Joanna James
Beneath Singapore's sleek exterior lies a wealth of unique experiences that provide insight into the country’s cultural roots and unconventional traditions. Here are five one-of-a-kind activities to make your next trip to Singapore truly unforgettable.
A trip to Singapore’s last surviving village, Kampong Lorong Buangkok, is like stepping into a time machine. In stark contrast to the surrounding modern high-rise buildings, this kampong (village) offers a glimpse of Singapore's rustic charm from the 1950s and 60s. The village is home to a few families who live in traditional wooden houses surrounded by lush greenery. Walking around, you’ll notice the simpler way of life and peaceful atmosphere that once defined Singapore. Visiting Kampong Lorong Buangkok is a fantastic way to experience the country’s heritage and understand how rapid development has transformed its landscape.
Kelongs are wooden stilt structures used for fishing, located off Singapore’s northern shores. These traditional fishing platforms, once common in the region, are gradually disappearing due to modernization. A trip to a kelong offers a rare opportunity to witness the time-honoured methods of fishing used by the locals and experience a lifestyle far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. Some kelongs even allow visitors to fish, cook their catch, and enjoy a meal on the structure itself. Exploring these kelongs is a tranquil and memorable way to experience Singapore’s traditional maritime culture before it fades away.
Haw Par Villa is a unique theme park with a twist. Unlike most theme parks filled with rides and games, Haw Par Villa is devoted to depicting scenes from Chinese mythology, folklore, and Confucian teachings. The park’s most famous attraction, the Ten Courts of Hell, offers a visual journey through various stages of the afterlife according to Chinese beliefs, illustrating lessons on morality and ethics. Established in 1937 by the creators of Tiger Balm, this eccentric park features over a thousand statues and dioramas that may be unusual but are historically and culturally enlightening. Haw Par Villa provides a curious and insightful glimpse into Chinese philosophy and tradition. If you are staying at hotels near Robertson Quay the likes of The Robertson House by The Crest Collection.
Yellow Ribbon Project, an organization focused on helping ex-offenders reintegrate into society, offers an unusual and rewarding experience for visitors. Their guided tours are led by ex-offenders who share their personal stories, struggles, and paths to rehabilitation. These walks take you through locations tied to their past and rehabilitation journeys, providing a unique perspective on the complexities of life after prison. Engaging in this experience promotes understanding and empathy while highlighting Singapore’s efforts in restorative justice. This initiative offers travellers an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Singapore’s social fabric and the importance of community support.
Singapore’s melting pot of cultures means that it’s home to diverse beliefs, including some fascinating supernatural folklore. Several tours take visitors through haunted locations, such as old cemeteries and abandoned buildings, where guides share stories of ghosts, superstitions, and the significance of different rituals. These tales give insight into how beliefs about the supernatural shape certain aspects of Singaporean culture, including rituals for the Hungry Ghost Festival and practices to ward off bad luck. While exploring the mystical side of Singapore may seem unusual, it’s a memorable way to understand the local customs and traditions tied to spiritual beliefs.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
