Top 6 Interesting Facts You Probably Didn't Know about Chinatown – Chinatown stories

Many other destinations have Chinatowns, but that of Singapore is indeed unique. London and New York both have Chinatowns, but they all are considered subzones. But did you know that Chinatown in Singapore has 4 distinct sub-districts? Yes, it does. They are namely Tanjong Pagar, Kreta Ayer, Telok Ayer, and Bukit Pasoh. Each of these sub-districts was occupied by different clans at that time.

Here's the thing. What you see on tourist brochures and promotional videos as Chinatown in Singapore is the official Chinatown. That's the Cantonese section which is just a part of a larger area. Unofficially, there's another Chinatown in Geylang which is known as 'People's Chinatown'. Don't get confused between these two.

Do you know what 'Bu Ye Tian' means in the local language in Singapore? It means the 'place of night-less days' and they have named it likewise for a reason. Back then, in the early 20th century, this area was popular as a red-light district. Adult businesses were so common which also included gambling. But everything belongs to the past. Today, it's all a tourist-friendly area that can even be enjoyed by the kids.

If you are holidaying at a hotel near Clarke Quay MRT in Singapore the likes of Park Hotel Clarke Quay, you'll surely head to Sri Mariamman Temple located in Chinatown to receive blessings. Yes, that's a must-do because this temple is one of the most sacred venues in Singapore. Sri Mariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu Temple in the country, and it is also the place where many religious festivals are held. During the colonial era, Hindu marriages were registered at this place.

Today, Chinatown is all modern and sophisticated. All you need to do is to book a cab on Uber or any other similar app to get a car to move from one place to another. But, back then, things were very different. Kreta Ayer (a sub-district of Chinatown) had no adequate water, and water was brought into the area by bullock carts from the Ann Siang Hill. Not just for transporting goods, it was the only mode of travel to the people as well back in the 19th century.

Yes, Sago Street and Sago Lane have many sago factories even back then. But this entire area was also known for having 'death houses.' The street and the lane were a hot spot for brothels, and many dark stories are only known by the adult locals now. They'll reveal more if you get them to have a friendly chat with you when you are there.