If you are looking for a place that combines the old and the new, the traditional and the modern, the exotic and the familiar, look no further than Chinatown, Singapore. Chinatown is the city’s cultural heart, where you can find a treasure trove of attractions, activities, and food that reflect the rich and diverse history and culture of the Chinese community in Singapore.
Whether you are interested in exploring the ancient temples and museums, shopping for souvenirs and antiques, or tasting the delicious local and international cuisine, Chinatown has something for everyone. In this guide, we will show you the best things to see, do, and eat in Chinatown, Singapore, and how to enjoy them to the fullest.
Attractions and Activities
Chinatown is a place where you can never get bored, as there are so many attractions and activities to choose from. Here are some of the categories and examples of what you can find in Chinatown:
1. Culture and Heritage
If you want to learn more about the history and culture of Chinatown and the Chinese community in Singapore, you should visit some of the following sites:
Chinatown Heritage Centre: This is a museum that recreates the living conditions and stories of the early immigrants who settled in Chinatown. You can see the authentic rooms, furniture, and artifacts that depict the life and struggles of the pioneers who shaped the district and the nation.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum: This is a stunning temple that houses a sacred relic of the Buddha, a tooth that is said to have been recovered from his funeral pyre. You can admire the ornate architecture and decorations of the temple, and explore the museum that showcases Buddhist art and history.
Sri Mariamman Temple: This is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, and a symbol of the religious diversity and harmony in Chinatown. You can witness the colorful and intricate sculptures and paintings of the temple, and join the devotees in their rituals and prayers.
Thian Hock Keng Temple: This is the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore, and a masterpiece of traditional architecture and craftsmanship. You can marvel at the exquisite carvings and paintings of the temple, and learn about the Taoist and Buddhist beliefs and practices.
2. Art and Shopping
If you are looking for some unique and creative items and experiences, you should check out some of the following venues:
WOAW Gallery: This is a contemporary art gallery that features works by local and international artists, ranging from paintings and sculptures to installations and interactive media. You can browse the exhibitions and shop for some original and quirky art pieces and souvenirs.
Chinatown Street Market: This is a lively and bustling market that sells a variety of goods, such as clothes, accessories, electronics, and handicrafts. You can bargain for the best deals and find some hidden gems and bargains among the stalls.
People’s Park Complex: This is a shopping mall that offers a mix of modern and traditional products and services, such as fashion, beauty, electronics, and medicine. You can also find some of the best views of the city from the rooftop of the complex, where you can enjoy a drink and a snack.
Née Vintage Store: This is a vintage store that specializes in retro and nostalgic items, such as clothing, accessories, toys, and books. You can relive the past and discover some rare and collectible items from different eras and cultures.
3. Fun and Leisure
If you are looking for some fun and leisure activities, you should try some of the following options:
Chinatown Food Street: This is a food paradise that offers a wide range of cuisines and delicacies, from local hawker fare to international dishes. You can sample the famous chicken rice, char kway teow, satay, and laksa, as well as try some exotic and adventurous foods, such as frog porridge, durian, and ice kacang.
Chinatown Point: This is a shopping and entertainment center that caters to all ages and interests, from fashion and beauty to games and movies. You can shop for the latest trends and brands, play arcade and VR games, and watch the latest blockbusters and documentaries.
Chinatown Complex: This is a multi-purpose complex that houses a hawker center, a wet market, and a community center. You can enjoy the authentic and affordable food, buy fresh and cheap produce, and join the locals in their activities and hobbies, such as chess, karaoke, and tai chi.
Ann Siang Hill: This is a charming and trendy area that is home to some of the best bars, cafes, and restaurants in Chinatown. You can chill out and relax with a drink and a bite, and enjoy the nightlife and live music.
Food and Dining
Chinatown is a food lover’s dream, as it offers a variety of food and dining options that suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the categories and examples of what you can find in Chinatown:
1. Local Cuisine
If you want to taste the authentic and delicious local cuisine, you should visit some of the following places like Maxwell Food Centre, Hong Lim Food Centre and Chinatown Complex Food Centre.
2. International Cuisine
If you want to try some international cuisine, you should check out some of the following restaurants like Burnt Ends, Potato Head and Lime House.
3. Specialty Food
If you want to indulge in some specialty food, you should try some of the following options like Chinatown Street Market, Bee Cheng Hiang and Tong Heng.
Transport and Accessibility
Chinatown is a very accessible and convenient place to visit, as it has many transport and accessibility options to choose from. Here are some of the options and tips for getting to and around Chinatown:
By MRT
The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is the most efficient and affordable way to get to Chinatown, as it has two stations that serve the district: Chinatown station and Outram Park station. You can take the North East Line (purple) or the Downtown Line (blue) to Chinatown station, or the East West Line (green) or the North East Line (purple) to Outram Park station. You can use the EZ-Link card or the NETS FlashPay card to pay for the fares, or buy a single-trip ticket from the machines.
By Bus
The bus is another option to get to Chinatown, as it has many bus stops and routes that serve the district. You can take buses such as 2, 12, 33, 54, 63, 124, 143, 147, 190, 851, 961, and 970 to Chinatown, and alight at bus stops such as Chinatown Complex, People’s Park Centre, New Bridge Centre, or Maxwell Road Food Centre. You can use the EZ-Link card or the NETS FlashPay card to pay for the fares, or pay in cash to the driver.
By Taxi
You can hail a taxi from the street, or book one online or by phone, and tell the driver your destination in Chinatown. You can pay by cash, card, or app, depending on the taxi company and service. You can also use the taxi stand and signs to find the taxi pick-up and drop-off points, and follow the directions to the attractions and activities in Chinatown.
By Walking
Walking is another option to get to and around Chinatown, as it is easy and enjoyable, especially if you want to explore the district at your own pace and discover its hidden gems and charms. You can walk from nearby places, such as Clarke Quay, Boat Quay, or Raffles Place, or from the MRT or bus stations, and follow the pedestrian paths and signs to the attractions and activities in Chinatown.
Best Time and Tips
Chinatown is a place that you can visit anytime of the year, as it has something to offer in every season and occasion.
Weather
The weather in Singapore is generally hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C, and rainfall occurring throughout the year. However, there are some variations in the weather, depending on the month and season. The months of November to January are the wettest and coolest, with frequent showers and thunderstorms, and occasional floods. The months of February to April are the driest and hottest, with clear skies and sunny days, and occasional haze. The months of May to October are the transitional and unpredictable, with a mix of rain and shine, and occasional storms.
Chinatown, Singapore is a place that you should not miss when you visit the city, as it offers a rich and diverse experience of food, heritage, and traditional crafts, as well as events and activities that celebrate the Chinese culture and festivals. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, a shopper, or a fun seeker, Chinatown has something for you. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Chinatown, Singapore today, and discover its wonders and delights.
