South East Asian Trips

Singapore Chinatown is the traditional Chinese neighborhood that features traditional Chinese culture. It is home to ethnic Chinese population. It is located in the larger district of Outram. Chinese is the largest ethnic group in Singapore that constitutes about 75 per cent of population.

Chinatown in Singapore is also known as Niu Che Shui in Chinese and Kreta Ayer in Malay, both the names mean ‘bullock cart water’, a reference to the carts that used to haul in drinking water. Chinatown is a vibrant mix of different colors. The town is fully painted in its unique traditions and cultures.

Chinatown in Singapore evolved around 1821 when the first Chinese junk arrived from Xiamen, Fujian province in China. All the passengers from China were men, who set up home around the south of the Singapore River. This area, today, is known as Telok Ayer.

Singapore Chinatown has retained its old world charm. Many of the area’s major historical and cultural landmarks have been declared as national heritage sites, which are now officially designated for conservation by the Urban Redevelopment Authority. There are many places of tourist interest in Chinatown, which include markets, temples, mosques, parks, and shop-houses. Travelers to Chinatown can visit various sites like Heritage Centre, Chinatown Food Street, and Chinatown Night Market.

China Town attractions include

Chinatown Heritage Center

Jamae Mosque

Sri Mariamman Temple

Thian Hock Keng Temple

Besides Chinatown is a great place to shop for Chinese goods and other items. Most streets of Chinatown are packed with stalls selling Chinese trinkets. There are various shops on South Bridge Roade selling antiques, Chinese handicrafts, fashion items, home accessories and Chinese medicine.