Bucket list experience:
The Jim Thompson House is the former home of the eponymous American entrepreneur who founded the Jim Thompson Thai Silk Company and played a pivotal role in reviving the industry.
Thompson mysteriously disappeared in the jungles of Malaysia in 1967 and left behind this landmark complex of six traditional Thai-style houses.
Now a museum, the site is in fine condition, with much of Thompson’s extensive art and antiques collection on display throughout, making it one of Bangkok’s must-do attractions.
Make sure you stop by the shop – there are plenty of pretty things on offer, from Jim Thompson silk to beautiful handmade souvenirs.
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Destination Guide >Jim Thompson House is a short (albeit sweaty) stroll from Siam Square and just minutes from BTS National Stadium. It’s at the very end of Soi Kasem San 2 on the left. Despite the sign, most people have difficulty locating it. Go right to the end of the soi.
To arrive in style, take a river taxi to or from the house along the nearby Khlong Saen Saeb canal.
Tours of the house are guided (compulsory), although you can wander some of the property independently. There are excellent rotating art exhibitions – check the website for details.
Food at the on-site café-restaurant is tasty and the setting is gorgeous – it’s one of the most tranquil spots in Bangkok – although obviously it’s more expensive than the nearby street food.
The house is open all year round, seven days a week. It’s best to get here early in the morning as tour numbers are strictly limited.
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
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A hyper-smart design hotel on the fringe of Chinatown, within walking distance of legendary street eats and kaleidoscopic temples, but out of earshot from roaring tuk-tuks and rowdy market vendors.
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Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2.1 miles]
A fabulous five-star with the atmosphere of a boutique stay, with both the glitz and glamour of Phloen Chit and the serenity of Lumphini Park within walking distance.
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Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2.1 miles]
Beautiful, intimate boutique hotel in a 1940s villa surrounded by tranquil, lush gardens with a relaxing spa. Excellent location for sightseeing nd shopping.
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Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2.4 miles]
A charming, family-run boutique stay in Bangkok’s atmospheric Old Town, with all the mod-cons of a well-appointed five star. Min age 15.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Central Thailand, Thailand
From dazzling temples to dizzying nightlife, Thailand’s capital is a dish of delicious contradictions, and one of the world’s most dizzying, fast-paced cities.
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Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[1.3 miles]
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When you feel the need to escape Bangkok’s oppressive traffic fumes, Lumphini Park is a lush central oasis and a fantastic place for a stroll. Go early morning and late afternoon when locals come for sports and you’ll find elderly ladies practicing sword fighting and Tai-Chi.
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