One of the first things that stands out when visiting Jim Thompsons house is how peaceful the home is despite being situated in the center of Bangkok, a few minutes walk from the BTS station (National Stadium).
Brief History
The house is the home of Jim Thompson an American that came to Asia as a volunteer for the US Army. After he finished his service and spent some time in Bangkok he came back to live here permanently because he fell in love with everything Thai.
Mr Thompson revived the hand weaving industry of Thai silk and had the house constructed that we see today which was made from dismantled Teak buildings that were easy to move (transport) from A-B.
A very sad part of the history I was unaware of before visiting was Jim Thompson has not been seen since he visited the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia (March 26th 1967).
There are books written about the mystery of Mr Thompson going missing and his life inside the shop at the house area or they can be bought from other bookstores worldwide, if visitors want to find out more about him.
What To Expect When Visiting
- As you arrive at the entrance to the house your likely to be welcomed in by staff and offered to buy a tour ticket for 100 Baht, only.
- The ticket has to be taken to another desk where the assistants will offer you a time a tour guide will collect you which will only be about a 10 minute wait or so. The guides will speak in English or French only.
- The tour (compulsory) takes approximately 40 minutes and the tour guide explains the features of the house and the art collection in an enjoyable manner.
- Taking photos: The first part of the tour your allowed to take pictures but when you go upstairs the guide will ask you to take your shoes off and not take any pictures.
The Main Room (Living Room)
Steps Outside The Main Room
Ancient Buddhist Statues
Around the home and part museum (it does seem like a mixture of both) you will see a Buddhist statues like the one below which will be damaged.
The tour guide mentioned Jim collected damaged items like this to preserve history.
Shops And Restaurant
Within the grounds you’ll find a book shop, a shop selling silks and other products and an attractive restaurant.
Many of Jim Thompsons silks are quite expensive for the average tourist that’s maybe just looking for a gift to take home, however, you can pick something up for around 1000 Baht. There’s no hard selling, so your welcome to just browse, like I did!
Bookstore
Restaurant
This is the back view of the restaurant at Jim Thompsons house if your needing a bite to eat or just a cup of coffee….
Clothing/Silk/Accessories
The store has many quality silk and other clothing items which includes scarf’s, handkerchiefs, ties, handbags and more for sale.
Does The Tour Get The Thumbs Up?
Most definitely! The ease of getting there and the uniqueness of the home alongside Jim Thompsons story made my visit well worth it.
Visitor Information
The easiest way to get here is to use the BTS sky-train to National Stadium then come out at exit 1 and turn left. Jim Thompsons is the next Soi (Rd), 6 Soi Kasemsan 2. You can also get a taxi or tuk tuk here from anywhere in BKK.
A golf cart outside the Jim Thompson House will take you to the end of the Soi (Rd) after the visit if needed.
Address: Jim Thompson House Museum, 6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road, Bangkok.
Tel: (662) 216-7368
Cost: 100 baht for adults, 50 baht for students.
