Singapore: Peranakan Walking Tour Through Katong - Joo Chiat
Description
Step into the rich and colorful world of Peranakan heritage on this walking tour through the bustling streets of Joo Chiat, and uncover the stories that have shaped this unique community. As you wander through narrow five-foot ways and admire artful murals, you’ll explore the intricate architecture of the iconic Koon Seng Road shophouses before stepping into the elegance of a traditional Peranakan Mansion. This sensory experience pairs architectural discovery with a deep dive into authentic Nyonya flavors, offering everything from award-winning laksa and spicy braised pork to delicate handmade kueh. Whether you’re trying on a traditional kebaya or spotting hidden details in 1920s facades, this tour offers a comprehensive and picturesque taste of one of Singapore's most storied neighborhoods. Our experienced guides can customize the tour to your needs and preferences.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Former Joo Chiat Police Station - Conserved colonial-era building that was built in 1928. Today it is home to a boutique hotel, and retail and F&B businesses, including Peranakan restaurant Baba Chews.
Roxy Square - The former Roxy Cinema, a focal point for social gatherings in the 1930s to 1970s, once stood at this spot.
The Red House - An iconic heritage building that was best known as the Red House Bakery — for its hue and delicious bakes.
328 Katong Laksa - One of the most popular purveyors of laksa. Think thick noodles doused in an umami-rich, slightly spicy and creamy broth, accompanied by fresh prawns and cockles.
Kim Choo Kueh Chang - Take in the sights and smells of earthy Nyonya dumplings, alongside ‘gram-worthy kuehs (traditional cakes) of ondeh-ondeh, kueh salat and many others.
Former Joo Chiat Maternity Hospital - Joo Chiat’s former maternity hospital now resides in an enviable spot, in the heart of one of Singapore’s buzziest neighbourhoods.
Koon Seng Shophouse - No visit to Joo Chiat is complete without a selfie at the world-famous Koon Seng heritage shophouses
Peranakan Mansion - The highlight of the tour: A peek into the lives of Peranakan households in Singapore. For an unforgettable photo opportunity, try on the kebaya — the traditional dress worn by Peranakan women (optional).
[Optional Stop] Guan Hoe Soon - Dig into traditional Peranakan fare at this culinary institution. Feast on classics such as chap chye (braised vegetables), babi pongteh (braised pork), and mutton rendang (dry curry), with a generous portion of butterfly pea rice, which comes in an unusual shade of blue.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(6)
Kristine was a wonderful guide and well-versed in the history of Katong. With the various savoury to sweet food samplings along the tour, her animated storytelling brought the memorable past to live.
Thank you for your kind review! We're glad that you had a wonderful time with Kristine on the Peranakan tour and got to try our local food while learning about Katong's history.
End of March I had a few days on my own in Singapore and I’m so delighted to have done the East Coast Katong and Joo Chiat Peranakan Walking Tour with the lovely Kristine C of Grab Experience. She was very informative, articulating the rich history of the area and receptive to enquiries. The tour was well pace / I never felt rushed but I saw a lot. Even though a couple of establishments were closed on the Monday I got to experience a lot of fun things. I particularly enjoyed the foodie stops - firstly runny egg and kaya toast, the famous Katong Laksa (she read the need for more tissues) and finishing off with Lee Kwan Yew’s favourite take out with a so refreshing bowl of chendol. There was kueh along the way which I kept for another time - too full! We visited the Peranakan Mansion so elaborate and colours and decoratives to dive into. Stunning. Kristine C also gave me details of places to visit in my own time including the famous Mohan’s crispy pratha and curry on Joo Chiat Rd for breakfast. She also helped me with directions of my future endeavours round Singapore and most importantly took great instagrammable photos! A thoroughly enjoyable and highly recommended tour!!!
Thank you for your review and for joining the Peranakan tour! Kristine would be thrilled to learn that you had a great time on the tour. We're glad that you got to explore the beautiful streets of Joo Chiat and Katong and savored the food there. We would love to host you again on another tour in the future!
Plenty of tasty food and insights into the Peranakan culture and history in Singapore. A wonderful way to see a part of the city that most visitors miss. Highly recommend.
Thank you for your review! We're glad you enjoyed the Peranakan tour and saw a different side of Singapore.
William was a great tour guide. He was flexible and able to put together a tour that focused on our specific interests.
Thank you for your review! We're glad that you enjoyed the Peranakan tour with William and got to see a different side of Singapore. Hope to see you again in the future!
I had an incredible experience on the Peranakan food trip, and our guide Peter made it truly unforgettable! His engaging commentary and deep knowledge brought the rich culture and history of the Peranakan community to life. The food was absolutely delicious—authentic, flavorful, and a perfect showcase of Peranakan cuisine. Beyond the tasty dishes, the trip was an eye-opening cultural journey that offered a deeper appreciation of this unique heritage. I highly recommend this trip to everyone, including locals. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy amazing food while learning about the vibrant Peranakan culture. Thank you, Peter, for making this such a memorable experience!
Thank you for your review. We are glad to have met your expectations and look forward to serving you again.
I loved this tour; thought it was great value for money and learned a lot about Peranakan food! Well worth the price for the experience.
Thank you for your review. We are glad to have met your expectations and look forward to serving you again.
