See Singapore's Colourful Houses on Koon Seng Road
If you're looking for something beyond the typical tourist trail in Singapore, do yourself a favour and spend a few hours walking through Joo Chiat. It's colourful, culturally rich, and home to the vibrant Peranakan houses.
Although I had visited Singapore three times, this was my first time in the East Katong District. I had seen pictures of the Peranakan townhouses online and had always promised myself I would visit them. Finally, I made it!
Join me to discover the colourful shophouses on Koon Seng Road in Singapore!
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What makes the Peranakan houses so popular?
Lining a short part of Koon Seng Road, the vivid pastel colours, ornate tiles, and elegant shuttered windows of these 1920s shophouses immediately caught my eye. Painted in bright pops of blue, yellow, orange, and lilac, they make the perfect backdrop for a quick selfie.
I visited in the late afternoon and was pleased that the road was not teeming with Instagrammers.
Aside from a family taking photos with a newborn and a few giggling young Chinese girls, I had the Peranakan houses to myself.
Even so, I didn't take any liberties and limited my time to a few minutes. It's essential to remember that people live in these houses, so while it's tempting to keep taking photos, be respectful of their privacy.
Koon Seng Road is a busy thoroughfare that links to Joo Chiat Road, so don't expect to get many photographs without cars and people in them.
Peranakan History
It didn't surprise me to learn that the Peranakans, descendants of early Chinese migrants who settled in the region, believed that bright colours symbolised wealth, longevity, and prosperity. I had already seen evidence of the Peranakan culture's opulence during my visit to Penang and the Peranakan Mansion.
These houses served as both shops and homes and were common all over Asia. The shops were on the ground floor, with the living quarters at the back of the shop and on the second floor. After a day's work was done, the shopkeeper simply had to go upstairs for a warm meal and his bed. While they appear tall and thin from the outside, they extend quite a way back inside.
It was great to see that these lovely Singapore townhouses are preserved and maintained as family homes. They haven't been left to decay, as some old buildings are. In fact, I believe the local authorities have a conservation order in place for the Peranakan houses, ensuring they are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Things to do in Joo Chiat
At the end of Koon Seng Road is Joo Chiat Road, which is full of gems. Some of the shops and offices along here still retain their original Peranakan elegance, though they are not as colourful.
Admire the Peranakan architecture
If you wander away from the main Joo Chiat Road, you will also find Peranakan architecture that isn't as well-known as the houses on Koon Seng Road. I was amazed at how quiet the streets were compared to the hustle and bustle of Singapore's tourist areas. I think if I lived in Singapore, Joo Chiat would be my choice of neighbourhood.
These houses are less well known than the Peranakan houses on Koon Seng Road, but, in my opinion, equally beautiful.
Visit a Peranakan museum
There's also a small private Peranakan museum at 69 Joo Chiat Terrace called The Intan. I was hoping to look inside, but I hadn't realised you need to book to visit The Intan. It holds Peranakan artefacts, clothing, jewellery, and short tours are available.
Another place of interest is the Katong Heritage House, at 208 East Coast Road. It's filled with Peranakan artefacts, furniture, and ornaments. A guided tour can be arranged by the owner. Sadly, it was shut when we were in the area, so I cannot comment on whether it is worth visiting; however, past reviews sing its praises.
See the street art on Joo Chiat Road
Some of the best street art in Singapore can also be found in Joo Chiat and along East Coast Road, alongside hip cafes, bars, ice cream parlours, and retro shops selling antiques, books, and records. The Joo Chiat area has a real hipster-meets-old-charm vibe, which I love.
Visit the heritage shops in Katong
Make sure you stop along the East Coast Road at Kim Choo Kueh Chang, the oldest dumpling shop in Singapore, for one of their specialities. Next door, you will find Rumah Bebe, where you can shop for Peranakan-style clothing and trinkets and eat Peranakan food.
You can also stop by the Art Deco building of Chin Mee Chin Confectionery for pastries – it’s a long-standing establishment that locals love.
Join a guided tour of Joo Chiat
Why not join a guided tour of Joo Chiat and let an expert local guide you through Peranakan history? You'll learn about the culture, enjoy Peranakan food and discover hidden gems in Katong.
Uncover Eurasian Culture in Singapore
You can also spend time in the Eurasian Heritage Gallery, where you will see exhibitions on the colonial eras of the Portuguese, Dutch and British in Singapore.
Want to stay in Joo Chiat?
You're in luck; there are many lovely places to stay in Joo Chiat.
If you want to experience a stay in a Peranakan shophouse, the Venue Hotel on Joo Chiat Road has been converted to offer unique accommodation.
Getting to Joo Chiat Road
The Katong District, where you will find Joo Chiat, is close to Singapore's East Coast Park and Beach. You aren't too far from Kampong Glam. You can easily combine a visit to the two areas in one day, and even include Little India for good measure. Explore my guide for a day of Singapore's history and culture.
The nearest MRT station to Joo Chiat Road is Eunos (EW7) on the East-West Line (also known as the Green Line). If you aren't near an MRT, consider calling a GRAB (like Uber); it's a quick and easy way to get around Singapore.
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Angela Price: is an accomplished travel writer bringing extensive expertise and passion to the world of travel.
With over 40 years of globetrotting adventures under her belt and with a keen eye for unique experiences, she has established herself as an authoritative voice in travel, offering invaluable insights for fellow adventurers seeking to uncover the delights of worldwide destinations.
Her motto is “live life wandering not wondering”. Read more about Angie.