City: Chinatown
Top Things to do in Chinatown
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6 Museums in Chinatown That You Shouldn't Miss
The Singapore cityscape looks like it was ripped from the pages of a science fiction comic book. If you’re hungry for a true Singapore experience, sample the myriad street foods or take a cultural cooking class. The Botanic Gardens and the Gardens By the Bay offer a slice of horticultural heaven, and the observation deck of the Sands SkyPark makes you feel like you’re high above the clouds. The banks and walkways along the Singapore River bustle with local activity.
Restaurants in Singapore
1. Chinatown Heritage Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,098 reviews
The colourful past of Chinatown comes alive within the walls of these three beautifully-restored shophouses on Pagoda Street, comfortably nestled in the midst of Singapore's bustling Chinatown district. Every nook and cranny in the Chinatown Heritage Centre pulsates with the memories of yesteryear, offering an experience like no other as one is transported to Chinatown in the budding years of Singapore's establishment as a seaport. From the desperate hopefulness of the many "Sinkheh" (new migrants) - risking life and limb to embark on an arduous journey from the various Chinese provinces to the promised land of Singapore - to the raw, seedy and underground practices of gambling dens and secret societies, be prepared to experience a sense of nostalgia and sentimentality as you step into the pages of Chinatown's history. The Chinatown Heritage Centre is the only place in Singapore that has recreated the original interiors of its shophouse tenants in the 1950s, offering visitors an honest, revealing glimpse into the lives of Chinatown's early residents.
Reviewed By WorldTravla7 - Cairns, Australia
This place is wonderful. I bought my ticket thinking I would spend an hour and it wasn’t long enough so I came back later the same day after checking out of my hotel and spend another 1 hour+ (ticket is valid for multiple entries on same day only). The Centre has an amazing 3 floors & 6 galleries that take the visitor though a detailed and immersive history of the Chinese experience in Singapore since the first arrival of the “Sinkheh” new migrants in the late 19th century (they sought to escape famine and flood to forge a better life in Singapore). The Centre itself exists within three restored shophouses. You are given an audio & tablet guide at the beginning at it talks you through each of the exhibits in turn and you can decide whether you want to listen to all or some of the commentary. You will, see, hear and learn about: - The rise of Singapore as a major new seaport; - See the homes and workshops of the early migrants – in particular a tailors workshop, living quarters, and first floor rental accommodation which has been reconstructed from first-hand accounts (it is sobering how small and cramped the cubicles of the Sinkheh were); - The population of Singapore depicted in photographs, video and costume The underbelly of Singapore evidenced by underground gambling & opium dens & secret societies; and more Admission is SGD 18 for an adult and is well worth it for such a rich cultural & historical experience.
2. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,424 reviews
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum (BTRTM) was founded in 2002 by Venerable Shi Fazhao. It was registered by the Registrar of Societies in 20th February 2003, and as a charity under the Charities Act in 8th January 2004. The Temple is dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha, which means 'The Compassionate One', and also called 'The Future Buddha'. (A)WEEKLY FREE GUIDED TOUR: BTRTM is pleased to offer a 1 1/2 - 2 hrs long guided tour of the Temple every Saturdays at 2pm. The tour will be conducted free-of-charge in English by the temple's Volunteers guides. Limited slots are available per weekly session. Confirmed registration is based on first-come-first-serve basis. (B)DISCOVERING BUDDHISM: Shakyanmuni Buddha had gained insight into the truth, perfected the qualities of wisdom and compassion over 2560 years ago. His teachings develops clarity in minds, enables abilities to end suffering and finds lasting happiness. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is carrying on the mission in offering "Discovering Buddhism' programme. 'Discovering Buddhism' is a specially designed programme for participants to gain experiential taste of Chinese Mahayana Buddhist etiquette, Basic Buddhist teachings and Basic Meditation within a day. This English taught programme is suitable for both tourists who wish to learn more about Buddhism and experienced learners who needs a refresher. Participants will benefit from the interactive and engaging teaching led by Venerable Wu Xiang and Venerable Ru Zhi who have more than a decade experience teaching Buddhism and Meditation in different cultural settings! [Chinese Mahayana Buddhist Etiquette] Buddhist etiquette is an important part of every Buddhist life. It expresses religious sentiments to the Buddha, the Teacher (Monk or Nun) and promotes gracefulness in social interactions. This is also a mean of training in mindfulness in every action one is taking. [Basic Buddhist teachings] Buddhism has been transmitted over the past centuries because of its timeless and enduring message to the spiritual needs of man in finding true peace, happiness, and well-being. In this part of the programme, learn about the basic essential knowledge of Buddhism. [Basic Meditation] Buddhist have been practicing meditation in cultivating calm, focused and positive states of mind. Introductory of technique will be taught to enable the participants to learn practical tips on how to achieve a clearer state of mind and focus better. Things to take note : * Avoid wearing hats, shorts or revealing tops * The organizer reserves the right to cancel the tour due to unforeseen circumstances. In such instances, registrants will be notified via their mobile phones.
Reviewed By cl41r3 - Nottingham, United Kingdom
This temple has so much to view. From the main hall where there were prayers being read, to the walkways around the temple showing the history, artefacts, statues, and smaller prayer/ meditation areas. There are many floors and even a roof garden where you can ring the prayer bell. It is an incredible place. I’d highly recommend a visit if visiting Singapore. There is a dress code but if you are not wearing appropriate clothing there is access to sarongs and scarfs to use during the visit
3. James Koh Silk Painting
4. Singapore Coins And Notes Museum
5. Utterly Art
Utterly Art is a great place to pop by to see an eclectic and fascinating body of works that take up two storeys, with each nook and corner always promising something new for the art enthusiast.
6. Living Portrait Gallery
Explore the transformation of Singapore through this gallery of creative work. Tour images of Sir Stanford Raffles and learn more about the challenges that Singapore faced during the colonial period before independence.
