15 Best Things to Do in Singapore Chinatown
What is Singapore Chinatown Most Famous For?
One of the best things to do in Singapore is to explore the vibrant culture of Chinatown, which bursts onto the streets in a lively display. This neighborhood stands in sharp contrast to the rest of the city with its low-rise buildings and rich cultural tapestry, from the fragrant smells of traditional cuisine to the bold red and gold tones that adorn the area.
This is an area that’s proud of its heritage and has it very much on display. There are ornate Chinese, Buddhist, and Hindu temples, museums galore, and plenty of opportunities to soak up the bustling streets lined with old shophouses.
What are the best things to do in Singapore Chinatown?
1. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
Home of the famous golden stupa and the pagoda prayer wheel
Good for: History, Photo, Budget
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a remarkable 4-story temple. When entering the gate, you’ll immediately notice the stunning main hall with its high ceiling. The bell tower and drum tower are on the same floor.
The main focus for most visitors is the solid gold 6.6-ft (2-meter) stupa on the 4th floor which is the place where the sacred relic is kept. Continuing up to the roof, there is a pagoda that has a large prayer wheel. The temple is built in a style based on the Buddhist mandala and integrated with the Buddhism of the Tang dynasty. Read more
Location: 288 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058840
Open: Daily from 7 am to 5 pm
Phone: +65 6220 0220
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
2. Sri Mariamman Temple
A significant architectural and historical landmark
Good for: History, Photo
As the oldest shrine in Singapore, Sri Mariamman Temple is also one of the most prominent places of worship for Tamil Hindus in the country. It was built to honor Goddess Mariamman, the deity of disease and protection.
Originally erected in 1827 by Naraina Pillai, an Indian trader from Penang, the temple was modified to its present structure in 1862, though it has undergone several renovations since. Apart from being a place of worship, the temple has also acted as an asylum for new immigrants that belong to South Indian Tamil Hindu community. Read more
Location: 244 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058793
Open: Daily from 6 am to noon and from 6 pm to 9 pm
Phone: +65 6223 4064
Sri Mariamman Temple
3. Pinnacle@Duxton Skybridge
Stunning panoramas from a residential building
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
There are plenty of sky-high views in the city, but The Pinnacle @Duxton Skybridge is a little different. Located on top of one of the world’s tallest residential buildings, it costs only a small fee to admire the vista which is usually very quiet, especially as there is a cap on the number of people who can visit daily, to not disturb those who live there.
This is the tallest building around, so you can see far and wide, across Chinatown and towards Sentosa Island. To climb to the viewing platform, you need an EZ-Link card, which is used for public transportation around the city, or any other card compliant with the Singapore Standard for Contactless ePurse Application (CEPAS). Read more
Location: 1G Cantonment Rd, Singapore 085601
Open: Daily from 9 am to 9 pm
Phone: +65 8683 7760
Pinnacle@Duxton Skybridge
4. Singapore City Gallery
Exploring the heart of Singapore in miniature
Good for: Families, History
Singapore City Gallery offers insight into how Singapore manages to squeeze everything that both a city and country needs for its 5.8 million people in one small island. Opened in 1999 and conveniently located within the vicinity of historic districts, the Singapore City Gallery aims to teach visitors how modern Singapore came to be, and how the city planners continue to plan sustainably.
With more than 50 interactive exhibits spread over 3 floors, it’s a wonderful visitor experience to explore Singapore’s past, present, and future. The most impressive part is the Central Area Model. With a scale of 1:400, it’s a miniature version of the center of Singapore in 3D.
Location: 45 Maxwell Rd, The URA Center, Singapore 069118
Open: Monday–Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm (closed on Sundays)
Phone: +65 6221 6666
Singapore City Gallery
5. Red Dot Design Museum
Rediscovering everyday objects
Good for: Families, History
Red Dot Design Museum will make you look at everyday objects in a different light. By taking the mystery out of innovations that make our lives easier and exploring some of the more unusual gizmos and gadgets, it’s easy to spend an hour or so here.
Though it’s a fairly small gallery, the spectrum of design is large and varied, showcasing everything from advertising posters, packaging, and computers to household appliances. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the creativity and ingenuity behind the objects we often take for granted, making it a must-visit for design enthusiasts and curious minds alike. Read more
Location: 11 Marina Blvd, Red Dot Design, Singapore 018940
Open: Monday–Friday from 11 am to 7 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm
Phone: +65 6514 0111
Red Dot Design Museum
6. Chinatown Street Market
Vibrant sights and sounds and delicious street food
Good for: Budget, Food, Shoppers
The busy streets of Chinatown Street Market encapsulate all the sights and sounds that visitors expect of Chinatown, with hundreds of stalls selling everything from silk robes to lucky cats. There are plenty of “Made in China” goods on display and lanterns swaying in the breeze above your head. There’s also a fantastic range of street food carts among the shopping, with fresh dim sum and crispy duck.
Remember to haggle with a smile if you want the best price. The market is open during the day, but it looks its most picturesque at dusk, with the lights shining brightly and the sound of hawkers tempting you to check out their wares. Read more
Location: 29 Smith St, Singapore 058943
Open: Daily from 9 am to 10 pm
Chinatown Street Market
7. Thian Hock Keng Temple
A historic gem of Singapore’s Chinese heritage
Good for: Families, History
Thian Hock Keng, or the Temple of Heavenly Happiness, is the oldest and probably most interesting Chinese temple in Singapore. Built circa 1820, this Taoist-Buddhist temple was dedicated to Ma Zu Po, the Mother of Heavenly Sages and the protector of sailors. You can find this colorful temple along Telok Ayer Street, in the middle of Chinatown.
Formerly at the waterfront, before Singapore embarked on its land reclamation, was where many sailors and early settlers came to offer thanks for a safe journey by sea. The temple boasts elaborately painted doors, as well as highly-decorated beams and gold-leafed panels.
Location: 158 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068613
Open: Daily from 7.30 am to 5 pm
Phone: +65 6423 4616
Thian Hock Keng Temple
8. Hong Lim Park (Speakers Corner)
Where free speech and open debate thrive
Good for: Families, Photo
Hong Lim Park is a small park in Chinatown that is famous for being the only place in Singapore where you can openly speak your mind, at Speakers Corner. Well, as long as you stick to all the rules, which include: being Singaporean, not mentioning religion, and making sure you have told the police you plan to speak.
Protests often take place here too. There’s usually not much going on during the week, though it’s a nice spot to relax outside in the shade. Come at the weekends to see the cheery debates. Read more
Location: Upper Pickering St, Singapore
Hong Lim Park (Speakers Corner)
9. Al-Abrar Mosque
From humble beginnings to a historic landmark
Good for: Families, History
The Al-Abrar Mosque, originally built in 1827, holds a significant place in Singapore’s history. Initially a modest structure, it was affectionately nicknamed the “hut mosque” by locals. The mosque’s current building was constructed in the 1850s, showcasing a more substantial and enduring design.
In the 1980s, the mosque underwent major renovations to preserve its historical and cultural significance. Located in the heart of the city, the Al-Abrar Mosque stands as a testament to the rich Islamic heritage and the enduring faith of its community.
Location: 192 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068635
Phone: +65 6220 6306
Al-Abrar Mosque
10. Chinatown Heritage Centre
A journey through Chinatown’s past
Good for: Couples, History
Singapore boasts numerous excellent museums, and one standout is the Chinatown Heritage Centre. Located at Pagoda Street, this center is housed in a trio of beautifully restored shophouses built in the early 20th century. These shophouses, once bustling with businesses like textile shops and eateries, reflect the vibrant heritage of Chinatown.
The Chinatown Heritage Centre immerses visitors in the compelling stories of the community that shaped this historic district. With its engaging exhibits, workshops, talks, and pop-up events, the center highlights the lives of early migrants and the evolution of Chinatown.
Location: 48 Pagoda St, Singapore 059207
Open: Daily from 10 am to 7 pm
Chinatown Heritage Centre
11. Chinese Methodist Church
A harmony of art deco and Chinese architecture
Good for: Families, History, Photo
Chinatown is a vibrant area rich in cultural heritage, and it houses numerous significant buildings, including Singapore’s first Chinese Methodist Church. This historic church, located on Telok Ayer Street, stands out with its unique blend of art deco styling and traditional Chinese roof architecture. Visitors can admire its distinct features that beautifully merge Eastern and Western design elements.
The church holds Sunday worship services, with an English service at 9 am and a Hokkien service at 11 am, welcoming diverse congregations to partake in its spiritual offerings.
Location: 235 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068656
Phone: +65 6324 4001
Chinese Methodist Church
12. G-Max Reverse Bungy Singapore
The ultimate adrenaline rush
Good for: Adventure, Nightlife
G-Max Reverse Bungy is Singapore’s premier bungy facility, perfect for thrill-seekers looking to get their dose of adrenaline rush and excitement. Located in the bustling nightlife hub of Clarke Quay, this trilling attraction promises an unforgettable experience.
The friendly and professional staff ensure you’re securely strapped into the capsule while on the ground. With a simple press of a button, you’ll be catapulted 230 ft (70 meters) high into the air, offering an exhilarating ride that will leave you breathless. Read more
Location: 3E River Valley Road, Clarke Quay, Block E, Singapore 179024
Open: Daily from 4.30 pm to 11.30 pm
Phone: +65 6338 1766
G-Max Reverse Bungy Singapore
13. Jamae Mosque
Architectural beauty
Good for: History, Photo
Jamae Mosque is one of the many different holy places to visit in Singapore’s Chinatown area. Constructed in the 1830s by Chulia Indians (Muslim merchants and moneylenders from India’s Coromandel Coast), this historical gem is considered to be one of Singapore’s oldest mosques. Recognized for its historical significance, Jamae Mosque was designated as a national monument in 1974.
What truly sets Jamae Mosque apart is its eclectic architectural style. The entrance gate has a distinct South Indian flair, while the 2 prayer halls are Neo-Classical style. This captivating blend of styles has made Jamae Mosque a popular subject for photographers.
Location: 218 South Bridge Rd, Masjid Jamae, Singapore 058767
Phone: +65 6221 4165
Jamae Mosque
14. Maxwell Food Center
Exploring the culinary delights of Chinatown
Good for: Food, Budget
Singapore Chinatown is a treasure trove of culinary delights, and its hawker centers are a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Among the many options, the Maxwell Food Center stands out as a vibrant hub where you can experience the authentic flavors of traditional hawker fare, which has evolved from street-side stalls to bustling food courts.
Hawker cuisine in Singapore is a delicious reflection of the nation’s multicultural heritage, influenced by Chinese, Indian, and Malay culinary traditions. At Maxwell Food Center, you can savor mouthwatering dishes such as noodles with dumplings and roast pork, pork rib soup with rice, BBQ stingray with sambal sauce, and satay. These dishes are celebrated for their authenticity and affordability. Read more
Location: 1 Kadayanallur St, Singapore 069184
Open: Daily from 8 am to 10 pm
Phone: +65 6225 5632
Maxwell Food Center
15. Nagore Durgha Shrine
A Hindu shrine with a unique blend of cultures
Good for: History, Photo
The Nagore Durgha Shrine (also referred to as Nagore Dargah) is a major Hindu shrine and landmark on Singapore Chinatown’s Telok Ayer Street. The shrine has a unique blend of classical molded arches and columns as well as Indian Muslim motifs.
Nagore Durgha was built by Muslim immigrants from southern India and dates back to 1828, making it one of Singapore’s important historical landmarks. You can easily find it at the corner of Telok Ayer Street and Boon Tat Street.
Location: 140 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068604
Open: Monday–Friday from 10 am to 5.30 pm, Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm (closed on Sundays)
Phone: +65 9838 0025
Nagore Durgha Shrine
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