PRIVATE DAY TOURS • SINGAPORE

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Chinatown, Singapore

HERITAGE · CULTURE · FLAVOURS

Your Guide to Singapore’s Chinatown

A neighbourhood where history, faith and food meet in every corner.

Chinatown is one of Singapore’s most culturally rich districts. It began as the home of early Chinese immigrants who arrived by sea and started a new life here. Today, it remains a unique blend of tradition and progress, where temples stand beside modern skylines, and street food stalls sit next to boutique cafes.

Thian Hock Keng Temple – Oldest Hokkien Temple in Singapore

Built in 1840, Thian Hock Keng Temple is one of Singapore’s oldest Hokkien temples and a masterpiece of southern Chinese architecture. Not a single nail was used in its original construction, every joint was crafted using traditional techniques.

Thian Hock Keng Temple architecture in Chinatown Singapore

Who is Mazu?

The main deity here is Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea. Early immigrants believed she protected them during their dangerous journey across the ocean.

Sri Mariamman Temple – Singapore’s Oldest Hindu Temple

Founded in 1827, this is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. Its iconic gopuram (entrance tower) is decorated with vividly coloured sculptures representing deities, guardians and myths from Hindu epics.

Sri Mariamman Temple colourful gopuram in Chinatown Singapore

Festival Highlight – The Firewalking Ceremony

Every year during Thimithi Festival, devotees take part in a firewalking ceremony as a form of devotion and fulfilment of vows.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum

Inspired by the Tang Dynasty, this temple was completed in 2007 and houses a sacred relic believed to be a tooth of Gautama Buddha. Visitors can explore prayer halls, museum exhibitions and a rooftop orchid garden.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown Singapore skyline view

Inside the Temple

The 4th floor features the Sacred Light Hall, where the relic is enshrined. Photography is not allowed in this chamber to preserve its sanctity.

Street Food – Durian Stalls & Local Snacks

Chinatown is also loved for its lively street food. One unique experience is seeing fresh durians being sold and opened on the spot for visitors to try.

Durian street stall in Chinatown Singapore

Murals and Street Art in Chinatown

Scattered across the neighbourhood, murals show scenes of daily life from old Singapore, rickshaw pullers, traditional trades and childhood games.

Colourful heritage mural in Chinatown Singapore

Explore More of Singapore

Chinatown is just one chapter of Singapore’s story. If you enjoyed this guide, you may also like:

Each neighbourhood can be explored on its own or combined into a customised guided tour that fits your time and interests.

Would You Like to Explore Chinatown In Person?

I offer private guided tours by car or on foot, ideal for cruise layovers, short visits, families or travellers who want a personal experience beyond standard sightseeing.

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You can also create a combined route, Chinatown with Little India, Kampong Gelam or Marina Bay, all tailored to timings, mobility and interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

▸ What is Chinatown in Singapore known for?
Chinatown is famous for its heritage temples, street food, traditional medicine shops, souvenirs, and multicultural landmarks such as Thian Hock Keng Temple and Sri Mariamman Temple. It is a blend of old Singapore and modern living.
▸ How much time should I spend in Chinatown?
Most visitors spend 2–3 hours exploring Chinatown. A guided tour makes it faster and easier as you’ll see the key landmarks, temples, hidden streets and food spots.
▸ Can I try local food in Chinatown?
Yes. Chinatown has popular hawker centres and street stalls selling chicken rice, satay, dim sum, durian and traditional snacks. You can do a food tour together with a walking tour or car tour.
▸ What are the must-see places in Chinatown?
Recommended stops include Thian Hock Keng Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Chinatown Complex Food Centre, heritage murals and souvenir streets. A walking tour makes it easier to cover everything.
▸ Is Chinatown suitable for a guided tour?
Yes. A guided tour helps you understand the history, cultural meanings and hidden stories behind the temples, streets and food stalls. Many guests combine Chinatown with Little India or Kampong Gelam.
▸ Are the temples open to visitors?
Yes, but visitors should dress modestly and speak quietly. Photography may be restricted inside prayer areas. It is best to visit with a guide to understand the rituals.
▸ Can Chinatown be combined with other districts?
Yes. Many visitors choose a multi-district tour such as Chinatown + Little India, or Chinatown + Kampong Gelam for culture, food and history in one route. Private tours allow flexible timing and personalised routes.
▸ Is Chinatown walkable for seniors or children?
Yes. Most streets are flat and easy to walk. Guided tours include rest stops, air-conditioned areas and food breaks to make the experience comfortable.

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