A Local-Inspired Chinatown Singapore Guide to Food & Culture
Planning a day in Singapore’s most vibrant neighborhood? Our Chinatown Singapore Guide breaks down the must-visit cultural landmarks and hidden bars. We’ve walked every inch of Pagoda Street to bring you an honest look at what’s worth your time and what’s just a tourist trap.
Chinatown Singapore is one of the most well-preserved and photogenic Chinatowns in the world—second only to Bangkok, in our opinion.
We recently revisited for the fourth time this spectacular neighbourhood, that is actually the core of Singapore. Since our first visit, during our month in Singapore as slowmads, it quickly became one of our highlights. We visited in every season, and always found hot weather with small rain pattern.
The neighbourhood is always busy, with sporadic crowds. In our last visit during the celebrations of the Chinese new year, it was particularly busy, with decorations and even people singing at the pagoda by the MRT.
Chinatown is incredible for food, and it also ranks highly among the top neighborhoods to stay in Singapore for first-timers.
This is one of the most comprehensive Chinatown Singapore Guide, with plenty of things to do, cafes, and practical tips. We have tied up to 10 iconic spots in Singapore Chinatown, perfect for everyone who loves walks and heritage.
NOTE: In our recent visit we finally unlocked the photo from the top of the car park of the People’s Park Complex. It was hard to find the rooftop, with the huge mural on the residential apartments. We nailed it and below are the detailed instructions.
What to do in Chinatown Singapore
Chinatown’s history dates back to the early 19th century when immigrants from southern China settled here. You can find heritage houses in contrast with modern buildings.
However, the feeling of a mini China is real, starting from the shopping mall, with most of the signs only in Chinese. These are our highlights of 10 cool things to do in Chinatown Singapore:
- Photo ops at the MRT staircase and People’s Park Complex
- Explore shophouses and souvenir stalls on Pagoda Street
- Marvel at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
- Street art in Singapore Chinatown
- Lunch at Maxwell Food Centre
- Visit Sri Mariamman Temple
- Coffee break at Nanyang Old Coffee (with a mini museum upstairs)
- Sip a local brew at Lion Brewery Co. or other bars on Club Street
- Stroll Ann Siang Road for its heritage-meets-modern vibe
- Evening Bonus: Head to Boon Tat Street
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👋Toti & Ale here
London couple, 45+ countries, 300+ guides. We are full-time content creators, travelling as slowmads, spending quality time in places we love the most. We have been to Chinatown in Singapore many times, as it’s one of our favourite city in Southeast Asia. Passing by every time we can, and staying longer (2 weeks at time).
May 7, 2026 This update reflect our March 2026 visit to Chinatown, which actually visited twice on our 10 day trip. It was during the Chinese New Year, and we enjoyed the decorations and active party feels. No AI; all road-tested.
Best Singapore Chinatown Guided Tours
- Chinatown and Little India Guided Walking Tour
- Chinatown Heritage Walk & Street Food Tasting (Small Group)
- Chinatown Historic Walking Tour with Lunch
Singapore Chinatown Self-guided walking tour map
Our Self-Guided Walking Tour of Chinatown Singapore
Chinatown was one of those places in Singapore that just stuck with us. Do you know how some spots have a buzz about them? The moment we stepped out of Chinatown MRT (Exit A), we were hit with the energy—bright lights overhead, the hum of chatter, and the smell of sizzling food.
It’s a world away from Singapore’s polished skyline, even though pretty close. By the way we loved every minute, and surely you’ll do too.
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Stop 1: The Iconic MRT Staircase & People’s Park Complex
Our first approach to Singapore Chinatown was from the iconic staircase that led you to Pagoda Street. The best MRT exit is the A, which gets you to the upper park.
From there, you’ll have a view of the colourful shophouses and the mall behind you. It was the perfect photo spot, and don’t deny we spent more than we should have.
The building’s quirky balconies and retro feel are a photographer’s dream.
Stop 2: Pagoda Street – Souvenirs, Shophouses, and Street Life
Pagoda Street is a renowned landmark in Chinatown, Singapore. Like on Koon Seng Road, you’ll step back in time with colourful shophouses (more modern, though, due to the shops).
It’s a covered market, with shops, cafes, boutique retailers, and souvenir stands lined up. It was almost empty, with very few tourists, when we arrived, but by 11 am, it was already buzzing. We had a nice time wandering around and shopping for some gifts to take back home.
The atmosphere changes in the evening, making Singapore’s Chinatown even more vibrant at night. There are so many bars and restaurants open only in the afternoon.
Stop 3: Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – A Moment of Awe
We arrived at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple around 11 am and it was already packed. This is one of the most revered Buddhist temples in the country. From the outside, the building reminded us of China, with its red roof, tiles, and atmosphere that makes places like this feel so special.
It’s a melting pot of Chinese subcultures that have shaped the district, with influences from Hokkien, Teochew, Cantonese, and Hakka. Inside, it is massive, ornate, and somehow peaceful despite the crowds.
To our surprise, it was very well-organised, with a clearly marked path in a circle around the perimeter. After a walk-through, it leads to the main hall.
There is no time limit to your visit. We ducked in and found ourselves surrounded by thousands of Buddha statues. The air was thick with incense, and for a moment, the city’s noise faded away. If you can, time your visit before closing (usually 5 pm) for a quieter experience.
Stop 4: Singapore Chinatown Street Art
We were there for the hunt. After a thorough scouting, we found that some of the most interesting murals in Singapore were located in Chinatown. There we go with our living gallery walking tour of murals.
Bruce Lee Tributes, people of Chinatown, shop owners, and street vendors all have a slice of the wall with scenes of real life. The primary concept is to preserve and celebrate the heritage of Chinatown.
Temple Street has one of the most impressive murals. It looks like an old photo of kids watching a traditional puppet play. Around the district, you can also admire murals of real life and people serving Chinatown with their craft. One of the most significant is Yong Kee Food Supply.
It is on a narrow alley between the Former Opium Dan and Temple Street. The mural captures a scene of a local shop, a street vendor and a bar.
People hanging out, and a father feeding the son with delicious handmade dumplings. The mural takes the whole road, even around the corner, making a real door part of the frame.
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Stop 5: Nanyang Old Coffee – A Sip of the Past
Need a caffeine fix? We did too, and stopped for a coffee at Nanyang Old Coffee. It is one of the most popular choices in Singapore Chinatown. We break down our Chinatown walking tour into 30-minute segments.
At Nanyang Old Coffee the drink is strong, the decor is old-school, and there’s a tiny museum upstairs for a quick peek into Singapore’s coffee culture. While we didn’t much appreciate the service, the coffee was good though.
Stop 6: Ann Siang Road
Ann Siang Road is one of those places that surprises you – a true hidden gem in Chinatown if you’re into photography, like us. One minute, you’re surrounded by historic shophouses; the next, you’re staring up at sleek modern towers.
We caught one of the most iconic photos of Singapore, in our opinion. We loved the contrast—and the quiet, which was a welcome respite from the main crowds.
There isn’t much to do on Ann Siang Road, but it’s worth a quick visit, and it’s conveniently located right next to Sri Mariamman Temple.
Stop 7: Sri Mariamman Temple
Just a short walk from Maxwell (Our lunch spot), you’ll see the colourful Sri Mariamman Temple. We left our shoes, walked inside, and watched a ceremony that was going on. We tried to be as discreet as possible.
The temple is in pure Hindu style and reminded us of other temples seen in Little India in Singapore and even the ones in Jaffna (In the North of Sri Lanka).
Even if you only catch it from the outside, it’s worth a look. The intricate carvings and vibrant colours are worth a photo.
Stop 8: Maxwell Food Centre
We were very late for lunch, but we went to Maxwell Food Centre. As budget travellers, we relied on Hawker Centre a lot, and to our surprise, this in the centre of Chinatown was one of the most affordable ones.
Maxwell Food Centre is legendary, and for good reason. This Food court is located right in front of our next stop, the Singapore City Gallery. We squeezed in at a crowded table; yes, it was buzzing when we arrived. There were so many stalls that we had to go around and around a couple of times before deciding.
As usual, Ale went for soup and fresh coconut, and I ordered rice and pork. I am always surprised by the possibility of ordering pork and drinking a beer in a Muslim country, but Singapore is so open and diverse.
You can see this trait from the number of different food stalls at Maxwell Food Centre, which offer not just Asian Cuisine but also Mexican and Western options.
Stop 9: Singapore City Gallery
The sun was too hot to handle, and after lunch we needed some shade and quiet time. The Singapore City Gallery was the perfect spot. We watched a demonstration about Singapore’s efficiency, from public transport to energy, marine life, and beach preservation.
Already, the reproduction on the scale of Singapore is impressive and rich in detail. I was truly impressed by the interactive display of Singapore’s urban planning and energy cycle.
Anyway the centre has clean toilets, a water refilling station, and a bench to watch documentaries. Outside the city gallery there is a nice comfy bench where we spend about 20 minutes relaxing before our next stop.
Stop 10: Club Street & Lion Brewery Co – Evening Vibes
If you’re still around as night falls, head over to Club Street. Lion Brewery Co is always buzzing, and the street transforms as tables spill out and the air fills with laughter. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring.
Bonus: Boon Tat Street
Located on the boundaries of Chinatown, very close to Lau Pa Sat there is Boon Tat Street. It might sound nothing to you, as not many tourists know, but locals love this street.
During the day it is a regular road, with traffic passing by. At night, it’s pedestrian-only, and tables are available outside. It is a proper Hawker centre in a normal street.
Restaurants and bars prepare the scene for a party, reminding one of an organised Khao San Road in Bangkok, without the hassles.
Where to Eat and drink in Singapore Chinatown
Ya Kun Kaya Toast: Singapore Heritage Toast is a great way to enjoy a quick bite to eat. Breakfast with kaya toast and Singapore Coffee is a must for locals.
Yum Cha Restaurant: If you are up for some great Dim Sum, Yum Cha is the place to go. Along with it, order fried prawn rolls and sour, spicy dumplings.
Maxwell Food Centre: Famous because Anthony Bourdain features it, it is more than chicken and rice from Tiantian (as for the show). We had a blast, and it’s highly recommended with a wide choice of food.
SILK Tea Bar: One of the best places to sip tea, with a chill environment. You’ll have a one-hour limit on your visit, but it’s worth it. We highly suggest signing up for their unique Tea Tasting Experience.
Best accommodations in Chinatown Singapore
We have been in Singapore for about a month, and explored every single area. As we stayed in multiple places, are able to compare and help you find what is the best for you. These below are our suggestions for best hotels in Singapore Chinatown. If you want further suggestions check out our guide to the best area to stay in Singapore.
M Hotel // Mid-Range // $208 per night (€200 | £165) // RESERVE HERE!
Dao by Dorsett // 8.8 Rating 1000+ Reviews // $230 per night (€215 | £180) // CHECK NOW!
The Fullerton // 5-star with 9.3 Reviews Rating // $500 per night (€480 | £400) // BOOK HERE!
