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Traveling back in time at the “pink diamond” museum and savoring fine cuisine in a Peranakan paradise are among experiences in Singapore for gaining understanding of local culture.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has suggested four unique experiences for tourists to learn about the lives of local people in Singapore—experiences that are often overlooked by travel agencies.
The Intan
Located in the Katong-Joo Chiat neighborhood, The Intan is a private museum described by the STB as a “precious gem” that transports visitors back to the golden age of Peranakan culture in the early 20th century.
The 100-square-meter museum houses the richest collection of Peranakan artifacts in Singapore, with more than 5,000 items. Alvin Yapp, the museum’s owner, spent over 30 years collecting these treasures.
It would be a mistake to visit Singapore without learning about Peranakan culture, which dates back to the 15th century in the Strait of Malacca, STB said. According to legend, a Chinese princess married the Sultan who ruled this land. Her servants and entourage settled there, marrying the locals. Their descendants became known as the Peranakan. Some of the first generation migrated south, eventually settling in what is now Singapore.
The Intan, meaning “pink diamond” in Malay, symbolizes Alvin’s lifelong passion for this heritage. He bought the house, which is now the museum, 20 years ago, retaining its original structure of a ground floor and mezzanine.
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The Intan Museum is planted with lots of green trees outside. Photo by Phuong Anh |
The ground floor features a worship room, a reception area, and a kitchen, catering to visitors who wish to enjoy Peranakan cuisine. The upstairs houses valuable antiques, including gold jewelry. Alvin has placed numerous trees outside to limit sunlight exposure, helping preserve the antiques longer.
The museum accepts visitors by appointment only and offers various tour options: a 60-minute tea time or a 3-hour lunch or dinner experience.
It is located at 69 Joo Chiat Terrace and is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Admire Peranakan heritage in cultural quarters
Strolling through the streets of Katong-Joo Chiat and Kampong Gelam, visitors will encounter colorful architectural works that represent a unique blend of Asian and European cultures.
A typical example of this style is the heritage shophouses in Katong-Joo Chiat, which is the center of Peranakan culture for Singaporeans.
The facades of these houses attract visitors with their vibrant colors, such as fluorescent pink, orange, and green. According to the STB, these colors must be registered with the government before repainting.
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Famous shophouses in Singapore. Photo by Singapore Tourism Board |
Built in the 1840s, these buildings typically have two or three stories, with the ground floor used for business and the upper floors for living.
Another characteristic of shophouses is their narrow but deep façade. The first-floor door often features a peephole the size of a coaster, allowing the owner to observe guests at the door. The interiors are spacious, adorned with imported European ceramic tiles and sophisticated wooden furniture.
Today, many of these heritage buildings have been restored and transformed into trendy cafes, boutique hotels, museums, and shops.
According to the STB, this area is not only ideal for photography but also offers an opportunity to explore and immerse oneself in the ancient cultural heritage of the locals.
Enjoy Peranakan Cuisine at Rumah Bebe
Rumah Bebe is considered a miniature paradise for those interested in learning about Peranakan culture.
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Rumah Bebe is known as a miniature Peranakan paradise in Singapore. Photo by Singapore Tourism Board |
Visitors can shop for porcelain, fabrics, and traditional costumes, have lunch, participate in beading workshops, make cakes, and explore the miniature museum within Rumah Bebe’s two-story space.
This destination is located in a shophouse in the Katong-Joo Chiat area.
Cuisine is the “bright star” at Rumah Bebe, according to the STB. Visitors can dine in the area near the main door or opt for takeout. In addition to a fixed menu of traditional Peranakan dishes, the shop offers daily specials.
The dish that has made the restaurant famous is the spicy Beef Rendang, marinated with various spices and stewed until tender in rich coconut milk, served with white rice. Another popular dish is Otak-otak, a spicy fish custard flavored with aromatic herbs and spices, infused in coconut milk and wrapped in banana leaf before going into the grill.
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Otak-otak is served at Rumah Bebe. Photo courtesy of Rumah Bebe |
Guests can end their meal with a refreshing lemongrass and ginger drink and kueh bingka made from tapioca.
Rumah Bebe is located at 113 East Coast Road and is open from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. from Thursday to Sunday.
Heritage hotels
For travelers seeking an accommodation experience that blends traditional values with modern comforts at an affordable price, the CUBE Boutique Capsule Hotel is an ideal choice.
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The facade of CUBE Boutique Capsule Hotel in Singapore. Photo courtesy of the hotel |
Located in a shophouse in Kampong Gelam, the hotel offers full amenities, including 24/7 reception service, discovery tours, breakfast, and a co-working space.
Rooms come in various options, from single beds to king-sized double beds, ensuring privacy and quietness with soundproof walls. The hotel is situated at 54-55 Bussorah Street.
For those desiring more luxurious services, Hotel Indigo in Katong-Joo Chiat is sure to meet your needs.
Guests can enjoy the infinity pool and relax on sun beds on the rooftop, with views of the heritage district. The hotel’s prime location, close to many restaurants, cafes, and bars, makes it convenient for guests to explore local cuisine and culture.
It is located at 86 East Coast Road.
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