Jim Thompson’s House is one of the absolutely best kept traditional Thai houses in Bangkok and has become a frequented tourist attraction. Jim Thompson himself is the most famous American in Bangkok. He disappeared in 1967 under inexplicable circumstances during a walk in the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia. Jim Thompson, who started Thai Silk Company Ltd. in 1948, did a lot for the Thai silk industry — an industry that had began to decrease extensively after World War II. At the time of his disappearance he was still residing in the, of today, famous house. In addition to this house, the American also built a couple of other teak houses in Bangkok. These houses were transported to Bangkok from the Ban Khrua and the Ayutthaya province, respectively.

Not only was Jim Thompson an ambitious and successful business man; he was also an eminent collector of antiques and rarities. His highly interesting collection, containing art work from all of South East Asia, has been left as it was as he took off for his trip to Malaysia. Among the highlights are a Dvaravati-torso of Buddha, Jataka paintings and wooden handicrafts from Myanmar. The collection extends over 14 centuries.

The most convenient way of getting to Jim Thompson’s house is by Skytrain. Go off at the National Stadium station. It is also possible to take the bus or a taxi. The building complex is located on 6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama I Road, and is open daily between 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.