
Explore the Lion City and spend a day in colourful Chinatown – one of our fave neighbourhoods in Singapore to take the kids!
Want to explore Singapore with the kids and find activities with lots of local flavour? No matter the time of year, Chinatown is always worth visiting with the kids, especially during festivals like Chinese New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival! Discover the history behind that trendy and touristy veneer, chow down on some great street eats, and meander along the roads, soaking up the Chinese charm. And don’t forget to use this guide to Chinatown with kids for some happy family exploring opportunities!
How to get to Chinatown
Chinatown’s key attractions are also within walking distance from the MRT station, so we highly recommend hopping over via the Northeast line. Find out how else you can get to this heritage neighbourhood here.
Things to do in Chinatown: Attractions, museums and temples
1. Meander around the museums

Back in the 1800s, Chinatown was full of interesting characters, secret societies and some seedy establishments, with the area populated by merchants and migrants of Hokkien, Teochew and Cantonese descent. It was a melting pot of cultures, and with it came the chance to name your poison – be it gambling, clan association or opium. But it wasn’t just for the poor. The rich frequented the area too, to get their fix and go about their business.
Nowhere else is the evidence of this bygone era more available than at the Chinatown Heritage Centre on 48 Pagoda Street. This informative museum provides a very real window into the lives and living conditions of these early Chinese migrants. The kids will be transported to a whole other era. (Sadly, it’s closed at the moment until further notice).
Another kid-friendly option not to miss out on in Chinatown is the Singapore City Gallery. Telling the story of how Singapore transformed itself over the last 50 years, there are loads of interactive activities for the kids that are not only super-fun but are sure to teach them a thing or two about the place they call home. And the best bit? Admission to the museum is free!
One final place to check out with the kids isn’t strictly about Chinatown, but we love it all the same! Take the kids to the little-known gem: the Singapore Musical Box Museum. You’ll get a lowdown on the history behind the music box and why Singapore played such a key role in developing musical boxes in Southeast Asia. If the kids fancy owning their music box, the museum also has an accompanying shop with many options to pick from. While they used to be located in the heart of Chinatown, they have now moved to a new location just a short walk from Chinatown and definitely worthwhile a little jaunt — weather willing!
Got a budding history buff? Then you’ll want to check out the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore. Fuk Tak Chi Museum displays more than 200 artefacts donated by former residents of Chinatown. The building is an example of restored architecture.
Chinatown Heritage Centre, 48 Pagoda Street, Singapore 059207 (Currently closed till further notice)
Singapore City Gallery, 45 Maxwell Road, The URA Centre, Singapore 069118
Singapore Musical Box Museum, 37A Circular Road, Singapore 049393
Fuk Tak Chi Museum, 76 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 048464
2. Explore gorgeous temples (and a mosque!)

Don’t forget to dip into the area’s other cultural offerings. And no cultural trip to Chinatown with kids is complete without visiting some of Singapore’s famous temples. Conveniently located across from Maxwell Food Centre is the beautiful Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum on 288 South Bridge Road. The design was based on architectural forms popular during the Tang Dynasty and the Buddhist Mandala (representation of the Buddhist universe). If you want to see the namesake Sacred Buddha Tooth Relic, head to the top floor. It’s encased in an impressive stupa of 320kg of gold donated by devotees.
Telok Ayer Street is home to the impressive Taoist temple, Thian Hock Keng. You’ll often see school kids here as it’s a popular cultural excursion. Why? Well, this is the oldest and most important of the Hokkien temples in Singapore and has been around since 1842! You can join a temple tour or wander through this colourful cultural gem to marvel at the carvings. Or, you could light some incense and say a prayer together.

Who’d have thought it, but Singapore‘s oldest Hindu temple is in Chinatown. Sri Mariamman Temple on 244 South Bridge Road was established in 1827 and is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mariamman, known for her power to cure epidemic illnesses and diseases. Figurative sculptures of gods, goddesses, and mythological beasts decorate its exterior. If you’re visiting around October and November, the Theemithi (fire-walking ceremony) is always worth a watch.
Take a few steps down after Sri Mariamman Temple, and you’ll face Masjid Jamae, one of the oldest mosques in Singapore. This national monument stands out along the South Bridge Road stretch for its unique architectural design. Besides facilitating official religious activities, Jamae Mosque also frequently holds seminars and discussions for Muslims and non-Muslims. Only in Singapore will you see a Buddhist temple, a Hindu temple, and a mosque located near each other. That speaks volumes of the country’s multiculturalism!
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, 288 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058840
Thian Hock Keng, 158 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068613
Sri Mariamman Temple, 244 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058793
Masjid Jamae, 218 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058767
3. Go on a walking tour to check out incredible murals!

You and the kiddos are going to love lapping up the art on display at Chinatown. Simply head over for a walking tour along Mohammed Ali Lane! You’ll spot another snapshot of history — a quirky scene of Singapore’s street vendors from Singapore’s early years of independence in the 1960s. Local artist Yip Yew Chong did these artworks, and they are absolutely stunning. Are you wondering why this lane is called Mohammed Ali Lane and if it has anything to do with the boxing champion? Find out for yourself.
3 Mohammed Ali Lane, Singapore 068980
4. Stock up on books for little readers

It’s time to wind down now and reflect on your Chinatown kid-ventures. Do it in air-conditioned respite at the public library, library@chinatown, on the fourth level of Chinatown Point on 133 New Bridge Road. You’ll find a great Chinese-themed book collection and a fab children’s section here. If you’re on the other side of Chinatown, head to Littered with Books on 20 Duxton Road. The kids’ section of this cosy, quaint little bookstore is in the rear of the store. While you’re around the area, check out Duxton Kids at 75 Duxton Road. The sleek retail store stocks a biography series to inspire the little ones. Looking for a bookstore with a great range of local reads for kids? Head to the Book Bar on 57 Duxton Road if you’re in the area. Kiddos can lap up the books while you indulge in the libation of your choice at the “bar” section, which offers coffee, tea, and some booze! Fancy some secondhand picks instead? Head to Books Beyond Borders for their unique selection of gently-used books. You can also get their interesting merch such as journals, keychains and more for a good cause, as the bookstore is on a mission to support school projects in Nepal.
library@chinatown, 133 New Bridge Rd, #04-12, Chinatown Point, Singapore 059413
Littered with Books, 20 Duxton Rd, Singapore 089486
Book Bar, 57 Duxton Road, Singapore 089521
Books Beyond Borders, 33 Erskine Road, #01-08, Singapore 069333
5. Go on a staycation

Who would’ve thought Chinatown would also be where you can go for a sweet staycay? There are a few options that you can consider. Hotel Mono is a chic boutique hotel in the heart of Chinatown with rooms spacious enough to fit a family of five. The hotel’s exterior has managed to convince us to stay there, that’s for sure! Do you prefer somewhere cosy and wallet-friendly? Heritage Collection on Chinatown is your best bet. Plus, it’s within walking distance of the MRT and many food places. If you’re out to impress, then book a stay at The Scarlet Singapore – opulent and one of the finest boutique hotels. Best to leave the kids out of this stay! Also, you might want to check out Mondrian Singapore, a luxe new addition to the Chinatown precinct. Looking for something out there? How about checking the family into a capsule hotel? CUBE Family Boutique Capsule Hotel Chinatown is a unique family hotel in Singapore that’s tweaking the capsule hotel experience for young families with kids!
Hotel Mono, 18 Mosque Street, Singapore 059498
Heritage Collection, 227 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058776
Scarlet Singapore, 33 Erskine Road, Singapore 069333
Mondrian Singapore, 16A Duxton Hill, Singapore 089970
CUBE Family Boutique Capsule, 64A/B, 66A/B, 68A/B Smith St, Level 2 & 3, Singapore 058967
Where to eat in Chinatown
1. Kok Sen Restaurant

After all that exploring, you’ve earned the right to refuel! You’re in the right place because Chinatown is packed with places to try out Singapore’s essential Asian dishes. If you’re seeking a spot for lunch, try the zi char-style food options at Kok Sen Restaurant along Keong Siak Road. This is a classic family-style restaurant with familiar Chinese fare, from sweet and sour fish to stir-fries and more.
Kok Sen Restaurant, 4 Keong Saik Rd, Singapore 089110
2. The Wizard’s Brew

The Potterheads are in for a real treat at the recently opened The Wizard’s Brew. Your budding witch or wizard will love the Hogwarts-themed cafe and the light bites available and for the older Harry Potter fans, check out what their mixologists have brewing at the bar! Even their desserts are Harry Potter-themed – their Baby Root is a strawberry shortcake with a chocolate recreation of the Mandrake. Bet you didn’t expect to find something Harry Potter in Chinatown!
The Wizard’s Brew, 10B Trengganu St, Singapore 058464
3. Potato Head Keong Siak Road
Did you know Singapore’s Potato Head branch along Keong Siak Road has an amazing kid-friendly space on its second floor? Expect the same whimsically painted walls and sculptures, but throw in some fun little burgers on legs, brightly coloured bunting and high chairs, and you’ve got your new weekend hangout with the kids. Check out its brilliant brunch menu: it’ll be hard to tear the kids away from the Dizzy Rascal kids’ burger and a milkshake. We love this restaurant in Chinatown!
Potato Head Keong Siak Road, 36 Keong Saik Rd, Singapore 089143
4. Tong Heng Confectionary
Feeling like something sweet? Indulge in egg tarts at the uber old-school Tong Heng Confectionery on 285 South Bridge Road. There are no thickeners like custard powder or cornflour in these babies – the pure egg custard is the reason why the egg tarts here are still the best in Singapore.
Tong Heng Confectionery, 285 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058833
5. Mei Heong Yuen
For something icy cool, check out Mei Heong Yuen on 63-67 Temple Street. Aside from their traditional Chinese desserts, they’ve got a cool line of desserts called Snow Ice. They’re similar to the Korean Bingsu and with flavours like milk tea, chocolate, and banana chocolate, it’s gonna be a hit with the kiddos!
Mei Heong Yuen, 63-67 Temple St, #63-67, Singapore 058611
6. Nanyang Old Coffee

Or grab a cup of kopi at Nanyang Old Coffee on 268 South Bridge Road, along with some traditional sweets. They also sell some sweet merch you can take home like saches of their brand of coffee, coffee sets, spreads, and even cooking sauces! Ever wanted to learn how to make kopi the traditional way? They also have workshops so you can learn how to pour yourself a cuppa without having to go to the kopitiam!
Nanyang Old Coffee, 268 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058817
7. East Inspirations Shop
If a traditional Chinese tea party hits the spot for you and the kids, head to East Inspirations at 256 South Bridge Road, where you can book a Yesteryear Tea Experience. Take your pick from teas served from the personal collection of the owner, Mr Cheong. He and his friendly staff will happily share tea, stories and hospitality as part of the experience. Kids welcome!
East Inspirations, 256 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058805
8. Amoy Street Food Centre
Amoy Street Food Centre was opened in 1983 and has been constantly undergoing changes and renovations. It boasts a wide range of stalls with both foods from older generations to newer, more modern stalls selling all kinds of food items from age-old favourites like char kway teow to oyster cake and much more! It’s the place to get your fix of local food and slurp up on some freshly squeezed sugar cane juice.
Amoy Street Food Centre, 7 Maxwell Rd, Singapore 069111
9. Spring Court

This homegrown restaurant is actually the oldest Chinese restaurant in Singapore! Established by Ho Loke Yee in 1929, Spring Court is now run by Mike Ho. You won’t want to miss their traditional dim sum and ala carte offerings. Plus, the iconic restaurant is actually a four-storey shophouse with an elevator — making it a great location to host events and more! They also offer a separate vegetarian halal set menu (great for corporate groups who need to accommodate Muslim colleagues!).
Spring Court, 52-56 Upper Cross Street, Singapore 058348
10. 99 Old Trees Durian
Do you love that famous stinky fruit? Then 99 Old Trees Durian is for you! The team sources only the prized pick from local and neighbouring shores, bringing you the crème de la crème of the durian season! You can order from them directly and choose to pick it up at their store near Chinatown or have your stash delivered.
99 Old Trees Durian, 1 Teo Hong Rd, Singapore 088321
11. Segar Restaurant

Located within Chinatown Point, Segar Restaurant offers some yummy halal local cuisine. Tuck into their classics like their assam fish head curry, fluffy omelettes, spicy kangkong veggies and more.
Segar Restaurant, 133 New Bridge Rd, #B2-39 – 41, Singapore 059413
12. Restaurant Espoir

Looking for some posh nosh in Chinatown? Restaurant Espoir, located on Amoy Street, is a modern European restaurant serving up Malayan infused menu. Try their beef tataki capellini, which features tender beef tataki paired with their signature green curry, which brings a bold and aromatic twist to the capellini. That’s not all. They also invite you and the kiddos to experience the best of theatre and dining in an immersive culinary journey following Le Petit Chef — the world’s smallest chef! Their weekend lunch shows are tailored to be kid-friendly.
Restaurant Espoir, 70 Amoy St, Singapore 069889
Where to shop in Chinatown: Best malls & shops

First up, head to the famous market on Pagoda Street. This is your go-to for colourful cheongsams, parasols, Chinese lion puppets and gifts with a Singapore twist. It really comes alive in the evening, but you’ll still find plenty of interesting stalls open if you come to Chinatown for a daytime adventure.
Tintin fans will definitely love exploring the collectables and memorabilia scattered about The Tintin Shop on 28 Pagoda Street. From postcards and figurines to tote bags, you can pick up official merch while the kiddos get to watch episodes from the animated series in-store.
For a uniquely Singaporean experience with the kids, try the Chinatown Complex on Smith Street. Filled with small stores selling everything from clothing (including Chinese traditional costumes) to lanterns, this place is too cool for (old) school. If you still fancy hitting a mall, don’t miss out on Chinatown Point. Another place to shop up a storm is Yue Hwa Chinese Products, Singapore’s only full-range department store specialising in Chinese food, medicine, silk and gifts.
Pagoda Street Market, Pagoda Street 42, Singapore 059201
The Tintin Shop, 274 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058823
Chinatown Complex, 335 Smith St, Singapore 050335
Chinatown Point, 133 New Bridge Rd, Singapore 059413
Yue Hwa Chinese Products, 70 Eu Tong Sen St, Singapore 059805
There’s plenty more for kids and families to see in Chinatown, so be sure to come back for another excursion to check out Ann Siang Hill, Bukit Pasoh and Telok Ayer, too!