| Animals l Ethnics l Islands l Museums l Natures l Other |
Ethnics |
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| Over the years, Singapore's three major racial groups - Chinese, Malays, and Indians - have developed areas of architecture, customs, and colorful festivals that best express their proud past. They are a testimony to the nation's rich ethnic, cultural, and historical heritage. The different districts are home to religious monuments, as well as quaint shophouses selling ethnic goods and cuisine. They provide an insight into the cultural fabric of Singapore and are perhaps the country's truest attractions, having stood the test of time. |
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Chinatown
Singapore Chinatown's history dates back to 1819 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 as Telok Ayer today. Conditions were harsh. The only source of fresh water was from the many wells in Ann Siang Hill and at Spring Street. Each household had to collect fresh water in bullock-drawn carts, hence Chinatown's local name, Niu Che Shui (Bullock Cart Water). Today, Chinatown is the venue of lovingly conserved buildings, century-old beliefs, and intriguing contrasts. Parts of Chinatown are not even Chinese. For example, one of Singapore's oldest Hindu temples and mosques was built even before the Chinese immigrants dominated the town. There are also many other temples and shops to visit. Chinatown can be divided into four main districts: Kreta Ayer, Telok Ayer, Tanjong Pagar, and Bukit Pasoh. Each has its own distinctive flavor. The heart of activity is in the Trengganu or Smith Streets area.
Getting there : A short walk from Outram Park MRT Station. |
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Little India
The first Indian settlers in Singapore arrived with Sir Stamford Raffles as assistants and soldiers back in 1819. In the late 19th century, many more Indian immigrants arrived to find work, be it as laborers to build roads or to take up key positions in the civil service. In 1843, cattle rearing and a racecourse were introduced near Little India, thus resulting in the heavy influx of Indians. This area, once covered in gambier, banana, and vegetable plantations, had become a flourishing commercial center for the Indian community. Today, Little India is the emotional and commercial center of the Indian community, including the many foreign workers from India. Its spice-scented streets beckon you to a treasure trove of silverware, brassware, ethnic jewelry, jasmine garlands, and silk saris. There are also many temples here for visitors to explore. During Deepavali, the Indian Festival of Lights, Little India is transformed into a fairyland of gaily decorated and brightly lit streets bustling with shoppers. The best time to visit Little India is early morning when you can enjoy the spicy aromas, the strains of sitar music, and the colorful garlands being made. Little India stretches from Rochor Canal to Lavender Street.
Getting there : From Orchard Road, take SBS Bus 64, 65, or 111 to Serangoon Road. |
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Geylang Serai
The Malays had been living in Singapore long before any of the other races. Geylang became their enclave in the 1840s after the British dispersed the Malay-floating village at the mouth of Singapore River. Together with the large influx of Malaysians and Indonesians, many wealthy Arabs then congregated in Geylang. Malay influence is still strong in Geylang Serai as reflected in the restaurants and shops specializing in Malay cuisine, ethnic goods, and art and crafts. In the heart of Geylang Serai is the Malay Village, a vibrant cultural showcase of the Malay community. Spectacular entertainment and live shows await the curious visitor. This includes Lagenda Fantasi, a unique 25-minute multi-sensory presentation on ancient Arabian Nights' folklore. Kampong Days, a walk-through showcase, depicts the traditional lifestyle of Malays in the 1950s and 60s. You can also experience traditional Malay art and crafts like batik painting, kite-making, and kampong (village) games such as top spinning. Other highlights in Geylang Serai include the Geylang Serai Market, the Chinese Baroque terrace houses, and the Malay bungalows complete with woodcarvings and European tiles.
Getting there : Walk towards Geylang Road from Payar Lebar MRT Station. |
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Kampong Glam
The name Kampong Glam comes from the Glam tree, which grew in the area. Medicinal oil was extracted from the tree and the Buginese and Malays used its bark to caulk their ships. Kampong Glam was the historic seat of the Malay royalty in Singapore. It was originally a fishing village at the mouth of the Rochor River. Today, the area sits between new terrace houses and old shophouses. Highlights of Kampong Glam include the Sultan Mosque, the biggest mosque in Singapore with the capacity to accommodate up to 5,000 Muslims in congregational prayers. Other highlights include the old Malay Cemetery and Rumah Panjang. Also, look out for the Arab cloth merchants with their delicate silks and velvets, as well as food stores selling traditional Arab-Muslim foodstuff and merchandise of all kinds.
Getting there : Walk toward Arab Street from Bugis MRT Station. |
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