Looking for things to do in Chinatown Singapore? Honestly, you’re more likely to have the problem of too many options than none. There’s always something happening or worth doing in this place!
If you want to get the absolute best of Chinatown, though, we can help. Below are the activities we’d recommend to just about everyone who visits the place. We’ve noted what you can expect from each option.
1. See the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
The name says exactly what this place is – a temple built to house a relic believed to be one of Buddha’s teeth. The tooth is curiously large and can be found on display on the 4th floor.
There’s also a theatre, a museum, and a dining hall. The third is vegetarian, of course, and doesn’t charge for meals (but accepts donations).
The place is a great visit if you want to learn more about Buddhism and see some Tang Dynasty-inspired architecture. Note that there’s a dress code (no shorts, short skirts, etc.). Pets and non-vegetarian food aren’t allowed either.
2. Shop at the Chinatown Street Market
It’s one of the most varied, busiest markets on the island, stuffed to the gills with everything from souvenirs to clothing and snacks. What’s not to like?
If there’s anything to keep in mind before going, it’s probably to go with an empty stomach. There are a lot of great hawkers to try here, and both the Maxwell and Chinatown Complex food centres are nearby.
3. Check out Sri Mariamman Temple
Sri Mariaman Temple is a dream if you’re interested in Hindu culture. It’s the country’s oldest Hindu temple and has some absolutely jaw-dropping Dravidian architectural work.
Note that it has set open times: 6 AM to 12 PM and 6 PM to 9 PM, although it closes a little later on Fridays (by 15 minutes). It’s busiest during the festivals, so you may want to avoid those if you don’t want crowds.
If you’re interested in those events, though, we recommend the Theemithi around October or November. It has a firewalking ceremony!
4. Explore the Chinatown Heritage Centre
Interested in what Chinatown’s early residents were like and how they lived? This is the place to go. The interiors are worth a few photos too, being recently refreshed and recreated as shophouses!
Entry is affordable too, at just (Singaporean) $25 for non-resident adults and $15 for resident adults. Children’s tickets are $20 for non-residents and $12 for residents. Those under 2 enter for free.
5. Book a guided walking tour
There are several great options for and providers of guided walking tours in Chinatown: Monster Day Tours, DUCKtours, Klook, and even Chinatown’s own Visitor Centre.
Prices vary, but most of the tour guides charge about $50 to $70.
Now you’re probably wondering this: why take this route instead of just walking around yourself?
Because these experienced guides will show you secret areas and shed light on the history of the place that you likely wouldn’t be able to find yourself. With the best guides, you get a meaningful experience of the place, plus there’s less getting lost or struggling to find exactly what you want when you’re with a pro!
6. Get some tea at one of the teahouses
This is definitely a must-do anytime someone visits Chinatown. Specifically, you have to experience one of the local tea ceremonies!
This is one of the best ways to wrap up a Chinatown trek, because it’s so calming. Ask for recommendations from your server if you don’t know what to order, and don’t be afraid to try multiple teas during your session.
