Since 1330, immigrants from China have made the area around Pagoda Street their first port of call on arrival in Singapore. Indeed, this neighbourhood was the first in the world to gain the name “Chinatown”. While Chinese people are Singapore's main ethnic group, this quarter represents the strongest expression of their identity. Tradition and history can be explored in the China Heritage Centre, in its many markets, and in the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum. The interior of the temple is bedecked in opulent reds and golds, and Buddhist ceremonies take place regularly – you are welcome to stay and observe.A guided walking tour is an informative way to delve deeper into the background of the area, or if you prefer, you can follow the Chinatown tour yourself. The beginning point of the tour is the China Heritage Centre, offering a sense of what life was like in the city for early arrivals. The Sri Mariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, and its design is a very pleasing example of the South Indian style. Other traditional architecture to be found here includes the emblematic Chinese shop-houses, which are still in use to this day.Smith Street, or 'Food Street' to the locals, is the best place in Chinatown to satisfy your hunger. Singapore Noodles have become world famous, and you can check out the real thing here. Bak kut (pork rib soup) is also a big favourite.Chinatown is found in the centre of the city, within easy walking distance of most other central attractions. Parking is available on nearby streets, as well as a range of public transportation, including taking the MRT train to 'Chinatown' station. The area is open daily, and is free to enter.
Chinatown
Popular places to visit
Chinatown Heritage Center
Discover the stories behind one of the world’s biggest Chinatowns at this important cultural museum.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
You can learn about the history of Singapore when you stop by Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum. Visit the temples and shops in this vibrant area.
Maxwell Food Centre
During your visit to Singapore, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Maxwell Food Centre. Discover the fascinating museums and temples in this vibrant area.
People's Park Complex
During your trip to Singapore, you can enjoy retail therapy at People's Park Complex. Amble around this vibrant area's Chinatown or experience its fascinating museums.
Sri Mariamman Temple
Find out about the history of Singapore when you take a trip to Sri Mariamman Temple. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this vibrant area.
Duxton Plain Park
Explore the great outdoors at Duxton Plain Park, a lovely green space in Singapore. Amble within Chinatown or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.
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Top hotels in Chinatown
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Reviewed on 25 Mar 2024
Other neighbourhoods around Chinatown
Downtown Singapore
Downtown Singapore is highly notable for its stunning river views, and you might want to visit top sights like Orchard Road and Clarke Quay Central. See more of Singapore by jumping on the metro at Clarke Quay Station or Chinatown Station.
Financial District Singapore
The abundant dining options and stunning river views are just a few top-rate features of the neighbourhood. Make a stop by Boat Quay or Raffles Place while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Raffles Place Station to get around town.
Clarke Quay
Known for its ample dining options and beautiful river views, there's plenty to explore in Clarke Quay. You can visit top attractions like Clarke Quay Central and Clarke Quay Mall, and jump on the metro at Clarke Quay Station or Fort Canning MRT station to see more of the city.
Singapore River
Robertson Quay and Clarke Quay Central are a few top attractions in Singapore River. Hop around the city on the metro at Fort Canning MRT station or Clarke Quay Station and check out the area's fantastic nightlife, stunning river views and popular shops.
Downtown Core
While you're in Downtown Core, take in top sights like Marina Bay Sands Skypark or Marina Bay Sands Casino, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Raffles Place Station or Downtown Station.
Singapore Central Business District
Known for its beautiful waterfront views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Singapore Central Business District. Check out top attractions like Marina Bay Sands Skypark and Marina Bay Sands Casino, and jump on the metro at Raffles Place Station or Bayfront Station to see more of the city.
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