free heritage tour singapore

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Great ways to explore Singapore on foot for free

Published on 28 dec 2018..

Take a walk around Singapore, and open your eyes to the cultures, nature, artistry and modernity contained in our lively metropolis. If you’d like to walk in the shoes of a local artist or devotee, join one of these recommended free walking tours, whose guides will reveal to you the diversity of the Singaporean tapestry.

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Heritage Tour

Discover Singapore's colonial past and cultural districts.

Free Singapore Tour – Heritage Tour

This free 2.5-hour Heritage Tour takes you back in time to explore the history and culture of Singapore. You will drive by the historic Civic District, rich with our colonial past, and enjoy a walk in the cultural precincts of Chinatown and Kampong Gelam.

Stopovers at Chinatown and Kampong Gelam will give you some time to take photos against architectural gems, and even grab a local snack or a unique souvenir as a memento.

Registration Details

Service Counters Please stay in the transit area and do not clear immigration

• Terminal 2:  Transit Area (near Gate F50)
• Terminal 3:  Transit Area (near Gate A1 - A8) 
• Other Terminals:   Please take the skytrain within the Transit area and proceed to Terminal 3 for registration.

Required Documents Passport, boarding passes, entry visa (if applicable) and tour booking confirmation

Kindly note that 90 minutes is set aside between Reporting Time and Tour Timing for the clearance of Arrival Immigration.

Tour Itinerary

Get a glimpse of the various iconic landmarks of Singapore scattered around Marina Bay. Keep this modern view in mind and contrast it with what you will see in ‘olden Singapore’ later. 

Singapore's core financial and commercial district impresses with its modern skyscrapers. Situated in the middle is Singapore's most historic Hawker Centre, Lau Pa Sat, home to a variety of local hawker fare and a bustling night street food scene. 

Chinatown is a culturally rich precinct featuring a mix of pre-war shophouses and iconic places of worship. Explore street murals painted by local artist Yip Yew Chong that depict the daily lives of locals in the past. 

Known as the lifeline of Singapore, the Singapore River and its quays were where the economy of Singapore began. You will be able to see the former godowns and warehouses along Boat Quay and Clarke Quay as you cross the river. 

One of Singapore’s oldest urban quarters. Kampong Gelam is an alluring neighbourhood where age-old traditions meet trendy lifestyles. With a strong Malay-Arab influence, admire the golden dome of the Sultan Mosque set amidst modern art galleries and cafes. 

Free walking tour near Singapore

Others cities to visit after singapore, find other guruwalks in singapore, where are you traveling to.

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Free Walking Tour Singapore

Discover hidden enclaves in singapore with a free walking tour by monster day tours, free  singapore walking tour.

Travel is all about enjoying authentic local experiences , and that’s exactly Monster Day Tours strives to do. Explore the food, culture and history of Singapore, and embark on a king-sized adventure with us. Monster Day Tours aims to provide local experiences, allowing you to explore hidden gems and off-the-beaten tracks in Singapore. 

Discover the hidden streets and famous temples with our Chinatown Free Walking Tour , and learn more about the early Chinese immigrants in Singapore. Our Kampung Glam Free Walking Tour takes you to a neighbourhood that was originally set aside for royalty, but has now transformed into an enclave known for its street art and hipster cafes. Learn more about the world’s top airport with Changi Airport & Jewel Free Walking Tour.

As an award-winning tour operator in Singapore, no one knows our sunny island more than us. Find out what it’s like to experience Singapore like a local when you join one of our walking tours, and get ready for a Monster Day of fun!

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Walking Tours

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The best free walking tours in Singapore

This article was first published in May 2016 and is constantly being updated as some tours unfortunately stop. The latest update was in June 2020 .

The best way to explore every nook and cranny of this tiny island-state is by foot , and the easiest way to understand a country is to meet locals who can share personal stories. So why not combine both walking around with meeting knowledgable locals with free walking tours in Singapore?

Singapore has it all, from heritage-rich exhibition spaces like the  National Museum of Singapore  to some of the most beautiful religious monuments like the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple . There is art, nature , shopping ,  off the beaten path destinations , Instagram-worthy sites and even several beaches . There are great indoor places to visit when it rains , camping spots to park a tent, cultural and historical museums , cooking classes with locals, and even a Jurassic Mile to walk along. 

Each neighborhood is so culturally diverse and packed with heritage that it would be a pity to explore them without knowing the deep history. From Chinatown to Little India to Tiong Bahru , there is so much more than meets the eye. So get your comfy shoes on and extra battery pack for your phone because the free walking tours in Singapore are packed with adventure.

And if you’re craving more, you can always save my article on 100+ things to do in Singapore which is packed with information I gained over my years of living there.

There are great Singapore staycation deals that are close to many of the walking tour destinations mentioned here. Read our article on the  best Singapore staycations under S$200  to find out more.

Indie Singapore tour

If you’re visiting Singapore on a weekday, sign up for Indie Singapore’s 3-hour walking tours , which have received raving 5-star reviews on Tripadvisor. They have 3 options to cover Singapore’s most historic districts on each day of your visit:

• Chinatown Tuesdays : Get a snapshot of Singapore’s 200-year history
• Kampong Wednesdays : Explore old palace grounds and former Arab quarters in Bugis & Kampong Glam
• Riverfront Thursdays : Learn about Singapore’s beginnings as a fishing village and colonial past

You can also request for personalised tours based on your interest, but these will come at a negotiable fee. Drop an email to  [email protected] to customize your route! Or find them online  here  on their official website.

Tour Highlight

You don’t only get to walk, but will also get to taste the local flavors and shop around for souvenirs with insider information on all the best spots.

Sneakpeek Singapore

Join passionate local university students as they take you on a journey from the 1300’s to present-day Singapore. The tour starts at the Asian Civilisations Museum and ends at Outram Park. Hear tales of the country’s beginnings as a trading port along the Singapore River, visit Singapore’s oldest temple  Thian Hock Keng , and look at skyscrapers in the Central Business District.

End your journey with an amazing view atop the Pinnacle@Duxton’s 50th storey viewing deck!

At 4 hours long this is a lengthy walking tour, but you’ll get a good tea break in between to relax and sample local drinks and snacks at a local bakery and hawker enter. ( Saturdays, from 1:30pm to 5:30pm ). Catch them online here .

You’d think that walking for five hours in the heat of Singapore would be tiresome and boring, yet the experience with Sneakpeek is anything but tedious. With all the passionate stories and personal anecdotes you won’t even know the time has gone by, in fact, you’ll probably leave wanting more.

Bukit Brown Cemetery

It may seem a bit odd to have a tour of a cemetery, but not here at Bukit Brown. For walking tours in Singapore, this is one of the most unique. The largest public Chinese cemetery outside of China in the early 20th century has 100,000 graves.

All Things Bukit Brown , a volunteer community of history buffs and nature lovers, promotes the cemetery as a living archive of Singapore’s past and are keen to unravel the stories of the people buried here, many of whom are notable pioneers. This includes  Cheang Hong Lim and Chew Boon Lay .

Tours are on Weekends, from 9am to 12pm with other pop-up tours . Check out meeting points and other information on their Facebook page  here . 

It’s nice to understand a country from those who came before us. This is not a scary, ghoulish walk about ghosts and the dead, but rather a reminder of Singapore’s forefathers with stories on a very special history.

National Parks Board

Leave the city and soak in the beauty of nature with these free guided Singapore tours around the various parks  – all led by experts and available in several languages. Catch cheeky long-tailed macaques in action at MacRitchie, learn about the rainforest at Botanic Gardens or go birdwatching at Sungei Buloh. They’re by far some of my best free walking tours in Singapore as I love nature.

Some of the more exclusive tours have a nominal $3-$5 fee , such as the one at Pulau Ubin and Chek Jawa showcasing six ecosystems. Why not spend the night at Pulau Ubin after your tour? There are several camping spots at this relaxed island. Here’s our own guide to Pulau Ubin . Dates, languages, walk durations and maximum guest numbers vary per route. Find them online here . 

This is for nature lovers and those who would like to get a break from the city. You will not only be out in the fresh air, surrounded by lush greenery, but will also learn a thing or two about Singapore’s very unique ecosystem. The cute mohican macaques are also a bonus for those who love animals. But do not feed them! Not only is it bad for them as they may become vicious after learning that food comes from humans, but if caught you’ll also be fine S$5,000.

Jane’s Walk

An annual affair since 2011, Jane’s Walk offers over 20 guided tours every May and covers everything from jogs along the Kallang River to leisurely strolls around Tiong Bahru- which we have covered in our neighbourhood guide  here !

The concept behind Jane’s Walk is to start conversations about places and people , so every tour is planned and led by enthusiastic resident volunteers who share their personal experiences of working, living or playing in their area. Dates, walk durations, and maximum guest numbers vary per route. For more information on the walk check out their website here . 

Jane’s Walk has an open policy on discussion, where all thoughts are welcomed and examined. You will find out more about the need for community in Singapore and what “kampong spirit” means.

Changi Airport City Tours

Update in 2020: Changi free tours have stopped due to the pandemic. They will surely continue in the future when travel has opened back up. Keep checking here for updates. 

Got a few hours to spare before your next flight? Make full use of your layover with Changi Airport’s 2.5 hour twice-daily City Sights Tour and catch modern Singapore’s skyline, including stopovers at The Merlion, Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay.

Discover Singapore’s melting pot of cultures by visiting colonial and cultural districts, including Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam on the Heritage Tour, running 4 times a day. The tour is f or Changi transit passengers only. Check on the Changi website for how to book here . 

This is a must-do activity for long transfers, even though you can spend a full day in Changi itself. So often we visit airports but are unable to actually enter and therefore experience the country itself. So this is the perfect opportunity to understand Singapore’s diverse culture and history before you jet off to your next location.

Heritage Trails with NHB

If you like your walks free and easy, then check out the 14 self-guided free walking tours in Singapore that you can take at your own pace  created by the National Heritage Board . Their free downloadable guides (around 30 pages each) includes maps, past versus present-day pictures, detailed descriptions and interesting facts on Singapore’s landmarks.

There are also directions to hit every heritage marker (standing stone plaques with further descriptions about where you’re standing).

If you don’t have access to a printer during your visit, then download NHB’s 3 free walking tour apps ( WWII , Singapore Heritage Trails , SG Journey), which feature games and interactive maps to deepen your knowledge of Singapore’s rich history. Check out their website with times and dates here .

Although all the tours are special in their own right, one of the Tampines Heritage Trails is a great last tour before you jet out of the country as it’s right next to Changi Airport. There are also different options depending on your creed from religious monuments to green spaces and the town itself.

Mount Faber and Sentosa with My Community

The reservoir around Mount Faber used to be a body of water where locals would go for a swim or even fish. But by the early 2000s it had completely disappeared off the map.

It was only in 2014 that National Heritage Board researchers came across the reservoir accidentally. As it remains zoned as a greenfield space it will most likely remain untouched and off the beaten path.

If this type of intrepid exploration excites you, then you should definitely contact non-profit My Community who provide free tours to abandoned and off-the-grid destinations around Mount Faber and Sentosa . Two of the standout places you can visit are the underground complex on Mount Faber that was built in 1936 to coordinate artillery batteries and Fort Serapong on Pulau Blakang Mati, or as it’s better known, Sentosa. You can book your tour online here .

You will most likely not be able to visit the hidden destinations without the tour guides, so it is really a once in a lifetime experience for avid explorers and history buffs.

Monster Singapore Tour

Another very popular walking Singapore tour operator is Monster Day Tours. Apart from planning themes, guided, bespoke and their popular “Go Big” Signature Tours, they also provide free walking tours in Singapore. Their guides are young, bubbly and effortlessly enthusiastic while providing a larger than life touring experience.

Their free walking tours in Singapore visit all the tourist favorites like Chinatown , Little India , Kampong Glam, Marina Bay Sands & Gardens by the Bay which has a spectacular Light Show , Civic District & Singapore River, and Bugis & Bras Basah. Each tour is on a different day, so it’s best to check there really well-made website here to find out more information.

They are well known for ad-libbing on their tours, providing on the spot information as it happens. So you get the basic guided tour plus a deeper knowledge of what you’re seeing and experiencing, on the spot. There is also a bit of adventure and storytelling, so it’s like a performance, over and above the facts.

Paid walking tours in Singapore

While the list above mentions all the free walking tours in Singapore, we thought it would be a nice addition to tell you about some great paid walking tours of Singapore as well. 

This is for tourists and visitors who want a more personalised experience and don’t have time to wait around for the unpaid ones. With the Singapore walking tours listed below, you get a one-on-one experience on your own time and at your own leisure without other people who may be disrupting your experience. 

We have selected walking tours from Klook and Getyourguide, as they are the most trusted tour providers on the Internet and we often use them on our travels. Some also allow cancellations, which is great when your plane is delayed or the weather isn’t doing what you want. 

Read on to find out our picks of the best paid walking tours in Singapore. 

First up is the Chinatown walking tour. Visit all the most famous locations in Chinatown like the Buddha Tooth Relic Museum, Sri Mariamman and the local wet market. Discover hidden gems and truly local stories as you visit Chinese medical halls, woodwork handicrafts, and tea houses as you walk under the shophouses. The tour is also loaded with some deep insight into the culture of the bustling town.

You can book your Chinatown walking tour here . 

Feeling peckish? Then rather take the Chinatown Food Tasting & Walking Tour. This is definitely for the foodies and IGers as you will get to enjoy a classic breakfast of sweet kaya toast with a hot cup of coffee, visit the wet market, try 5 different Singaporean dishes and see how they are prepared. Oh yes, and you get to walk through Chinatown with a licensed guide!

Little India

Probably the most colorful Singapore walking tour, a visit to Little India will fill you will tons of inspiration and will have all your senses tingling. You expert local guide will take you on a journey to all the secret spots and major sites of Little India. You will see how flower garlands are made, pass by the fortune tellers, witness Sri Veeramakaliamman temple and it’s gorgeous gopuram and pay a visit to the Indian Heritage Centre to learn more about the local Indian community.

You can also book admission to the India Heritage Centre here if you prefer not to go on a guided tour.

Historic and off the beaten path

If you think you’ve seen everything in Singapore, think again. This series of five different walks will talk you on a journey deep into the unknown parts of the Lion City. Each half day tour ventures into a different part of Singapore’s history, it is part history lesson, part interactive experience and all fun. In one adventure you will learn about Singapore’s national flower, the Sarkies brothers, the Straits Times and the history behind the ‘Singapore Sling’. In another you delve into the Malay and Islam influence in Singapore. There’s even a Chinatown, Little India and Battebox experience in these award-winning tours. 

This tour is great for both first time travelers and locals alike and promises something completely different to the usual touristy spots. 

Book one (or all) of the five tours at a discounted rate here .

Trishaw tour

Tired feet or those who can’t take a traditional walking tour, should not fear. Join an uncle and hop on a trishaw to see Singapore from a different angle. It’s great to have the wind blowing in your hair as you visit multiple sights including the Singapore River, Little India, Kampong Glam, and Chinatown. Pop into some shops, eat some authentic meals and listen as the wise old uncle tells you about his deep history and culture. 

Haw Par Villa

By far the most eccentric Singapore walking tour you will join, Haw Par Villa and it’s crazy figures will leave you speechless. This after-dark, two-hour guided tour will take you into the vision of Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par, the creators of Tiger Balm. You will be guided through the infamous 10 Courts of Hell and find out how the King of Ghosts got his title. Learn all about the multiple perspectives of death and the afterlife through park’s bizarre sculptures and dioramas. 

Landmarks and cityscapes

This one is a tourist favorite, especially for travelers with a limited time who want to see most of Singapore famous landmarks. Not only will you see the best of the best that Singapore’s has to offer like the Merlion, Cavenagh Bridge and the Fountain of Wealth at Suntec City, you will also explore some unique sites like the Cookie Museum. And the best part, you can choose to walking or ride an e-scooter for a truly expeditious adventure. 

Book your cityscapes tour here .

Probably the most visited area by tourists and locals alike, Marina Bay has a lot to offer. Visit the iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, Helix Bridge, and Marina Bay Floating Platform. The delve into the history of the architecture and learn about the feng shui of the area. There is an additional component that makes this particular tour stand out, you will dive into the history of the government and learn about its policies and how it was able to forge economic growth and sustainable development. 

Book your Marina Bay tour here . 

Don’t forget to check out our articles on Gardens by the Bay and its Light Show . 

Changi WWII

While the most famous airport in the world will be visited by each traveler to the country, the area surrounding the terminals is also called Changi and holds an important history for the country. Understand more about the area and its wartime past as you visit the World War II sites. Learn more about the triumphs and tragedies as you pass the Changi Chapel and Museum Exhibition. You will also get to explore Singapore’s untouched greenery as you trek through the Changi Boardwalk and peak at the Straits of Johor. Pay your respect to fallen citizens at Kranji War Cemetery and visit several batteries. This tour is for true history buffs and you will leave feeling humbled and knowledgable. 

Book your Changi WWII guided tour here .  

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Visitors Info

Walking the ground – free heritage trails in singapore.

• Written by  Christine Flor
• font size decrease font size increase font size

Walking is one of the best ways to get to know the nitty gritty of a country. Get up close and personal with Singapore's heritage and culture with the numerous heritage tours and trails available, many of which are absolutely free! Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, culture vulture or hardcore shopaholic, there’s a walking trail for you.

SG Heart Map Tours App

Screenshots taken from the SG Heart Map Tours Android App.

Missed the national day celebrations? Don’t worry – the fruits of Singapore’s Jubilee celebrations are still available for you to enjoy. Download the SG Heart Map Tours app from the App Store  or Google Play , and explore the various places in Singapore along five zonal routes – Captivating North East, Adventurous North West, Scenic South East, Enchanting South West and Charming Central. Not only are tourist attractions featured, the app also allows you to explore heartlands and local neighbourhoods such as Chong Pang Market & Food Centre, Punggol Waterway, Old Airport Road, Holland Village and Tiong Bahru Market. Take your pick from seven routes, which include the new Beautiful Parks Tour and Yummy Food Tour that were created just for this app! This real-time app is able to track your location and through that, each self-guided trail will take you on an interactive journey to gain new insights about familiar as well as lesser known places, through trivia, quizzes and puzzles. You can also read Singaporeans’ stories about these places, and add to these shared memories by contributing your own stories on the SG Heart Map portal.

NParks Tours

Look no further than the series of walks and tours available on the NParks website at www.nparks.gov.sg . NParks is Singapore’s National Parks Board, and they are dedicated to the greening of Singapore. They also organise community programmes to foster engagement with the public, which is where the walking trails come in. Join any of their guided tours listed here or follow one of their Do-It-Yourself walks available here  and discover a different side of Singapore!

The NParks tours and walks will be of special interest to those who love nature and greenery. If the listed tours aren’t enough for you, check out some of our recommended off-the-beaten-path spots: Various parks and gardens; St John’s Island, Lazarus Island and Kusu Island; Pulau Ubin ; and various other hidden gems .

YourSingapore Walking Tours

Of course you can count on the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) to come through for you with suggestions on where to go and what to see. Not only are the more mainstream tourism spots such as Chinatown, Orchard Road and Kampong Glam covered, but different aspects of them are revealed in these walking tours as well. Want to shop in Orchard Road? Sure, that’s a no-brainer. But did you know you can go on an art trail too? Check out www.yoursingapore.com/walking-tour.html .

If you can’t get enough of shopping, or just want a different shopping experience from the slick one at Orchard Road, browse through our recommendations at www.visitors.sg/shopping for more suggestions.

Urban Redevelopment Authority Walking Maps & Trails

To really get at the heart of Singapore, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) is your best bet. They have published numerous walking maps over the years, available on their website at www.ura.gov.sg/uol/publications/lifestyle-reads/walking-maps-trails.aspx . Chock-a-block full of nitty-gritty details about various neighbourhoods, you can not only find out more about Chinatown and Marina Bay but also areas that are less well-known to tourists but are no less fascinating. Balestier, Toa Payoh and Jalan Besar are just some of the other areas you can explore with these maps! Architecture aficionados, especially, should check these out.

Singapore HeritageFest

For the mother lode of guided tours and walking trails though, you need to hit up the month-long Singapore HeritageFest while it’s on. From Singapore’s ancient history to the best of local arts, food and entertainment, there’s a trail for any topic you could possibly want to find out more about. Unfortunately, 2015’s HeritageFest is over, but 2016’s is slated to be held in April so keep an eye on www.heritagefest.sg for more details when it’s released! The website is still worth browsing through as some of the trails have their brochures available for download, meaning you can go on the trails on your own. If you can time your trip to coincide with the HeritageFest, hit it up as it comprises of so much more than just guided walks. Look forward to film screenings, talks, live performances, open houses, exhibitions and more!

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Guided Tours by Volunteers

• Guided Tours

Our volunteers conduct different tours each weekend (held on Saturdays, except on the 5th Saturday of the month). These walking tours are free so pick one and bring your family and friends for a fun and educational day out! Please note that we manage the group size in order to ensure that the sessions are conducive for all to learn and experience. Registration for all session begin 15-minute prior.

Our revised tour schedule begins on 1 April 2024

Our Education Branch at the Singapore Botanic Gardens also offers a large variety of tours and educational workshops. These programmes are designed to promote nature awareness and to bring out the ‘green thumb’ in people! For a list of tours and programmes, please visit us here.

Please refer to our Events  listings for most up-to-date schedules for our activities. 

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KAMPONG GELAM WALKING TOUR:

Royalty to Trendy

Join us on a fascinating Kampong Glam walking tour, a special part of Singapore originally set aside for royalty. Discover traditional shops plying their trade beside hipster cafes in Haji Lane, be captivated by insta-worthy spots that are covered with impressive street art, and get up close to the spectacular mosques in Kampong Glam.  Other highlights include a visit to the grounds where once the Royal Palace & Citadel is, learning more about the original people of Singapore, and Malay heritage & get to know ethnic Malay food such as Singapore's Nasi Padang & Teh Tarik.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Explore Kampong Glam

Explore Singapore's Malay ethnic enclave and learn about its royalty rooted heritage.

Immersive Storytelling

Enjoy hearing cultural stories of Kampong Gelam by our expert tour guides.

Picture-Perfect Spots

Be amazed at Kampong Gelam's street art and stop by to snap some pictures!

Heritage & Culture Journey

Learn Culture and Heritage of Kampong Gelam

Gain Local Insights & Tips

Get local recommendations on the best places to shop and dine in Kampong Gelam.

HEAR WHAT YOUR FELLOW

Travellers say, new zealand, magnificent chinatown free walking tour.

My colleague and I finally found out about this amazing tour program by chance after our third visit to the tourist visitor center. I had low expectations at first but the Chinatown and Kampong Glam walking tours were incredible. Angel was our guide and was amazing. After Chinatown tour we went to Maxwell Hawker for dinner- Yum. She was a real local with tons of knowledge and was able to weave in facts and history of the government and policies which helped explain a lot of the history and urbanism. Angel made sure all 35 people in the tour were included and didn’t get left behind or lost. The tour hit all the areas and sites I wanted to see.

What's Included

- Guided Kampong Gelam Tour - English-speaking Tour Guide

Sites You Will Visit:

1. Lavender MRT 2. Rochor River 3. Blk 7 Beach Road 4. Hajjah Fatimah Mosque 5. Beach Road 6. Istana Kampong Gelam 7. Gedung Kuning 8. Bhai Sarbat (Break) 9. Bussorah Street 10. Sultan Mosque 11. Arab Street 12. Haji Lane (Ending Point) Please note that sites or routes may be subject to changes based on actual day conditions.

Tour Details

Date & Time:

Tue, Thu & Sat (9:30am)

Meeting Point:

Lavender MRT Exit B (Street Level)

2 Hrs 30 Mins

Free (Tip-based)

(See Tipping Guide )

CHINATOWN TOUR

LITTLE INDIA TOUR

• Food Adventures
• Ugly Food Tours
• Special Tours
• Our Signature Chinatown Walk – Free Walking Tour
• “Our Singapore Story” Walk down the Singapore River – Free Walking Tour
• “Balik Kampong” Walk through Kampong Glam – Free Walking Tour
• Our “Sari, Spice and Everything Nice” tour through Little India – Free Walking Tour
• Private Tours
• Corporate and MICE
• Indie Guide

Our Signature Chinatown Walk – Free Walking Tour

Proceed booking, already a member, don't have an account create one., or continue as guest, adding item to wishlist requires an account, why book with us.

• Specially curated Tours & Activities
• No-hassle best price guarantee
• Check out the must-see highlights of the area
• Hear the hidden stories and the uncover the "not-so-known" local favorite hang outs as well

Got a Question?

Do not hesitate to drop us an email or a message (via Facebook). We are happy to talk to you.

[email protected]

Indie Singapore Facebook

The one that started it all! Our first and signature tour. Join us for a 3 Hour Walk through the heart of Singapore.

You’ll be introduced to the City in a Garden and sneak a peek at how the locals live, play and eat.

We will bring you into Chinatown – a tourist attraction, but at the same time, also a local living area. Over the period of the tour, we hope that you will see how our unique blend of culture/religion/perspective has shaped Singapore to the city that it is today.

The walking tour aims to go deeper than just introducing the sites: we’ll stray off the beaten path and delve into the city’s amazing history. While we are at it, we will also show you some of our favorite eating spots!

Of course, we’ll also try to provide you with an insider’s take on what you can do during your stay in Singapore.

If you would like to go on this tour on your own date/time, head on to this page , or   drop us an email, and we can customize this tour for you.

Tour Details

Book your slots for a guaranteed spot on our tours (registration is free and it helps make sure we have enough guides on the job). You are welcome to meet us at the meeting point without a reservation, but we cannot guarantee that you will be able to join us if the group is full.

These tours are FREE, but tips are welcome (our guides receive no other compensation or commissions).

We believe that tips given should be voluntary and in direct proportion to the quality of the tour and the budget of the traveler. Value for money goes a long way, and satisfied customers tip what they think the tour was worth!

We do not accept large group/organization bookings for our Free Tours, as they are intended for individual/small family signups only (max 5 persons/signup). They follow a set schedule and are not customizable. We place a limit on the number of sign ups per tour to ensure that everyone has a chance to go on the tour with us. Our aim is for our guests to have a more personal and intimate experience with us.

For larger groups and/or corporations, we recommend engaging us for our private customized paid tours . That way you can customize what you would like to see as well as set a date/time that is suitable for your group.

Departure & Return Location

Starting Point: OUTSIDE Exit A of Chinatown MRT Station; Pagoda Street ( Google Maps )

Ending Point: Maxwell Hawker Centre ( Google Map )

Fixed Departure Time

Tuesdays and Fridays: 09:30am 

Price Includes

• English-Speaking Professional Tour Guide

Price Excludes

• Additional Food and Drink
• Any Private Expenses/Shopping

What to Expect

This was the tour that started it all for us!

This tour has been reinvented and adapted over its 6-year run. Join us for our signature 3-hour walk through the heart of Singapore. Let us share with you our stories of this amazing district and show you some of our favourite spots!

Our tours will follow all current Safe Distancing Measures (SDM) as prescribed by the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) during the Circuit Breaker (CB) period.

This will include limiting the number of guests allowed on each tour. Guest in one tour group may also have to be further divided into smaller sub groups with sub group size mandated by the current SDM

Where we meet - OUTSIDE EXIT A of Chinatown MRT Station

Related Tours

“Our Singapore Story” Walk down the Singapore River – Free Walking Tour

The Singapore River has witnessed our city state’s development through our many phases of change.

This is the one tour we recommend for you to go on where we try to put everything into perspective. We will walk through some of the most important events that shaped Singapore into what it is today.

Click here to book an idyllic stroll down the Singapore River with us

Our “Sari, Spice and Everything Nice” tour through Little India – Free Walking Tour

The ethnic district of Little India is definitely one of the most colourful areas here in Singapore, rich in culture and history. We want to show you some of its busiest markets, most beautiful places of worship and liveliest hawker centres.

Click here to experience the colours and culture of Little India with us!

Tour About Singapore: Free Chinatown Walking Tour

The Chinatown walking tour is a journey of discovery, As we walk through Chinatown you will see the old, our efforts at conservation, and the new, the business, the community.

Our walk will bring you through both the Fujian and Cantonese quarter of Chinatown, Along the way, you will see the diversity and also the unity of modern Singapore.

We meet at Basement 1 of the Telok Ayer MRT Station, in front of the FUN CAFÉ.

Our first stop will be at Far East Square, walking through the Amoy Hotel and the former Fu Tat Chi temple. We will walk along to visit the oldest Taoist Temple in Singapore, The Tian Hock Keng, after which we will then cross over to Amoy street to walk up Ann Siang Hill to visit the housing built by Mr Chia Ann Siang.

We will descend from Ann Siang Hill to South Bridge Road and another part of Chinatown where we will visit markets, temples and see the business of old.

Our two-hour walk will end at Pagoda street, just in time for an early lunch or shop at the stalls that caught your eye along the way.

Schedule: Every Saturday 10am to 12pm

Duration: 2 hours

Meeting Point: Exit B of Telok Ayer MRT Station

Things to bring:  Umbrella + Water Bottle + Adventurous Spirit

Price:  Pay-As-You-Wish (Most people usually pay around $17-22 for a similar tour)

Join:  Fill up the form below and let us know which day you are joining or send us an email at [email protected]

Register for the Free Chinatown Walking Tour below:

Your Email*

Your Number*

Extra Notes / Details of Accompanying Friends

Government agencies communicate via .gov.sg websites (e.g. go.gov.sg/open). Trusted websites

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Tours & Trails

Kampong Kapor Methodist Church Open House: 130 Years Serving the Community

4 May • 09:00am •

Kampong Kapor Methodist Church (KKMC) is located in Singapore’s Little India district. Founded in 1894, we are one of the first Peranakan churches and the fourth Methodist church to be established in Singapore. We welcome you to enter into the serenity of our sanctuary to admire the architecture, stained-glass window and pipe organ recitals.

37 Emerald Hill Site Tours

18 - 19, 25 - 26 May • 10:00am •

18 - 19, 25 - 26 May • 02:00pm •

Come along for the first ever public site tours of 37 Emerald Hill, former home of Singapore Chinese Girls’ School, the first locally founded secular school for girls by our Straits-born community and conserved through a ground-up community effort.

40 Years of Total Defence with the Navy

4 - 5 May • 12:30pm •

Discover our Navy in this special 40th anniversary of Total Defence programme with guided tours at the Changi Naval Base and Navy Museum. Learn about our navy traditions with sailors past and present on this very special tour!

Raffles Lighthouse Tour

11, 25 May • 12:00pm •

Embark on an unforgettable 5-hour Raffles Lighthouse Tour, with the first hour at the Singapore Maritime Gallery. Cruise through the vibrant Singapore Strait, witness majestic ships, and explore the iconic Raffles Lighthouse. Immerse yourself in its rich history and heritage gallery for a captivating maritime adventure. Join us for an unforgettable journey at sea!

A Taste of Outfield Camp: Heritage in a Mess Tin

18, 25 May • 10:30am •

Soldiers, fall in! Join us on a journey of discovery and rediscovery where you get a taste of an outfield camp experience. Then, prepare for a ‘route march’ to SAFTI Military Institute, where you get some insights about the rich traditions and heritage of the SAF, from its passing out parade to going up the iconic SAFTI Tower in this unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

Heritage & Hantu

4 - 5, 11 - 12, 18 - 19, 25 - 26 May • 05:30pm •

4 - 5, 11 - 12, 18 - 19, 25 - 26 May • 08:30pm •

Take a walk on the dark side and immerse yourself in an area rich with history, abandoned buildings and spooky tales. There are two types of walks to choose from - Twilight Walk (less scary, suitable for family with children), and Night Walk (can get pretty spooky for some).

Back-of-House Tour: "Former Supreme Court: Unseen, Unheard"

4 - 5, 11 - 12, 18 - 19, 25 - 26 May • 04:30pm •

5, 12, 19, 26 May • 02:30pm •

This exclusive tour offers a glimpse into restricted areas of the former Supreme Court, usually out of bounds to the public. Go behind-the-scenes and find out more about courtroom proceedings and the experience of persons on trial.

Stories in Stone Katong-Joo Chiat Built Heritage and Historic Tour

25 - 26 May • 02:00pm •

25 - 26 May • 04:30pm •

Embark on a journey through the rich history and iconic architecture of Katong-Joo Chiat, guided by our HAN Heritage Champions, who will unveil the neighbourhood's unique heritage and landmarks.

Chicken Rice Diaries: The Hainan Story in Bugis

5, 12, 19, 26 May • 04:00pm •

Embark on a delicious adventure through Singapore's vibrant Bugis district with a true-blooded Hainanese guide. Throughout the tour, you'll participate in a fun bingo game with clues hidden within the fascinating history of the Hainanese people in Singapore.

ArClab: Heritage in Motion Tour

4 - 5, 11 - 12, 18 - 19, 25 - 26 May • 10:00am •

Take a walk through the Architectural Conservation Laboratory (ArClab) and Blair Plain conservation area, where we look at built heritage's past, present, and future in the ever-evolving Singapore’s urban landscape.

Maritime Evolution Trail

12, 26 May • 10:00am •

Join our thrilling 2.5-hour Maritime Evolution Trail, tracing Singapore’s modern maritime industry from Labrador Park to St James Power Station. Explore dynamic Keppel Harbour, strategic St James Power Station, and hearing inspiring stories of our port infrastructure.

Unveiling South Beach Singapore: From Military Might to Modern Marvel (Mocktail Included)

4, 11, 18, 25 May • 05:00pm •

March through the hallowed grounds of the former Beach Road Camp and embark on a captivating tour of South Beach. Here, history whispers from the restored buildings, and art comes alive. Uncover fascinating stories behind these architectural gems.

Never miss a highlight from Singapore HeritageFest!

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• Guided Tours

My Alexandra Heritage Tour

My Boon Keng Heritage Tour

My Dawson Heritage Tour

My Holland Village Heritage Tour

My Mount Faber Heritage Tour

My Pek Kio Heritage Tour

My Queenstown Platinum Jubilee Tour

My Redhill Heritage Tour

My River Valley Heritage Tour

My Sentosa Heritage Tour

My Tanglin Halt Heritage Tour

My Tanjong Pagar Heritage Tour

My Telok Blangah Heritage Tour

My Tiong Bahru Heritage Tour

Welcome to My Pulau Ubin

Welcome to My St John’s Island

Contact Us: [email protected]

• About My Community
• What Is Community Heritage?
• Vision & Mission
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What’s On

• Exhibitions
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Government agencies communicate via .gov.sg websites (e.g. go.gov.sg/open). Trusted websites

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Guided Tours

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Free Public Guided Tours are available within museum premises on a pre-registration basis for a maximum group size of 15 pax per tour at the following timings:

* Mandarin tours are available by appointment. A minimum of 4 pax is required to confirm the tour. 

Each tour is approximately 1 hour in duration.

Please click  HERE  to register your interest for a tour at least 5 working days before your desired date of tour for English tours, and at least 4 weeks in advance for Mandarin tours.

Our officers will be in touch within 3 working days to confirm or propose alternative date for your tour.

Please note that tour spots are available on a first come, first served basis, and submission of the online form does not automatically equate to a successful registration of a tour spot.

Temi Guided Tours

Learn more about Changi Chapel and Museum with an interactive robot by your side. Explore the museum through the eyes of a soldier who was interned at the Changi prison camp during the Japanese Occupation. Tour timings:

Tuesday to Thursday: 10 to 4pm (every hour), last tour at 4pm Friday: 12 to 4pm (every hour), last tour at 4pm Duration:

About 50 minutes Language:

English (other languages coming soon) Tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis and subject to prevailing safe management measures. Register at the museum at least 15 minutes before the hour.  Temi Guided Tours are a collaboration between the National Heritage Board (NHB) and Government Technology Agency (GovTech).

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The Original Singapore Walks ®

“if you just do one tour in singapore, make it one of these.” – lonely planet.

Be treated to a fascinating and deeply-enriching tour experience – our guides are known to walk the talk (quite literally!). Journey through hidden corners of Singapore and discover the historical significance of the sites you encounter, coupled with witty observations on culture, tradition, architecture…the list goes on!

Be sure to check out Our Awards , Testimonials and FAQs !

Take the road less travelled with guides who are experts of the city. The brainchild of one military historian and several precocious enfants terribles of Singapore’s heritage-education scene, be thoroughly entertained as you visit cultural and historical enclaves, while affable researcher-guides, through skilful storytelling and the use of archival images, regale you with juicy insights to local society and traditions.

With a different tour guaranteed to run most days of the week, you only need to turn up at the meeting point (mostly at MRT station exits), on the scheduled day / time,  pay the guide / flash your online booking confirmation and off you go !

NOTE: Our tours do not run on public holidays – please refer to the list of public holidays below.

Public Holidays in 2023:   1 JAN, 22 & 23 FEB, 7 & 22 APR, 1 MAY , 2 & 29 JUN, 9 AUG, 12 NOV, 25 DEC 2023

*Please note that guides and trainee guides are not allowed to join the tours, without express written permission.

Check out our line-up of tours below!

Of graves, guns & battles™ is now available.

OF GRAVES, GUNS & BATTLES™

- A Fort Canning Hill Tour (SATURDAYS)

“The tombs of the Malay Kings are close at hand… and if it is my fate to die here, I shall take my place amongst them”

~ Sir Stamford Raffles, 1823

BEST TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AWARD FINALIST – 2012 Singapore Experience Awards

Tread lightly, for treasures lie beneath a historic hill in the heart of the city – the spot where both 14th century Singapura and modern Singapore were born. Trace the rise and fall of great empires. Hear stories of rulers who commanded from the hill and the empire-builders who were buried on its slopes. Discover the world-changing story of a humble spice. Visit graves, a colonial fort and relive one of the most important battles in history, don’t miss this exhilarating journey back in time at the once “Forbidden Hill”! 

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• The Grave of the Last Ancient King of Singapore
• 19th Century Colonial Cemetery
• Old Fort Gateway
• Sang Nila Utama Garden
• Archaeological Dig of Fort Canning 
• Fort Canning Heritage Gallery

WHERE & WHEN TO MEET (▸VIEW MAP HERE ):

• EVERY SATURDAY 9.30am – 12.00nn
• Meet at the OUTDOOR LIFT at the Enrance of Fort Canning Centre  (5 Cox Terrace, Fort Canning Hill)
• BY MRT: Dhoby Ghaut Station (NS24, NE6, CC1)
• BY CAB: Alight at the Roundabout (next to Security Post), 2 Cox Terrace, Fort Canning Hill
• END POINT: Fort Canning Heritage Gallery

Our tours do not run on Public Holidays. Refer to the list of Public Holidays below:

Public Holidays in 2024:  25 DEC 2023 & 1 JAN, 10-12 FEB, 29 MAR, 10 APR, 1 MAY, 22 MAY, 17 JUN, 9 AUG, 31 OCT, 25 DEC 2024

SINGLE TOUR TICKET:

S$40.00 (Adult) / S$20.00 (Child)

3-DAY PASS:

S$X.00 (Adult) / S$X.00 (Child)

1-WEEK PASS:

THE TIME OF EMPIRE™

- A Colonial District Walk ( STAY TUNED )

“This place possesses an excellent harbour… Singapore is everything we could desire”

~ Sir Stamford Raffles, 1819

On 6th February 1819, Singapore was claimed as a trading outpost of the British Empire to “secure to the British flag the maritime superiority of the Eastern seas”. In governance, religion, entertainment, and many other spheres, the imprint of Singapore’s colonial past is indelible. Discover the significance behind some of Singapore’s oldest and most stunning landmarks, each with their own tale to tell. This is the Walk where you learn about Singapore’s national flower, the Sarkies brothers, The Straits Times and find that wonderful drink called ‘the Singapore Sling’. Discover Singapore’s colonial legacy and chart its transformation from The Time of Empire.

• Explore the 150-year-old Saint Andrew’s Cathedral, witness to many historic events and personalities of colonial Singapore
• Venture onto Coleman Street and get to know the man behind all the early colonial architecture of Singapore
• Trace the fascinating history of the Armenian Diaspora at the Armenian Church – the oldest church in Singapore and a beautiful gem of a building surrounded by lush tropical fauna
• Hear the colourful stories of the French missionary and discover their imprint at the gorgeous CHIJmes building, a former Convent
• Admire the stately architecture and learn the historical significance of the National Gallery.
• NEW! Enjoy a rare view of the cityscape from atop the Supreme Court Viewing Deck which overlooks the future Downtown as our guide shares exciting snippets of major upcoming projects.
• EVERY MONDAY  9.30am – 12.00nn  
• [ NO TOURS:  27 Jan 2020 (Chinese New Year), 25 May 2020 (Hari Raya Puasa) & 10 Aug 2020 (National Day)]
• Meet at City Hall MRT Station, outside Exit B (North Bridge Road)
• BY CAB: Alight at the MRT exit at the junction of North Bridge Road and Stamford Road. Nearest landmark is St. Andrew’s Cathedral.
• END POINT: CHIJmes

TICKETING: STAY TUNED

S$38.00 (Adult) / S$18.00 (Child)

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

• As a mark of respect for the state institution, visitors must be appropriately attired. Visitor(s) may be turned away by security personnel if the attire includes one or more of the following – torn jeans, bermudas/shorts, slippers and singlet/casual t-shirts.
• Photographic devices are not allowed in the Supreme Court and must be surrendered at the entrance of the Supreme Court.

DHOBIS, SARIS & A SPOT OF CURRY™

– A Little India Walk ( STAY TUNED )

“The knowledge and information provided during the tour were absolutely magnificent. We can’t wait to return to Singapore to partake in further tours.It was also a great opportunity to meet a lot of other people from all different walks of life and from different countries”

~ Gary and Marg Bucknall, Australia

BEST TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AWARD WINNER – 2012 Singapore Experience Awards

It was once said that there are three ways to India from Singapore: by ship, by plane, and by a short walk to Little India. At Journeys, we still believe that’s true. Look here a spice and there a garland and hail, an artist that paints on your hand! What’s behind the alluring fragrance of jasmine and the mysterious forehead dot? If you’ve always found Hindu temples fascinating but confusing, join this tour and gain the simplest yet profound insight into the religion. Savour treats at Little India’s oldest restaurant, walk through the famed Tekka Market, learn the art of sari-tying and look out for quirky street art. One always finds it so difficult to resist the charms of Little India and it’s little wonder that this is one of our guides’ favourite Walks.

Inclusive of Local Treats

• Paan and Garland store. Learn how flowers play an integral part in Indian life and what goes into the ubiquitous “chewing gum of the east”
• Tekka Wet Market. Discover exotic vegetables and fruits at Singapore’s most colourful wet market, with a little help from our guide.
• Take it all in, the exotic colours and aromas, as we navigate through the bazaar at Little India Arcade. Learn to tie the sari and understand the meanings behind Indian body decoration
• Indulge in hearty food sampling at Little India’s oldest restaurant
• Discover the vibrant street art dotted around Little India
• Engaging introduction to Hindu traditions, philosophy and way of life at the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
• EVERY TUESDAY   9.30am – 12.00nn
• Meet at Little India MRT Station, outside Exit E (Buffalo Road)
• BY CAB: Alight at the junction between Race Course Road and Buffalo Road.
• END POINT: Near Little India MRT Station

RED CLOGS DOWN THE FIVE FOOT WAY™

– A Chinatown Walk ( STAY TUNED )

“It gave us an insight into the culture in Chinatown. We have been on some of the walks in London, and would like you to know that we found the experience every bit as entertaining and educational.”

~ Gerry Goresky, Canada

BEST TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AWARD WINNER – 2010 Singapore Experience Awards

Feast on the sights and sounds of bustling Chinatown, and gain fascinating insights into the area’s storied history and unique architecture. Step back in time in an immersive, multi-sensory experience at Chinatown Heritage Centre, including faithful recreations of the living quarters back in the ‘50s. We’ll reveal the stories of Chinatown’s early residents and the area’s gritty past. Explore Singapore’s oldest Hokkien-Chinese temple, where religious syncretism takes centre-stage. Gather around to sample lovingly prepared and authentic local delights! Check out paper cars, houses, ‘handphones’, and even lingerie – all part of an ancient Chinese funeral ritual. We’ll also introduce to you the Yins and Yangs of Chinese traditional medicine. If you’re brave, we’ll even help you find your way about a very slippery wet market.

• Enjoy a multi-sensory experience at the award-winning Chinatown Heritage Centre
• Explore Thian Hock Keng (the oldest Hokkien-Chinese temple in Singapore!), a window to Chinese syncretism and worldview (winner of UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage 2001 Awards for Culture Heritage Conservation Building)
• Walk past beautifully-conserved shophouses and trace the lives of early Chinese immigrants to discover the world’s most multi-racial Chinatown
• Venture into quaint Chinese trades stores, including one specialising in Traditional Chinese Remedies and another in Ancestral Worship supplies
• Wind your way through Ann Siang Hill, one-time plantation and playground of the rich and influential
• Discover the stories behind the glimmering Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
• Sample delicious treats from a local pastry shop steeped in tradition
• EVERY WEDNESDAY   9.30am – 12.00nn [ NO TOURS:  1 Jan 2020 (New Year’s Day)]
• Meet at Telok Ayer MRT Station, outside Exit A (Cross Street)
• BY CAB: Alight at the MRT exit along Cross Street.
• END POINT: Chinatown Heritage Centre (near Chinatown MRT Station)

CHANGI WWII™

– Life, Death & Courage ( STAY TUNED )

“A most informative and moving tour. We now understand the ordeals that the prisoners had to endure to just stay alive. The tour leader was most informative with extra snippets of information that clearly painted the picture of the reality of the situation at that time.”

~ Lindsay M, Australia

BEST TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AWARD WINNER – 2013 Singapore Experience Awards

Commemorate the fight of brave men and women during World War II in Malaya and Singapore, and the trials and tribulations of their subsequent internment. Turn back the clock in Changi , once the site of many prisoner-of-war camps during the Japanese Occupation, the nexus of much pain and suffering, where life lay on a knife’s edge. It is said that more Australian PoWs perished from incarceration than in battle itself.

With a view of the Straits of Johor , appreciate the Singapore defence strategy while at Changi Boardwalk . Discover a slice of old Singapore at the quaint Changi Village and learn about its role in the war. 

Then, take in the solemn sights of Kranji War Cemetery , the final resting place of thousands who perished in Malaya and Singapore. Hear their stories of bravery and commitment, and be inspired by the power of the human spirit. 

Inclusive of Bottled Water

• Old Changi Prison Wall 
• Temporary Exhibition of the Changi Chapel and Museum * 
• Johore Battery (Guns of Singapore & Changi Airfield) 
• Changi Boardwalk (Changi Beach & Straits of Johor)
• Changi Village (stop for refreshments – own expenses)
• Drive past Selarang, Roberts & Kitchener Barracks (WWII Japanese PoW internment camps) 
• Kranji War Cemetery 
• Every Wednesday (2.00pm-6.00pm) and Saturday (10.00am-2.00pm) 
• Public Holidays in 2023:  1 JAN, 22 & 23 FEB, 7 & 22 APR, 1 MAY , 2 & 29 JUN, 9 AUG, 12 NOV, 25 DEC 2023
• Meet at Pasir Ris MRT Station, outside Exit B
• BY CAB: Alight at Pasir Ris Central, in front of White Sands Mall. You will enter the MRT station via Exit A. Exit B is just across.
• END POINT: Kranji MRT Station

Enjoy UNLIMITED walks and tours when you get our Multi-Day Pass!

(*offered for the days that the pass is valid for and applicable for ALL 7 of our scheduled walks and both of our coach trails – which means savings of at least S$X-S$X!)

S$60.00 (Adult) / S$30.00 (Child)

Please note that the standard cut-off time for online bookings is 1 day in advance. For last-minute bookings on the tour date itself, please check with our team on tour availability by phone (+65 6325 1631) or email . We’ll be happy to welcome you aboard if seats are available. Thank you!

SULTANS OF SPICE™

– A Kampong Glam Walk (Arab Street Area) ( STAY TUNED )

“The best walking tour around the city. There are so many little neighborhoods that you wouldn’t learn about if you don’t take the walking tours.”

– Barbara H, USA

Winner of Singapore Tourism Awards for Best Sightseeing / Leisure / Educational Programme 2005

How was Singapore sold to the British for 60,000 Spanish Dollars? Find out about the man who did it, and the man who forced him to. No one remembers the sultans that used to rule, except us. The old Royal Palace, Sultan Mosque: they all carry an air of royalty snatched away too quickly. Uncover a curious blend of Malay folk traditions and Islam in the legends of the mysterious keris (dagger), exotic perfumes and the story of the faith that is so often misunderstood. Stroll down Singapore’s most Instagrammable street. Take in the colourful vibe of the oldest quarter in the city, now home to an eclectic mix of charming cafes and boutiques. Don’t miss this hidden cultural enclave where Singapore’s indigenous culture thrives amidst modernity.

• Get the inside scoop on the British East India Company’s attempts to control the Spice Trade Route
• Gain valuable insights to Islam at the historic Sultan Mosque and find out who-buys-what at the Traditional Muslim Supplies Shop
• Explore some of the oldest (and narrowest!) streets in Singapore and discover colourful street art
• Catch a glimpse of dying trades, some of the last remaining in the urban city
• Take in the grandeur of the former Malay Palace (Old Istana Kampong Glam)
• Taste traditional treats made with love from old family recipes at a charming cafe that will take you back in time
• EVERY THURSDAY   9.30am – 12.00nn Public Holidays in 2023:  1 JAN, 22 & 23 FEB, 7 & 22 APR, 1 MAY , 2 & 29 JUN, 9 AUG, 12 NOV, 25 DEC 2023
• Meet at Bugis MRT Station, outside Exit B
• BY CAB: There are two MRT exits along Victoria Street. Alight at MRT exit on the side where Raffles Hospital is.
• END POINT: Near Bugis MRT Station

JOURNEYS TO HELL™

– A Twilight Tour of Haw Par Villa & Hell's Museum (FRIDAYS)

“Totally enjoyed all the tour, guide was wonderful and knew all his history”

– Libby, Australia

BEST TOUR EXPERIENCE FINALIST – 2018 Singapore Tourism Awards

“The sea of bitterness has no bounds; repent and you will reach the shore.” The consequences of doing good or evil unfold not just in life, but after death… or so believed Aw Boon Haw – millionaire philanthropist, marketing extraordinaire, brainchild behind the famed ointment Tiger Balm and creator of the eccentric Tiger Balm Garden (known today as Haw Par Villa). Join this unique tour and see the park in a new light – after dark, if you dare! 

Learn how death stalked the Aw family, and what Boon Haw did to confront his mortality. Discover the rich philosophies and culture reflected in the park’s eclectic sculptures and dioramas. Explore perspectives of the afterlife across various religions in Hell’s Museum. Step into the infamous 10 Courts of Hell to see what will get you dismembered and drowned in a pool of blood. And we’ll show you how some Singaporeans communicate with the afterlife. We promise you’ll never see dying – and living – in the same way again.

• Explore Haw Par Villa, a unique cultural theme park built in 1937
• Hear stories of the remarkable family that built the park 
• Exclusive access to Hell’s Museum after dark 
• Learn about concepts of the afterlife across different cultures and civilisations. 
• EVERY FRIDAY   6:30pm – 8:30pm
• NO Tours on Public Holidays (2023):  25 DEC 2023 & 1 JAN, 10-12 FEB, 29 MAR, 10 APR, 1 MAY, 22 MAY, 17 JUN, 9 AUG, 31 OCT, 25 DEC 2024
• Meet at Haw Par Villa MRT Station, outside Exit A (Pasir Panjang Road)
• BY CAB: Alight at the entrance of Haw Par Villa MRT Station, 262 Pasir Panjang Road.
• END POINT: Haw Par Villa

Much raved and well-loved, The Original Singapore Walks® is THE EXPERIENCE to go for when you’re in Singapore!

TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2019

We are honoured to have been awarded the prestigious TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence once again! The Original Singapore Walks® consistently earn great reviews from travellers – join our tours and you’ll find out why!

Singapore Tourism Awards 2018 Finalist

Our tours are proud winners and finalists of the Singapore Tourism Award and Singapore Experience Award, a celebration of outstanding experiences in Singapore’s tourism sector.

Singapore Tatler 2019 (Best Inbound Travel)

We’ve been recognised as Best Inbound Travel Company on the definitive guide to luxury lifestyle, Singapore Tatler! From wonderfully curated tours to customised offerings for groups, we are just a call/click away.

Testimonials

Hear it from those who matter – our wonderful guests who have conquered our tours and emerged triumphant with smiles and new-found knowledge 🙂

Before Your Journeys With Us…

Here’s what you need to know before you embark on The Original Singapore Walks® …

Do I need to book in advance?

No, you can purchase tickets from our guides. However, you will need to pay in cash, exact change. 

Meet your guide at the meeting point 15 minutes before your tour start time for a quick registration and cash payment (if any). In the rare event of an unusually large turn-out or a single walker, the tour goes on (sometimes with an additional guide). 

Advance reservations through phone (+65 6325 1631) or email ( [email protected] ) are highly recommended for

• Parties of 8 or more
• Changi WWII™ – Life, Death and Courage Coach Tour

Our team will send you an email confirmation once we have secured your spots.

If you have a group of 20 or more, we strongly recommend a separate tour just for your group. Please send in your request by filling out the enquiry form at least 2 to 3 weeks ahead.

Where is the tour meeting point? Is there a hotel pick-up?

The tour meeting points are mostly at MRT station exits (above ground) or at the entrance of a museum. The meeting point varies depending on the walk or coach trail of your choice. Please refer to the individual tour descriptions for more details. Hotel pick-ups are currently not available.

How do I recognise the guide?

That would be the person waving our brochures madly in the air. Alternatively, look out for a group forming at the meeting point and the guide who is wearing a Singapore Tourism Board guide badge.

What if I don’t find the guide at the meeting point?

There are generally two scenarios where this may happen: guests sometimes end up at the wrong meeting point, or, they turn up after the scheduled tour departure time. Our guides usually wait an additional 5 minutes after the scheduled departure time in case of any latecomers. Otherwise, a guide no-show rarely happens. If in doubt, please feel free to call our hotline +65 6325 1631 .

How is payment done?

For a hassle-free experience, you are encouraged to book and pay online . Alternatively, you may make payment to the guide in cash prior to your tour.

Exact change will be much appreciated by our guides!

How long do the tours last?

The walks generally last 2.5 hours, although, depending on the interests of the walkers, they’ve been known to go up to 3 hours. The coach trails last around 4 hours, again, depending on guests’ interests and road traffic conditions.

Do the tours run as scheduled on public holidays?

No. Our scheduled tours take a break on public holidays in Singapore (we love our festivals!). Please see check our homepage or our red brochure for the exact dates. Private tours may still be arranged on Sundays and public holidays, depending on the availability of our guides.

Do you have any special discounts right now?

Check out our Promotions tab for the latest deals for our tours and attractions.

Currently, we are offering an ONLINE EXCLUSIVE , where you can get a sweet 10% off your total when you book 2 or more tours on our website (offer is valid with 2 or more DIFFERENT tours booked – we want you to discover different facets of Singapore with The Original Singapore Walks®!)

Now and then, we also present exclusive promotions through partners such as the Association of Singapore Attractions and the Singapore Tourism Board. Do look up their websites for the latest deals.

What are the tours like?

Charming, witty, illuminating and highly addictive. By foot, we will explore the many nooks and crannies that run abound in these lovely corners of Singapore and foray behind the scenes to see, hear, touch and feel things that you won’t on most other tours. We take pride and pleasure in exposing the depths, dishing out the dirty, pointing out the eccentricities and regaling you with astonishing true stories of the city-state we grew to adore. Simply go on one and you will see what we mean…

How are the War Trails by Changi Museum different from The Original Singapore Walks®?

The War Trails by Changi Museum are motorcoach-facilitated guided trails that visit selected WWII sites in Singapore. Please note that we will be running Changi WWII™ – Life, Death and Courage from 1 Apr 2018 onwards due to the closure of Changi Museum for redevelopment. This is a refreshed and enhanced version of our long-running Changi WWII™ tour . The 4-hour long coach tour explores the Occupation Experience and run every Wed & Sat (reservations recommended as seats are limited).

Will we learn anything about local festivals, celebrations and commemorations on your tours?

Definitely! During festive months, selected tours will be enhanced with festival-specific content. Learn more about our local festivals and how we celebrate them by hopping onto one of our special festive tours! Important events that have shaped our society are also emphasised during commemorative months. Follow our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/theoriginalsingaporewalks to get the latest updates!

Are there other tours apart from the scheduled ones?

Yes, we have a whole gamut of tours available for private bookings. Based on our research team’s accumulated knowledge of local history, military history, the arts, religion and culture, Journeys is able to tailor make tour programmes and packages according to various special interests. Our forte lies in programmes which require educational and professional focus and content. Simply drop us a line at +65 63251631 or send in your details by filling out the enquiry form at least 2 to 3 weeks ahead. For programmes requiring a full suite of destination services, visit www.journeys.com.sg/tours-and-services

What if it rains?

As long as guests are game, our promise is to run our tours regardless of rain or shine. Guests are advised to wear comfortable, weather-resistant footwear and bring along a cap, umbrella or poncho. Much of the walks take place at sheltered walkways and buildings, which our guides keep to in the event of rain. Coach trails are hardly affected as sites can be viewed from within the comfort of the coach vehicle if necessary. 

We reserve the right to avoid touring sites due to potential safety hazards under certain weather conditions, such as the open-field Kranji War Graves during a lightning storm.

Is photography / video-recording allowed on the tours?

In protection of the intellectual copyright that goes into the tours, note-taking and any forms of video and audio recording are not allowed on the tours. The interesting stories that we share with you are the result of painstaking research over many years, so do show your appreciation by listening with attentive ears, open hearts and obedient hands! By the way, photography is allowed but not in such excess that it disrupts the tour.

How should I dress to walk under the local climate?

Dress comfortably, preferably wearing a cap and comfy shoes. Bring along sunglasses, an umbrella or poncho, and a bottle of water. When all else fails, put on a big grin and face it like a real globe trekker! (Note: Walkers considering the Sultans of Spice™ tour should remember to dress modestly – sleeved top and full-length skirt or pants – in view of a Mosque visit during the walk.)

Will there be a problem having infants, elderly guests and guests in wheel-chair on the tours?

Most walks (except Red Clogs Down the Five Foot Way™ that goes to Ann Siang Hill via long ramps or stairs and Of Graves, Guns & Battles™ that is conducted on Fort Canning Hill with several flights of steps) are on level ground and we maintain a comfortable walking pace throughout. 

We put in every effort to make the tours as convenient to all as possible. The walking routes are planned to include sheltered stops, if not stops that allow walkers to enjoy a short sit-down while the guide shares with the group. 

All guests are urged to be mindful of personal safety while crossing roads, which is hard to avoid while walking around an urbanised city. Guests who rely on wheel-chair to get around may require a considerable level of support embarking on / disembarking from the tour buses used for War Trails by Changi Museum.

Journeys is part of the HERITAGE ASIA GROUP

with the following,

SINGAPORE HISTORY CONSULTANTS

THE CHANGI MUSEUM (Managed from 2001-2018)

HELL'S MUSEUM

Office:  haw par villa management office, 262 pasir panjang road, singapore 118628   |   tel: (+65) 6325 1631 for business enquiries: [email protected]    |  for tour bookings: [email protected] copyright © 2003-2024 the original singapore walks® all rights reserved..

Dear lovely guests,

Kindly note that our tour

Of Graves, Guns & Battles™ – A Tour of  Fort Canning Hill

Journeys to Hell™ – A Twilight Tour of Haw Par Villa and Hell’s Museum

will NOT run on the following public holidays

25 Dec 2023 & 1 Jan,10-12 Feb, 29 Mar, 10 Apr, 1 May, 22 May, 17 Jun, 9 Aug, 31 Oct & 25 Dec 2024

The Original Singapore Walks® Team

You are about to leave the THE ORIGINAL SINGAPORE WALKS’ mini site to discover its award-winning creator,

Journeys heritage tours, you are about to leave journeys’ main site to discover its award-winning flagship feature,, the original singapore walks.

In The Neighbourhood: Chinatown

NEXT UP History Tours in Singapore

History Tours in Singapore

NEXT UP Explore Singapore for Free

Explore Singapore for Free

NEXT UP In The Neighbourhood: Chinatown

type of tour

• History of Chinatown
• Ann Siang / Club Street
• Keong Saik / Bukit Pasoh
• Tanjong Pagar / Duxton
• News & Articles
• Visitor Info

Top 42 Free Things To Do in Singapore (May 2024): i Light Singapore, vOilah! France Singapore Festival, Pets’ Day Out, And More

Best free things to do in singapore (may 2024).

• Singapore HeritageFest (1–26 May)
• vOilah! France Singapore Festival 2024 (Now till 26 May 2024)
• Fukusa: Japanese Gift Covers from the Chris Hall Collection (Now till 25 Aug)
• Mother's Day Gift Fair (3–5 May)
• Artsy Weekend: Mother's Day Edition (4-5 May)
• The Hammock Market (4 and 18 May)
• Mom's Day Out Shopping Fair (11–12 May)
• Joo Chiat Farmers’ Market (11–12, 25–26 May)
• Pop-Up Fairs at Crane Living OUE Downtown (from 13 May)
• Ugly Food Workshop (17 May)
• Kindness Weekend at Crane (18–19 May)
• Market on the Lawn @ Dempsey (19 May)
• Momentum Dance Festival 2024 (20 May – 1 Jun)
• Repair Kopitiam (26 May)
• i Light Singapore (31 May – 23 Jun)
• Holiday Fair & Bake Sale (31 May, 7 and 14 Jun)
• Makers’ Market (various dates)
• Pets' Day Out (11 and 12 May)
• SPCA Adoption Drive (11 May)
• SOSD Adoption Drive (18 May)
• Pets Weekend (25–26 May)
• Garden Rhapsody STAR WARS Edition (4 and 5 May)
• Borealis at Gardens by the Bay (From 5 May 2024)
• Music Programmes at the Esplanade: Songs We Grew Up With 2024 (1–30 May)
• SSO Mother’s Day Concert 2024 (12 May)
• Sunday Jam Session at The Jazz Loft (Sundays)
• Growth Circles (14 and 28 May)
• Make friends with Friendzone (8, 14, 23, 28 May)
• Crochet Interest Group Meetup (15 May)
• Zalora’s Snap and Drop Programme
• Mastering Communication, Empowering Voices with Bedok Toastmasters (9 May)
• Gain your Confidence Today: Free Public Speaking Course @ Jurong Green CC (24 May)
• Uncle Chris Walking Tours (4–30 May)
• My Community Heritage Tours (Weekends)
• Get Professional by NLB (10, 24, 29 May)
• Future of Work by NLB (7, 25, 27 May)
• Let's Dance Learning Community for Seniors (13 May, 27 May, 10 Jun, 24 Jun)
• Pay What You Wish Yoga (5 and 12 May)
• Outdoor Family Yoga in Bishan Park (12 May)
• Let's Meditate Singapore (Sundays)
• Puma Run Club (Saturdays)
• New Balance Run Club (Tuesdays)

Festivals, fairs and markets

1. singapore heritagefest (1–26 may), 2. voilah france singapore festival 2024 (now till 26 may 2024), 3. fukusa: japanese gift covers from the chris hall collection (now till 25 aug), 4. mother's day gift fair (3–5 may).

• Dates : 3 to 5 May 2024
• Time :  11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Venue : Crane (OCBC Wisma Atria)
• Address : 435 Orchard Road #04-01 Singapore, 238877

5. Artsy Weekend: Mother's Day Edition (4-5 May)

• Dates : 4 to 5 May 2024
• Time :  10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Venue : Crane Joo Chiat
• Address : 281 Joo Chiat Road Singapore, 427962 

6. The Hammock Market (4 and 18 May)

• Dates : 4 and 18 May 2024
• Time : 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Venue : Aperia Mall L1 Atrium
• Address : 12 Kallang Ave, Singapore 339511

7. Mom's Day Out Shopping Fair (11–12 May)

• Dates : 11 to 12 May 2024

8. Joo Chiat Farmers’ Market (11–12, 25–26 May)

• Dates : 11–12, 25–26 May 2024
• Time : 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Address : 281 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427535

9. Pop-Up Fairs at Crane Living OUE Downtown (from 13 May)

• Dates : Weekdays from 13 May onwards
• Time :  10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Venue : Crane Living @ OUE Downtown
• Address : 6 Shenton Way Singapore, Singapore 068809

10. Ugly Food Workshop (17 May)

• Date and time : 17 May 2024
• Time : 5 – 7 p.m.
• Venue : Crane OUE Downtown Gallery
• Address : 6A Shenton Way, Downtown Gallery #01-12 Singapore, 068809

11. Kindness Weekend at Crane (18–19 May)

• Dates : 18 –19 May 2024
• Time : 10am–6pm
• Venue : Crane Joo Chiat, 285 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427535

12. Market on the Lawn @ Dempsey (19 May)

• Date : 19 May 2024
• Time : 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Address : 25B Dempsey Rd, Singapore 249918

13. Momentum Dance Festival 2024 (20 May – 1 Jun)

• Date : 20 May – 1 Jun 2024
• Venue : Republic Polytechnic
• Address : 9 Woodlands Ave 9, Singapore 738964

14. Repair Kopitiam (26 May)

• Date : 26 May 2024
• Time : 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Venue : Various, see their Facebook page for more details

15. i Light Singapore (31 May – 23 Jun)

16. holiday fair & bake sale (31 may, 7 and 14 jun).

• Dates : 31 May, 7 and 14 Jun 2024

17. Makers’ Market (various dates)

1. pets' day out (11 and 12 may).

• Date : 11 and 12 May 2024
• Time : 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Venue : Parkland Green, East Coast Park
• Address : 920 ECP, Singapore 449875

2. SPCA Adoption Drive (11 May)

• Date : Saturday, 11 May 2024
• Time : 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Location : SPCA, 50 Sungei Tengah Road, S699012
• No sign-ups required.

3. SOSD Adoption Drive (18 May)

• Date : 18 May 2024
• Time : 11.30 a.m. – 3.30 p.m.
• Address : 815 Choa Chu Kang Avenue 7, Singapore 680815 (the postal code in their Instagram post above is incorrect)

4. Pets Weekend (25–26 May)

• Dates : 25–26 May 2024
• Address : 281 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore, 427962

Performances and programmes

1. garden rhapsody star wars edition (4 and 5 may).

• Dates : 4 – 5 May 2024
• Time : Various timings
• Venue : North Colonnade & Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay
• Address : 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953

2. Borealis at Gardens by the Bay (From 5 May 2024)

• Dates : From 5 May 2024
• Time : Every Mon, 8–8.30 p.m. / Every Sat & Sun, 9–9.30 p.m.
• Venue : Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay

3. Music Programmes at the Esplanade: Songs We Grew Up With 2024 (1–30 May)

• Ryan Hunt (2 May)—A one-man-band with a cool percussive guitar playing technique. I’m a sucker for good guitar playing!
• Krysta Joy (18 May)—This local singer-songwriter will perform her acoustic takes of classic hits from Sugar Ray, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and more. 
• Perry Brady Koh (22 May)—Relax to the soothing sounds of crooner Perry Brady Koh as he performs love ballads from the ‘60s through to the ‘80s.

4. SSO Mother’s Day Concert 2024 (12 May)

• Date : 12 May 2024
• Time : 6 p.m.
• Venue : Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage, Singapore Botanic Gardens
• Address : 328 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 188719

5. Sunday Jam Session at The Jazz Loft (Every Sunday)

• Date and time : Sundays, 7.30 – 11 p.m. (Doors open at 7 p.m.)
• Venue : The Jazz Loft @ Blu Jaz, 11 Bali Lane, Level 3, Singapore 189848
• Register here:  5 May , 12 May , 19 May , 26 May  

Community events

1. growth circles (14 and 28 may), 2. make friends with friendzone (8, 14, 23, 28 may), 3. crochet interest group meetup (15 may).

• Date and time : 15 May 2024, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• Venue : Starbucks, 277 Orchard Road #B2-04 Gateway, 238858

4. Zalora’s Snap and Drop Programme

Learning, skill upgrading, and self-improvement, 1. mastering communication, empowering voices with bedok toastmasters (9 may).

• Date and time : 9 May 2024, 7.30 p.m.
• Venue : Bedok Community Centre
• Address : 850 New Upper Changi Road Conference Room, #02-04 Singapore, 467352

2. Gain your Confidence Today: Free Public Speaking Course @ Jurong Green CC (24 May)

• Date and time : 24 May 2024, 7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.
• Venue : Jurong Green Community Club, Room 03-02 
• Address : 6 Jurong West Avenue 1 Singapore, 649520

3. Uncle Chris Walking Tours (4–30 May)

• Holland Village & Tanglin Halt Heritage Trail (4 May)
• Boat Quay & Elgin Bridge Night Walk (18 May)
• Sembawang Black & White Walking Tour (19 May)
• Concubines and Mistresses: Bukit Pasoh Walking Tour (26 May)

4. My Community Heritage Tours (Weekends)

5. get professional by nlb (10, 24, 29 may).

• How to Have Difficult Conversations | Get Professional X TOYL—10 May 2024, 12 p.m. online via Zoom
• Networking | Get Professional X TOYLArt of Asking Questions | Get Professional X TOYL—24 May 2024, 12 p.m. online on Zoom
• Thriving Through Turbulence: Stories of Navigating Pre- and Post-Layoffs—29 May, 7 p.m. at National Library Building

6. Future of Work by NLB (7, 25, 27 May)

• Cybersecurity from Scratch—7 May 2024, 6.30 – 8.30 p.m. via Zoom
• How to Use ChatGPT to Build Your Personal AI Assistant—25 May 2024, 2 – 3 p.m.via Zoom
• It's 2024 - Is Digital Marketing Still Important?—27 May 2024, 6.30 – 8.30 p.m. via Zoom

Fitness, dance, and wellness

1. let's dance learning community (13 may, 27 may, 10 jun, 24 jun).

• Date and time : 13 May, 27 May, 10 Jun, and 24 Jun 2024, 2 – 5 p.m.
• Venue : Geylang East Public Library, Level 3, Merpati Hall
• Address : 50 Geylang East Ave 1 Singapore, 389777 Singapore
• Come in comfortable attire and bring along a water bottle.

2. Pay What You Wish Yoga (5 and 12 May)

• Pay What You Wish Yoga: Hatha Yoga with Jojo —5 May 2024
• Pay What You Wish Yoga: Yin Yang Yoga with Jenn —12 May 2024
• Date and time : 5 May 2024, 10.30 a.m. / 12 May 2024, 10.30 a.m.
• Venue : Mudita Yoga SG
• Address : 761A North Bridge Road Singapore, 198729
• Mat and props are provided.
• Arrive 10 minutes before class starts.

3. Outdoor Family Yoga in Bishan Park (12 May)

• Date and time : 12 May 2024, 8–9 a.m.
• Venue : Ficus Green, Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park (River Plains). Go to the lawn directly opposite Yoga Seeds Shala.
• Address : 1384 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1 Singapore, 569932
• Bring your own mat!

4. Let's Meditate Singapore (Sundays)

• Date and time : Sundays at 9.45 a.m. 
• Venue : Online at this link https://zoom.us/j/9181716151
• Join via laptop for the best experience.

5. Puma Run Club (Saturdays)

• Date and time : Saturdays, 7 – 10 p.m.
• Venue : Esplanade Park
• Address : Raffles Avenue, Esplanade Mall, Singapore Singapore, 039802

6. New Balance Run Club (Tuesdays)

• Dates and times : Tuesdays, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Venue : New Balance (Suntec City #01-325), 3 Temasek Blvd, Singapore 038983

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Singapore HeritageFest 2024 Celebrates Singapore's Buildings and Sites, and the People and Stories that Bring Them to Life

May 01, 2024

Singapore  HeritageFest  (SHF)  returns in 2024  with over 120 programmes that celebrate the stories and living  heritage  behind Singapore’s buildings, sites, and structures.

Venue : Multiple venues Dates : 1 - 26 May 2024 Admission : Free and paid programmes

The 21st edition of Singapore HeritageFest (SHF) focuses on our nation’s built  heritage  and coincides with the 35th year of Singapore’s conservation programme. Get ready for offshore tours to kelongs and kampongs, ghostly encounters with the spookier parts of our  heritage , explorations of old schools and  heritage  hotels, a secret “undisclosed” experience, and more!

Through workshops, tours, trails, exhibitions and other activities across (and beyond!) the island,  festival -goers will get to experience the history behind these buildings, sites and structures, which are imbued with the unique culture and  heritage  of the communities who live, work and play in and around them.

SHF 2024 programmes are now open for registration. Visit  www.sgheritagefest.gov.sg  for more information on the programmes, and how to register or read on to see what to expect! 

Homeground at the National Museum of Singapore

This year’s Homeground installation, a signature SHF offering, is laid out on the lawn of a National Monument, the National Museum of Singapore, and pays homage to Singapore’s rich built  heritage .

Covering the themes of Nature, Commerce, Community, Residential and Governance,  HOMEGROUND: We Built This City  will highlight the intricate connections that have moulded Singapore’s architectural identity over the decades. 

SHF 2024 Highlights

Come on board the Hop-On, Hop-Off (HOHO) Bus Experience and embark on a journey of Singapore's buildings and landmarks through historical precincts such as Little India and Bras Basah.Bugis, and discover the history and beauty of our built heritage at every stop.

Cruise the northeastern waters of Singapore, learn about the history of its surrounding islands, and visit one of Singapore’s last remaining kelongs in Island Boat Tour + Kelong Visit by Let’s Go Tour.

Paddle through Singapore’s urban reservoir and get exclusive access to hidden corners of the Marina Basin on a kayak tour as part of My Bay Experience History Wanderers .

Embark on a photo walk at Kampong Gelam and capture the allure of the traditional precinct on film on Kampong Gelam Photo Walk: Architecture on Film by Syahmi Hashim & Julina Khusaini .

Discover stories of the Straits Chinese communities on 37 Emerald Hill Site Tours , which are the first-ever public tours of the former home of Singapore Chinese Girls’ School, led by former teachers and students familiar with the premises; and Living Architecture: Conservation Tours at NUS Baba House , where participants will visit a 19th-century Straits Chinese home and learn about the conservation efforts that went behind the restoration of the NUS Baba House in 2007.

Led by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, experience Singapore’s maritime past, present and future at the Singapore Maritime Gallery Tour , which will highlight the industry’s rich heritage , its impact on daily life, and how Singapore continues to thrive as a global hub port and international maritime centre. And go on the Maritime Heritage Trail to di scover Singapore’s early maritime history and learn about the progress of our modern maritime industry on the Maritime Evolution Trail .

You will even get to s et sail on a journey of discovery through the Singapore Strait and visit the Raffles Lighthouse , a historic beacon which has over 168 years of maritime history.

SHF also celebrates 40 years of Total Defence with programmes looking at Singapore's military past. Kick off by uncovering fascinating stories behind the architectural gems at South Beach, from their days as part of a military stronghold to their transformation into a vibrant, modern hub in Unveiling South Beach Singapore: From Military Might to Modern Marvel . Participants will gain exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to level 11 of South Beach Tower for breathtaking views, and enjoy a refreshing, specially crafted mocktail as part of the programme!

You will also get to celebrate 40 Years of Total Defence with the Navy with special edition guided tours of the Changi Naval Base and Navy Museum. Get a taste of Singapore Navy life and learn about Singapore Navy traditions with sailors past and present.

Daddy's can bring little ones to sample an outfield camp experience and prepare for a ‘route march’ to SAFTI Military Institute all in one day at A Taste of Outfield Camp: Heritage in a Mess Tin .

In closing, let the good times roll at SHF’s Closing Weekend Block Party with food, craft, and music performances on the lawn of the National Museum of Singapore, replicating the communal experience of celebrations and festivities at shared residential spaces.

Singapore HeritageFest 2024 includes a mixed of free and paid programmes. The  programmes are now open for registration and you can visit  www.sgheritagefest.gov.sg  to find out more and to register for them too. 

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This article is prepared by.

Jiarong Yu Daddy to 2 adorable little ones. Misses them the moment they are not around, regrets missing them the moment they are around.

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Singapore HeritageFest 2024 from May 1 to 26 pays homage to the country’s sites and buildings

SINGAPORE - For 27-year-old Nor Syazwan Abdul Majid, Pulau Ubin is not merely an island, but also a symbol of rich cultural heritage.

His mother, Madam Noorriah Sulong, 65, grew up as part of the island’s Orang Pulau community and lived on Ubin for 20 years until 1979, when she moved to the mainland after getting married.

From listening to her stories about her life on the island, Mr Syazwan developed a fascination for the kampung lifestyle there and planned a guided tour to Ubin.

The Ubin tour is among more than 120 programmes hosted by the Singapore HeritageFest, which runs from May 1 to 26.

The 2024 festival, its 21st edition, celebrates Singapore’s built heritage and tells the stories behind the country’s buildings, sites and structures.

Mr Syazwan’s tour, the Malay Kampong Heritage Tour on Pulau Ubin, aims to educate the public about the relationship of the Ubin Orang Pulau (which means the people of Pulau Ubin) with the environment around them.

“It will be a tour from the main village to the Malay kampung (Kampung Sungei Durian) as well as the former Malay kampung (Kampung Surau) – a way for the (tour participants) to travel in time and for them to be able to actually experience what used to be there,” said Mr Syazwan.

The social work undergraduate at the Singapore University of Social Sciences also runs the online Wan’s Ubin Journal as another way to preserve the stories of the Ubin Orang Pulau community.

Another tour in the festival is (Her)story Of Samsui Women With Pauline Fun.

Ms Fun – a 53-year-old heritage researcher and former principal of CHIJ St Joseph’s Convent – is passionate about the history of samsui women, who were known for their trademark red headgear and found work as labourers in the construction industry.

Her grandparents moved from the Samsui region in China’s Guangdong province to Singapore in the 1930s, and her grandfather started a transport company to ferry samsui women to construction sites for work.

Through the tour, which takes participants around Chinatown, Ms Fun hopes to highlight the struggles of samsui women in Singapore. 

For those interested in architecture, the HeritageFest offers Architrek Through Time: An Architectural Odyssey Through Landmarks, Design, And Urban Lore, a series of weekend walking tours through downtown Singapore.

Helmed by architectural firm DP Architects, the tour features architectural landmarks, and delves into Singapore’s urban planning history and the various elements that are part of Singapore’s built environment.

“There are a lot of these stories that designers will know that we’d like to take the opportunity to share,” said Mr Ziggy Chua Zi Jun, a director at DP Architects. 

One landmark included in the tour is Golden Mile Complex, which was built in 1973 and is one of Singapore’s first modern buildings to be given conserved status. “It’s one of the key iconic buildings that one of our founding fathers built,” said Mr Chua. 

The festival will also go off the beaten track. Dark Changi, The Walking Tour includes a stop at Changi Creek, where there is a stone bridge believed to have been used for executions by Japanese soldiers.

It will be led by Mr Eugene Tay, founder of Supernatural Confessions, a platform for people to discuss their supernatural experiences.

Mr Tay – along with his co-host, playwright, director and theatre performer Jonathan Lim – is keen on expanding on the “notorious reputation” that Changi holds for its haunted tales.

“I was born and raised in Changi – it’s my own kampung. There is a lot about Changi that isn’t talked about,” said Mr Tay, who hopes the tour will create a “newfound appreciation” for Changi and allow its stories to live on.

Some tours are free to join, while others charge a fee. For example, it costs each participant $25 to join the Malay Kampong Heritage Tour, and $20 for Architrek Through Time: An Architectural Odyssey Through Landmarks, Design, And Urban Lore.

Referring to the featured buildings and sites, Singapore HeritageFest festival director David Chew said: “These are just structures that would not come to life if not for the stories and the history of the people who lived in them, those who passed away, worked and played in them, and it’s really the communities and these stories that make these buildings come to life.”

Other highlights of the festival include an installation, Homeground: We Built This City, held on the lawn of the National Museum of Singapore. It will feature the evolution of Singapore’s public housing, as well as a replica of the bandstand gazebo at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the country’s first Unesco World Heritage Site.

The 2024 festival coincides with the 40th anniversary of Total Defence, which is commemorated with programmes highlighting Singapore’s military past, and the 35th anniversary of Singapore’s conservation programmes.

Total Defence was introduced in 1984 as a whole-of-society defence concept.

All HeritageFest programmes are now open for registration.

For more information on the programmes, visit https://www.sgheritagefest.gov.sg/

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Singapore HeritageFest 2024 honours the nation’s iconic buildings and landmarks with over 120 programmes

• By Alvin Lim
• May 2, 2024

Some 7,000 historic structures, sites and buildings scattered around the island of Singapore are set to take centre stage for this year’s Singapore HeritageFest .

Organised by the National Heritage Board, the 21st edition of the annual history extravaganza aims to celebrate the nation’s built heritage with over 120 edutainment programmes. It coincides with the 35th year of Singapore’s conservation programme, hence the fitting theme.

History buffs and families alike can look forward to tours on foot, bus and even boat as they explore everything from the old Singapore Chinese Girls’ School and storied districts like Kampong Gelam and Bras Basah, to offshore kelongs (floating fish farms) and a 168-year-old maritime beacon and colonial remnant in the Raffles Lighthouse.

Those who want to take their understanding of the stories behind Singapore’s built heritage to the next level can participate in a series of immersive experiences like a twilight tour of Changi’s spookiest spots, a sampler outfield camp and route march courtesy of the SAFTI Military Institute, and a hands-on visit to City Sprouts Henderson, a former school-turned-urban farm.

That’s not all. Other Singapore Heritage Fest mainstays like the Homeground installation will be returning too. Laid on the lawn of the National Museum of Singapore, it will feature five displays detailing the evolution of Singapore’s architectural identity over the years, with a focus on our ubiquitous public housing blocks as well as the country’s first UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) World Heritage Site, the 165-year-old Singapore Botanic Gardens and its iconic bandstand gazebo.

The lawn will also be the site of the festival’s Closing Weekend Block Party, featuring scrumptious food, arts & crafts and live music performances to close off the month of festivities.

Singapore Heritage Fest 2024 will run until May 26. Head here for a full list of programmes.

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Free Singapore Tour

Capture the spirit of singapore during your transit.

Be enthralled by the sights, sound and colours of Singapore during your next layover. Take a walk through history at the Merlion Park. Experience a multi-sensory buzz in vibrant Chinatown. Enjoy a panoramic view of the city, with a backdrop of the Singapore Flyer and Gardens by the Bay. Discover what it feels like to live as a Singaporean at our Changi Precinct or discover a wondrous world and immerse into a lush green sanctuary at Jewel Changi Airport. 

Choose between four different tour routes during your transit if your transit is more than 5.5 hours and within 24 hours. Each tour is 2.5 hours long, and jointly organised by Singapore Airlines, Singapore Tourism Board and Changi Airport Group. Tours are conducted in English only. 

Changi Precinct Tour

Once covered by forests, swamps, rubber plantation and sand quarries, Tampines today is one of four regional centres in Singapore. This special town won the United Nations World Habitat Award, for being an exemplar of high-quality, high density and affordable housing. 

City Sights Tour

The Jubilee Bridge connects two famed landmarks - the Esplanade Theatres and the Merlion, giving you an unhindered view of Marina Bay.

Heritage Tour

Who is eligible for the tour?

The Free Singapore Tour is open to all travellers transiting in Changi Airport. Valid for passengers with layover of at least 5.5 hours, and less than 24 hours, and with flight schedules that fit the tour timing requirements.

How To Register ?

• Singapore Airlines and Scoot passengers can pre-book the tour via online booking page . You may scroll down to view and book all the tour types.
• Please note that while making the booking, you will have to input the name of all passengers going on the tour so that we can reserve the corresponding number of spaces.
• When you arrive at Changi Airport, please remain in the transit area and do not clear immigration as the registration booths are located at the transit area.
• Terminal 2 transit, Near Skytain to Terminal 3, Gate F50
• Terminal 3 transit, Near Transfer Lounge A, Gate A1-A8

Important Things To Note:

• Registration will close 1 hour before the tour start time and participants will be guided as a group to clear immigration before the tour starts.
• Availability of seats is on a first-come-first-serve basis.
• Transit passengers are allowed to enter and exit Singapore only once during their layover period, as per guidelines stipulated by Immigration & Checkpoints Authority of Singapore. Therefore, passengers are not able to join more than one tour.
• Tour itinerary is subject to changes, depending on weather and traffic conditions.  
• Should you have cabin baggage, you are encouraged to leave them as Left Baggage counter located here prior to registration at the Free Singapore Tour booth.
• There are food sampling segments on some of the tour itineraries. If you have any food allergies, please take precautions and sign up at your own discretion. Please also inform the tour guide before the tour starts. 

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Maritime Heritage Trail (Singapore Heritage Festival 2024)

Step into the past and uncover the secrets of Singapore's early maritime history.

Select date and time

• Saturday May 4 10:00 AM
• Sunday May 5 10:00 AM
• Saturday May 18 10:00 AM
• Sunday May 19 10:00 AM

Singapore Management University, School of Accountancy (at the colourful benches looking out to the National Museum)

About this event

Come join us on the newly curated Maritime Heritage Trail. This trail is a 2.5 -hour walking tour that will take participants back into the past to uncover Singapore's early maritime history. Stroll through the historic Fort Canning Park and Singapore River, and explore iconic landmarks such as the Fullerton Hotel and Clifford Pier, you will be transported to a time when seafearers, traders, and explorers shaped our island's destiny. Join us for an immersive journey into our maritime legacy, where tales of adventure and trade come to life with each step!

Sites of Interest

• Fort Canning Archeaological Site Dive into history at this site, where excavations have unearthed remnants of a bygone era, offering a fascinating glimpse into Singapore's storied past.
• Maritime Corner @ Fort Canning

Immerse yourself in the maritime legacy of Signapore at the Maritime Corner. Engage with the exhibits, explore maritime artifacts, and delve into the captivating narratives that vividly portray Sigapore's transformation into a vibrant maritime hub.

• Singapore River

Wander along the historic banks of the Singapore River, a waterway that has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's history.

• Fullerton Hotel

Learn about its intriguing history as the former General Post Office, which served as a critical communication hub for maritime trade in the early 20th century.

• Waterboat House

Uncover the hidden tales of the Waterboat House, a charming architectural gem that once operated as a customs house.

• Clifford Pier

Step onto the historic Clifford Pier, an iconic maritime landmark that welcomed countless immigrants and cargo ships in the past.

Meeting Point

Level 1, Singapore Management University, School of Accountancy (60 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178900)

The nearest MRT station is City Hall MRT, Exit A | Bras Basah MRT, Exit B | Bencoolen MRT, Exit C

Ending Point

The Clifford Pier (80 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049326)

Tickets & Availability

Complimentary for all during the Singapore Heritage Festival 2024!

Please note that tickets are available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Important Note:

1. Please ensure that each participant is registered as per their identity card and contact details. Do bring along a valid photo identity card* for verification during registration.

2. This is a guided tour, led by a MPA-endorsed guide. You are required to follow the instructions of your guide, and stay within the group at all times unless otherwise instructed.

3. Please be dressed comfortably and wear covered shoes . Strictly no slippers and sandals are allowed due to safety considerations.

* “valid photo identity card” refers to documents such as Passport, Identification Card, Driving License, Ez-link card with an accompanying photo of yourself, PAssion Silver Card, PAssion Silver Concession Card, Pioneer Generation Card, and Merdeka Generation Card.

Terms and Conditions:

Kindly read the Terms & Conditions here before registering for the tour.

For more information or clarification, please email: [email protected]

This tour is brought to you by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore with Lionheartlanders Pte Ltd as the official tour operator.

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