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Singapore's Chinatown evolved around 1821 when the first Chinese junk arrived from Xiamen, Fujian province in China. The passengers, all men, set up home around the south of the Singapore River which is known today as Telok Ayer. Chinatown’s local name - Niu Che Shui (Bullock Cart Water) arose from the fact each household at that time had to collect fresh water from the wells in Ann Siang Hill and Spring Street, using bullock-drawn carts. |
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Not all parts of Chinatown are Chinese though. The Al Abrar Mosque along Telok Ayer Street, and the Jamae Mosque and Sri Mariamman Temple along South Bridge Road lay witness to the harmonious racial and religious atmosphere in Singapore. Chinatown is a hive of activity all year round. Singaporeans flock to the precinct to enjoy their weekend dimsum, lay their hands on Street Market buys, pay their respects in the temples and mosques, and to celebrate the all-popular Chinese New Year and Mid Autumn Festival. Bring your gastronomic and cultural appetites to bustling Chinatown. Visit its Places of Worship, dine under the stars on Food Street, dig for gems in the daily Street Market, shop for Heritage Brands, and experience the one-of-a-kind Chinatown Heritage Centre. Looking for something auspicious red for wedding preparations? Find them amongst the extensive range of traditional Chinese wedding items tucked in a corner of the Chinatown Complex. How about a cheongsam for your wardrobe? Get one made without fuss at the People’s Park Complex. Chinatown is the second most-visited free-access attraction in Singapore.This ethnic enclave can be divided into four main districts - Kreta Ayer, Telok Ayer, Tanjong Pagar and Bukit Pasoh - each with its own distinctive flavour. The heart of activity is in the Trengganu/Smith Streets area while Telok Ayer is home to some of our oldest places of worship. Check out the Ann Siang Hill pubs and shops nestled between Kreta Ayer and Telok Ayer for a dose of modernity in traditional shophouses. |
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| Getting There A short walk from Chinatown MRT Station (NE4), Outram Park MRT Station (EW16/NE3) or Tanjong Pagar MRT Station (EW15). Click here to view MRT route map. |
| Click here to download a Chinatown Walking Guide. |
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