Merlion Park is a popular tourist spot symbolising Singapore’s history, culture, and prosperity. The Merlion statue, a mythical hybrid of a lion and a fish, represents Singapore’s origins as a fishing village (Temasek) and its transformation into the modern “Lion City” (Singapura).
This guide will explore how to visit Merlion Park, the history behind Singapore’s lion-fish emblem, and what makes this location a must-see.
Singapore’s Merlion: Quick Facts & History
The Merlion, Singapore’s iconic lionfish statue, was officially created in 1964 as a logo for the Singapore Tourism Board before becoming a national symbol. Inspired by the legend of Sang Nila Utama, who named the island Singapura (“Lion City”), the Merlion combines a lion’s head (symbolising strength) with a fish’s body (representing Singapore’s fishing village past in Temasek). While it appears rooted in mythology, the first Merlion statue was built in 1972 by sculptor Lim Nang Seng and initially stood at the mouth of the Singapore River to signify prosperity flowing into the city.
Though mostly recognised for the Merlion Park statue, Singapore once had six Merlion statues, including the Sentosa Merlion, a towering 37-meter version with a viewing deck and laser-lit eyes, which was demolished in 2019. Despite its tourism-driven origins, the Merlion has become a global cultural icon, symbolising Singapore’s history, strength, and maritime heritage.
Attractions at Merlion Park
The Main Merlion Statue
The 8.6-meter-tall Merlion statue, weighing 70 tonnes, stands as the most iconic symbol of Singapore. It continuously spouts water into Marina Bay, representing prosperity and good fortune. The statue was relocated to its current spot in 2002, as the Esplanade Bridge blocked its original location.
The Merlion Cub
A lesser-known but equally important attraction is the Merlion Cub, a 2-meter-tall version of the main Merlion. It is located just a short distance away and is a great alternative for unique photos without large crowds.
Breathtaking Views of Marina Bay
Merlion Park offers panoramic views of Marina Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. It’s one of the best spots to admire Singapore’s futuristic skyline, especially at night.
The Hidden Fact: Why Every Merlion Faces East
A lesser-known fact is that every Merlion statue in Singapore faces east. In Feng Shui beliefs, east-facing structures bring prosperity, which aligns with Singapore’s economic success.
Nearby Attractions Worth Visiting
- The Fullerton Hotel Singapore – A historic colonial-era hotel
- Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay – Singapore’s premier arts venue
- Marina Bay Sands – Singapore’s most famous integrated resort
- Helix Bridge – A DNA-inspired pedestrian bridge
- Singapore Flyer – A giant observation wheel
Merlion Park Light Show: What to Expect
Although Merlion Park does not have its own light show, it is one of the best spots to view the Spectra Light & Water Show at Marina Bay Sands. This free nightly show features:
- Laser lights and water effects
- Animated projections on water screens
- A soundtrack narrating Singapore’s story
Show Timings:
- 8:00 PM & 9:00 PM (Daily)
- 10:00 PM show on Fridays & Saturdays
From Merlion Park, you get an unobstructed, panoramic view of the light show reflected on the water.
How to Go to Merlion Park (Best Transport Options)
Reaching Merlion Park is easy because of its central location near Marina Bay. Depending on where you are coming from, here are the best ways to get there:
By MRT – The Most Convenient Option
The nearest MRT station to Merlion Park is Raffles Place MRT (EW14/NS26), which serves the East-West (Green) and North-South (Red) lines.
- Exit at Raffles Place MRT and take Exit B
- Walk towards Fullerton Road, past The Fullerton Hotel
- Follow the waterfront walkway, and within 5 to 10 minutes, you’ll reach Merlion Park
If you’re coming from Esplanade MRT (CC3, Circle Line), you can also walk across the Esplanade Bridge, which offers great views of Marina Bay. However, note that there’s no shade along the way, so be prepared for Singapore’s heat.
By Bus – A Budget-Friendly Alternative
If you’re taking a bus, the closest stop is Fullerton Square (Bus Stop 03011), just a 5-minute walk from Merlion Park.
- Common bus numbers: 10, 57, 75, 100, 107, 130, 131, 167, 700
- Alight at Fullerton Square bus stop, then walk towards the waterfront
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab, Gojek)
For a hassle-free trip, you can take a taxi or a ride-hailing service (Grab, Gojek, ComfortDelGro) and ask to be dropped off at One Fullerton. The ride costs approximately:
- SGD 8 – 15 from central locations like Orchard Road or Bugis
- SGD 20 – 30 from Changi Airport
By Walking from Marina Bay Sands (Scenic Route)
If you’re already exploring Marina Bay Sands, consider taking the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade for a 15-minute walk to Merlion Park.
Alternatively, if you enjoy longer scenic walks, you can take the Helix Bridge past Esplanade–Theatres on the Bay, then cross the Esplanade Pedestrian Bridge to reach Merlion Park.
By Boat – The Most Unique Experience
For a different perspective, you can take a Singapore River Cruise or a bumboat ride to see the Merlion from the water. This is one of the best ways to enjoy the skyline while learning about Singapore’s history. The boats operate from:
- Clarke Quay
- Boat Quay
- Marina Bay Sands
Tickets cost around SGD 25 – 30 per person, and the ride lasts 40 – 45 minutes, passing by key landmarks like Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and the ArtScience Museum.
How to Get to Aemorph from Merlion Park
Aemorph is located at LEAGOO Pte Ltd, 34 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058668. Here are a few convenient ways to get there from Merlion Park.
Walking (Approx. 10–15 minutes): If the weather is nice, walking is a scenic and efficient option. Start from Merlion Park and head southwest toward Fullerton Road. Cross Anderson Bridge and continue straight onto South Bridge Road. Walk past Boat Quay, and you’ll find the LEAGOO Building on your left.
MRT (10 minutes ride + 5 minutes walk): From Merlion Park, walk to Raffles Place MRT Station (about 5 minutes away). Take the East-West Line (Green Line) 1 stop toward Outram Park and alight at Clarke Quay MRT Station. From there, walk about 5 minutes to reach 34 South Bridge Road.
Taxi or ride-hailing: Set your destination to 34 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058668. The ride typically takes 5 to 7 minutes and costs around SGD 6 to 10, depending on traffic.
Plan Your Visit to Merlion Park
Merlion Park is open to the public 24/7 and doesn’t require any entrance fee, making it perfect for spontaneous outings or quick detours between other Marina Bay attractions. To avoid the heat and crowds, visit early in the morning or around sunset. If you plan to catch the Spectra Light & Water Show, arrive at least 15 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot along the promenade.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely walk between nearby landmarks like the Fullerton Hotel, Esplanade, and Marina Bay Sands.
