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SINGAPORE

Telling the Singapore Stories

I was born and raised in Singapore and have the privilege of having lived through a good part of the history of modern Singapore itself. It’s been a remarkable journey to witness the changing landscape and the evolving characteristics of this nation.

As we move forward, we can lose many of the nuances and connections that make up the rich tapestry of the people, places and stories of Singapore. This is especially so with the multiculturalism of the various ethnicities that make up the population.

Here are some of these reflections that hopefully can provide a better appreciation and deeper understanding of our community.

Knowledgeable Experienced Local ,Tour Guide Michael
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GET TO KNOW YOUR SINGAPORE

Many Singaporeans have fond memories of listening to their parents, grandparents, or other relatives recount stories from their eventful past. These personal anecdotes offer a window into a not-so-distant era. We learned about Singapore’s history in school through Social Studies, which provided background knowledge of our nation’s journey. However, for many of us, learning more of our heritage and understanding the importance of preserving our collective stories often takes a backseat as we focus on building our careers and families.

What was Singapore like before the arrival of Sir Stamford Raffles? Who were the early immigrants, and what motivated them to settle here? How was life then? Who are Pickering, Crawford, Alkaff, and Eu Tong Sen, after whom roads are named? These are just a few questions that make our history so fascinating. If you like to know about these and more, here are information that can help you.

Choose one of the three option buttons below to start your local learning journey.

1950s smith street. History
smith street in 1970s. Vibrate
smith street today. Colourful
History and Cultural Websites
Museums and Heritage Centres
Walking Tours

GET TO KNOW OUR SINGAPORE

If you have not been to Singapore or want to come again for a more immersive experience, you can also look at the 3 buttons above to start your planning.

To help you further, here are helpful links below to get the latest information on what’s happening in town.

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History of Singapore in 5 min

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Why you should come to Singapore

remove black backgro

What is happening in Singapore

Beautiful Singapore waterfront
Awesome view of Singapore from sky
Iconic Singapore merlion
Magical Gardens by the Bay

History and Cultural Websites

And where to find them

Besides having to spend time reading hefty books about Singapore’s history and stories, one of the easiest and most practical ways to learn is by exploring the wealth of heritage websites available online. It’s quick and convenient — you don’t need to travel to the actual site, and you can log in anytime, anywhere. Many of these platforms go beyond static text and photos, offering engaging, interactive features such as videos, immersive images, and virtual tours that let you trace Singapore’s development through time.

These websites come from many forms — from official government portals, to narratives curated by museums and heritage institutions, to personal blogs and even commercial sites dedicated to preserving and sharing Singapore’s past. Below are some of the websites that you can start your journey with.

History and Cultural Websites
national museum
vivid sri mariamann temple
inviting peranakan museum
colouful singapore shop houses

Museums and Heritage Centres

And where to find them

Our history, especially during the nation-building era, is relatively short. Luckily, Singapore is rich in museums and heritage centres that remind us of our past. However, many Singaporeans find these places less inviting, missing out on their true value. Beyond just housing historical artifacts, these spaces connect the past with the present, inspiring future generations.

Historical museums help us understand our roots, the struggles and victories that shaped Singapore, and our relationship with neighboring countries. Other museums focus on creativity and innovation, encouraging critical thinking and self-expression. These engaging, interactive spaces make learning about history, art, and science fun and accessible for all ages.

Click below for a list of museums and heritage centres, along with brief descriptions to help you explore these cultural gems.

Museums and Heritage Centres

serenely buddhist temple
intriguing worhip culture
charm of kampong glam
omani display. life in early Singapore

Walking/Experiential Tours

And where to find them in Singapore

Walking tours are a unique and immersive way to learn about the past and present of selected places in Singapore. It is usually done by a knowledgeable local guide, and it allows you to interact with the guide for an immersive experience. This brings the city’s past to life, sharing fascinating stories, historical anecdotes, and cultural nuggets.

Experiential tours are for those who want more than just walking around and prefer to experience the journey.

The link below brings you to some of the types of walking and experiential tours that are available.

Link to Tours Page
great walking tour

LIST OF HISTORY AND CULTURE WEBSITES

LinksPurpose LinksPurpose
Roots (by National Heritage Board)One-stop destination with a wealth of information on the National Collection, heritage trails, and multimedia content. Singapore JourneyLet’s get to know Singapore better and ways you can take part in activities, make friends or contribute to your community!  For new citizen  
National Archives of SingaporeIts “Archives Online” portal allows you to search and access an extensive digital repository of government records, oral history interviews, photographs, maps, and audio-visual recordings. KAYACelebrating our Singaporean identity
National Library Board OnLine CollectionThe NLB provides access to a wealth of digitized materials through its “Singapore Pages” and other online collections. This includes rare books, manuscripts, early newspapers, and periodicals, National Arts CouncilChampion the arts sector that inspires society, sparks creativity and connects Singapore to the world.
BiblioAsia by National Library BoardA quarterly e-magazine with articles on Singapore’s history, culture, and heritage, often drawing on its own rich collections. Catch.SGCultural Events by the NAC
SG101Stories of Singapore’s journey as a nation, and helps Singaporeans understand what makes Singapore it is today, and what makes us Singaporean.   Civil Service College – reimaging Singapore pageReimaging Singapore
HeritageSG by National Heritage BoardFrom museums to groundbreaking initiatives in archaeology, digital services, and beyond, our team blends immersive storytelling with cutting-edge technology – think virtual reality and interactive displays The various Heritage Centres.Focused look into the history and culture of Singapore’s different ethnic communities. These sites often feature online exhibitions, digital archives, and educational resources that tell the unique stories of these communities and their contributions to the nation’s development.
MeWatch – Stories of YesteryearCollection of videos featuring Singapore in the olden days.   

LIST OF MUSEUMS AND HERITAGE CENTRES

Army Museum Of SingaporeNot available National Gallery SingaporeEXPERIENCE ART YOUR  WAY
Art Science MuseumOur mission is to explore where art, science, culture and technology come together. It is here at the intersection of art and science that innovation and new ideas are formed. National Museum of SingaporeThe National Museum of Singapore is your first stop to discovering the history of Singapore and experiencing the diverse voices, perspectives and stories of the people who make us who we are.
Asian Civilisations MuseumThe museum in Asia with a pan-Asian scope.  ACM focuses on the many historical connections between cultures and civilisations in Asia, and between Asia and the world Ngee Ann Cultural CentreTo raise Singapore’s cultural profile, particularly in the Chinese culture, especially Teochew values and art, as well as, improve public access to the arts.
Buddha Tooth Relic MuseumTo play a vital role in the Buddhist, cultural and heritage landscape in Singapore and be an outstanding centre of Buddhist art and culture. NUS Baba HouseManaged by NUS Museum, Baba House facilitates research into architectural conservation, urban and social history, and cultural hybridity.
Changi Chapel and MuseumThe museum’s narrative is centred on remembrance and reflection, encouraging visitors to contemplate both the hardships that the internees underwent, as well as their courage and resilience in the face of difficulties. NUS MuseumNUS Museum’s mission is to actively facilitate intellectual and cultural life within and beyond the University. With a distinct focus on Asia.
Children’s Museum SingaporeWe aspire to be a place of wonder and joyful learning for all children to engage with Singapore and the world. Peranakan MuseumPresenting the cross-cultural art of Peranakan communities in Southeast Asia
Chinatown Heritage Centreo preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Chinatown through immersive experiences, educational programmes and community engagement. Police Heritage CentreTemporary closed till 2nd half of 2026
Chinese Heritage Centre – NTUTo advance knowledge and understanding of the ethnic Chinese communities in different parts of the world Red Dot Design MuseumRed Dot Design Museum Singapore is home to the Red Dot Award for Design Concept. “A Preview of the Future” exhibition features over 500 innovative concepts and award-winning designs that shape how we live, work, and play.
Civil Defence Heritage GalleryWe are committed to protecting and saving lives and property, to make Singapore a safe and secure home for all. Reflections at Bukit ChanduReflections at Bukit Chandu is a World War Two interpretative centre that commemorates the battle of Pasir Panjang and the men of the Malay Regiment who fought in it, as well as the history of Bukit Chandu itself.
Eurasian Heritage GalleryPreserves and promotes awareness of Eurasian heritage in Singapore and supports the less fortunate through community initiatives. Republic of Singapore Air Force MuseumTo inspire everyone to defend what it means to eb Singaporean: our home, our identity and our way of life.
Former Ford FactoryNot available Singapore Art MuseumSAM will present contemporary art from a Southeast Asian perspective in active dialogue, discovery and collaboration with our constituents; through our collection, research, exhibitions and programmes.
Fort Canning Heritage GalleryTracing more than 700 years of history, the Fort Canning Heritage Gallery offers you an informative and in-depth overview of the rich heritage of Fort Canning Hill. Singapore Chinese Cultural CentreThe Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre collaborates with arts and cultural groups and community partners to promote and develop local Chinese culture.
Fort Siloso (Sentosa)The on-site military museum contains a treasure trove of WWII memorabilia, including coastal guns, the remains of fortified military structures and tunnels, complete with wax figures of Japanese & British soldiers at the Surrender Chambers. Singapore Chinese Opera Museum Its aim is to elevate the standard of local opera performances, promote traditional opera to the younger generation, and strengthen exchanges between the local and overseas opera circles.
Fuk Tak Chi MuseumConverted into a museum in 1998, it features about 200 artefacts contributed by the residents of Chinatown. It is now part of a heritage trail to help Singaporeans understand the lives of early immigrants in Singapore. Singapore City Gallery (URA)Discover how Singapore was transformed from a fledging nation in the 1960s to one of the most liveable cities in Asia at this highly immersive and interactive gallery that features urban planning challenges and the innovative solutions that tackle them. 
Hell’s MuseumDiscover how concepts behind the graphic representations of sins and punishments in the afterlife evolved as ancient civilisations shared their cultures across time and space Singapore Discovery CentreSDC’s guests learn about what makes Singapore tick and gain insights into Singapore’s challenges, dreams and aspirations.
Heritage Conservation Centre (HCC)Pride in our past legacy for our future Singapore Maritime GalleryExplore Singapore’s rich maritime heritage, discover the vital link between the maritime industry and our daily lives, and witness how Singapore continues to thrive as a global hub port and international maritime center.
Heritage Museum at Singapore Botanic GardensThe 82-hectare Gardens holds a unique and significant place in the history of Singapore and the region. Through the botanical and horticultural work carried out today, it will continue to play an important role as a leading tropical botanical institute. Singapore Musical Box MuseumDiscover the antique musical boxes in the first musical box museum in Singapore.
Images of SingaporeMadame Tussauds Singapore is the ultimate entertainment destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the world of fame. Sports MuseumWhere sports history meets the future. Come and explore a history rich with artefacts, memorabilia, interactivity and stories from the greatest legends in Singapore sport.
Indian Heritage CentreEmbark on a journey with us as we trace the history of the Indian and South Asian communities in the Southeast Asian region. Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial HallTemporary closed till 2027
JCU Museum of Video and Computer GamesDiscover what fans of video games have experienced and can expect in the Singapore campus of James Cook University. Tan Tock Seng Hospital’s Heritage MuseumThe hospital’s development and achievements​ – in particular, its pioneering role in the treatment of tuberculosis (1940s) and its monumental leadership in the fight against SARS – are presented through narrative displays, salvaged historical objects and a time capsule.​
Kreta Ayer Heritage Galleryoverview of the history and heritage of Kreta Ayer, and highlights the area’s rich and diverse intangible cultural heritage. The Battle BoxThe Battlebox is Singapore’s only World War 2 bunker that is still operational, albeit as a historical site, today
Lee Kong Chian Natural History MuseumExplore the incredible world of Singapore and Southeast Asian biodiversity at the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum The Gem MuseumExplore a wide variety of gemstones, rocks and minerals collected from around the world.
Little Mori’s Silkworm MuseumAt Little Mori, we are dedicated to bringing the intriguing world of silkworms and sericulture closer to the public. The IntanA haven for the treasures of the Peranakan culture
Malay Heritage CentreTo develop MHC, a heritage institution managed by NHB, into a leading heritage institution and a focal point for the community. Under construction. The Live Turtle and Tortoise MuseumWe Welcome You To Enter Into A Rare World Of Turtles And Tortoises.
Mint Museum of ToysDiscover vintage toys and childhood memorabilia from over 40 countries ranging between the years of 1840s to 1980s. The Republic of Singapore Navy MuseumTo inspire everyone to defend what it means to eb Singaporean: our home, our identity and our way of life.
MOE Heritage CentreShowcases Singapore’s Education Story from the early 19th century to the present. The SGH MuseumThe Museum adopts a thematic, chronological and commemorative approach in presenting the Hospital’s history of 200 years, where visitors get an insight into the significant contributions of the hospital through the years
My CommunityPreserving the common man story for our collective memory Vintage Cameras MuseumA museum where students, young adults could realize how an invention has made the documentation of history or freezing moments of life easy.
Museum of Ice CreamARE YOU READY TO DISCOVER THE KID IN YOU?  LEARN all about ice cream and its history across 12 multi-sensory installations Woodbridge MuseumExplore the history of mental health at the Woodbridge Museum, a key part of the Institute of Mental Health (IMH).