Any visit to the island state of Singapore is incomplete without a trip to the city’s enormous Chinatown. The ethnic Chinese community make up almost 50% of the population and the history of its people has consequently had a major influence on the entire city state. The zone around Pagoda Street has been the traditional heartland for Chinese immigrants since 1330 and it remains the centre of the city’s Chinatown today.Tourists flock to the area to visit its fascinating cultural and historical attractions as well as some of the city’s best restaurants. Stop by the Chinatown Heritage Centre for a poignant insight into the lives of early Chinese immigrants, including the hardworking Samsui women.The visually stunning Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is an excellent example of Tang Dynasty architecture. Step inside to admire the extravagant red and gold interior and, if you can, try to time your visit to coincide with one of the beautiful Buddhist ceremonies. Chinatown is defined by its diverse architecture, especially the colourful, old-style shop houses, and another structure worth seeing is the Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s largest Hindu place of worship, built in the South Indian style.Like most places in Singapore, wandering around on foot is definitely the best way to get a feel for the area and there are plenty of companies who organise guided tours. Alternatively, you can always follow the Chinatown trail which will take you to many of the most important cultural and historic sites.Another huge draw here is, of course, the food, and where better to sample the fantastic cuisine than along “Food Street” (also called Smith Street)? Here you’ll find a huge selection of fantastic Chinese fare such as Bak kut, a very popular pork rib soup, and the world-famous Singapore noodles – the perfect way to top off a hard day’s sightseeing!Chinatown, located in the centre of Singapore, is open every day and is well served by public transport. There is parking on the surrounding streets but the easiest way to get there is by MRT to Chinatown Station.
Chinatown Travel Guide
Popular places to visit
Chinatown Heritage Center
Discover the stories behind one of the world’s biggest Chinatowns at this important cultural museum.
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.
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.
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 temples in this vibrant area.
Telok Ayer Park
Explore the great outdoors at Telok Ayer Park, a lovely green space in Singapore. Amble within Chinatown or visit the temples in this vibrant area.
Activities
Singapore Group History & Culture Tour:River Cruise, Hawker Dinner & Tea Tasting
3 Ethnic Neighborhoods & UNESCO Street Food / Cultural Experience
Private Transfer: Singapore Airport Transfers
Singapore PRIVATE TOUR: Highlights & Hidden Gems by CAR or Foot
Private Singapore Customized Tour With Driver
Private Tour Singapore Street Food & Night Tour
Our pick of the best Chinatown Hotel Deals
Reviewed on 23 Sep. 2024
Reviewed on 23 Sep. 2024
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Reviewed on 25 Sep. 2024
Reviewed on 25 Sep. 2024
Reviewed on 24 Sep. 2024
Other neighbourhoods around Chinatown
Outram
Travellers love Outram for its popular shops, and you can see more of Singapore by jumping on the metro at Chinatown Station or Telok Ayer Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum and Chinatown Heritage Center.
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 UOB Plaza or Boat Quay 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 Casino or Merlion, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Raffles Place Station or Downtown Station.
- Places of interest
- What kind of hotels are in Chinatown?
- Hotels Near Singapore,
- Which hotel chains are in Chinatown?
- More holiday ideas