Singapore is famous for its unique and exciting culture.
Singapore’s Chinatown is no different, offering a vibrant district that beautifully blends the old with the new, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s Chinese heritage.
Visitors can explore stunning temples like the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the Sri Mariamman Temple, wander through colourful streets lined with restored shophouses, and enjoy the abundance of things to do in Chinatown, Singapore.
Take Your Pick
With so many fantastic things to do in Chinatown, you’ll never be too far from something vibrant, colourful and exciting. Below, take your pick of Singapore’s Chinatown activities:
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Buddha Tooth Relic Temple: A majestic four-story temple that houses a sacred relic of Buddha. It’s unique for its Tang Dynasty architecture and the tranquil ambience within its prayer halls.
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Sri Mariamman Temple: Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, renowned for its intricate Dravidian architecture and vibrant gopuram (tower). It serves as a significant place of worship and a cultural landmark.
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Chinatown Food Street: A bustling street lined with hawker stalls and eateries offering a variety of local dishes. It’s a food lover’s paradise where you can enjoy authentic Singaporean flavours.
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Chinatown Heritage Centre: A museum that recreates the lives of early Chinese immigrants. It provides a vivid and immersive historical experience, showcasing their struggles and contributions.
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Chinatown Complex: Home to one of Singapore’s largest hawker centres, it offers a vast array of local delicacies. The wet market here is also a great spot to observe daily local life and buy fresh produce.
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Pagoda Street: A vibrant street known for its restored shophouses that now host a mix of traditional shops and trendy boutiques. It’s a great place for shopping and soaking in the historical charm.
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Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre: A hub for Chinese arts and culture, offering various exhibitions, performances, and workshops. It’s a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of Chinese heritage.
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Chinatown Street Market: A lively market perfect for picking up souvenirs, from traditional crafts to quirky trinkets. It’s also an excellent spot to practice your bargaining skills.
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Thian Hock Keng Temple: One of Singapore’s oldest Hokkien temples, dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. It’s known for its intricate carvings and statues, representing traditional southern Chinese architectural style.
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Festive Celebrations: Visit during Chinese New Year or the Mid-Autumn Festival to witness Chinatown’s vibrant decorations, lion dances, and festive markets. These celebrations showcase the rich cultural traditions and community spirit of the area.
Once you’ve seen the sights and indulged in Chinatown’s colourful energy, it might be time to indulge a little more at nearby Burger & Lobster. Burger & Lobster is a London-born restaurant specialising in delicious fresh lobster and the most delicious burgers. From Chinatown, Burger & Lobster is around a 20-30 minute walk away in the nearby Raffles Hotel, and the perfect spot for some tasty dishes and refreshing cocktails!
Attraction and days out in Chinatown (SG)
Chinatown in Singapore is a treasure trove of attractions and activities that cater to all kinds of visitors. From historical landmarks to vibrant markets, there truly is something for everyone.
1. A journey through history at the Chinatown Heritage Centre
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Chinatown at the Chinatown Heritage Centre. This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of early Chinese immigrants. The recreated scenes and exhibits vividly depict their struggles and triumphs, making it a must visit while in Singapore.
2. Cultural endeavours at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a magnificent structure that houses a sacred relic of Buddha. Its Tang Dynasty architecture and serene prayer halls provide a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city. Don’t miss the rooftop garden, which offers a tranquil escape and a beautiful view of Chinatown.
3. Culinary delights on Chinatown Food Street
Foodies should head straight to Chinatown Food Street, where a diverse array of hawker stalls and eateries await. From local delicacies like satay and char kway teow, this vibrant street is a culinary paradise. Once you’ve sampled some of the local delicacies, head over to Burger & Lobster for some delicious cocktails and a couple more nibbles as you plan your next move.
4. Art and culture at the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre
For those interested in arts and culture, the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre is a fantastic destination. The centre hosts a variety of exhibitions, performances, and workshops that celebrate Chinese culture and heritage. It’s an excellent place to deepen your understanding and appreciation of Chinese arts.
5. Shopping and bargaining at Chinatown Street Market
Chinatown Street Market is a lively and colourful market perfect for souvenir shopping. Whether you’re looking for traditional crafts, quirky trinkets, or unique gifts, this market has it all. Practice your bargaining skills and soak in the vibrant atmosphere as you explore the many stalls.
6. Festive fun during Chinese New Year
Experience the magic of Chinatown during Chinese New Year. The streets come alive with dazzling decorations, lion dances, and festive markets. It’s a wonderful time to visit and partake in the joyous celebrations, offering a unique cultural experience that appeals to visitors of all ages.
Chinatown in Singapore is a dynamic and lively area with a plethora of attractions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a keen foodie, an art lover, or simply looking for a fun day out, Chinatown has something special to offer.
Places to eat in Singapore Chinatown
Just a short 20-30 minute walk from the vibrant attractions of Chinatown, Burger & Lobster at Raffles Hotel offers a delightful dining experience for those exploring the area.
While you’ll certainly know Burger & Lobster for its delicious menu, it’s not just about the food; it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy some inventive cocktails! Try the signature B&L Sling, a refreshing blend of gin, orange, raspberry, pineapple, cherry, whey, and grenadine, or opt for classic favourites like a Campari Spritz or a fruity Daiquiri, or just keep it simple with a tasty house beer, soft drink or still. If you’re just popping in for drinks, why not pair your cocktails with some delectable bites to share? The Soy Butter Prawns offer a savoury treat, while the Lobster Yuzu Salad provides a fresh, zesty option, ideal for sharing. The XO Calamari is another standout, featuring perfectly cooked calamari with a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with something zesty like a Margarita.
For those with a heartier appetite, Burger & Lobster’s renowned dishes are sure to impress. The Beast Burger combines the best of land and sea with a 6oz beef patty, lobster meat, brie, truffle and tarragon mayo, fennel, and Chinese cabbage slaw: messy yet delicious. The Southern Chicken Burger includes cornmeal-coated chicken with cajun creole seasoning, lettuce, tomatoes, pickled onions, and ranch dressing and served with some delicately crisp fries. Of course, if you’re heading to Burger & Lobster, you won’t want to miss out on the Classic Whole Lobster. Available steamed or grilled, and served with fries, salad, lemon, and garlic butter sauce. Perfect and simple. Another favourite and an OG on the menu is the Classic Lobster Roll. The Lobster Roll includes chilled lobster meat, lemon mayo and chives, all lovingly wrapped up in a toasted brioche roll with fries and salad. These are truly what Burger & Lobster is all about and a definite must try if it's your first time visiting!
Whether you’re exploring the many things to do in Chinatown Singapore, searching for a charming little spot to enjoy some drinks, or craving a hearty dinner of juicy burgers and fresh seafood, Burger & Lobster is the spot for you. Browse the menu and book your table!