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Jim Thompson's House
The Jim Thompson's House, which is has become an
integral part of Bangkok tourism is actually a
traditional Thai house built by an American who has done
his bit and more to revive the silk industry of
Thailand. The Owner of the house, Jim Thompson took it
upon himself to revive this Industry.
His house is a must visit for
those who want an encapsulated form of the traditional
Thai culture and living.
The house has a splendid art collection.
On display are his various
endeavors at reviving the silk industry. You will also
see Mr. Thompson's personal collection of antique
Asian artifacts, comprising Cambodian stone
figures, blue white chinaware, wooden
Burmese statues and
Bencharong (multi-colored porcelain made in Chinese
tradition)
There are exhibitions from time to time when you can get
the best deals in Thai silk.
Also Burmese fabrics can be purchased here. Apart
from the architectural splendor of the house, you will
be mesmerized by the different antiques and traditional
design motifs various furniture pieces, pictures and
decorations that are amazing.
Set amidst the calm atmosphere of a nearby pond and the
lush atmosphere, there is also a Thai
food place there where you can find authentic
Thai food, another reason to spend some time there!
The History
 The Jim Thompson House, as we know it today is a
traditional museum that is a store house of Traditional
Thai art and craft. It is the former
home of
Jim Thompson, the man who has
tremendously helped the Thai silk industry in
developing to its current state.
US Citizen Jim Thompson, build a remarkable Thai-style
house opposite the National Stadium on Rama I Road. The
house sees a confluence of six older Thai houses. The
attention of this American visitor to Thailand was
captured by its staggering silk industry, it may be said
that his efforts in doing the same has led to a
resurrection of this industry.
This house which is now a museum reflects the best of
Thai domestic architecture, build from dismantled and
prefabricated sections, different parts were used from
various locations, including the old capital of
Ayutthaya too.
The house is elevated a full story above the ground, to
effectively counter flooding during rainy seasons. The
roof tiles and chandeliers belonging to the 18th and
19th century Bangkok palaces can be seen here.
Getting There & Other Infos
The road to Jim Thompson's House is a short taxi away
from the last
Skytrain stop
National Stadium (near Siam and MBK).
Ask for the Soi Kasemsan 2 if you are on a
Tuk Tuk.
You'll find plenty of tuk-tuks lined up for tourists.
Usually any metered taxi will take you to your
destination without any problem.
The House is open from Monday to Saturday from 9 am to
5:00 pm
(Tour Guides untill 4:30 PM). Entrance fee is 100 Baht per person. You
will have no problem understanding the tours as they
have proper English guides here.
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