In The Neighbourhood: Chinatown

NEXT UP History Tours in Singapore

History Tours in Singapore

NEXT UP Explore Singapore for Free

Explore Singapore for Free

NEXT UP In The Neighbourhood: Chinatown

type of tour

  • History of Chinatown
  • Ann Siang / Club Street
  • Keong Saik / Bukit Pasoh
  • Tanjong Pagar / Duxton
  • News & Articles
  • Visitor Info

chinese tour guide singapore

  • Food Adventures
  • Ugly Food Tours
  • Special Tours
  • Our Signature Chinatown Walk – Free Walking Tour
  • “Our Singapore Story” Walk down the Singapore River – Free Walking Tour
  • “Balik Kampong” Walk through Kampong Glam – Free Walking Tour
  • Our “Sari, Spice and Everything Nice” tour through Little India – Free Walking Tour
  • Private Tours
  • Corporate and MICE
  • Indie Guide

Our Signature Chinatown Walk – Free Walking Tour

Proceed booking, already a member, don't have an account create one., or continue as guest, adding item to wishlist requires an account, why book with us.

  • Specially curated Tours & Activities
  • No-hassle best price guarantee
  • Check out the must-see highlights of the area
  • Hear the hidden stories and the uncover the "not-so-known" local favorite hang outs as well

Got a Question?

Do not hesitate to drop us an email or a message (via Facebook). We are happy to talk to you.

[email protected]

Indie Singapore Facebook

The one that started it all! Our first and signature tour. Join us for a 3 Hour Walk through the heart of Singapore.

You’ll be introduced to the City in a Garden and sneak a peek at how the locals live, play and eat.

We will bring you into Chinatown – a tourist attraction, but at the same time, also a local living area. Over the period of the tour, we hope that you will see how our unique blend of culture/religion/perspective has shaped Singapore to the city that it is today.

The walking tour aims to go deeper than just introducing the sites: we’ll stray off the beaten path and delve into the city’s amazing history. While we are at it, we will also show you some of our favorite eating spots!

Of course, we’ll also try to provide you with an insider’s take on what you can do during your stay in Singapore.

If you would like to go on this tour on your own date/time, head on to this page , or   drop us an email, and we can customize this tour for you.

Tour Details

Book your slots for a guaranteed spot on our tours (registration is free and it helps make sure we have enough guides on the job). You are welcome to meet us at the meeting point without a reservation, but we cannot guarantee that you will be able to join us if the group is full.

These tours are FREE, but tips are welcome (our guides receive no other compensation or commissions).

We believe that tips given should be voluntary and in direct proportion to the quality of the tour and the budget of the traveler. Value for money goes a long way, and satisfied customers tip what they think the tour was worth!

We do not accept large group/organization bookings for our Free Tours, as they are intended for individual/small family signups only (max 5 persons/signup). They follow a set schedule and are not customizable. We place a limit on the number of sign ups per tour to ensure that everyone has a chance to go on the tour with us. Our aim is for our guests to have a more personal and intimate experience with us.

For larger groups and/or corporations, we recommend engaging us for our private customized paid tours . That way you can customize what you would like to see as well as set a date/time that is suitable for your group.

Departure & Return Location

Starting Point: OUTSIDE Exit A of Chinatown MRT Station; Pagoda Street ( Google Maps )

Ending Point: Maxwell Hawker Centre ( Google Map )

Fixed Departure Time

Tuesdays and Fridays: 09:30am 

Price Includes

  • English-Speaking Professional Tour Guide

Price Excludes

  • Additional Food and Drink
  • Any Private Expenses/Shopping

What to Expect

This was the tour that started it all for us!

This tour has been reinvented and adapted over its 6-year run. Join us for our signature 3-hour walk through the heart of Singapore. Let us share with you our stories of this amazing district and show you some of our favourite spots!

Our tours will follow all current Safe Distancing Measures (SDM) as prescribed by the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) during the Circuit Breaker (CB) period.

This will include limiting the number of guests allowed on each tour. Guest in one tour group may also have to be further divided into smaller sub groups with sub group size mandated by the current SDM

Where we meet - OUTSIDE EXIT A of Chinatown MRT Station

chinese tour guide singapore

Related Tours

chinese tour guide singapore

“Our Singapore Story” Walk down the Singapore River – Free Walking Tour

The Singapore River has witnessed our city state’s development through our many phases of change.

This is the one tour we recommend for you to go on where we try to put everything into perspective. We will walk through some of the most important events that shaped Singapore into what it is today.

Click here to book an idyllic stroll down the Singapore River with us

chinese tour guide singapore

Our “Sari, Spice and Everything Nice” tour through Little India – Free Walking Tour

The ethnic district of Little India is definitely one of the most colourful areas here in Singapore, rich in culture and history. We want to show you some of its busiest markets, most beautiful places of worship and liveliest hawker centres.

Click here to experience the colours and culture of Little India with us!

country image

Singapore Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Plan a trip to singapore with local tour guides, and and more..

View all 2 reviews

Popular Singapore Tour Guides

Singapore Tour Guide - Lim C.

I am a tour guide specialize in Hindu and Chinese culture and religion tour I also specialize in Singapore's food tour Chinese, Hindu and Malay food tour. I am conducted Singaporen nights tour                                                                                                                                  

Singapore Tour Guide - Chua A.

Hi! My surname is Chua, please call me "Alvin". I’m a certified Tourist Guide in Singapore. I’m physically active, love to travel, explore interesting places, eating, shopping and wellness exercise. I’m born and live here. I have witnessed Singapore developed from a “Kampong” (village) to a beautiful Garden City. I will show and share the Singapore “Then and Now” along the journey. Before being a tourist guide, I was a Sales Manager in FMCG industry for 20 years. Hence, I enjoy meeting people and I’m familiar with retail market and entertainment hot spots. You are our VIP, and your happiness is our top priority. Your safety will also be ensured throughout the journey.                                                                                                                                  

Singapore Tour Guide - Monica T.

I am an experienced and licensed tourist guide with years of experience in the tour guiding industry. I love meeting people, guiding them to experience the life, culture and people of my country, Singapore. Having been 'born and bred' here, I have led tours to many business tourists around Singapore during their free time. They love it when I can give them a true-blue Singaporean's view of living in Singapore. Singapore is ever changing and growing, and yet our unique ethnic tapestry, values and traditions remain. I offer many unique, off-the-beaten-path tours and can also customize your very own personal walking tour. I hope to share my passion and knowledge of this great city with you in a fun and non-traditional way. My goal is to send you home with a sense of awe and wonder after visiting this gorgeous and sunny island, Singapore.                                                                                                                                  

Singapore Tour Guide - Alice C.

Hello everyone! My name is Alice! I am from Singapore, a tiny tropical island city in South East Asia. I am a corporate executive turned history guide and I have been guiding as a docent for the last three years. I love history and culture and also have a very keen interest in sustainable development. I am very happy to share with you the history and culture of Singapore, from both the urban planning and sustainability development perspectives. If you are planning a trip to Singapore, and looking for a content rich experience that is different and bespoke, be sure to look for me. I hope to see you very soon in Singapore.                                                                                                                                  

New singapore tour guides.

Singapore Tour Guide - Andrew T.

I am a passionate biophiliac since I was a child. I am a specialist nature guide and educator since 1994 to the present, based in Singapore. My place of work is in the amazing bio-diversed rainforest, mangrove and coastal forests of my tropical island home of Singapore. I look forward to showing our unique wildlife and ecosystems to you!                                                                                                                                  

Singapore Tour Guide - Lena K.

My passion in guiding comes from my love in traveling over 30 cities and living in 7 cities in Europe and Asia, meeting different people. I am both trained by professional Singapore Tourism Board and heritage associations. I believe one the best ways to know something intimate about a place is to be with a local. I promise to give you a 5 -senses tour experience of taste, smell, touch, sight and hearing and share secrets and folktales that only a native knows. And I am indeed a mini Singapore as my family is of Malay- Chinese-Indian and European heritage so I live and breathe all 4 races.                                                                                                                                  

Singapore Tour Guide - Muhammad hilmi A.

Muhammad hilmi A.

Hello there my name is hilmi, your friendly guide from singapore whose smile will always make u feel good and comfortable. i love bringing tourists around different parts of singapore, and sharing many interesting stories about singapore in the past as well as our aspirations for the future. i hope that through our time together, my guests would be able to see singapore from a whole different perspectives. feel free to contact me for any tours or recommendations on places to visit. you're just a click away from connecting with me. let's not waste time and let's get connected :)                                                                                                                                  .

Singapore Tour Guide - Christina G.

Christina G.

Hi, i'm christina from singapore. i'm an experienced licensed tourist guide in singapore. i was born here , i can speak mandarin & english, as well as a few chinese dialects . before being a tour guide , i was a make up artist and hairstyle for up till to 30 years . as a make up artist , i met up with different customers everyday . i like to talk to people and also enjoy meeting people from around the world and showing them the life and culture of my country , singapore . i've led many tours around singapore, offering a true singaporean perspective. singapore is always changing, but our unique ethnic mix and traditions stay the same. i provide various type of tours and can customize a personal walking tour for you. i offer services such as using my own car to chauffeur tourists for tour around singapore. my goal is to share my passion for this beautiful and sunny island with you in a fun and unique way, to give you a sense of wonder of singapore.                                                                                                                                  , popular singapore private tours.

Mix Your Singapore Highlights Tourcover image

Mix Your Singapore Highlights Tour

Too many sights in the city you want to visit but you have limited time i feel you let me bring you to the top sights in the city and show you the highlights at each location. you will not waste precious time figuring how to navigate, what to see or where the best photo spot is. with the time saved, you can cover more places of interest or take your time to soak up the atmosphere. listed below are some of the most popular sights in the city. pick and mix any 4 places which you want to visit.

Singapore Tour Guide - Keith L.

2-Day Singapore Discovery Tour

Day 1 - explore the culture, diversity and history in the city centre. day 2 - travel out of the city centre to the surburb and experience the local way of life..

Mount Faber, Henderson Waves and Southern Ridgescover image

Mount Faber, Henderson Waves and Southern Ridges

Like nature and like to hike let's hike to the henderson waves and explore the southern ridges, a series of hills and parks that connect kent ridge park, hort park, telok blangah hill park, mount faber park and labrador nature reserve..

Macritchie Treetop Walkcover image

Macritchie Treetop Walk

Like nature and like to hike let's hike to the treetop walk, a suspension bridge situated within the central catchment nature reserve, one of 4 nature reserves in singapore. enjoy a panoramic view of the plants and animals that live in the forest canopy, new singapore private tours.

JOURNEY TO THE EASTcover image

JOURNEY TO THE EAST

In one section of east singapore is a heritage area called joo chiat. here you will learn of a fascinating sub ethnic group called the peranakan, their traditions and their cuisine..

Singapore Tour Guide - Lena K.

SULTANS & SPICES

Hear stories of kings(sultans) of singapore and the different surprising traditions, cuisine of the malays and muslims. see how religion and recreation exist harmoniously..

GODS & GARLANDS LITTLE INDIA TOURcover image

GODS & GARLANDS LITTLE INDIA TOUR

Soak in the smells of spices, sandal wood in this living heritage little india of singapore where you hear the trials and tribulations of indians gods and goddesses. visit temples, stores for saris and souvenirs and taste indian snacks and drinks..

HIDDEN HAUNTS /GEYLANG & KATONGcover image

HIDDEN HAUNTS /GEYLANG & KATONG

Visit the heritage town of katong where peranakans built homes and show off their hybrid traditions. peranakan means local-born and refers to the chinese who married the malay natives of singapore and practise malay-chinese tradition and cuisine. then move to the off-the -tourist track of geylang where the minority malays made their homes, shop and eat., popular singapore private cars.

One way Meet and Greet, Transfer, Departure cover image

One way Meet and Greet, Transfer, Departure

This is a transfer service and i can arrange a suitable sized van according to guest number based on my network. please contact me with the details of your flight / cruise information and drop-off point. we have 3 pax private vehicle, 12 pax combi, or 45 seated bus..

Singapore Tour Guide - Jon X.

Singapore Tour Reviews

Foods Tasting

“ Excellent trip with Lim ”

I had a great time with Lim. Even though I asked for a customised trip, he still preplanned and visited a lot of places more than what I expected. Great knowledge of the history and the culture of the city. I would highly recommend having Lim with you if you visit Singapore.

Food and Attractions

“ Personalized food and culture-focused day tour ”

Fatimah was AMAZING! She easily understood the objectives of our team and helped us plan a productive and fun day. She displayed great knowledge of the Singapore culture, showed us some great sights, helped us arrange dinner reservations and basically made our day seamless, low-stress and easy. Fatimah went above my expectations and helped us arrange a car for the day and it was stocked with cold water too. If we ever come back to Singapore and hire another tour guide, I wouldn't hesitate to look up Fatimah again. 5-Star rating easily.

Joel T.

Thank you very much for your supportive comment Joel, Sedef, Michael, Jason, Brian and Lori. Glad to see you guys again. All the best and take good care. Best Regards Fatimah

Singapore Private Tour Guide

Create a journey through Singapore’s futuristic streets with a private tour guide, unveiling the city's vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and hidden treasures.

Beyond the Merlion & Marina Bay Sands lies a side to the Lion City that most bypass. Futuristic in design, yet deeply tied to Singaporean identity, traveling through Singapore with a private tour guide can take you from well known destinations towards lesser known treats like the Yunnan Garden.

Looking for Singapore’s flavor roots? Get lost in the kaleidoscope of colors and fragrant aromas with a tour guide who shares tales of Little India’s food evolution. With a collection of diverse spices, inviting traditional ceremonies, and deep cultural significance, a guide's expertise is a great roadmap.

Singapore Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a tour guide in singapore gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, how do i hire a guide in singapore gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, how many days in singapore is enough gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, what is the best month to visit singapore gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, what is the best way to get around singapore gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, what are some rules in singapore to remember gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, do you tip in singapore gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, latest singapore articles.

Hiring A Guide In Singapore: Pros & Cons

Hiring A Guide In Singapore: Pros & Cons

  picture this: you're sitting next to the water-spitting merlion, in awe of the breathtaking architecture in front of you, while eating a delicious ....

Moritz L.

Tourism In Singapore Statistics 2023: The Ultimate Guide

  when you think of the cities of the future, chances are what you imagine looks similar to singapore right now. from a sprawling waterfall inside th....

13 Best Romantic Things to Do in Singapore for Couples

13 Best Romantic Things to Do in Singapore for Couples

This blog talks about the best romantic things to do in singapore at night. so if you’re visiting singapore with your significant other and you’d li....

13 Fun Things to Do in Singapore at Night: Free and Paid

13 Fun Things to Do in Singapore at Night: Free and Paid

Singapore, Singapore

Singapore is a city you can enjoy even after the sun goes down and below is a list of 13 things to do in Singapore at night. On most days there is a...

The best tours and activities.

With a real local of your choice

The option to personalize your tour

Just contact your favorite local

Only private tours!

So no group tours with strangers

Related Singapore Tour Guide Pages

My Guide Singapore

Singapore: Private Tour with a Local Guide

Explore Singapore like a local on this private customizable tour. Discover the city's hidden secrets as well as the main sightseeing points. Choose from a range of tour durations to suit your needs.

Our Top Experiences and Tours in Singapore:

Singapore: universal studios singapore entry ticket, singapore: guided boat tour and kelong fish farm visit.

  • Singapore: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
  • Singapore: 2.5-Hour Private City Tour Off the Beaten Track
  • Singapore: Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck E-Ticket
  • Explore plenty of hidden secrets and feel like a local
  • See the main sightseeing places such as Marina Bay and Singapore Botanic Gardens
  • Explore hidden secrets such as Ubin Island and Haw Par Villa

Description

Important information.

  • Please note that this is a tour with a local person or expat, not with a tour guide that has detailed historical knowledge. If such knowledge is important to you, you should book another tour. This tour will take place rain or shine. This tour is a walking tour and public transport or taxis are not included. However, in most cases, it will be best to use public transport to move between sightseeing places as this will save time and give you a break from the hot and humid weather. If you agree to take public transport you are kindly requested to pay for the tickets of your tour guide as well.

Easy cancellation

Reserve your experience.

Singapore: Private Tour with a Local Guide

Create New Guide

Mini guides.

Arrow

Login to create your guides for Singapore.

Add to My Guide

  • Add to New Guide

Recommended Experiences in Singapore

Singapore: Go City All-Inclusive Pass with 50+ Attractions

Singapore: Go City All-Inclusive Pass with 50+ Attractions

Enjoy admission to 50+ attractions in Singapore and save up to 50%* compared to buying individual entry tickets. Hop on an open-top bus tour and visit Universal Studios, Gardens by the Bay, and more.

Singapore: Katong Local Food and City Highlights Tour

Singapore: Katong Local Food and City Highlights Tour

Explore the colorful and charming Katong/Joo Chiat district, and discover Singapore’s most authentic local food spots. See the main sights and taste local dishes with your expert guide.

Singapore: Universal Studios Singapore Entry Ticket

Get special effects tips from Steven Spielberg, survive the curse at the Revenge of the Mummy, ride the rapids of Jurassic Park, and meet Shrek characters in 4D with this ticket.

10 Asian Regions: eSIM Data Plan

10 Asian Regions: eSIM Data Plan

Enjoy convenient and instantly available eSIM data plans for 10 Asian regions. Choose from a variety of options and activate your eSIM anywhere on your journey.

Singapore: Changi Airport Premium Lounge Entry

Singapore: Changi Airport Premium Lounge Entry

Refresh and recharge in the Plaza Premium Lounge before boarding your plane in Changi Airport. Take a hot shower, use the Wi-Fi, and enjoy delicious local food with beverages.

Singapore: Sentosa Cable Car Sky Pass Ticket

Singapore: Sentosa Cable Car Sky Pass Ticket

Get stunning views aboard the Singapore Cable Car as you travel the aerial link from Mount Faber to Sentosa. Cross Keppel Harbor and see all the attractions from a unique perspective.

Singapore: Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Car Tour

Singapore: Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Car Tour

Craft your own Singapore itinerary by choosing from various tour options such as nightlife, street art, local food, places of worship, history, hidden gems, ethnic quarters, and more on a private city tour.

Singapore: Guided Boat Tour and Kelong Fish Farm Visit

Go on a sea adventure to explore Singapore’s waters. This guided boat tour explores Kelongs (floating fish farms), an abundance of nature and mangrove swamps, and get up close to Pulau Ubin.

Singapore: SkyHelix Sentosa Ticket

Singapore: SkyHelix Sentosa Ticket

Take flight in the highest open-air panoramic ride in Singapore, the SkyHelix Sentosa. Sit in an open-air gondola that gently rotates as it ascends to a height of 79 meters above sea level.

Create & Share your own Guide to Singapore with friends and family!

Add your recommended places to visit by browsing the website and pressing the icon.

Create your own guide of favourite 'must see' places

Earn your Local Expert badge by Sharing your guides with others

Get your guide seen by submitting it to the Mini Guides section

Arrow

My Guide to Singapore

Handpicked by a Local Expert

My Guide Network Locations

We Are Part of the My Guide Network!

My Guide Singapore is part of the global My Guide Network of Online & Mobile travel guides.

We are now in 120+ Destinations and Growing. If you are interested in becoming a local travel partner and would like to find out more then click for more info about our Website Business Opportunity .

Nearby Destinations

  • My Guide Penang
  • My Guide Phuket
  • My Guide Koh Samui
  • My Guide Pattaya
  • My Guide Bangkok
  • My Guide Vietnam
  • My Guide Bali
  • My Guide Lombok and Gilis
  • My Guide Hong Kong

No results found

  • Activities with Animals
  • Airport Lounge
  • Culinary & nightlife
  • Culture & history
  • Day Trips From
  • Day Trips To
  • Deals & Discounts
  • Entry tickets
  • Family-friendly activities
  • Good for groups
  • Guided tours
  • Hop-on Hop-off tours
  • Nature & adventure
  • Outdoor activities
  • Outdoor sports
  • Reseller exclusions
  • Science Activities
  • Seasonal & Holiday Activities
  • Sensitive products
  • Shore Excursions
  • Sightseeing on wheels
  • Snow & winter sports
  • Team-Building Activities
  • Things to do at Night
  • Things to do for adults
  • VR Activities
  • Walking tours
  • Water activities
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • WiFi & SIM Cards

{[{item.label}]}

  • {[{data.title}]}

Events in Singapore

Filter Events by Sub-Category

  • This Weekend

Please select a Date first.

Madman's Journey

Chinatown Singapore Guide 2023: Best Things to do & eat

Chinatown was one of my favorite walks in all of Singapore . Away from the skyline, this hub of bustling markets brings a down-to-earth part of Singapore to light. Writing this Chinatown Singapore Guide took me back on a sweet memory lane to the evening here.

As someone who doesn’t like crowds, I was unsure of what to expect here. But the moment I witnessed the colorful lights floating over my head, I was glad! It was to be quite a chunk on my SG travel blog . There are tons of places for walking tours ( like Marina Bay ) in SG and Chinatown is a must! Here goes my Chinatown Singapore Guide.

Table of Contents

Self-Guided Walking Tour Chinatown Singapore

Most people talk of the must-try foods here which make up for most of the spot! But with Chinatown’s heritage since the country’s beginnings and lit markets, there’s a lot more. This Chinatown Singapore Guide shall take you through all the things to do here.

smith street chinatown singapore

What to expect

I visited Chinatown in the evening and highly recommend you do the same. The evenings are when the place comes alive; Get a small backpack along with a water bottle. Don’t carry too much luggage as you’ll need to walk around a lot.

Get some comfortable shoes on and begin! Unlike most attractions of Singapore like the Zoo or the National Gallery , you don’t need a ticket as such to enter or walk around. It’s a part of the everyday city.

But you’ll find paid tours that guide you around the heritage key spots of town. Now, should you get yourself a paid tour? Well, it depends on whether you’d prefer a paid walking tour or a self-guided walk.

oasis hotel chinatown

Chinatown Walking Tour Guides Singapore

To make sure not to miss out on anything important here, put in some time beforehand and get your itinerary checklist in place before you get here. But if that’s too much work for you and are willing to pay for a leisure walk, the walking tour guide is highly recommended!

It also avoids the self-guide hustle of holding the maps up every 20 seconds. I took a self-guided walk around the place but I missed out on a few spots. I wished I’d read more about the place beforehand.

The best part of guided tours is that even tours are out-of-the-box here to make history interesting! One is the Trishaw Uncle Guided tours (yes, they take you around with the trishaw). Something like the infamous Singapore River Cruise at Clarke Quay.

Another is the Murder Game tour where you’ll get around Chinatown while playing a history game! Find your preferred tour guide on Klook below and book before you miss out on great deals !

For self-guided explorers like myself, don’t worry! Keep reading this post for all the key spots before you visit. Thus this self-guided walking tour of Chinatown Singapore.

telok ayer street chinatown sg

Chinatown Singapore Guide: Best Things to do

The moment you land in Chinatown, Singapore, you’ll find yourself wandering away into amazing shops, colorful buildings, and aromatic food around. There’s so much detail you observe when you visit it physically – especially the cozy tiny streets you walk through.

In fact, I didn’t know the names of the streets that lured me in with their colorful air. I had to figure them out while writing this article.

Walking through Chinatown, you’ll come across all these places one after the other. Walk through the streets, take pictures, talk to people, and enjoy your tour! Here are all the best things to do in Chinatown Singapore Guide.

Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

This majestic landmark beaming between Chinatown’s bustling streets and skyscrapers was my first stop here. There’s no hard and fast on when to visit the temple. But if you’re visiting Chinatown in the evening, get there at least at 4 pm.

The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple closes at 5 every day. Having an hour (or more if you’re too passionate) to tour the entire temple place is sufficient.

Another post for you to read: River Wonders Singapore Review: 5 Rare Creatures to Spot !

chinese tour guide singapore

Walk the Pagoda Street

Chinatown Singapore guide: Pagoda street is where you’ll go back in time to the colorful Chinatown markets. Running parallel to Chinatown Temple Street, this 250m stretch of the paved footpath is filled with shops and restaurants on either side and it’s ever-lively!

Even if you’re broke, I suggest you visit it for the street’s ambiance, lighting, and Instagrammable shots. Thank me later. Take a stroll till the end of Pagoda Street towards Shri Mariamman Temple.

Check out the Chinatown Heritage Center museum

Oh, you’re already on Pagoda Street? You might as well snuggle into Chinatown’s Heritage Center – it’s right on the way! I couldn’t visit this museum as it remains closed for the time period as it undergoes review.

But I hope it opens soon for your visit! When you do visit, expect to dive into the lives of early landers of Singapore. The laborers, traders, and immigrants and their stories of victories and struggles. If it opens up, I’ll be sure to visit it!

Another post for you to read: Universal Studios Singapore Guide: Perfect 1-Day Visit!

maxwell food centre chinatown singapore

Eat at the Maxwell Food Centre

A friend suggested me this place, the Maxwell Food Centre. And sure enough, the place is popular to be a landmark around here. The food center located by Maxwell Road is a large food court with a bunch of hawker stalls.

They serve a range of Chinatown delicacies including the popular chicken rice and dim sums! If you’re a foodie and looking to try every food place out here. I suggest eating to a minimum at Maxwell as there are still a ton of outdoor hawker stalls!

For small street hawker stalls, expect to spend around $4-6 SGD for a dish. But there are also bigger places with nice seating arrangements where it can cost between $8-10 SGD. For an authentic place, it’s worth the money as well.

Another post for you to read: Best Singapore Travel Advice Australia

Try out hawkers at Complex, 335 Smith Street

For newcomers, it’s tough to figure out where to eat. Going around Chinatown’s Complex on Smith Street with a series of restaurants, it all comes to where you end up. At the end of this street, you’ll also find the infamous Hawker Chan restaurant which previously held a Michelin star!

I was too hungry when I arrived in Chinatown. So I plunged to the first hawker spot I found – the Tiong Bahru Chicken Rice. Not to mention, this place was popular among locals and a lot of people came in! I got a medium-sized Hainanese chicken rice with soup for myself and it was worth the S$ 3.5!

hawker stall chinatown sg

Take pictures at the People’s Park Complex

Find this name familiar from social media? Sure, it’s a beautiful picturesque spot. But the People’s Park Complex is worth the sight regardless of its distinguished structure. There’s a lot more to it than its looks.

The People’s Park Complex is very different from the skyscrapers you see in SG today. Built after Chinatown’s market fires in 1966 with millions of dollars in damages, it stood as one of its kind in Southeast Asia back in the day. The 40-year-old structure stood as the biggest shopping complex back in the day!

Another post for you to read: Bird Park Paradise Review – Ultimate 1-Day Trip in Singapore

people's park singapore chinatown

Visit the Shri Mariamman Temple

Though living near Singapore for almost a decade, never had I realized the Hindu Temple – Shri Mariamman Temple was around Chinatown’s corner. Though worlds apart from Chinatown’s streets, it’s a must-visit in Chinatown!

This temple is very similar to many beautiful Dravidian-style builds I’ve come across in India. Built-in 1827, it is Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple! What I loved most about Pagoda Street and Mariamman Temple is how so many cultures come in together in a single place.

Right next to it is Masjid Jamae and the Buddha temple isn’t a far walk away either. It’s quite a wonder to see!

Take a stroll on Telok Ayer Street

Another gem of Chinatown Singapore Guide that I deeply regret missing out on is Telok Ayer Street. It’s a 500-meter walk from Pagoda street. Begin with walking the Telok Ayer Green park with its black metal sculptures and the Nagore Dargah museum at its corner.

With a series of restaurants similar to the rest here, Telok Ayer street stands apart with its appearance. The place blends today’s technology and development with remainders of old Singapore with its colorful shophouses. There are also some places to see here like the Thian Hock Keng Temple and the Singapore Musical Box Museum.

Another post for you to read: Perfect Batam Travel Guide 202 3

kampung houses chinatown sg

Shop at the street markets of Chinatown

Remember those fancy lights around Pagoda Street? Right from Buddha Tooth Relic Temple’s Kreta Ayer Square, walk into the alleys of the street markets of Chinatown. It’s best to walk in the evenings. The bright hues come to life at night over your head.

Gift shops of all sorts become livelier than ever. Yet, the pavements remain clean and photogenic throughout with so many tourists flocking in. The gift shop items are equally alluring with their curious detailed works. I couldn’t help buying myself a hand fan embroidered with Chinese scripts and Pandas on it!

chinatown markets sg

Mural Paintings around Chinatown Singapore Guide

Another thing to look out for is street art – Chinatown’s Mural heritage or Chinatown Wall paintings. The picture at the beginning of this article? That’s one of them! Called the Labour of Love murals, you’ll find these amazing paintings in the alleys of Chinatown.

It’s hard to spot them with the bustle. But keep an eye on the alley walls, you’ll find them! These depict the histories of lives in old Chinatown and add up to the flavor of the place. Keep an eye out for them for I found only one! You can even book a tour just to spot all these amazing wall paintings. Here’s a great tour on Klook for the same:

Taste a pinch of Ya Kun Kaya Toast

People who live in Singapore know of the popular restaurants around here. But there are too many to count for tourists. Ya Kun Kaya Toast is another resto chain with restaurants across over a dozen countries.

However, I put it on this list because the infamous Ya Kun Kaya Toast empire began here – at Telok Ayer Street, Chinatown! Loi Ah Koon started it here at Telok Ayer in 1944 and today it looks to expand to Brunei, India, and Malaysia. Its ingredients are simple with bread, yet delicious with its kaya .

durian restaurant chinatown sg

Tailpiece: Singapore Chinatown Guide

That sums up for most of my Singapore Chinatown Guide to the best places to visit. I was glad I could visit most of Chinatown in the evening. Yet, I know I missed a good deal of stuff like the Ya Kun Kaya Toast and the top floors of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

It’s not tough to fall in love with the place here. If you think you might, you will . Much sooner than you think. Keep half a day for a complete walking tour of the place. Another idea is to spend two evenings here instead and roam Singapore elsewhere during the day. With the MRT, it shouldn’t be hard getting around.

After getting around Chinatown, I sat down at Kreta Ayer Square facing the Buddha temple as dusk fell. It was time to head back to my cozy SpacePod at Lavender . Tired and weary, I needed a break from all the walk. Stallkeepers and workers were headed home. One Chinese old man came and sat down on the stairs beside me.

He smiled and I waved hi. We then talked for a good 15 minutes. Where we had come from and how we’d come here. Sounds pretty sweet, doesn’t it? Talk to people on your visit. Be friendly. It’ll make the trip worth it all!

Tell me how your self guided walking tour of Chinatown Singapore went in the comment section below. I’ll be happy to hear about it :)

buddha tooth relic temple

Manas Patil

Hi there! I'm a 22-year-old dude all the way from India, I love traveling and building itineraries! Sign up and get your FREE COPY of my travel checklist to get the best of your next vacation!

Yayy! You've successfully subscribed to our newsletter. Check your inbox to get started ;)

Get my FREE Travel Checklist Here!

I believe checklists help get the best out of any itinerary.

Sign up and get my FREE TRAVEL CHECKLIST straight to your inbox!

It's worth it, I promise :)

Great! Please confirm your subscription in your inbox to get your checklist.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 Yes, add me to your mailing list

Start typing and press enter to search

Private Guide World

  • For tour guides
  • For tourists

chinese tour guide singapore

  • All countries ―
  • Singapore ―
  • Country guides

Photo of Singapore

Find a local private tour guide for your sightseeing tour of Singapore using Private Guide World by filtering your preferred language in the field at the top of this page in the center

Dingle: The beauty of the sea on the banks of the mountain

Select a private local tour guide in Singapore

chinese tour guide singapore

Thanks to the Private Guide World service with a few clicks you can choose a local personal tour guide to nearby attractions of Singapore. Just enter your destination and your search parameters, and your preferred language and see the results. You can use the filter ONLINE ONLY to see which local tour guide in Singapore is currently online!

Our local private tour guides know Singapore and the surrounding region very well, speak the local English, Malay, Tamil, Chinese language plus the other languages, too, and can help you to understand the local people of Singapore, culture, traditions, and history better while you are in Singapore. During the tour around Singapore, you will not have any problems with locals if a tour guide is by your side. Your personal local tour guide in Singapore will help you learn a lot about the region, and share with you only the most exciting knowledge and best experiences. Check out some of the local sights & attractions in Singapore, wildlife & nature, and ask your personal tour guide to show you the local gems of Singapore hidden from a regular tourist without a local professional tourist guide. Before you travel to Singapore, be sure you have enough local currency SGD with you in case you need to buy a souvenir or tip a tour guide!

New GENERIC REQUEST

Please add some text to the message. The tour guide will answer you in a private message

chinese tour guide singapore

  • Already have an account? Log in
  • Don’t you have an account? Sign up

The Straits Times

  • International
  • Print Edition
  • news with benefits
  • SPH Rewards
  • STClassifieds
  • Berita Harian
  • Hardwarezone
  • Shin Min Daily News
  • Tamil Murasu
  • The Business Times
  • The New Paper
  • Lianhe Zaobao
  • Advertise with us

Former China tour guide Yang Yin who cheated S'pore widow of $1.1m deported after jail term

chinese tour guide singapore

SINGAPORE - Former China tour guide Yang Yin, who was convicted of cheating a wealthy Singaporean widow of $1.1 million, was deported on Thursday (June 9) after being released from prison.

In response to queries, an Immigration and Checkpoints Authority spokesman said Yang has been barred from re-entering Singapore.

Chinese daily Lianhe Zaobao reported that he was taken to the airport on Thursday morning for a flight to Nanjing, China.

In September 2016, Yang, then 42, was sentenced to six years in jail. The term was extended to nine years in March 2017 after an appeal by the Attorney-General's Chambers.

He was convicted of two offences of criminal breach of trust for misappropriating $1.1 million from Madam Chung Khin Chun, now 95, a retired physiotherapist.

Yang was also sentenced to jail for another two years and two months in September 2016 for crimes over his immigration status. They included falsifying receipts for a sham company in order to stay in Singapore and obtain permanent residency.

In total, he had to serve 11 years and two months in jail.

Yang, who was in remand since Oct 31, 2014, served about two-thirds of his sentence.

Yang met Madam Chung in 2008, when he acted as her private tour guide during a China trip. A year later, he moved into her bungalow in Yio Chu Kang and claimed the widow wanted him to be her "grandson".

He obtained Singapore permanent residency in 2011 and brought his wife and two young children here the same year.

Yang stood to inherit all of Madam Chung's assets - estimated to be worth $40 million - in a 2010 will, and was given lasting power of attorney by the widow in 2012 to manage her welfare and financial affairs.

Madam Chung's husband, Dr Chou Sip King, died in 2007 and the couple have no children.

Yang had pleaded guilty mid-trial in August 2016 to misappropriating $500,000 in February 2010 and $600,000 in January 2012 from Madam Chung. His crimes came to light in September 2014 when he was arrested after police reports were made against him.

Madam Chung’s niece and guardian, Madam Hedy Mok, had earlier that year sued Yang for manipulating her aunt into handing over control of her assets.

Madam Mok, 69, said: “For what he took from us, he should have been made to serve the full term. But I’m glad he’s finally out of Singapore for good.”

Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.

  • Criminal breach of trust

Read 3 articles and stand to win rewards

Spin the wheel now

Singapore – Where Passion is Made Possible

  • Singapore Dollar

English

You need an account to use this site

chinese tour guide singapore

  • Guides Recommend
  • Tourist Guides

Your Journey Begin Here!

We have a strong pool of experienced tourist guides providing various tours across Singapore for schools, companies, new citizens and overseas visitors.

chinese tour guide singapore

Booking tour

STGS Tours Pte Ltd is the wholly own Travel Agent of the Society of Tourist Guides (Singapore), incorporated on 4 Mar 2015 under Singapore Tourism Board Travel Agent Licence 02701 to develop and provide tours in Singapore.

chinese tour guide singapore

Hire a Tourist guide

Hiring a Professional Tourist Guide in Singapore can never be easier because we have the largest pool of Professional Licensed Tour Guides to help you explore every possible and lesser known corners of Singapore that even a local may not know.

chinese tour guide singapore

PDC for Tourist guide

Society of Tourist Guides (Singapore) conceptualized and conducted numerous Professional Development Courses (PDC) to help Licensed Singapore Tourist Guides to refresh and update their knowledge and skills as a Professional.

British Hainan

London is the capital city of England.

  • Book a tour

chinese tour guide singapore

We Provide Best Singapore Tours!

Best luxury tour operator award 2019, singapore tourism award - best tour experience in singapore & finalist for best customer service.

An Award-winning Singapore tour agency, providing our customers with the best Singapore tours .

If you are traveling to Singapore and are looking for the best, award-winning and most authentic local Singapore tours , look no further. 

Choose Oriental Travel and Tours now and we will offer you an experience of a lifetime during your Singapore vacation.

chinese tour guide singapore

With a varied collection of tried & tested privately guided tour programs from Food Tour, Singapore History Tour, Cultural Tour to Authentic Singapore Local experiences Tour, Oriental Travel and Tours will guide you in ensuring your tour in Singapore is made-to-fit.

With the knowledge of our experienced tour guides , your trip is crafted with your interests, budget & schedule in mind. Using our attention to detail and understanding of the importance of value, an Oriental journey is an affordable and enriching experience showcasing not only the must-sees in Singapore, but also the destination, culture and people.

Oriental Travel and Tours Corporate Video

facebook-link

Our Team of Tour Guides

With the knowledge of our experienced tour guides, your trip is crafted with your interests, budget & schedule in mind. 

Not Sure About a Singapore Tour or Service we Provide?

Contact us or fill in the form and we'll get back to you short authentic Singaporean feel.

+65 8262 6266

[email protected].

chinese tour guide singapore

Things to Do in Chinatown Singapore | The 6 BEST Attractions

S ingapore Chinatown, which is about a 45 minute walk from Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands, is an ethnic enclave within the chic and modern city. It is in the Outram district of the Central Area. In the area known as Chinatown Singapore, you will get a first-hand view of Chinese culture – decorations, food, the way people dress, and even the building architecture. 

Although Singapore is very modern and contemporary, Chinatown retains its authenticity a great deal. The Old meets New here. 

If you are planning a visit to this incredibly posh city and want to know the best things to do in Chinatown Singapore, this travel guide details the best Chinatown attractions, plus where to eat, stay, and shop in Chinatown.

Singapore Chinatown – Quick Facts and FAQs

If you plan to visit Chinatown Singapore, here are a few quick facts and frequently asked questions that will be helpful to know before your visit.

What is Chinatown Singapore?

Chinatown is the Chinese quarter of Singapore, very close to the Marina area, Gardens by the Bay, and many of the tourist attractions that make Singapore one of the best places to visit in Asia . This culturally vibrant area is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Singapore.

Dating back to the early 19th century, Chinese immigrants settled in the area. Many of the original buildings and shophouses have been meticulously preserved. 

In Chinatown Singapore, the Chinese heritage of the original immigrants is famously celebrated here. You’ll find this long standing influence everywhere you look – from the colorful murals to the intricate facades, and ornate decorations.

Where is Chinatown in Singapore? 

Chinatown is located in Central Singapore, making it a convenient place to visit even if you only have 2 days in Singapore . There are four distinct areas or sub-areas of Chinatown – Kreta Ayer, Telok Ayer, Tanjong Pagar, Bukit Pasoh. 

There is also a second Chinatown in Singapore, which is called ‘People’s Chinatown’. In Geylang, halfway to the airport from the official Chinatown, many Chinese migrants moved here as the numbers increased. 

Many consider this to be more traditional. It is cheaper, too. The official Singapore Chinatown is close to many top attractions in the city like Clarke Quay , Bugis, Sentosa Island , Merlion Park, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens By The Bay , Singapore Flyer, and the Orchard Road , so prices are notably higher.

What streets make up Chinatown Singapore?

Chinatown is just east of Smith Street, which was known as Hei Yuan Kai or Theatre Street in Cantonese because of the famous Cantonese opera Lai Chun Yuen. Go in, and you will find a maze of narrow streets. 

There are 6 streets that make up Chinatown in Singapore  – Mosques Street, Pagoda Street, Sago Lane, Smith Street, Temple Street, and Trengganu Street. There is also a maze of small lanes and alleyways crisscrossing the area.

Why should you visit Chinatown Singapore?

If you are wondering if Chinatown Singapore is worth visiting, the short answer is yes. 

You should spend some time in Chinatown to experience the unique culture, try authentic traditional food, visit the street markets, see cultural relics, and tour the museums, galleries, and visit the parks.

What is Chinatown Singapore known for?

Chinatown is also called the ‘Place of Nightless Days’ or Bu Ye Tian. It was once a red-light area in the early 20th century. Smith Street and Keong Saik Road were infamous.

Nowadays, the district is best known for its authentic culture, beautiful temples, and delicious food.

Where to stay in Chinatown Singapore

Chinatown is one of the best areas to stay in Singapore thanks to its central location and proximity to other attractions.

Chinatown also is easily accessible by public transportation, so even if you plan to visit Universal Studios on the island of Sentosa, you can get there conveniently using the metro system. 

Hotel 1888 is a great, budget friendly hotel located in the heart of Chinatown Singapore.

Search all hotels in Chinatown Singapore HERE

Top 6 Attractions in Chinatown Singapore

Chinatown is home to several significant Chinese temples and religious sites, many of which are among the best things to see in Chinatown Singapore.

There are cultural institutions too that will help you gain a better understanding of Chinatown and this district’s original settlers. 

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

This 4-storied temple boasts a beautiful and grand prayer hall with high ceilings, a bell tower and a drum tower.

Visit the temple and see the solid gold stupa (pagoda), which hosts the sacred god, made according to the guidelines of the Tang Dynasty. The temple serves as a sacred repository for what is believed to be a tooth relic of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism – hence the name Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

There is also a giant prayer wheel on the roof-top. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple also houses a museum that exhibits more than 300 artifacts.

Sri Mariamman Temple

An impressive architectural gem, Sri Mariamman is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. Built to honor Goddess Mariamman, who is believed to have the power to cure disease, the temple is adorned with ornate carvings and colorful sculptures of deities. 

The temple is built with a South Indian Dravidian-style architecture. It is busiest during the Thimithi festival in October or November.

While this temple is a sacred place of worship for Hindus, it is open to all visitors – both spiritual visitors and culturally curious guests.

Thian Hock Keng Temple

Thian Hock Keng Temple, also known as the Tianfu Temple, is another historic Chinese temple located in Singapore’s Chinatown that is worth visiting. Built in 1839, it is the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore. 

Thian Hock Keng Temple is dedicated to Mazu Po, the goddess of the sea, and is a place of worship for the Hokkien Chinese community. Its peaceful ambiance and ornate design continue to captivate visitors.

Hong Lim Park 

Hong Lim Park, also known as Speaker’s Corner, is a public park nestled in the heart of Central Singapore on the edge of Chinatown. It serves as the country’s designated space for public speeches, demonstrations, and gatherings, making it a symbol of free speech and democratic expression. 

Located at North Canal Road, social gatherings are often held at the park, like the National Day celebrations and music concerts.

The park features lush greenery, a picturesque pond, and a variety of recreational amenities, making it a popular spot for relaxation and leisure activities, as well.

Chinatown Heritage Centre 

The Chinatown Heritage Centre is one of the best museums in Singapore and a great place to delve into the most interesting facts about Singapore and its history. Located on Pagoda Street, the museum offers a window into the history and culture of Singapore’s Chinatown.

Housed in a restored shophouse, the museum takes visitors on a journey back in time to the early days of Chinatown, showcasing the lives and experiences of early Chinese immigrants who settled in Singapore. 

Inside, meticulously recreated and preserved displays of period rooms, street scenes, and personal artifacts provide a vivid and insightful look into the challenges, dreams, and aspirations of the early Chinese community. 

Admire the Detailed Murals

One of the most endearing things to do in Chinatown Singapore is to simply wander the streets and take in the beautiful murals that adorn its streets and alleyways.

These painted murals serve as a visual tapestry that tells the cultural stories of the Chinese community in Singapore. 

From depictions of daily life in old shophouses to traditional Chinese folklore, the murals add to the neighborhood’s charm and heritage.

BOOK A WALKING TOUR THROUGH CHINATOWN AND LITTLE INDIA

The Pinnacle@Duxton

The Pinnacle@Duxton is a 50th-floor sky bridge offering panoramic views of the Singapore skyline.

Located in the Tanjong Pagar district of Chinatown, this public housing development is renowned for its distinctive and innovative design, featuring seven towering residential blocks interconnected by sky bridges. 

Completed in 2009, The Pinnacle@Duxton also boasts unique rooftop gardens, filled with greenery and recreational amenities.

Where to Eat in Chinatown Singapore

Most people visit Chinatown Singapore to try authentic traditional food. You will find restaurants, bars, and even food courts, but be sure to try the food from street vendors, as well. 

Here are some of the best places to eat in Chinatown Singapore.

Singapore Chinatown Food Street

Food Street is lined with hawkers and roadside shops. You will find flavors from all over Southeast Asia here.  Food Street has many street vendors offering the traditional satay, Hainanese chicken rice, and noodles.

Try stingray, satay on skewers, kway teow, roasted duck, and Hainanese chicken rice. 

You will also find many boutiques, wine bars, and souvenir streets.

Chinatown Complex Food Centre

With more than 260 food stalls, the Chinatown Complex Food Centre is the largest hawker center in Singapore. With a dizzying array of culinary offerings spread across two levels, this hawker center is a food lover’s paradise.

Maxwell Food Centre 

Maxwell Hawker Centre is a culinary delight where locals and tourists to Singapore flock to find some of the city’s most beloved street food dishes, like dim sum, rice porridge, fish balls and noodles.

Hawker culture is a quintessential part of Singapore’s culinary scene. Hawker centers are basically food courts where you’ll find lots of street food stalls selling quick, affordable meals.

Amoy Street Food Centre

Located on the edge of Chinatown and the central business district, tucked away amidst Singapore’s tall buildings, the Amoy Street Food Center boasts plenty of stalls, but the tables fill up quickly.

This is a popular spot to grab a meal for both locals and passersby.

BOOK A HAWKER FOOD TOUR IN CHINATOWN

Chinatown Nightlife

Chinatown is throbbing after dark. The most famous night spots are at Ann Siang Hill and Club Street. There are cool bars, screening rooms, and Tippling clubs. There are gay bars too in the area. B28 is a star attraction along with Backstage Bar, Barrio Chino, Breeze, Cow and Coolies Pub.

For those visiting Singapore with kids, be sure to Check out the Chinatown Street Market, where you can find great souvenirs and, yes, even more food! 

Shopping at Chinatown

Singapore offers some of the best shopping of any city in Asia, rivaling Hong Kong for that distinct title.

Besides street markets, Chinatown also offers shopping opportunities in its numerous boutique stores, selling everything from antiques and traditional clothing to contemporary fashion and accessories.

Ann siang Road 

Ann Siang Road is just one of the popular shopping options in Singapore’s Chinatown. Visitors will find a distinctive shopping experience with a wide variety of retail establishments available there. 

For those looking for a great shopping experience in Singapore , Ann Siang Road is a must-visit location with everything from fashion boutiques to specialty shops.

China Square Central Flea Market 

The China Square Central Flea Market is another great shopping choice for anyone hunting for one-of-a-kind gems. It’s a fun and unique place to visit because of its lively atmosphere and varied range of merchants. 

Chinatown Complex 

The Chinatown Complex is not only a food center, it is a premier shopping location found in Singapore’s bustling Chinatown neighborhood. 

This complex provides a large selection of shop choices, including conventional Chinese items, apparel, jewelry, and mementos. Visitors can experience a range of regional and international cuisine at the complex’s active food center and take in the  lively ambiance and varied offerings. 

The Chinatown Complex is the ideal location for those looking for unusual presents or just wanting to fully immerse themselves in Singapore’s rich culture.

Tanjong Pagar Plaza 

A wide variety of shopping opportunities are available in Tanjong Pagar Plaza, which is situated in Singapore’s thriving Chinatown. 

This business district is home to a variety of retail establishments, including clothing boutiques, electronics retailers and specialty businesses. You’ll also find various restaurants and bars along the plaza. 

Like it? Pin this guide to the best things to do in Chinatown Singapore to save it for later!

Do you have a comment or question about what to do in Chinatown Singapore? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

Did you know…

When you make a purchase or book hotels, tours, or other travel services, through our links, we receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. We only EVER recommend service providers, websites, or products we personally use when booking our own travels. Your support enables us to keep producing helpful travel content. Thank you!

  • Book a HOTEL
  • Book a RENTAL CAR
  • Purchase TRAVEL INSURANCE
  • Book guided tours or excursions at GET YOUR GUIDE or VIATOR
  • Book a DESTINATION PHOTOGRAPHER
  • Buy TRAVEL GEAR on Amazon
  • Book TRAIN TRAVEL IN EUROPE
  • Book TRAIN TRAVEL IN ASIA
  • Book a FERRY
  • Book BUS TRAVEL IN EUROPE
  • Buy a PRIORITY PASS MEMBERSHIP for airport lounge access

Singapore Chinatown, which is about a 45 minute walk from Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands, is an ethnic enclave within the chic and modern city. It is in the Outram district of the Central Area. In the area known as Chinatown Singapore, you will get a first-hand view of Chinese culture – decorations, food, the way people dress, and even the building architecture.  Although Singapore is very modern and contemporary, Chinatown retains its authenticity a great deal. The Old meets New here.  If you are planning a visit to this incredibly posh city and want to know…

SCCIOB

  • Our Programmes

Language & Culture

Tourist guide training programme (in english or mandarin).

A comprehensive training opportunity for people from all walks of life who are interested in obtaining the Singapore Tourism Board's qualified tour guide certificate.

Course Content:

As Singapore's tourism landscape evolves, tourist guides are also expected to deliver a more differentiated experience to meet the changing expectations and profile of visitors.

Any person wanting to be a licensed Tourist Guide has to undergo the  Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ)  Tourist Guide (TG) programme (consisting of three modules) and pass all the relevant assessments before they can be issued with a Tourist Guide licence. 

Pre-requisites for application include:

  •  A copy of NRIC/Passport

A copy of ALL educational certificates - Highest education certificate, Chinese language results and English language results

A non-refundable registration fee of S$87.20 and member fee of S$54.50 (inclusive of 9% GST) is payable upon submission of application for the course.

Payment to be made at least 1 week before course commencement. (Cheques are to be crossed and made payable to "SCCIOB")

All applicants must pass the pre-course interview before enrolling into the WSQ Tour Guide preparatory. Course fees have to be paid within a week upon release of the result.

Applicants who are aged 60 years old and above must provide a medical check-up report, as well as a doctor's letter of confirmation stating that the student is physically fit to be a tour guide.

Course Fee before funding, inclusive of 9% GST : $6,104.00

chinese tour guide singapore

WSQ Tourist Guide Programme

This course is co-organized with the Singapore Chinese Tourist Guide Association and is accredited by the Singapore Tourism Board.

Provides a comprehensive training opportunity for people from all walks of life who are interested in obtaining the Singapore Tourism Board's qualified tour guide certificate, and those who intend to improve their employment opportunities and strengthen their employability.

Date Information

No date information yet.

chinese tour guide singapore

Create Customer Experience

Recognise your customers' needs and concerns, display personalised service as well as create value services to delight customers. 1 of 3 required modules for the Tourist Guide Training Programme

chinese tour guide singapore

Tour Guide Operations

Execute activities required for the smooth running of tour guiding duties including developing a tour itinerary, tour commentary and briefing & handling visitors from arrival till departure. 1 of 3 required modules for the Tourist Guide Training Programme

chinese tour guide singapore

Tour Leading Operations

Execute inbound and/or outbound travel operations to ensure smooth delivery of tour itineraries. 1 of 3 required modules for the Tourist Guide Training Programme

chinese tour guide singapore

Business Studies

chinese tour guide singapore

China Ready Programme

chinese tour guide singapore

Upcoming Courses

Corporate training.

SCCIOB caters to the learning and development needs of a wide variety of corporate staff, including government officials, industry/company leaders & senior managers, working professionals and executives.

  • Sustainability
  • Latest News
  • News Reports
  • Documentaries & Shows
  • TV Schedule
  • CNA938 Live
  • Radio Schedule
  • Singapore Parliament
  • Mental Health
  • Interactives
  • Entertainment
  • Style & Beauty
  • Experiences
  • Remarkable Living
  • Send us a news tip
  • Events & Partnerships
  • Business Blueprint
  • Health Matters
  • The Asian Traveller

Trending Topics

Follow our news, recent searches.

News Video Reports

STB shortens tourist guide licensing course to 120 hours

Advertisement.

Aspiring tour guides can now get licensed faster, with their training course shortened to 120 hours, down from the current 220. The aim is to attract people from different backgrounds to join the industry and tell more sides of the Singapore story. Richa Mathew speaks to some tour agencies to find out how this will boost offerings.

You May Also Like

Popular shows, singapore allows up to 2 cats in hdb, limits private homes to 3 cats max, wit, humour and relatability: how a prime minister mastered social media, ensuring equality, inclusiveness and social mobility underpinned policies in pm lee's 20 years in office, onus on government to decide what social spending is necessary: pm lee, interview with lee hsien loong - two decades as prime minister - part 2: social safety nets, good politics, japan hour - gaia series 39: pioneers of the sustainable development goals, how does ikea singapore make its meatballs and come up with new dishes, singapore’s labour movement honours ambassadors of migrant workers, domestic workers, safety-enhancing technology for public transport unveiled at sbs transit safety symposium, singapore's tourism industry to get boost from new attractions and roadmap, this browser is no longer supported.

We know it's a hassle to switch browsers but we want your experience with CNA to be fast, secure and the best it can possibly be.

To continue, upgrade to a supported browser or, for the finest experience, download the mobile app.

Upgraded but still having issues? Contact us

  • الاجتماعات والمناسبات
  • الأعمال التجارية
  • My Millennium
  • Our Heritage
  • أسعار خاصة للأعضاء
  • احجز هنا مباشرة من أجل خدمة واي فاي مجانية!
  • اربح نقاط ولاء
  • عروض حصرية عبر الانترنت

شارك المقال:

Cherishing Mom: Unique Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day in Singapore

chinese tour guide singapore

Mother's Day Celebration with Millennium Hotels in Singapore

Between fabulous food spots and treetop trails, Singapore is packed with activities to celebrate with your Mom during this upcoming weekend. Millennium Hotels in Singapore will help you show this appreciation, whether you're looking for a pampering city break or blissful relaxation. Get planning today and book a room to make your mummy feel extra special this year. 

1. Pamper Mom with a Mother's Day Spa in Singapore 

With Mother's Day around the corner, why not pamper your mom with a special wellness retreat? The most memorable gifts for a busy mom include relaxing experiences in the city. Choose the M Hotel Singapore City Centre for Mother's Day spa and hydrotherapy treatments or let your mom soak in the city views by the pool at the Grand Copthorne . 

2. Mother's Day Dining in Singapore 

Whether you enjoy fragrant hawker markets or luxury table service, you needn't go far to get a good meal. Millennium Hotels are home to spectacular restaurants for a lazy brunch or dinner reservation. Treat your mum to the Orchard Hotel 's renowned seafood platters or enjoy candle-lit courses at M Hotel Singapore's dim sum joint . Your mom can elevate the evening with luxury cocktails under the stars at M Social's Beast & Butterflies.  

3. Book Creative and Cultural Experiences

If your mum has a penchant for something creative, Millennium Hotels hosts a range of immersive experiences to let their imagination shine. Choices include a perfume-making workshop with the elegant Bottled Up Happiness at M Social. The wider Singapore area is also bursting with spectacular Mother's Day activities, from the floral scents and crafts of Gardens by the Bay to retail therapy on Orchard Road. 

4. Head Outdoors for Mother's Day Activities in Singapore 

Get outdoors for Mother's Day and walk among Singapore's vibrant green spaces. From the Botanical Gardens to Fort Canning and Jurong Lake Gardens, you can enjoy hikes and strolls of all lengths and paces in the city. For younger moms and grandmothers, enjoy the gentle pram-friendly trails of Southern Ridges or let your kids run off steam at the coastal Marine Cove. Park Connectors are spread all across Singapore, providing well-trodden trails that connect beauty spots.

5. Book a Mother's Day Staycation in Singapore

When it comes to the perfect staycation, Millennium Hotels are packed with luxurious rooms, attentive service and leisure facilities. Let your mum set the schedule as she meanders from brunch to poolside relaxation, a spa session and maybe some live music at the M Hotel's J Bar . The M Social Singapore is packed with plentiful all-in-one experiences tailor-made for your mom, from sparkling gin cocktails to rooftop pools and boutique room design. 

Create memorable experiences at Millennium Hotels in Singapore this Mother’s Day, whether through luxurious pampering, cultural engagements, or simply spending quality time together. Find all our special offers to enhance the day even further here .

أفضل عرض من عالمي

قصص ذات صلة:

chinese tour guide singapore

The BEST buffet restaurants to eat like a king in Singapore!

Singapore, Asia, Buffet Restaurants

Events

الولايات المتحدة

What to do in nyc this festive season.

New York Christmas, New York New Year

IMAGES

  1. Tourist Spot In Chinatown Singapore

    chinese tour guide singapore

  2. Singapore Travel Guide and Travel Information

    chinese tour guide singapore

  3. 2019 SINGAPORE TRAVEL GUIDE (ITINERARY + BUDGET) BLOG

    chinese tour guide singapore

  4. Chinese tourists are No.1 in Singapore, Latest Singapore News

    chinese tour guide singapore

  5. Chinese travellers take 31 million trips via tour packages

    chinese tour guide singapore

  6. SINGAPO(ren)

    chinese tour guide singapore

VIDEO

  1. Chinatown Singapore 2022

  2. Exploring Singapore || Little india singapore full tour || Best street shopping in Singapore #travel

  3. Mr incredible becoming canny, your Chinese tour guide💀

  4. FIRST DAY TOUR AT ISLMAABAD CITY WD CHINESE TOUR GUIDE #pinaysecondwifeinpakistan

  5. hello Singapore! Travelling to Singapore from INDIA!

  6. Chinese Tour Guide Training Video

COMMENTS

  1. Singapore Private Tours

    Singapore Guides - Unique private tours with knowledgeable local guides. Stay Away from Crowds on a Private Tour. Find Your Local Guide Now.

  2. The 10 Best Things To Do

    Find the Best Things To Do in Singapore. Compare Prices and Book Online. Full Refund Available up to 24 Hours Before Your Tour Date. Quick & Easy Purchase Process.

  3. Singapore Tours with Local Private Tour Guides

    Singapore is an intoxicating blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Western cultures all wrapped up in a tidy package that stands out from any other Asian metropolis. Take a private Singapore tour with a local guide to discover the city's most compelling sights and hidden spots.

  4. Original Walk Through Chinatown Singapore

    Overview. The Chinatown Walk is our Signature Tour adapted for smaller, more intimate group sizes that are in line with the current Safe Distancing Measures! We will bring you into Chinatown - a tourist attraction, but at the same time, also a local living area. Over the period of the tour, we hope that you will see how our unique blend of ...

  5. Explore Chinatown Singapore

    tour days. Monday. Tuesday. Wednesday. Thursday. Friday. Saturday. Sunday. Immerse in the cultures, nature, artistry and modernity contained in the lively streets of Chinatown with our available guided tours.

  6. Private Tour Guide in Singapore

    Meet our team of expert local Singapore tour guides who will take you on a Singapore walking tour. We offer private and small group Singapore guided tours. ... Hi there, this is Gee Soo. I was born in Malaysia and I am Chinese educated. I have been living in Singapore since 1998 and it is my home. I officially became a Singapore citizen in 2011 ...

  7. Hello! Singapore Tours

    Includes Singapore River Cruise, local Hawker Centre dinner and a traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony. Available 7-days a week. ... All of our tours are delivered by our own in-house Singapore tour guides which went through a meticulous in-house training and development program. We monitor the quality of our tours, we reward excellence and we do ...

  8. Our Signature Chinatown Walk

    09:30am (3 hours) Availability : Tuesdays and Fridays. Chinatown MRT Station (OUTSIDE Exit A) Thian Hock Keng Temple. Max People : 25. The one that started it all! Our first and signature tour. Join us for a 3 Hour Walk through the heart of Singapore. You'll be introduced to the City in a Garden and sneak a peek at how the locals live, play ...

  9. Singapore: Private Tour with a Local Guide

    From $110.08 per person. Check availability. Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today. Give this as a gift. Tiffany. Explore Singapore like a local on this private customizable tour. Discover the city's hidden secrets as well as the main sightseeing points. Choose from a range of tour durations to suit your needs.

  10. Singapore: Private Tour w/ Locals

    Discover highlights & hidden gems of Singapore. See the best of the city in only 3 hours. Spot classics like Chinatown & Tiong Bahru Market. Enjoy a special treat at a local eatery (included) Experience the city to the max with a local expert. Full description. See Singapore at its best from the eyes of a local in just 3 hours.

  11. Singapore: Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide

    Full description. Take the mystery out of your visit to Singapore by exploring with a local on a private, customized tour. Work with your guide before your tour to create the perfect itinerary for you to discover this city and choose from a 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8-hour tour options. In the days before your tour, your guide will contact you to get a ...

  12. Singapore: 7-Hour Full Coverage Private Tour with a Local

    All journeys within Singapore are included and also small snacks, eg in the hawker centers. The tour lasts about 7 hours and you have enough time at the stations. Spend a day with a local guide who will show you the must-see highlights of the city and see Singapore from a different perspective. Get the latest recommendations for the rest of ...

  13. Book your own private tour guide in Singapore

    Whatever your passion, there's a private guide who's perfect for you. Our Singapore tour guides can create a 100% personalized tour to match your wishes. Just get in touch! Withlocals gives you: Verified locals! Choose your favorite. The options to personalize a tour! Just contact your favorite local.

  14. Singapore Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

    2-Day Singapore Discovery Tour. Singapore. 2 days. Day 1 - Explore the culture, diversity and history in the city centre. Day 2 - Travel out of the city centre to the surburb and experience the local way of life. FROM $799 / per group.

  15. Singapore: Private Tour with a Local Guide in Singapore

    Below are some of the top tours and experiences! Singapore: Universal Studios Singapore Entry Ticket. Singapore: Katong Local Food and City Highlights Tour. Singapore: Go City All-Inclusive Pass with 50+ Attractions. Singapore: Guided Boat Tour and Kelong Fish Farm Visit. Singapore: Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck E-Ticket.

  16. Chinatown Singapore Guide 2023: Best Things to do & eat

    Chinatown Singapore Guide Best Things to do. Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Walk the Pagoda Street. Check out the Chinatown Heritage Center museum. Eat at the Maxwell Food Centre. Try out hawkers at Complex, 335 Smith Street. Take pictures at the People's Park Complex. Visit the Shri Mariamman Temple.

  17. China

    Highlights: Tianxin Pavillon • Phoenix Ancient Town • Tuo River Cruise • Tianmen Cave • Zhangjiajie Glass Plank • Tianzi Mountain by Bailong Elevator • Helong Garden • Golden Whip Stream • Ten-Mile Gallery • Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge • Huanan Musuem. From $1,488*. View Full Itinerary CHN-GT8DHDA.

  18. Discover the Best of Singapore with Local Tour Guides: Plan Your

    Our local private tour guides know Singapore and the surrounding region very well, speak the local English, Malay, Tamil, Chinese language plus the other languages, too, and can help you to understand the local people of Singapore, culture, traditions, and history better while you are in Singapore. During the tour around Singapore, you will not ...

  19. Former China tour guide Yang Yin who cheated S'pore widow of $1.1m

    SINGAPORE - Former China tour guide Yang Yin, who was convicted of cheating a wealthy Singaporean widow of $1.1 million, was deported on Thursday (June 9) after being released from prison.

  20. Tourist Guide Singapore

    Booking tour. STGS Tours Pte Ltd is the wholly own Travel Agent of the Society of Tourist Guides (Singapore), incorporated on 4 Mar 2015 under Singapore Tourism Board Travel Agent Licence 02701 to develop and provide tours in Singapore. See more.

  21. Former tour guide Yang Yin, who cheated elderly widow of S$1.1m ...

    The Chinese national was deported on Jun 9, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said on Friday (Jun 10) in response to CN. SINGAPORE: Former tour guide Yang Yin, who misappropriated S ...

  22. Best tours in Singapore

    An Award-winning Singapore tour agency, providing our customers with the best Singapore tours.. If you are traveling to Singapore and are looking for the best, award-winning and most authentic local Singapore tours, look no further.. Choose Oriental Travel and Tours now and we will offer you an experience of a lifetime during your Singapore vacation.

  23. Our Programmes

    This course is co-organized with the Singapore Chinese Tourist Guide Association and is accredited by the Singapore Tourism Board. ... (WSQ) before they can take the Singapore Tourism Board's qualification test for tour guides to obtain their Tourist Guide License. Course Schedule. Upcoming Dates: TBA. Time: 9.00am to 1.00pm. Training Format:

  24. Things to Do in Chinatown Singapore

    Try stingray, satay on skewers, kway teow, roasted duck, and Hainanese chicken rice. You will also find many boutiques, wine bars, and souvenir streets. Chinatown Complex Food Centre. With more ...

  25. Top 10 Mainland China Tours 2024

    6-day luxury trip to Shangri-La in Dali, Lijiang, Yunnan (Encountering Cangshan Erhai Lake & Climbing Jade Dragon Snow Mountain & Viewing Rizhao Jinshan Mountain) Private group. Book now for tomorrow. 4.8 50+ booked. S$ 1,081.39.

  26. Tourist Guide Training Programme (In English or Mandarin)

    Course Fee before funding, inclusive of 9% GST : $6,104.00. WSQ Tourist Guide Programme. This course is co-organized with the Singapore Chinese Tourist Guide Association and is accredited by the Singapore Tourism Board. Provides a comprehensive training opportunity for people from all walks of life who are interested in obtaining the Singapore ...

  27. STB shortens tourist guide licensing course to 120 hours

    East Asia. East Asia. Aspiring tour guides can now get licensed faster, with their training course shortened to 120 hours, down from the current 220. The aim is to attract people from different ...

  28. Celebrate Mother's Day in Singapore

    The wider Singapore area is also bursting with spectacular Mother's Day activities, from the floral scents and crafts of Gardens by the Bay to retail therapy on Orchard Road. ... Green Adventures in the Garden City: A Guide to Sustainable Travel in Singapore. Asia, Singapore. استشكف. 2024 Chinese New Year - The Year of the Dragon ...