How long does it take to walk through Tiong Bahru?

A typical route covering the main highlights takes about 60 to 90 minutes. This includes time to admire the architecture at Block 78 and stop for a quick pastry at a local bakery.

Is Tiong Bahru worth visiting for architecture fans?

Yes, it is essential for those interested in Streamline Moderne and Art Deco styles. As Singapore's first public housing estate, it features unique curved buildings and nautical design elements not found elsewhere in the city.

Can I see a World War II air raid shelter in Tiong Bahru?

Yes, there is a rare civilian air raid shelter located at Block 78 Guan Chuan Street. While the interior is often closed, you can see the historic exterior and learn about its role during the 1940s.

What is the most famous food at Tiong Bahru Market?

The most famous dish is Chwee Kueh (steamed rice cakes topped with preserved radish). Other popular options include Lor Mee (braised noodles) and roasted meats, found on the second floor of the market.

Is the Tiong Bahru neighborhood stroll family-friendly?

Absolutely. The route is mostly flat and ends at Tiong Bahru Park, which features a very popular tilting train playground that kids love.

When is the best time of day to explore Tiong Bahru?

Morning is best, ideally between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM. The market is most active then, and you'll finish your walk before the tropical afternoon heat becomes too intense.

Is there an entrance fee for the sites on this Tiong Bahru route?

No, all the major architectural landmarks, the temple, and the park are free to view from the exterior or enter. You only need money for food and drinks at the market or cafes.

How do I get to Tiong Bahru by public transport?

You can take the East-West MRT line to Tiong Bahru Station (EW17). From there, it is a short 10-minute walk or a quick bus ride to the Tiong Bahru Market starting point.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into a world where pre-war elegance meets contemporary cool on this neighborhood stroll through Tiong Bahru. As Singapore's first public housing estate, Tiong Bahru offers a visual feast of Streamline Moderne architecture, characterized by curved corners, long horizontal lines, and nautical motifs that reflect the optimism of the 1930s. This walking route invites you to explore a side of the Lion City that many visitors miss—a place where traditional coffee shops sit comfortably alongside minimalist boutiques and independent bookstores. Discover why this area is celebrated as one of the most charming hidden-gems in Southeast Asia. Your self-guided walk begins at the heart of the community, the Tiong Bahru Market, where the sights and smells of local life provide a sensory introduction to the neighborhood. From there, you will navigate the labyrinthine alleys to find an ancient temple dedicated to the Monkey God, a stark contrast to the surrounding Art Deco aesthetic. This route also uncovers the somber history of the area at a rare civilian air raid shelter, preserved from the days of World War II. As you wander, you will witness the unique lifestyle of a district that has successfully balanced gentrification with heritage preservation. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a food lover, or a photography fan, this walking route Singapore provides the freedom to pause at a local bakery or browse artisan wares at your own pace. You will see the iconic 'horseshoe' building at Block 78 and conclude your journey in the tranquil greenery of Tiong Bahru Park. This experience is designed for those who want to delve deeper into the local culture and see how Singapore's urban landscape has evolved over the decades. By following this audio walk, you gain an intimate look at the transition from colonial-era planning to modern indie vibes, making it a highlight for any repeat-visitor or first-timer looking for a walking tour Singapore alternative. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Marvel at the Streamline Moderne 'horseshoe' architecture of Block 78

Visit the historic Qi Tian Gong Temple dedicated to the Monkey God

Discover the only remaining pre-war civilian air raid shelter in Singapore

Soak in the local atmosphere at the famous Tiong Bahru Market

Experience the indie cafe culture at the original Tiong Bahru Bakery

Relax in the whimsical Tiong Bahru Park with its tilting train playground

Tour Stops (6)

Tiong Bahru Market

Start your journey at Tiong Bahru Market, the beating heart of this neighborhood. Originally known as Seng Poh Market, this circular building is a masterclass in modern tropical architecture. On the ground floor, you will find a bustling wet market where locals source fresh produce. Head upstairs to the hawker center, famous for some of Singapore’s most legendary dishes, like Chwee Kueh (steamed rice cakes with preserved radish) and Lor Mee. The market's central courtyard allows for natural ventilation, a design choice that reflects Singapore’s adaptation to its climate. Take a moment to observe the daily rhythms of the residents as they gather for breakfast and community gossip, a tradition that has survived decades of change.

Tiong Bahru Bakery

Just a short walk from the market lies Tiong Bahru Bakery, an icon of the neighborhood's modern transformation. While the estate is steeped in history, this spot represents the 'indie' wave that hit the area in the early 2010s. Known for its French-inspired pastries and artisanal coffee, it occupies a space that once housed traditional shops. Notice the contrast between the vintage tiled floors and the contemporary decor. This is a great spot to appreciate how the lifestyle of Tiong Bahru has shifted to attract a younger, creative crowd while maintaining the physical shell of the past. The smell of freshly baked croissants here has become as much a part of the neighborhood's identity as the old-school coffee shops.

Tiong Bahru Qi Tian Gong Temple

Nestled among the Art Deco blocks is the Qi Tian Gong Temple, also known as the Monkey God Temple. Founded in the 1920s, this is one of the oldest temples in Singapore dedicated to the Great Sage, Sun Wukong, from the Chinese classic 'Journey to the West.' The temple predates many of the surrounding residential buildings. As you look at the intricate wood carvings and gold-leafed statues, consider the juxtaposition of this traditional religious site against the sleek, modern lines of the nearby apartments. It serves as a reminder of the Hokkien community that settled here long before the estate became a trendy hub. Please be respectful of worshippers if you choose to step inside the entrance.

Air raid shelter

Located at the basement of Block 78 Guan Chuan Street, this is the only civilian air raid shelter remaining in a residential building from the pre-war era. Built by the Singapore Improvement Trust in the late 1930s, it was designed to protect roughly 1,600 residents from aerial bombings during World War II. While the interior is often closed to the public except during special heritage tours, you can see the heavy steel doors and ventilation grates from the outside. It stands as a silent witness to the Japanese Occupation and the strategic importance of this housing estate. The shelter's existence highlights the forward-thinking, albeit defensive, urban planning of the British colonial government during a time of global uncertainty.

Block 78

Commonly referred to as the 'Horseshoe' building due to its distinctive shape, Block 78 is the architectural crown jewel of Tiong Bahru. This building perfectly illustrates the Streamline Moderne style, an offshoot of Art Deco inspired by the aerodynamic shapes of ocean liners and airplanes. Look for the rounded balconies, porthole-like windows, and the long, sweeping horizontal lines. These features were not just for show; they provided essential shade and ventilation in the tropical heat. This block was once the tallest building in the estate and was considered high-end luxury living in the 1930s. Today, it remains one of the most photographed buildings in Singapore, embodying the neighborhood's unique blend of nostalgia and timeless design.

Tiong Bahru Park

Your neighborhood stroll concludes at Tiong Bahru Park. This green lung was originally developed in the 1960s to serve the growing population of the estate. The park's most famous feature is the tilting train playground, a whimsical structure that looks like it is sinking into the sand—a favorite for families and a nod to the area's creative spirit. The park offers a peaceful transition back to the modern city, with plenty of benches under mature raintrees. From here, you are just a short walk away from the Tiong Bahru MRT station, making it easy to continue your exploration of Singapore or return to your starting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best way is a self-guided walk starting at Tiong Bahru Market in the early morning. This allows you to experience the local breakfast culture before exploring the Art Deco architecture and indie boutiques at your own pace.