Singapore: Peranakan Culture, Cuisine & Hidden Treasures
North East Singapore, Singapore
Discover the unique culture of the Peranakan people in Singapore. Visit the iconic shophouses along Koon Seng Road, step foot into a private Peranakan museum, and sample Nyonya kuehs and tea.
Peranakan Culture Guided Tour in Katong and Joo Chiat, Singapore
This guided tour explores the unique Peranakan culture in Singapore’s Katong and Joo Chiat neighborhoods, suitable for all ages.
Highlights
- Discover the unique culture of the Peranakan people in Singapore
- Explore the colorful enclaves of Katong and Joo Chiat while learning their history
- Visit iconic pastel-colored shophouses along Koon Seng Road and take photos
- Enter a private Peranakan museum featuring traditional artifacts like kebaya and beaded shoes
- Sample traditional Nyonya snacks paired with Peranakan-themed tea
Description
Begin the tour at Koon Seng Road to admire the pastel-colored shophouses built in the 1920s, once home to a diverse Peranakan community. These visually distinctive houses are notable examples of Singapore’s heritage architecture.
Next, visit a private Peranakan museum, originally a Peranakan family home, to learn about traditional clothing and cultural artifacts including the kebaya, kerosang, and beaded shoes.
Walk through the Katong and Joo Chiat neighborhoods, discover the link between Katong and sea turtles, and learn how the area developed from a wealthy Peranakan settlement to a contemporary district with cafes, historical shophouses, and cultural vibrancy.
Sample authentic Nyonya snacks and chewy rice dumplings from Kim Choo Kueh Chang, a local establishment operating since 1945, during a Peranakan-themed tea session. Explore the range of batik fabrics available for purchase as a lasting souvenir.
The tour concludes with an introduction to Laksa, a spicy coconut noodle soup that represents the Malay-Chinese fusion characteristic of Peranakan cuisine.
The tour requires a minimum of four participants to commence.
Includes
- Guided tour of Katong and Joo Chiat neighborhoods
- Entry to a private Peranakan museum
- Peranakan-themed tea session with Nyonya snack sampling
Excludes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Important Information
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for a moderate amount of walking
- Bring a camera to capture the colorful architecture and cultural sites
- Carry water to stay hydrated, especially on hot days
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
