Jim Thompson House Place guide

One of the more popular museums in central Bangkok, the Jim Thompson House is hidden in a lush jungle compound in the middle of the city, named after an American businessman and architect. 

History: The history of the museum follows Jim Thompson after he relocated to Bangkok after World War II, and chanced upon the fine handmade silk of his neighbors. After sending out sample pieces to fashion houses in Milan, Paris, and London, Thompson established his company Thai Silk Company Limited in 1948, slowly building his large global clientele.

Art: Besides his silk business, Thompson also had an interest in Southeast Asian art, collecting historical Buddhist statues, traditional Thai paintings, blue and white ceramics / porcelain from China, and other art pieces from Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos. 

House: Thompson was also intrigued by Thai architecture and built a house based on the traditional Thai style – even bringing in parts of old Thai houses – to finish what is now the famous tourist spot. 

Trivia: The tale of Jim Thompson concludes in mystery when he inexplicably disappeared during a hike in Malaysia in 1967.

Do: Today, Jim Thompson’s legacy of antiques, art, and architectural designs can all be seen in the same house-turned-museum. Step inside the tranquil space and appreciate the East-meets-West characteristics in the well decorated establishment. You can also explore the art centre, the souvenir shop, the nearby restaurant, cafe, and outdoor terrace by the khlong (canal). 

TripGuru Tips

• When to go: The best time to visit The Jim Thompson House would be once it opens (around 9:00am or possibly a bit earlier) to avoid long waiting lines.
  
  
• Operating hours: The Jim Thompson House is open to visitors from 9:00am to 6:00pm daily.
  
  
• Entrance fee: For adults, the entrance fee is THB 200. For visitors under 22 years old, the entrance fee is THB 100 (although an ID is required to prove age). For children under 10 years old, entrance is free (although guardians are required).
  
  
• Guided tours: There are guided tours provided every 30 minutes throughout the day in Thai, English, French, Chinese, and Japanese. The last guided tour is at 6:00pm. Take note that unaccompanied/unguided visits are not permitted in the house.
  
  
• What to bring: Don’t forget to bring your camera to take snapshots of the museum’s many art pieces, the house’s architectural design, the green surroundings, and more.

How to get there

The Jim Thompson House is located in the center of the city, at the end of Soi Kaseman 2. 

• You can easily take a metered taxi, GrabCar or tuk-tuk to the Jim Thompson House. 
  
  
• Alternatively, you can take the BTS SkyTrain to the National Stadium (exit N1) and walk approximately 5 minutes, turning right at Soi Kaseman 2, before reaching your destination.

Address: 6 Rama I Rd, Khwaeng Wang Mai, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand