in Bangkok before”

Hanson Grant, Google Review

We checked out Massage by Master, and the first thing that stood out to us was how chill and focused it feels—classes are deliberately kept tiny, so you’re not fighting for the instructor’s attention or getting lost in a crowd.

We actually liked that you can go with a buddy, but even if you turn up alone, they’ll pair you up with another student or one of their instructors, and it’s totally comfortable!

The lessons don’t mess around—you start with a little background on Thai massage (nothing long-winded), make your own herbal compress, and then dive into the techniques themselves.

They only run two courses (basic and advanced), so things stay streamlined and you’re not overwhelmed with options. However, do expect it to book up quickly, and keep in mind they stick strictly to Thai massage—if you want variety, this isn’t the spot.

On the plus side, they let you record the session on your phone, so you can practice at home later without forgetting the moves.

Passionate and attentive instructors

“We had a great time here learning about basic Thai massage techniques. The instructors seem passionate and are attentive in making sure we get it right. Looking forward to coming back for the Advanced Workshop!”

Pinnapa Phetcharatana, Google Review

Fun, interactive learning with memorable takeaways

“What an incredible experience!! We had such a fun, educational and amazing time at ThaiHand Massage Workshop. You really get a good first insight of Thai massages and you definitely get the opportunity to practice it on each other. We filmed our whole 2h session, so that we also can practice at home. Great experience for couples!! At the end you even get a certificate 🤭 We highly recommend this workshop for everyone who wants to make a special experience. Big thanks to Kru Jeab & Yu for this experience 🙏🏼🧡”

Anja Kolb, Google Review

We’ve spent some time at Chiva-Som International Academy, and if you’re serious about building a future in wellness, this is the place.

They’re serious about standards—CIBTAC and the Ministry of Education back everything here, so you don’t have to worry about nobody recognizing your certificate later on.

Their course menu is actually pretty broad: you can go for a quick skill upgrade with an individual course or go all-in with their full diploma, which can take you from basic to “I could run a spa” level.

One thing we particularly appreciated was their online courses—super handy if you want to learn from the comfort of your home. Their smaller, capped class sizes (around ten per group) also mean you’re not fighting for the instructor’s attention.

Past students we spoke with were all about the hands-on focus and how well they connect graduates with spa industry contacts.

However, you need to plan—registration must occur at least 30 days in advance. They also don’t accept walk-ins here.

Professional training with global recognition

“The best international academy for everyone who is interested in spa and wellness fields. You will learn from a professional and become a professional. I will choose this academy without hesitation.”

Primster Primprim, Google Review

Modern facilities and hands-on, practical teaching

“Modern learning facilities with international standards, taught by experienced teachers, easy to understand and can be applied in practice.”

Meaw Panich, Google Review

We’re always on the hunt for places that keep it real, and TTC Massage School is just that, thanks to its focus on authentic, traditional Thai massage.

Firstly, the flexibility here is impressive. Both total newbies and seasoned massage therapists can find a course that suits their needs.

Private sessions are on the table, too, as long as you give them a shout ahead of time. From what we’ve seen, lessons are super methodical, and the teachers have saint-level patience—they’ll walk you through every step and don’t mind slowing down if you’re struggling.

We also appreciated how their staff and instructors are genuinely comfortable with speaking English. 

Even further, these folks really look out for travellers. If you’re flying in or just passing through Bangkok, TTC will help you get set up in a nearby hotel so you can roll out of bed and be in class in minutes.

The catch? There are no uniforms (which isn’t a huge deal but worth mentioning), and if you’re looking for the latest massage hybrids or spa trends, you won’t find them here.

Friendly instruction and hands-on learning

“I had a great experience at TTC Massage School in Bangkok. During my visit, I signed up for a one-day class in Traditional Thai Massage. The ladies and Brendan were amazing at explaining everything in simple, easy-to-understand terms. We also got to practice our new skills on a model, which was really helpful. I’m excited for my certificate to arrive and hope to come back soon for more lessons! It’s a wonderful cultural experience and a fun place to learn. improvements could be made on providing beverages & food during our class!”

Latisha Hill, Google Review

Talented and welcoming teachers

“Such a wonderful place with wonderful people!! I had the best time learning traditional Thai Massage! I will be back soon to learn more!

Can highly recommend it! These women are just great!!

So talented, so funny, so nice!”

Resa Weigl, Google Review

Old Medicine Hospital Thai Massage School (OMH) sets the bar pretty high if you’re looking for serious, in-depth training in traditional Thai massage. They’ve got real heritage here, with over sixty years of experience. 

The school is just a short hop from the airport, and the campus vibe is incredibly chill—you end up breaking bread with people from all over the world, as shared meals are a staple of their community.

Their course list encompasses everything from one-day drop-ins and introductions to multi-week, in-depth explorations. They also offer a nice mix of both bodywork and theory, including Thai massage fundamentals, herbal compress, aroma oil massage, and more.

It’s not just about the movements, either—they go deep into the why behind each tradition, so you’re getting the cultural healing philosophy as well.

One thing we heard from almost every student we talked to: the teachers know how to adapt—if you’re small, tall, injured, or totally new, they meet you exactly where you are.

Sadly, class sizes are very limited, so you’ll have to plan (these spots go quickly).

Supportive staff and comprehensive training

“OMH is an amazing school with even better staff! From helping set up accommodations, providing hands-on assistance, to the quality of the course material, OMH is easily one of the best (and affordable) Thai massage schools in Chiang Mai. I am actually going back to continue my training.

I highly recommend anyone wanting both a short and long-term courses to check out OMH.”

Pierre Armstrong, Google Review

Legendary techniques and master-level instruction

“The legend of Thai Massage school here in Thailand 61 years. What a great technique, stretching, moving around like Yoga plus Gymnastic. Learn from master here. I probably will be best of the best in this massage business.”

Steven Wongwan, Google Review