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 | Bangkok Jim Thompson's House Reviews | Tips 1 - 10 of 66 |  |
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Jim Thompson House was the home of James H.W. Thompson, a self-made American entrepreneur and the founder of the world renowned Jim Thompson Thai Silk Company.
The house consists of a complex of six traditional Thai-style houses, teak structures that were purchased from several owners and brought to the present location from various parts of Thailand. Construction of the Thai house was completed in 1959.
With his natural flair for design and color, and driven by his single-minded dedication to reviving the craft, Thompson soon gained worldwide recognition for his success in rebuilding the industry, for generating international demand for Thai silk.
For his invaluable contribution to the growth and development of the Thai Silk industry, Jim Thompson was awarded the Order of the White Elephant, a decoration bestowed upon foreigners for having rendered exceptional service to Thailand. Thompson's success story in Thailand has become one of the most popular postwar legends of Asia.
During the Easter weekend in 1967, Thompson disappeared while on holiday with friends in Cameron Highlands, a northern Malaysian resort. There he set out for a walk in the surrounding jungle but never returned. An extensive and extended search failed to reveal any clues about his disappearance. Thus began the Jim Thompson legend.
The current Jim Thompson House serves as a showcase of how he had lived while in Thailand. Originally trained as an architect, Thompson fell in love with the rustic design of the Thai House and built his own quarters in a similar style, although there is a distinct fusion of traditional American living as well.
The museum is open from 0900-1700 (last guided tour starts at 1630 though) daily. The admission fee is 100 baht and you will need to join the guided tour as you are not allowed to freely wander within the house. They have some of the best guides around and the tour was a very pleasant as well as being enlightening.
Do note that indoor photography is not allowed, as with shoes. Leave a Comment Phone: +66 2 216 7368Directions: National Stadium or Siam Skytrain stationWebsite: http://www.jimthompsonhouse.com
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| | | | Jim Thompson's House: Jim Thompson House | Tip Rating: | | | | |
This thai house is one of my favourite spots in Bangkok. I like it because is not too big and is beautiful, both the pavillions and the gardens.
It was the home of the american businessman Jim Thompson, who lived here in the 50s. He had a slik business, lived in this house, which he refurbished and fullfilled with antiques and had the industry, as well as the workers houses, at the other side of the canal.
He lead an interesting life, was socially prominent, rich, antiques lover, CIA agent... until he disappeared in the Cambodian jungles in the 60s
The entrance fee is 100 bahts. You have to wait till a group is gathered, then you go in a guided tour around. No photos allowed in the upper floors.
There is a nice bar with a pond, and a souvenir shop, where you can find the famous silks, and other luxury items.
There I found a wonderful watercolors book on Thailand, highly recommendable if you like painting. Leave a Comment Directions: From Siam Square, take Th Phra Ram I towards the west, and turn right at the 2nd alley. Go till the end and there you are, just before the canal.
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| | | | Jim Thompson's House: Thai Silk & Jim Thompson's House | Tip Rating: | | | | |
Folks who love Thai silk or Thai architecture should not miss Jim Thompson's House.
Jim Thompson came to SE Asia during WW2 and soon found opportunities that would bring fame and wealth. Realising the potential of Thai silk, he almost single-handedly brought global fame to the art of Thai silk weaving.
He was a lover of Thai architecture and travelled throughout Thailand to bring back items that he wanted for his dream house. Sometimes, houses were brought back plank by plank and rebuilt. Folks would not miss the european styled black & white marble tiles at the basement of the main galley - these were from a palace that was about to be torn down and he salvaged it.
Jim Thompson disappeared in the highlands of the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia in 1967 and the house was eventually returned back to the Thai government under a trusteeship.
You are not allowed to wander around on your own. Compulsory guided tours (in groups of different languages) were given for visitors and you will be guided from room to room, hall to hall. The house is tasteful designed and rich with architecture gems. Take your time to marvel at the beauty of Jim's House and imagine yourself in his shoes.
There is a cafe/restaurant for folks wanting a drink/or a meal and of course, you can't really be in Jim's House without taking a look (and buying) the product that he made famous, wouldn't it? There is an in-house boutique selling products made from Thai silks as well as momentos for your visit.
Opening Hours : 09:00 to 17:00 everyday with the last Guided Tour at 16:30*
Admission : Adult 100 baht; Students 50 baht Leave a Comment Phone: (662) 216-7368Directions: Getting to the Jim Thompson House : Located in the center of Bangkok, opposite the National Stadium on Rama I Rd, it is conveniently reached by car, taxi, Tuk tuk, or the Sky Train (Bangkok Transit System). Nearest Skytrain station: National Stadium.Website: http://www.jimthompsonhouse.com/index.asp Other Contact: Fax: (662) 612-3744
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