Haw Par Villa
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Build a trip to Singapore
About
Originally known as Tiger Balm Gardens, this surreal cultural park was built in 1937 by the brothers who created the famous ointment. Historically, it was designed to teach traditional Chinese values through thousands of statues and dioramas. The sensory experience is bizarre and unforgettable, particularly the 'Ten Courts of Hell,' which depicts graphic scenes of purgatory in a dark cave. The air of eccentricity permeates the entire park. Experts recommend visiting the 'Hell’s Museum' for a deeper, curated look at world religions and afterlife beliefs. Pro tip: This is not a typical 'amusement' park and can be quite frightening for young children; entry to the main park is free, but the Hell's Museum requires a separate ticket. Visit in the late afternoon to avoid the heat as it is mostly outdoor.
Highlights
- Ten Courts of Hell
- Chinese mythology theme park
- Unique surreal sculpture garden
- Cultural heritage site
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Henderson Waves
Henderson Waves is Singapore's highest pedestrian bridge, standing 36 meters above the ground and connecting Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park. Historically, its award-winning design is inspired by the undulating curves of a wave, featuring seven ribbed 'shells' that double as seating alcoves. The sensory experience is sculptural and serene, with the warm Balau wood underfoot and panoramic views of the lush southern ridges and the distant harbor. Experts recommend visiting at 7:00 PM when the bridge is beautifully illuminated with LED lights. Pro tip: This is a key part of the 'Southern Ridges' walk; bring water as there are no shops on the bridge itself, and be prepared for some uphill climbing if you start from the street level below.
Burnt Ends
Burnt Ends is a Michelin-starred modern Australian barbecue restaurant that centers around a four-tonne, custom-built dual cavity oven and four elevation grills. Historically, it led the trend of 'open-fire' cooking in Singapore's fine-dining scene. The sensory experience is intense and masculine—the heat from the open kitchen, the smell of apple and cherry wood smoke, and the sight of chefs working with live fire. The 'Burnt Ends Sanger' (pulled pork burger) is a cult favorite. Experts recommend the counter seats to watch the fiery action up close. Practical pro tip: It has recently moved to the Dempsey Hill area; reservations are notoriously difficult and open 30 days in advance at 10 AM. If you can’t get a seat, they sometimes have a walk-in policy for their bar area.
The Southern Ridges
The Southern Ridges is a 10-kilometer stretch of green space connecting five parks along Singapore's southern coast. Historically, it was developed to provide an uninterrupted nature corridor for both wildlife and people. The sensory experience is a scenic journey through secondary forests and across spectacular bridges like the Henderson Waves. You can hear the sounds of diverse birdlife and enjoy views of the city, the harbor, and the southern islands. Experts recommend the section through Telok Blangah Hill Park for the 'Forest Walk' on an elevated metal platform. Pro tip: The entire walk takes about 3-4 hours; start at Mount Faber and end at the Labrador Nature Reserve for a well-rounded experience. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring at least a liter of water as it can be very humid.
Candlenut
Candlenut is the world's first and only Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, where Chef Malcolm Lee reimagines traditional Straits-Chinese recipes with modern refinement. Historically, it elevated humble home-style Nyonya cooking to the global stage. The sensory experience is airy and elegant, set in a high-ceilinged space in Dempsey Hill decorated with bamboo lanterns and patterned tiles. The flavors are complex and soul-satisfying, highlighting the 'Buah Keluak' nut. Experts recommend the 'Ah-ma-kase' tasting menu for a curated journey through heirloom recipes. Practical pro tip: The restaurant is located in the trendy Dempsey Hill area; it is perfect for a sophisticated weekend lunch. Be sure to try the 'Kurobuta Pork Satay,' which is widely considered the best in the city.
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