Singapore, often referred to as the “Lion City,” is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends culture, history, and modernity. While some may think that a day is not enough to explore this bustling city-state, it’s still possible to have an unforgettable experience packed with exciting activities and iconic landmarks. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a whirlwind tour of everything you can do in Singapore in a day or less.
The Malays – Kampong Glam
The Malay community has deep roots in Singapore’s history, tracing back to its founding as a trading port. The Malays, who were seafarers and traders, established settlements along the Singapore River.
The area became known as Kampong Glam and became the seat of Malay royalty and a centre for Malay culture. Today the former Malay palace, Istana Kampong Glam has been turned into the Malay Heritage Centre where you can learn more about the rich history of the Malay community of Singapore.
Kampong Glam offers a blend of Malay, Arab, and Muslim influences, making it a fascinating destination for locals and tourists alike. The streets are lined with traditional shophouses that house a variety of stores selling textiles, carpets, handicrafts, and traditional Malay and Arab attire, making it a rich cultural haven.
Explore the grand Sultan Mosque, stroll along Arab Street with its traditional shophouses that house an eclectic mix of shops selling textiles, carpets, and traditional crafts and traditional Malay and Arab attire.
Kampong Glam is also home to a wealth of culinary delights. Enjoy a cup of aromatic tea at a local café or indulge in delicious Malay and Middle Eastern cuisine like traditional Malay dishes like Nasi Padang and satay or Arab specialties like shawarma and hummus – there is something to satisfy every palate.
The Chinese – Chinatown
As the largest ethnic group in Singapore, the Chinese community has played a vital role in shaping the nation’s economic and cultural landscape. Chinese immigrants arrived in large numbers during the 19th century, bringing their rich traditions, dialects, and customs. Chinatown thus emerged as a cultural hub and today stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Singapore’s Chinese community.
Explore the iconic landmarks of Chinatown, like Sri Mariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore or the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum known for its magnificent architecture and housing a sacred relic believed to be a tooth of Gautama Buddha.
As you stroll through the streets of Chinatown, you’ll encounter rows of traditional shophouses, a distinctive architectural style found in Southeast Asia. Many of them have been converted into trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a blend of modern and traditional experiences.
Chinatown is famous for its bustling street markets, particularly on Pagoda Street, Smith Street, and Temple Street. Here, you can find a plethora of stalls selling an array of goods, from souvenirs and trinkets to traditional Chinese medicine, herbs, and textiles.
Chinatown is also a paradise for food lovers. Its hawker centres and restaurants serve up a diverse range of delectable Chinese cuisine, ranging from Hokkien Mee and Hainanese Chicken Rice to Char Kway Teow and Chilli Crab. Maxwell Food Centre and Chinatown Complex Food Centre are popular food havens, where you can savour these local delights at affordable prices.
The Indians – Little India
The Indian community in Singapore has a long history that dates back to the colonial era when Indian immigrants primarily from the Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh regions arrived to work as labourers and traders. Over time, the neighbourhood in which they settled developed into a thriving cultural enclave that remains an integral part of Singapore’s multicultural fabric. Little India, with its bustling streets and colourful shops, is a testament to the enduring Indian influence in Singapore.
Serangoon Road, the main thoroughfare of Little India, is a bustling street lined with an array of shops, restaurants, and street vendors. The vibrant and lively atmosphere is complemented by the vividly painted buildings, colourful signage, and the aroma of spices wafting through the air.
Some of the most prominent landmarks in Little India include the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple – an ornate Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali as well as the Little India Arcade is a must-visit destination for shoppers and art enthusiasts.
Little India is renowned for its aromatic spices and traditional Indian cuisine. From biryani and dosa to masala chai and sweets like gulab jamun, visitors can indulge in a culinary journey through the diverse regional cuisines of India.
Little India is also home to several heritage centres and museums that provide insights into the history, traditions, and contributions of the Indian community in Singapore. The Indian Heritage Centre, located on Campbell Lane, showcases the rich heritage and diverse cultural practices of Indians in Southeast Asia through exhibits, artefacts, and interactive displays.
The Peranakans – Katong and Joo Chiat
The term “Peranakan” refers to the descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in Southeast Asia during the 15th to 17th centuries and married local Malay or Indonesian women. The Peranakan enclave in Singapore is located primarily in the Katong and Joo Chiat neighbourhoods characterised by the unique blend of Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences evident from its language, Baba Malay or Peranakan Malay and clothing such as the sarong kebaya, and architecture.
In Katong and Joo Chiat, you can find a plethora of beautifully preserved Peranakan shophouses, which are a defining feature of the area. These two-story buildings feature intricate facades, colourful tiles, and ornate details that showcase the Peranakan aesthetic. Many of these shophouses have been converted into cafes, restaurants, boutique hotels, and Peranakan-themed shops, offering visitors a glimpse into Peranakan heritage.
The Peranakan influence is also evident in the local culinary scene. Katong is especially renowned for its Peranakan food, with numerous restaurants and eateries serving up authentic Peranakan dishes. Mouthwatering delights like ayam buah keluak (chicken in a spicy black nut gravy), laksa (spicy noodle soup), and kueh (traditional Peranakan desserts) can be savoured in this area.
Visitors can further immerse themselves in Peranakan culture by visiting the Peranakan Museum, located near the historic Armenian Street in the city centre. The museum showcases the history, art, and cultural traditions of the Peranakan community, providing a deeper understanding of their heritage.
These four major ethnic cultures have not only coexisted in Singapore but have also influenced one another, resulting in a multicultural society that embraces diversity. Singapore recognises the importance of preserving and celebrating each community’s unique heritage and these heritage sites provide opportunities for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the traditions, customs, and flavours of these diverse cultures.
