Singapore 4-Hour Walking Tour of Chinatown, Little India, and Arab Street
by Roberto
Overview
This 4-hour walking tour in Singapore covers Chinatown, Little India, and Arab Street with a licensed local guide in a small group of up to 10 participants. The tour starts in Chinatown with a 30-minute visit to Thian Hock Keng Temple, Singapore’s oldest Chinese temple, known for its vibrant carvings and architecture built without nails. Just outside is the Chinatown Wall Mural, which shows scenes of old Singapore. Next, the group spends 30 minutes at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, a four-story building inspired by Tang dynasty design, featuring golden Buddha statues, a sacred tooth relic, a rooftop garden, and a large prayer wheel. The guide then leads a 30-minute walk through central Chinatown, passing heritage shophouses, markets, and murals that tell the story of early immigrants. After Chinatown, the group takes the MRT subway to Little India. There is a 20-minute walk through streets lined with colorful shophouses, spice shops, flower garlands, and Hindu temples. The guide explains Indian culture and heritage and points out places to try Indian snacks or buy souvenirs (snacks not included). Visits include a 10-minute stop at Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple with a colorful gopuram tower, and a 10-minute visit to Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali, with vivid statues and carvings. The tour continues with 20 minutes in Arab Street, known for Middle Eastern textiles, spices, crafts, and the Sultan Mosque. Then, the group spends 10 minutes in Haji Lane, a narrow street with colorful street art, boutiques, and cafés. The final stop is Parkview Square for 10 minutes, a building noted for its Art Deco architecture and bronze statues. Meals and public transportation fares are not included. The tour operates rain or shine, and bringing an umbrella is recommended. It is conducted in English and is not suitable for travelers with mobility difficulties.
Highlights
What's included
What's not included
Itinerary
Thian Hock Keng Temple
Visit Singapore’s oldest Chinese temple, known for its colorful carvings and history. Learn about early immigrants who gave thanks for safe passage. The temple’s architecture was built without nails. Outside, see the Chinatown Wall Mural depicting scenes of old Singapore life, including markets and daily activities, with detailed stories.
30 min
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
Explore a four-story temple inspired by Tang dynasty architecture. Inside are decorated halls, golden statues of Buddha, and a relic believed to be Buddha’s tooth. Visit the peaceful rooftop garden and a large prayer wheel, offering a quiet spot above Chinatown’s busy streets.
30 min
Chinatown
Walk through Chinatown’s central area to see colorful heritage shophouses and busy markets. View murals illustrating stories of early immigrants, from street vendors to working families. Time is provided to browse for souvenirs.
30 min
Sri Mariamman Temple
See Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, noted for its ornate gopuram tower covered with statues of deities and mythological figures.
10 min
Little India
Use the MRT subway to reach Little India. Walk through streets filled with colorful shophouses, flower garlands, and spice shops. Pass traditional saree stores, goldsmiths, and Hindu temples. The guide shares cultural stories and points out places to try Indian snacks or shop for souvenirs (snacks not included).
20 min
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
Visit a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. The gopuram is decorated with colorful statues of gods and demons. If open, step inside to see vibrant shrines and detailed carvings.
10 min
Arab Street
Explore a cultural area known for the Sultan Mosque, textile shops, and busy bazaars. Streets feature Middle Eastern fabrics, spices, and unique crafts.
20 min
Haji Lane
Walk down Singapore’s narrowest street, known for street art, boutiques, and cafés. Learn about the area’s transformation from a historic neighborhood to an indie fashion and craft center.
10 min
Parkview Square
View Parkview Square, called Singapore’s “Gotham Building” for its Art Deco style and dark colors. See grand bronze statues and richly decorated interiors resembling a movie set.
10 min
Meeting point
At the entrance of Starbucks at Chinatown Point Mall. It's near the entrance of the mall.
End point
Near the Sultan Mosque
Languages
Cancellation policy
- Cancel at least 24 hours before start for a full refund.
Additional info
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