Pemika takes a step back in time and out of the hustle and bustle of Bangkok with her visit to the Jim Thompson House…
Few could write a better tale than that of Jim Thompson. Educated as an architect, Thompson found himself in Bangkok at the end of World War II as part of an American intelligence organization. Though the war ended soon after his arrival, he decided to stay in Thailand, recognizing the potential of this new and exotic place.
With a strong passion for the hand weaving of silk, Jim Thompson devoted himself to reviving this traditional Thai craft, eventually becoming a highly gifted designer and textile colorist. However, his passion for the East did not stop with textile craft; he was also well-known for using his talents as an architect to help revive Thai-style design with the construction of a traditional teak house.
The original Jim Thompson House and outbuildings were re-constructed from all or parts of six separate old houses — some more than a hundred years old — that were brought from various parts of the country to the present location.
He opened his beautifully heritage house to the public showing precious artifacts, and his collection of Thai art with the earnings to be donated to charities and projects that preserve local cultural.
Located across the street from the National Stadium, the Jim Thompson House is more than an homage to Thai culture; it is also peaceful place away from the busy Bangkok crowds.
A tour of the house takes about 40 minutes, but the Thai-Western restaurant offers the opportunity to relax after a day of shopping of sight seeing — there are even lockers provided so you can store your purchases.
In the 20 or so year between his arrival in Asia and his mysterious disappearance in Malaysia’s Cameron Highlands Thompson was credited with being instrumental in reviving the Thai silk industry, along with being one of the most famous foreigners in Asia.
Unexpectedly, Thompson disappeared during a vacation in 1967. No one knows what happened with him. It has been an ongoing mysterious and the source of much global speculation. His disappearance however, does not mean the Thai silks he worked hard to revive or his Thai house are gone with him. They are standing the reminders of his deep passion for Thailand.
How to get there: Located across from the National Stadium, The Jim Thompson House is easily accessible by BST (Skytrain).
When: 9:00 – 17:00, with the last guided tour at 17:00.
Contact information:
Jim Thompson House
6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road, Bangkok
Tel: (662) 216-7368 Fax: (662) 612-3744… Read more »