Chinatown Singapore (シンガポールのチャイナタウン / 唐人街) is a vibrant cultural district filled with rich history, bustling markets, and some of the best food in Singapore’s Chinatown. Whether you’re stepping out of Chinatown MRT Station onto the lively Pagoda Street, strolling past ornate temples, or indulging in Michelin-starred hawker food, every corner tells a story.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do, see, and eat in Chinatown Singapore—uncovering historical landmarks, local street markets, iconic hawker centres, and trendy new attractions.
Must-Visit Attractions in Chinatown
From the bustling Chinatown Street Market to hidden alleyways lined with traditional shophouses, Chinatown is a vibrant hub that preserves the legacy of Singapore’s early Chinese immigrants while embracing modern influences.
Chinatown Heritage Centre
For those wanting to understand the struggles and triumphs of early Chinese immigrants in Singapore, the Chinatown Heritage Centre is the perfect place. Housed in a restored pre-war shophouse on Pagoda Street, the museum offers a vivid look into the past.
Inside, visitors can explore the recreated living quarters of the early settlers, featuring cramped cubicles, antique furniture, and personal belongings of Chinatown’s first residents. Audio-visual displays narrate the stories of coolies (manual labourers), opera performers, and street hawkers, making the experience immersive and deeply moving.
Admission Ticket (Singapore Residents)
Adult (Age 13 – 59) – SGD 15
Senior (Age above 60) – SGD 12
Child (Age 3-12) – SGD 12
Each ticket admits one person and must be presented upon entry, with groups encouraged to enter together. Guests must follow all government-mandated safety measures, or they may be denied entry or asked to leave. Tickets are non-transferable, non-refundable, and valid only during the Centre’s opening hours.
Thian Hock Keng Temple
The Thian Hock Keng Temple (Temple of Heavenly Happiness) is one of Singapore’s oldest Hokkien temples, dating back to 1839. Originally built as a place of worship for Chinese sailors and traders, the temple was dedicated to Ma Zu Po, the Goddess of the Sea, who was believed to protect those who travelled by water.
This temple’s entirely wood-based construction makes it remarkable, using traditional Southern Chinese architectural techniques, without a single nail. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings, dragon sculptures, and beautifully painted panels, making it a true architectural masterpiece.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is one of Singapore’s most breathtaking temples, known for its Tang Dynasty-inspired architecture and deep spiritual significance. The temple is said to house a sacred tooth relic of Buddha, enshrined within a golden stupa made from nearly 700kg of gold donated by devotees.
Stepping inside, visitors can explore prayer halls with thousands of miniature Buddhas, intricately carved wooden panels, and vibrant frescoes depicting Buddhist teachings. The rooftop garden, featuring a revolving prayer wheel and an elegant pagoda, offers a serene retreat away from the bustling streets below.
Many people miss the incense-filled ritual area at the temple’s entrance, where monks chant in deep reverence. If you visit during Buddhist festivals, you might witness ceremonial rituals, traditional lantern displays, and community prayers that add to the temple’s spiritual energy.
Sri Mariamman Temple
The Sri Mariamman Temple, established in 1827, is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. It is immediately recognisable by its colourful and intricately carved gopuram (tower gateway), depicting various Hindu deities. Originally built by early South Indian immigrants, the temple remains a major religious and cultural site for Singapore’s Hindu community.
One of the most captivating times to visit is during the annual Thimithi (fire-walking) festival, where devotees walk barefoot across burning embers as an act of devotion. The temple’s inner sanctum houses statues of Goddess Mariamman, believed to have healing powers, making it a significant pilgrimage site. Visitors should remove their shoes before entering and observe Hindu rituals such as puja (prayers) and offerings of flowers and fruits.
Jamae (Chulia) Mosque
Built in 1826, Jamae Mosque is one of Singapore’s oldest mosques, reflecting the diverse heritage of Chinatown. This mosque was constructed by Chulia Muslim traders from South India, who were instrumental in Singapore’s early commercial trade.
Unlike traditional mosques, Jamae Mosque has a unique architectural blend of South Indian and neoclassical influences. The pastel-green façade, grand entrance gate, and minarets make it a striking sight amidst Chinatown’s shophouses. Inside, the mosque offers a serene prayer hall and a cultural space where visitors can learn about Islamic traditions.
Iconic Streets & Markets
- Chinatown Street Market – A Bustling Open-Air Market for Souvenirs and Street Food
The Chinatown Street Market is one of Singapore’s last remaining street vendor areas, preserving the heritage of open-air hawking. Lining Pagoda Street, Temple Street, and Smith Street, the market is filled with vibrant stalls selling souvenirs, traditional crafts, and local snacks.
Visitors can find beautifully designed chopsticks, silk scarves, jade jewellery, and Chinese calligraphy paintings. One of the unique shopping experiences here is getting a personalised Chinese name stamp, where a skilled craftsman carves your name in Chinese characters onto a stone seal—a meaningful and authentic souvenir.
At night, the market transforms into a lively food street, where visitors can try grilled satay, crispy duck pancakes, and freshly made peanut pancakes under the warm glow of hanging red lanterns.
- Sago Street & Smith Street – Historic Streets Lined with Traditional Shophouses
Sago Street and Smith Street were once known for traditional Chinese medicine halls, funeral parlours, and teahouses. Today, they house heritage boutiques, vintage shops, and specialty stores selling Chinese herbs, dried seafood, and traditional pastries.
A must-visit is the Red House, a beautifully restored traditional Cantonese bakery selling mooncakes, egg tarts, and pineapple cakes—perfect for gifts. Look out for family-run apothecaries selling ginseng, dried seafood, and herbal tonics—a tradition dating back centuries.
During Chinese New Year, the entire street lights up with massive dragon lantern displays and lion dance performances.
- Ann Siang Hill & Club Street – Trendy Area with Bars, Restaurants, and Heritage Buildings
For those looking for a more modern and stylish side of Chinatown, Ann Siang Hill and Club Street offer a mix of heritage charm and contemporary nightlife. This area, once home to Chinese clan associations, has been transformed into a trendy enclave of cocktail bars, wine lounges, and high-end restaurants.
The beautifully preserved shophouses along these streets now house chic boutiques, rooftop bars, and indie bookstores, making it a favourite hangout spot for locals and expats.
Modern Attractions
- Chinatown Point – A Shopping Mall Blending Modern Retail with Traditional Charm
Unlike the street markets, Chinatown Point is a modern shopping mall that caters to a mix of locals and tourists. This multi-level complex features fashion stores, bookstores, beauty salons, and dining outlets, offering a convenient escape from the tropical heat.
One of the highlights of Chinatown Point is Kinohimitsu Tea House, which sells herbal teas and traditional tonics believed to promote health and wellness. The mall also houses a large Kinokuniya bookstore, offering a wide selection of Chinese literature, history books, and travel guides.
For those looking for cool, air-conditioned comfort without missing out on Chinatown’s heritage, Chinatown Point is the perfect stop.
- People’s Park Complex – A Historic Shopping Centre with Budget-Friendly Finds
One of Singapore’s oldest shopping centres, People’s Park Complex is a haven for bargain hunters and food lovers. Inside, you’ll find:
- Tailor shops crafting custom-made suits and cheongsams at affordable rates
- Chinese herbal medicine stalls selling ginseng, bird’s nest, and acupuncture treatments
- Hidden food stalls serving some of the most underrated local dishes
For an authentic “no-frills” Chinatown experience, People’s Park Complex offers some of the best deals in town.
Best Food Experiences in Chinatown
Singapore’s Chinatown is home to some of the country’s most famous hawker stalls and street food.
Where to Eat: Hawker Centres & Street Food
Hawker centres are a cornerstone of Singapore’s culinary culture, offering an affordable and diverse range of dishes in a vibrant setting. If you’re curious to learn more about what makes these centres so special, check out our complete guide to hawker centres in Singapore.
- Maxwell Food Centre is one of the best places to try authentic Singaporean dishes. Some of the must-try foods here include:
- Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice – A Michelin-recommended stall known for its juicy chicken and fragrant rice.
- Zhen Zhen Porridge – Smooth, Cantonese-style porridge, perfect for breakfast.
- Rojak, Popiah & Cockle – A mix of sweet, tangy, and savoury flavours in a refreshing salad-like dish.
- Chinatown Complex Food Centre, home to Singapore’s largest hawker centre, has over 260 food stalls, including:
- Hawker Chan – The world’s first Michelin-starred hawker stall, serving Hong Kong-style Soya Sauce Chicken Rice.
- Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice – A flavorful claypot rice dish with smoky, charred goodness.
- Chinatown Food Street is an alfresco dining area where visitors can sample a variety of local dishes, including:
- Satay (grilled skewered meat)
- Laksa (spicy coconut noodle soup)
- Hokkien Mee (stir-fried prawn noodles)
Beyond hawker food, Chinatown has specialised eateries such as:
- Tea Chapter – A traditional teahouse where you can experience Chinese tea appreciation.
- Yum Cha Chinatown – One of the best spots for dim sum lovers, offering freshly steamed dumplings and BBQ pork buns.
- Mooncake Shops – If you’re visiting during the Mid-Autumn Festival, you can try authentic mooncakes filled with lotus seed paste, egg yolk, or red beans.
Getting Around Chinatown
Chinatown is compact and best explored on foot. Once you arrive at Chinatown MRT Station (NE4/DT19), you’re already in the heart of the district.
If you’re short on time, take the Downtown Line or hop on a bus to nearby areas like Clarke Quay, Tanjong Pagar, or the Central Business District.
How to get to Aemorph from Chinatown
Aemorph is located at LEAGOO Pte Ltd, 34 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058668, just a short distance from Chinatown.
By MRT (Approx. 5 minutes):
From Chinatown MRT Station (NE4/DT19), take the North East Line one stop to Clarke Quay MRT (NE5). From there, it’s a 5-minute walk to Aemorph along South Bridge Road.
On Foot (Approx. 10–12 minutes):
If you prefer walking, head northeast on New Bridge Road toward Clarke Quay. Cross over to South Bridge Road via Hong Lim Park—Aemorph is just a few blocks away.
By Taxi or Grab (Approx. 5 minutes):
A quick ride from Chinatown to South Bridge Road takes about 5 minutes. Enter “34 South Bridge Road” in your ride-hailing app for direct drop-off.
Plan Your Visit to Chinatown
Chinatown is one of Singapore’s most vibrant and historic districts, best explored on foot. Aim to visit between 10 AM and 5 PM, when shops, temples, and cultural centres are fully open. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a bottle of water, and prepare for a mix of indoor and outdoor walking.
Weekday mornings are quieter, ideal for visiting the Chinatown Heritage Centre and Sri Mariamman Temple or browsing the markets along Pagoda Street. Many local eateries only accept cash, so carry some with you.
Local Tip: Don’t miss a stop at Smith Street for local hawker food or Ann Siang Hill for boutique cafés and bars tucked behind restored shophouses.
