Singapore’s Ethnic Heritage: Kampong Glam, Singapore, Singapore

No doubt one of the country’s most colorful streets, a visit to Singapore is not complete without checking out the Muslim quarter of Kampong Glam.

Once a residence of Sultan Hussein Shah of Johor, Kampong Glam grew from cultural exchanges thanks to diverse immigrant communities of Malays, Indonesians, Baweanese, Banjarese, Arabs, Indians and Chinese.

Today, its glorious past can be seen from the majestic religious architecture, vibrant shophouses and delicious gastronomy. Kampong Glam is also renowned for its young arts scene and beautiful street arts hidden in various corners of the alleys.

Set very close to the CBD area, Kampong Glam is very accessible via the main MRT line. Simply alight at Bugis station and a short walk will get you to the key attractions.

Designed by DP Architects in Art Deco style reminiscent of New York’s Chanin Building, this commercial square right next to the Bugis MRT is worth making a quick visit to admire its granite, bronze, lacquer and glass exteriors. You will also notice effigies of influential figures such as Abraham Lincoln, Salvador Dali, Albert Einstein, Shakespeare and many more!

Formerly a site where the Arab pilgrim-brokers would arrange haj for the Singaporean Muslim community, Haji Lane has transformed into the most hipster street in Singapore. This precinct is brimming with unbridled creative energy with vintage memorabilia such as Craft Assembly and Hygge. You can also find fashion boutiques, cool eateries and bars draping around the street art-heavy shophouses. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).