Things to do in Chinatown
Discover the best attractions and experiences Chinatown has to offer
Historic Monuments
Chinatown in Singapore is studded with historic temples, shophouses, and architectural corners that tell the story of its immigrant communities.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
A five-story temple complex on South Bridge Road housing a sacred relic and a museum detailing Buddhist culture.
Sri Mariamman Temple
Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, famous for its colorful gopuram and bustling temple precinct.
Thian Hock Keng Temple
One of Singapore’s oldest Chinese temples, renowned for its intricate traditional architecture.
Museums
Delve into Chinatown’s stories through dedicated museums and heritage centres.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
Temple-museum complex with Buddhist art, relic displays, and a serene inner courtyard.
Chinatown Heritage Centre
A museum housed in a restored shophouse, tracing the early lives of Chinatown’s immigrant communities.
Religious Monuments
Chinatown is a microcosm of Singapore’s religious diversity, with major temples and mosques clustered together.
Sri Mariamman Temple
Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, known for its vibrant façade and daily rituals.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
A grand temple complex dedicated to the Tooth Relic, with elaborate interiors.
Jamae Mosque (Chulia Mosque)
Historic mosque on Mosque Street reflecting Singapore’s Teochew Muslim community.
National & Theme Parks
Green spaces and themed areas to unwind after exploring Chinatown’s streets.
Gardens by the Bay
Iconic waterfront gardens with futuristic Supertrees and climate-controlled domes.
Fort Canning Park
Historic hilltop park with fort ruins, nature trails, and scenic views.
Neighborhoods
Beyond its temples, Chinatown’s surrounding streets offer a mosaic of heritage and modern life.
Ann Siang Hill
A historic hilltop area filled with shophouses, cafes, and boutique bars.
Pagoda Street
Main artery of Chinatown with temples, markets, and colorfully lit storefronts.
Telok Ayer Street
Historic lane lined with clan associations, temples, and modern eateries.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Chinatown without spending a dime while soaking up the atmosphere.
Self-guided Chinatown temple stroll
Wander between temples and shophouses to admire architecture and details.
Chinatown street mural walk
Spot public art and historic storefronts along Trengganu and Smith Streets.
Window-shopping along Pagoda Street
Browse colorful storefronts and lantern-adorned lanes at your own pace.
Gastronomy
From hawker centres to street markets, Chinatown is a paradise for local bites.
Chinatown Complex Food Centre
One of Singapore’s largest hawker centers with a huge variety of iconic dishes.
Maxwell Food Centre
A classic hawker hub offering beloved Singaporean specialties.
Chinatown Food Street
A lively, open-air alley of hawkers serving Chinatown favorites.
Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle
Michelin-starred hawker stall serving famous roast chicken.
Nightlife
After dark, Chinatown comes alive with bars, lounges, and character-filled streets.
Club Street
A short strip of bars and lounges popular for after-dark drinks.
Ann Siang Hill
Historic hillside area with chic bars and nightlife options.
Chinatown night stroll (South Bridge & Smith Street)
Evening wander through lit lanes, lanterns, and temples.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and live venues enrich Chinatown’s evenings.
Chinatown street performances
Occasional busking and cultural showcases in the precinct.
Aliwal Arts Centre
Independent arts venue hosting performances and exhibitions nearby.
Teochew-style cultural showcases
Occasional performances and spontaneous street culture in the area.
Sports
Light physical activity options that fit into a Chinatown itinerary.
Chinatown Heritage Trail (walking route)
Official self-guided trail through Chinatown’s landmarks.
Singapore River jog by the nearby waterfront
A pleasant run along the river after you’ve finished temple visits.
City-center strolls and casual cycling around nearby streets
Easy ways to stay active while sightseeing.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and lesser-known spots reveal Chinatown’s quieter side.
Yueh Hai Ching Temple
A historic Taoist temple tucked in a narrow lane with traditional charm.
Jamae Mosque
An architectural gem reflecting Singapore’s Teochew Muslim community.
Telok Ayer Green and back lanes exploration
Explore the lesser-traveled alleys and clan houses around Telok Ayer.