How about visiting a Mini-Disneyland with a Chinese theme? Interesting right? Head to the Haw Par Villa Park in Singapore… Yes, this vibrantly coloured attraction is located on the West coast of Singapore. It houses several attractions that are themed based on Chinese folklore and Buddhist mythology. Also called the ‘Buddhist amusement park’, the park takes you into the popular Chinese myths and Buddhist folklore. This park is not to miss if you are a culture lover. Read on to know more about the Haw Par Villa Park in Singapore.
History of the Haw Par Villa Park
Haw Par Villa Park in Singapore, previously known as the ‘Tiger Balm Garden’, stretches up to 8.5 hectares in area. The culturally rich, eye-catching park is one of a kind in the whole of the Asian continent. The Villa was built in 1937 by Burmese-Chinese brothers, Aw Boon Har and Aw Boon Par. From the 1950s, the park became the favourite recreational spot for families in Singapore. The motto of the creators was to transfer Chinese folklore and myths to the next generation. Many families brought in their kids to educate them on Chinese culture. Later in the 1980s, the Singapore Tourism board visioned a future for this park and developed it. The Tourism board expanded the park and developed it for good. As a result, they fondly called it the ‘Oriental Disneyland’.
In the late 1980s, the ‘Tiger Balm Gardens’, was renamed as the ‘Haw Par Villa Park. ‘Haw’ and ‘Par’ were the last names of the brothers who developed this park and hence the name. From then, the park started hosting several fun shows, art displays, puppet shows that integrate with the theme. They also conduct several art exhibitions to attract kids and art enthusiasts.
Main attractions of the Park
The most famous attraction of the Haw Par Villa Park is the Ten Courts of Hell from Chinese Folklore. Ever wondered how Hell will look? Well, This attraction features Chinese mythology’s depiction of Hell.
The local Singapore people are very attached to this trademark attraction. They were brought here by their parents and they also tell this story to their children. Thus, this attraction has several memories associated with it. When the Tourism board developed the park, they ensured that they keep the favourite attractions of the locals. The spooky sculptures, dim lighting and depiction of hell can be surrealistic.
In addition to this, the Park houses statues of many legends like Fu Lu Shou, Confucius and Laughing Buddha. You can walk around the park and enjoy the sights of the famous turtle pond. Choose to rest by the pond and observe how fishes swim. Later, pose before the beautiful pagodas and bridges. Take a selfie with the sumo wrestlers or even pose like them and have fun!
Visitor Information
Accessibility
The Haw Par Villa Park in Singapore is connected well by Public transportation systems in the city. There is a metro station close to the park. Also, several buses ply to and from the city centre.
Opening hours
The Park is open between 9 am and 7 pm daily.
Ticket Information
The admission into the Park is free for all.
The visit to Haw Par Villa Park in Singapore is will be an unforgettable experience. You will get to know about Chinese folklore and Buddhist mythology. It will take you through a journey on Chinese beliefs and culture. Being one of a kind attraction in the Asian continent, the park attracts many tourists across the globe. So, why wait, Plan an amazing holiday to Singapore. Check out the Packages to Singapore and begin 2021 with an International trip. You can also customise your vacation at the Pickyourtrail website. Drop your queries on Whatsapp and our travel experts will help you planning.
