Singapore's Chinatown Free Tour: Secrets of the Back Alleys

Step into Kreta Ayer, the cultural heart of Chinatown, where historic streets and preserved shophouses tell stories of Singapore’s past. We will venture into hidden back alleys brought to life by local artist Yip Yew Chong’s murals, depicting scenes from old Chinatown—from family life to the traditional trades and businesses that once thrived here. Along the way, discover the origins of Chinatown’s street names and the communities and colourful personalities behind them.

Next, we’ll take a sheltered stroll along the latest underground link to Telok Ayer, where you can admire a wall mural by local artist Belinda Low, depicting Chinatown as it was in days gone by.

From here, we’ll step into the story of Telok Ayer — the oldest sub-cultural district of Chinatown, where many of Singapore’s early Chinese immigrants first settled. Along the way, we’ll visit Thian Hock Keng, one of Singapore’s oldest Taoist temples, and Fuk Tak Chi Museum, located at the entrance of Amoy Hotel. Together, these landmarks bring to life the faith, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit that shaped Singapore’s early Chinese community.