The Joo Chiat/Katong area is a microcosm of what Singapore truly is – a melting pot of cultures, where you can visit a mosque, a Catholic church and an ornately beautiful Hindu and Chinese temple – all of which date pre-World War II. But what really gives this area its charm are the rows of beautifully preserved shophouses, especially on Koon Seng Road. To find out more about Peranakan culture, head to Katong Antique House. Don’t forget to indulge in a laksa, a Chinese interpretation of Malay curry that’s been dubbed the original fusion dish of Singapore. The best place to tuck into this spicy, rice noodle dish is at 328 Katong Laksa (53 East Coast Road).  

Location

A residential area for mostly wealthy Peranakans and Eurasians at the turn of the 20th century, the Joo Chiat and Katong areas are arguably some of the most underrated tourist spots in Singapore. Rows of well-conserved pre-war, double-storey shophouses with intricate ceramic tiles and colourful facades give the area a unique charm.

Image: Singapore Tourism Board

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