Chinatown
All Chinatown Experiences
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Visiting Chinatown
Why go
Chinatown is a neighbourhood which still very much retains its old-school charm and community vibes. We love the mix of old and new here. In one sleepy corner you'll find old uncles playing chess and mahjong, but just a couple of streets away are the hipster bars and cafes of Ann Siang Road. Come here for a cool mix of culture, hipster cafes and community.
What to do or see here
Visit the picturesque Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, the Chinatown hawker complex (largest in Singapore, and home to the first Michelin-starred hawker food!), and wander around its historical mural-painted streets. Chinatown is also home to Singapore's hidden triad history and is prominent in its recent LGBT history, so you should definitely do a walking tour here.
Best Time to Go
You can head to Chinatown anytime! It gets especially vibrant during Chinese New Year with street vendors paving the alleyways and yelling about their goodies, so it's pretty fun to visit around then.
Top things to see & do
Helpful Questions
What is the history of Chinatown in Singapore?
Chinatown has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century, when Chinese immigrants began settling in Singapore. The district grew rapidly as more immigrants arrived, and soon became a center of trade and commerce. Over the years, Chinatown has undergone many changes, but it has retained much of its cultural and historical significance. Today, it is a popular tourist destination that offers a glimpse into Singapore's past and present.
How can I get to Chinatown in Singapore?
Chinatown is easily accessible by public transportation, with several MRT stations located in the district. The Chinatown MRT station is located on the North-East Line, while the Outram Park MRT station is located on the East-West Line and the North-East Line. You can also come here by bus as it's close by to many main roads, and of course you can take a Grab or a taxi here!
What are some popular things to do in Chinatown in Singapore?
Chinatown is a vibrant and historic district in Singapore that offers many attractions and activities. We love coming here for the mix of old and new, and some of the most traditional shops in Singapore are still found in Chinatown. Some popular things to do in Chinatown include visiting the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, exploring the Chinatown Heritage Centre, and shopping for souvenirs and traditional Chinese goods at the street markets.
Also, fun fact: Chinatown has the largest hawker market in Singapore! The food here is very yummy and you'll be able to find most famous Singapore street food. The hawker market is home to Singapore's first Michelin Star hawker meal (it has sadly lost its star since!), Hawker Chan. You can also find a random but very good Belgium craft beer stall at the hawker market!
If you just head a couple of streets away, you'll come across Ann Siang Hill and Club Street, an area that's home to lots of really good hipster bars and little shophouse restaurants. We love coming here for a coffee or a drink to chill out after exploring Chinatown.
