The population of Singapore comprises of Chinese, Malays and Indians. The diversity spices up everyday life in the country, where the clash of cultures results in innovative blends of food, traditions and architecture. However, some areas have traditionally been favoured by only one of the ethnic groups. Chinatown, as the name suggests, is the Chinese heartland of Singapore. Touted as one of the busiest parts of the island, Chinatown is always abuzz with activity. Street hawkers can be found at all times selling traditional Chinese dishes, and a multitude of shops remain open from early in the day till late in the night, selling everything from household items to clothes and jewellery.
Everything from the decorations to the architecture bear Chinese influences, although tourists can find Hindu and Muslim landmarks here as well. Chinatown is primarily famous for its shopping. Tourists will find stalls that cater to budget shoppers as well as high end retailers that cater to an exclusive clientèle. The area is also a paradise for foodies, with numerous restaurants and eateries to choose from. Other than the shopping opportunities and the plethora of restaurants, Chinatown is also a terrific place for sightseeing, having something for everybody to enjoy.
Those interested in culture and history can hardly afford to miss the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, which houses a tooth thought to have once belonged to the Buddha. There is also the Singapore Coins and Notes Museum and the Thian Hock Keng Temple. Lovers of contemporary art should visit the Red Dot Design Museum, which is housed in a converted traffic police station. For a panoramic view of the district, head over to Pinnacle @ Duxton Skybridge. The 50th storey viewing deck affords some of the best vistas of the city.
The easiest way to get to Chinatown is by MRT- Mass Rapid Transit system which is fairly extensive in Singapore. When looking for accommodation, choose from among the Hotels in Singapore City Centre, a resort that is close to an MRT station. The Hotel Fort Canning is only an eight minute walk from the Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. It is recognised for being among the finest Singapore boutique hotels.
