| Start: Singapore History Museum |
Go to Riverside Point where the Museum is located by taking bus nos: 12, 197, 2, 33, 54, 80, 63, 62, 51, 520, 61, 851 and 961. Get off at Clarke Quay and it’s a five-minute walk from there. Alternatively, you can take the MRT to Clarke Quay Station and leave by Exit B, from which the Museum is a 5-minute walk. Once at Riverside Point, go up the Museum on level 3.
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| Checkpoint 1: History Museum |
The Singapore History Museum is the perfect place to start your tour as it gives you some valuable insights into the history and cultures of Singapore. Start by catching one of the shows in the auditorium. Then stroll around the Rivertales exhibition which takes you through the history of Singapore from its days as 14th century trading post until today.
RDS Guide: Singapore River & City Hall Attractions.
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| Checkpoint 2: Clarke Quay |
Once you’ve finished at the History Museum, take a walk over the Read Bridge to Clarke Quay. Named after Sir Andrew Clarke, the second governor of Singapore, Clarke Quay has played a big part in the building of Singapore. In its heyday, dozens of bumboats loaded and unloaded the produce of the British Empire. These days the area’s old shophouses and godowns have been transformed into a festival village bursting with restaurants, bars and attractions. One restaurant located at Clarke Quay that we recommend is Bukhara.
RDS Guide: For Clarke Quay, see Singapore River & City Hall. For Bukhara restaurant, see Wine & Dine.
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| Checkpoint 3: Fort Canning Park |
From Clarke Quay, cross River Valley Road then climb the steps into Fort Canning Park. The hill was once the centre of the Temasek sultanate, and was later the headquarters for the British defense system – and during World War II the Japanese also. You can see the old fortifications around the park as well as the old British command bunker – the Battle Box – which runs tours. Also, look out for the signboards around the park telling the history of the hill and its surroundings.
RDS Guide: See Singapore River & City Hall Attractions
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| Checkpoint 4: ACM Armenian St |
When you’ve finished at Fort Canning, walk down Canning Rise to Armenian Street. On Armenian Street you’ll find one of the two branches of the Asian Civilisations Museum. The Museum here is focussed on the Peranakan culture. The Peranakan people are the product of Singapore’s inter-cultural marriages and what you’ll find is a fascinating mix of styles and lifestyles.
RDS Guide: See Singapore River & City Hall Attractions
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| Checkpoint 5: Armenian Church |
Once you’ve had your fill at the Asian Civilisations Museum, take a walk back to Coleman Street, turn left and head onto Hill Street. On the corner you’ll see the historic Armenian Church which once had members in its congregation like the Sarkies brothers who started Raffles Hotel. Then walk down Hill Street to Victoria Street where you’ll find Chijmes.
RDS Guide See Singapore River & City Hall Attractions
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| Checkpoint 6: Chijmes |
At Chijmes you’ll find shopping, restaurants and bars all rolled into one historical location. Take a look around the unique mix of shopping options where you’ll find all sorts of knick-knacks to take home, then settle down to an evening of good food, and, if you’re up for it after such a long walk, a great party. You can also take the Chijmes Historical tour as seen on the opposite page.
RDS Guide: See Singapore River & City Hall Attractions |
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