Bugis Route

As one of the most vibrant cultural districts, Bugis is a unique blend of modern culture and traditionality, from murals to trendy malls, it reflects both the new and old sides of Singapore. It attracts people of all ages for its food, lively atmosphere, Bugis is definitely an eye-opening place to visit!

Be warned however, there is much walking under the hot Singaporean weather with this route.

More on Bugis's History and Architecture

Map

Recommended Route

1 | National Design Centre

You can learn about design through its exhibitions and programmes, showing how Singapore uses design for innovation and growth.

Unfortunately, there are no exhibitions ongoing during SIMC this year, but this remains a good place to take pictures along the way.

2 | Waterloo Street Temples and Street Art

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Waterloo Street, with its various temples and synagogues, and try spotting some street artworks along the way!

Be sure to also visit the religious sites shown below!

Maghain Aboth Synagogue

This is the oldest synagogue in Southeast Asia and the second-largest outside of Israel.

Sri Krishnan Temple

This is one of the oldest temples in Singapore and the only South Indian temple dedicated to Krishna.

Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple

This is the most prosperous Buddhist temple worshipping Kwan Im (also known as Guan Ying or Avolakiteśvara) in Singapore and is considered a cultural and spiritual landmark.

Fun Fact!

Sri Krishnan Temple and Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple are known for having evolved a social practice termed "cross-worshipping", where many devotees of either temple also worship at the other. This practice is commonly seen as a microcosm of Singapore's multi-religious society.

3 | Sultan Mosque

Built in 1824 by Sultan Hussein Shah, the first Sultan of Singapore, the mosque with its iconic golden dome is a vibrant symbol of local Muslim faith.

To get here, take Bus 980 from Aft Waterloo St to Opp Plaza Parkroyal and walk.

The Sultan Mosque is open to walk-in prayers on Fridays, but closed to visitors. However, feel free to take pictures with the building.

4 | Arab Street

This is a vibrant, historical enclave where shophouses brim with traditional textiles, artisan perfumes and authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine.

Take a stroll down this street and see if any "gem" catches your eye!

% Arabica

A world-class Kyoto-style coffee shop

(Their signature is the Kyoto Latte)

Toko Aljunied

Known for its traditional textile offerings with mesmerizing patterns

5 | Haji Lane

Home to numerous cute photobooths, thriftshops and Instagram-worthy picture spots, Haji Lane is a vibrant part of Bugis every Millenial and Gen Z knows and loves.

Check out some of the stops below!

Art Murals

Piedra Negra; Punjaby Dawat & Blu Jaz Café; 23 Haji Lane; 26 Haji Lane

Solace Studios

73 Haji Lane
Singapore's signature photobooth franchise (you can find many similar photp photo booths with different styles along Haji Lane as well)

The French American Bakery

49 Haji Lane
Their Hot Chocolate with Torched Marshmallow Fluff is a must-try!

6 | Bugis Street

Explore the myriad of shops available on Bugis Street selling items at an economically friendly price. Food options are available, such as local staple street foods as well as aesthetic cafes, leaving you spoiled for choice!

Bugis Junction & Bugis+

Escape the Singapore heat and take refuge in these two vibrant malls connected by a link bridge. Together, they offer a plethora of dining options and shops, making it a great place to wind down.

Malaysia Boleh!

Convening some of the best Malaysian street hawker fare under one roof, Malaysia Boleh! is the go-to dining destination for those who want a taste of Malaysia without traveling far.

All the dishes served here are prepared following time-honoured secret recipes handed down from top-rated Malaysian street hawkers, thus ensuring authentic flavours that are true to the original. The Free and Easy team strongly recommends the Char Kuay Teow here!