Things to Do in Chinatown Singapore

There are a plethora of exciting things to do in Chinatown Singapore, from exploring historic sites like the Thian Hock Keng temple and the oldest Chinese temple to shopping for bargains at the many street markets and anticipating delicious local cuisine. The best places to begin exploring Chinatown are at one of the many street markets, the most well-known of which are located on Pagoda Street and Temple Street. A wide variety of restaurants, religious centers, and exciting tourist attractions contribute to the area's high popularity. The Sri Mariamman Temple and Masjid Jamae, two of the city's most visited religious sites, are excellent venues to sample these offerings. There is a dazzling array of colors and energizing entertainment to be had here, and you can discover something of personal interest at any one of the many souvenir shops, independent boutiques, or lively eateries serving genuine street food or regional specialties.

Get Out and See the Buddha's Tooth Relic Temple
Get Out and See the Buddha's Tooth Relic Temple

Visiting the increasingly popular tourist destination of Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is one of the finest things to do in Chinatown Singapore. The precious Buddha Tooth Relic is kept safe in this magnificent four-story building. The relic is housed in a pure gold Stupa, making it the focal point of the Temple. An impressive prayer wheel sits atop the stunning pagoda on the roof. Each and every day, guests are welcome to observe or participate in a variety of religious rites. You should observe proper decorum in your attire, as this is a sacred site.

Go to the Sri Mariamman Temple
Go to the Sri Mariamman Temple

Sri Mariamman Temple, the oldest temple in Singapore, may be found, somewhat perplexingly, in the heart of Chinatown. The beautiful temple dates back to 1827 and was built in honor of the Hindu goddess Goddess Mariamman, who is revered for her ability to heal sickness and epidemics. Early in the evening, priests, worshipers, and musicians take part in time-honored ceremonies and present their gods with exquisitely presented offerings. The meanings represented by these gifts are taken into serious consideration when choosing them. Mango leaves and coconut palms, for example, represent chastity, while bananas stand for plenty. In the sake of good fortune, if you are wondering what to do in Chinatown Singapore you should go clockwise around the temple an odd number of times.

Get Some Real Chinese Food in Chinatown at Maxwell Street Food Center
Get Some Real Chinese Food in Chinatown at Maxwell Street Food Center

Maxwell Food Centre, where some of the best hawker stalls in Singapore can be found, has become an icon of Singapore. Satay, nasi goreng, dumplings, and roast pig are just a few examples of the many savory dishes that draw inspiration from Chinese, Indian, and Malay cuisines. Thus, one of the best things to do in Chinatown Singapore is to take a trip to this restaurant, which serves up authentic flavors at low prices.

Check out the Chinatown Area's Biggest Hawker Center
Check out the Chinatown Area's Biggest Hawker Center

Located in the heart of Chinatown, the Chinatown Complex is a bustling hawker center frequented by not just tourists but also locals. Hawkers abound throughout the Complex, each offering a menu as extensive as one might expect in a large, multi use complex such as the Complex. Everyone's hunger would be sufficiently piqued by the aromas and scents that permeate the air. Dishes are prepared with care and attention to detail, so they taste just how they should. One of the things to do in Chinatown Singapore is heading to the Chinatown Complex, and getting traditional Chinese food as well as vegan and fusion options for just about any meal.

Enjoy the Evening at Pinnacle @ Duxton Skybridge
Enjoy the Evening at Pinnacle @ Duxton Skybridge

The Pinnacle @ Duxton Skybridge, a marvel of Singaporean architecture, is among the world's highest public residential buildings. One of the most fascinating things to do in Chinatown Singapore is to head up here around sunset and take in the breathtaking vistas. However, due to limited capacity, not everyone can experience this stunning structure. The inhabitants here must not be disturbed, thus just 200 visitors are permitted daily.

Try Out Some of Ann Siang Hill's Restaurants and bars.
Try Out Some of Ann Siang Hill's Restaurants and bars.

Many visitors and residents alike visit this former spice hill in search of excellent dining and nightlife options. There is a veritable feast of rooftop bars, cozy restaurants, boutique hotels, and entertainment venues lining this exciting street. The overwhelming number of eateries and watering holes may put you off, but a visit to this section of Chinatown in Singapore is sure to be an unforgettable experience. The area boasts a variety of unique stores and well-kept public park spaces. The small theater is perfect for a night in with the family watching an old film.

Spend Time at the Chinatown Heritage Center to Learn About Chinese Traditions
Spend Time at the Chinatown Heritage Center to Learn About Chinese Traditions

If you are thinking about what to do in Chinatown Singapore the Heritage Center is a must-see for anyone looking for culturally enriching experiences in the area. In order to preserve and exhibit the culture of Chinatown's pioneers, the Center was constructed. It's a multi-sensory museum with six galleries, conserved living areas, and activities including craft-making classes, multimedia tours, and readings. Postcards, books, and artworks created by regional artists are also available for purchase.

Take a Trip to the Singapore City Gallery
Take a Trip to the Singapore City Gallery

In case you're wondering what to do in Chinatown Singapore, you should definitely check out Singapore City Gallery, which provides a stunning depiction of the city state's urbanization process. It demonstrates how Singapore evolved from a humble trade post into a global powerhouse. The Gallery's three levels and ten distinct themed sections and interactive exhibits collectively depict this trip. The Central Area Model is the showcase of this Gallery; it provides an aerial perspective of Singapore's downtown area. There is a light and sound show that brings the Model to life, depicting the growth of Singapore's metropolis.

Drop by Hawker Chan, a Michelin-rated restaurant
Drop by Hawker Chan, a Michelin-rated restaurant

If you're having trouble deciding what to do in Chinatown Singapore or where to eat Singapore's Chinatown, a Michelin-recommended Hawker Chan restaurant is a safe bet. A hawker in the Chinatown Food Complex, not a fine dining establishment. The humble hawker whose specialty Soya Sauce Chicken and Rice was awarded the first Michelin star for a meal in the world sells it here for just S$2. To obtain a taste of this specialty meal, you should go there early and be prepared to wait in line.

Visit People's Park to take instagrammable photos
Visit People's Park to take instagrammable photos

People's Park was the first residential and commercial complex of its kind in Southeast Asia, and to this day, many Singaporeans who are curious about the city's Chinatown come here to learn more about its origins in the 1970s. Initially, it served as a shopping center, and eventually a residential tower was constructed. This 25-story tower is the tallest residential building in Chinatown Singapore, and photographs taken from its observation deck provide breathtaking vistas of the metropolis below. Take some odd Instagram photos in the mall's crowded atrium to remember your trip by. While you're at People's Park shopping and eating are some of the things to do in Chinatown Singapore!

Get Out and See Thien Hock Keng Temple
Get Out and See Thien Hock Keng Temple

Dedicated to Ma Zu Po, the Goddess of Heavenly Sages and the guardian of mariners, the Thien Hock Keng Temple is one of Singapore's oldest temples and a popular place for visitors seeking solitude and quiet in Chinatown. Incredibly, this South Chinese-style temple was constructed totally without the use of a single nail. The Temple was originally constructed near the water's edge, and it was there that sailors came to pray to the Goddess before setting sail.

FAQ's of Chinatown Singapore

What's so special about Chinatown?

    Chinatown is renowned for its unique cultural communities and the harmonious coexistence of many different ethnic groups. In Chinatown, there are a number of wonderful neighborhoods, like Masjid Jamae Mosque and Sri Mariamman Temple. Chinatown in Singapore is a popular destination since it offers a wide variety of activities for visitors.

What is the best time to visit Chinatown Singapore?

How to reach Chinatown Singapore?

What are the romantic things to do in Chinatown Singapore?

What are the things to do in Chinatown Singapore with kids?

Explore Singapore