When people think of Singapore, it’s usually Marina Bay Sands, Merlion Park, or Gardens by the Bay. But Haji Lane is another spot that consistently shows up on travel guides and social media. It’s known for its colorful murals, narrow alleyway vibe, and independent shops, and it’s become one of the more recognizable streets in the city.
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| along Haji Lane |
Haji Lane sits within the Kampong Glam area, which has a very different atmosphere compared to the sleek, modern parts of Singapore. This neighborhood feels more creative and slightly less polished. Despite having visited Singapore before, this was actually my first time spending a proper morning here. I dedicated a few hours to just walking around and seeing what the area had to offer.
How to Get to Kampong Glam
The easiest way to get to Kampong Glam is via Bugis MRT Station. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to Haji Lane and Sultan Mosque. The route is straightforward and easy to follow on Google Maps. From my hotel, I just walked since it was only 20 minutes away.
Once you’re in the area, everything is within walking distance. You don’t need public transport again unless you’re heading elsewhere after.
What to Do in Kampong Glam
Kampong Glam is compact, so you can explore most of it in a relaxed morning.
Walk Through Haji Lane
Haji Lane is the highlight for most visitors. It’s a narrow street lined with colorful murals, small boutiques, cafés, and bars. The buildings are low-rise and tightly packed, which gives it a very different feel compared to the rest of Singapore.
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| Haji Lane |
I spent time just walking slowly and taking photos. It’s very Instagram-friendly, but it didn’t feel overwhelming when I visited in the morning, though a many places were still closed by then. Earlier in the day is probably best if you want fewer crowds.
See Sultan Mosque
Sultan Mosque is one of the main landmarks in Kampong Glam. You can see its golden dome from a distance as you approach the area. The open space in front of the mosque makes the surroundings feel less cramped compared to Haji Lane. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth stopping to appreciate the architecture and take a few photos. It adds cultural depth to the visit beyond just street art and cafés.
Explore Arab Street and Bussorah Street
Arab Street and Bussorah Street are right next to Haji Lane and offer a slightly different vibe. You’ll find textile shops, souvenir stores, restaurants, and Middle Eastern eateries. Bussorah Street, in particular, gives you a nice view of Sultan Mosque framed at the end of the road. It’s more open and feels less tight than Haji Lane. I liked walking through here after the busier alley.
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| Bussorah Street with a view of Sultan Mosque |
Shop for Souvenirs
There are plenty of small shops around Kampong Glam selling trinkets, ceramics, colorful plates, and souvenirs. It’s easy to pop into a few stores and browse without feeling pressured to buy anything.
The prices are decent, though probably not the absolute cheapest, since it is a tourist-heavy area. Still, for someone with limited time and no plans to go elsewhere for souvenir shopping, it was convenient. I ended up buying several chocolates to bring back home, which made it a productive stop as well.
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| colorful ceramics |
Café Hop or Grab a Snack
There are plenty of cafés scattered around the area, from specialty coffee spots to dessert places. Even if you’re not planning a full meal, it’s a good area to stop for a drink and cool down. Because I was there in the morning, it felt relaxed rather than chaotic. It’s the kind of place where you can sit for a bit before continuing with the rest of your day.
Kampong Glam ended up being a nice change from the more modern and polished parts of Singapore. It feels more colorful and creative, but still very easy to explore.
Spending a morning here was enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed. If you’re visiting Singapore and want something beyond the usual skyline views, Kampong Glam is worth adding to your itinerary.
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