On this walking tour, we trace the footsteps of the early immigrants who left China in search of a better life in South-East Asia, and how they found their way to Singapore, built temples and formed clans to look after each other. We learn about how some prospered to become some of Asia’s richest men, whilst others slaved and died penniless without any next-of-kin to mourn them.
We’ll see where Chinese opera theatres, brothels, opium and gambling dens once thrived when the ratio of men to women was 14:1.
Through murals by local artist Yip Yew Chong, we sneak a peek at what life was like in 19th and 20th century Singapore.
Lunch will be at one of the oldest establishments in Singapore, before we continue our hunt for other traditional trades in Chinatown which have withstood the test of time.
Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from Singapore's second tallest skyscraper. From here, we'll have a bird's eye view of the Historic District of Chinatown.
Possibly established as early as 1819, making it older than Thian Hock Keng Temple, Yueh Hai Ching Temple is often overlooked by locals and tourists. Once inside this serene temple, you'll be transported to a different world.
Step inside the courtyard of a Chinese boys' school from 1854 and imagine what the area must have been like with school boys learning to read and write, and playing traditional games like chapteh after classes.
Once a temple built by Cantonese and Hakka worshippers of Tua Pek Kong (God of Prosperity) in the 1820s, the quaint building now houses a museum with an intriguing display of what life was like in the area about 200 years ago.
Established in 1821, Thian Hock Keng Temple is the oldest Hokkien temple and likely the second oldest Chinese temple in Singapore. Admire its stunning architecture, built without a nail being used, learn about Taoist and Buddhist practices, find out about the gift from Qing Emperor Guang Xu to the temple, and hunt for the bats which live on the premises.
See if you can spot the last water well in Chinatown, learn about the hills and plantations which used to exist in the area, and find out how Ann Siang Hill got its name.
Discover the truth behind how Club Street got its name, and the high society parties which used to take place at this millionaire's club.
We stop at another Chinese millionaire's club and find out the story behind its interesting window grills.
Come face-to-face with local artist, Yip Yew Chong's second mural on this tour. He has successfully breathed vibrancy into Historic Chinatown with his brilliantly-coloured, often interactive, heritage-themed street art.
Enjoy a traditional soya sauce chicken noodle/rice lunch at this establishment dating back to 1949.
Once the "Raffles Hotel of Chinatown", we learn about the illustrious past of this 1927 building, which now houses a Chinese emporium.
Find out how The Majestic Theatre came into being, and the wealthy Chinese merchant who made it possible.
Established in 1938, Lim Chee Guan endured the Second World War and remains as one of Singapore's best loved brands 85 years on.
Established in 1925, this tea shop with its unique Nanyang blends has close to 100 years of history.
This old school bakery from 1950 sells Cantonese-style mooncakes and other sweet treats year round. We drop by for a taste.
Located along Temple Street where we'll find 3 more of Yip Yew Chong's murals, Lau Choy Seng (1948) is a treasure trove of kitchenware which will inspire you to display your culinary skills.
We take a look at another of Yip Yew Chong's murals, one which depicts his own home in Sago Lane, Chinatown more than 5 decades ago. We also stop to take a look at Lai Chun Yuen Opera House along Smith Street, which was Singapore's first integrated resort, bringing theatre, opium-smoking, gambling and prostitution all under one roof. We learn about the sordid past of Smith Street, where numerous brothels once lined, and the coolies, rickshaw pullers, businessmen, etc. who used to frequent them.
Find out how Sago Lane became known as the Street of the Dead, and what has become of it today.
We end our tour at Fong Moon Kee. Established in 1908, this 115-year-old ointment shop might just have the answer to any aches and pains which may have been nagging you. If coolies and rickshaw pullers lived by their ointments, who are we to question their wisdom?
Please meet us at Raffles Place MRT Exit A (Street Level, in front of The Whisky Distillery) at 0955 hrs. We start our tour at 1000 hrs.
Singapore is a vibrant, multicultural city-state known for its futuristic architecture, lush green spaces, and diverse culinary scene. It's a blend of modernity and tradition, offering everything from ultra-chic shopping districts to historic temples and serene nature reserves.
A stunning 101-hectare nature park featuring iconic Supertree Grove, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome.
A world-famous resort with an infinity pool, luxury shopping, and stunning city views.
A vibrant district with traditional shophouses, temples, and a bustling street market.
One of the world's best zoos, known for its open-concept habitats and night safari.
A resort island with beaches, theme parks, and luxury hotels.
Poached chicken served with fragrant rice cooked in chicken stock, often accompanied by chili sauce and ginger paste.
A iconic Singapore dish featuring mud crabs stir-fried in a sweet and savory tomato-based chili sauce.
A spicy noodle soup with a rich, coconut-based curry broth, topped with shrimp, fish cakes, and cockles.
Grilled skewers of marinated meat, typically served with a peanut sauce and ketupat (rice cakes).
These periods offer the best weather with less rainfall and plenty of sunshine. It's also when major events and festivals take place.
Singapore Dollar (SGD)
GMT+8
230VV, 50HzHz
Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world, with low crime rates and strict laws. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Woodlands Train Checkpoint
Queen Street Bus Terminal, Jurong East Bus Terminal
Efficient, clean, and air-conditioned. Easy to navigate with English signage.
Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek
Car, Bike, Scooter
A world-class theme park with thrilling rides, shows, and attractions based on popular movies and characters.
A resort island with beaches, theme parks, and luxury hotels.
A bustling city across the causeway from Singapore, known for its shopping malls, street food, and cultural attractions.
Price varies by option