Singapore’s Historic Chinatown Walking Tour with Lunch

On this walking tour, we trace the footsteps of the early immigrants who left China in search of a better life in South-East Asia, and how they found their way to Singapore, built temples and formed clans to look after each other. We learn about how some prospered to become some of Asia’s richest men, whilst others slaved and died penniless without any next-of-kin to mourn them.

We’ll see where Chinese opera theatres, brothels, opium and gambling dens once thrived when the ratio of men to women was 14:1.

Through murals by local artist Yip Yew Chong, we sneak a peek at what life was like in 19th and 20th century Singapore.

Lunch will be at one of the oldest establishments in Singapore, before we continue our hunt for other traditional trades in Chinatown which have withstood the test of time.

Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from Singapore’s second tallest skyscraper. From here, we’ll have a bird’s eye view of the Historic District of Chinatown.

Possibly established as early as 1819, making it older than Thian Hock Keng Temple, Yueh Hai Ching Temple is often overlooked by locals and tourists. Once inside this serene temple, you’ll be transported to a different world.

Step inside the courtyard of a Chinese boys’ school from 1854 and imagine what the area must have been like with school boys learning to read and write, and playing traditional games like chapteh after classes.

Once a temple built by Cantonese and Hakka worshippers of Tua Pek Kong (God of Prosperity) in the 1820s, the quaint building now houses a museum with an intriguing display of what life was like in the area about 200 years ago.

Established in 1821, Thian Hock Keng Temple is the oldest Hokkien temple and likely the second oldest Chinese temple in Singapore. Admire its stunning architecture, built without a nail being used, learn about Taoist and Buddhist practices, find out about the gift from Qing Emperor Guang Xu to the temple, and hunt for the bats which live on the premises.

See if you can spot the last water well in Chinatown, learn about the hills and plantations which used to exist in the area, and find out how Ann Siang Hill got its name.

Discover the truth behind how Club Street got its name, and the high society parties which used to take place at this millionaire’s club.

We stop at another Chinese millionaire’s club and find out the story behind its interesting window grills.

Come face-to-face with local artist, Yip Yew Chong’s second mural on this tour. He has successfully breathed vibrancy into Historic Chinatown with his brilliantly-coloured, often interactive, heritage-themed street art.

Enjoy a traditional soya sauce chicken noodle/rice lunch at this establishment dating back to 1949.

Once the “Raffles Hotel of Chinatown”, we learn about the illustrious past of this 1927 building, which now houses a Chinese emporium.

Find out how The Majestic Theatre came into being, and the wealthy Chinese merchant who made it possible.

Established in 1938, Lim Chee Guan endured the Second World War and remains as one of Singapore’s best loved brands 85 years on.

Established in 1925, this tea shop with its unique Nanyang blends has close to 100 years of history.

This old school bakery from 1950 sells Cantonese-style mooncakes and other sweet treats year round. We drop by for a taste.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

• Singapore’s Historic Chinatown Walking Tour with Lunch
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• Licensed tourist guide and disposable poncho in the event of rain.

• Gratuities.

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• This Tour is Provided by On-A-Roll-Tours.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at Asia/Singapore.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• This Tour is Rated 5 Stars based on 20 valid reviews on VIATOR.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 6 Travelers is accepted for booking.