Tiong Bahru is a fascinating neighbourhood that weaves the threads of time, offering a captivating tapestry of culture, history, and modernity.
Located in the heart of Singapore, it offers experiences to both enchant and enlighten.
From wartime relics to classic architecture, from commemorative street names to the ever-evolving vibrancy of trendy cafes and art galleries, Tiong Bahru is a treasure trove of things waiting to be discovered, and rediscovered:
1. Unearth Hidden Treasures:
Beneath the impressive exterior of one of Tiong Bahru’s most iconic housing estates lies a thought-provoking reminder of a very different time in Singapore’s history.
On the ground floor of the U-shaped Block 78 on Moh Guan Terrace is an air raid shelter, a relic from World War II.
Its story can be read on the panels on the exterior of the shelter.
It’s an enduring testament to the neighbourhood’s rich history and resilience, and a must-see for history buffs and curious explorers alike.
2. Walk Through Living History:
Tiong Bahru’s streets narrate reminders of the past.
Wander through roads bearing the names of influential pioneers of the 19th and early 20th centuries: Lim Liak, Kim Pong, Guan Chuan and Chay Yan – men who left an indelible mark on Singapore’s history.
It’s like taking a stroll through a history book, with different facet of Singapore’s heritage around each corner.
3. Architectural Elegance:
Tiong Bahru is a living testament to the architectural elegance of the 1920s.
As we wander through streets lined with Art Deco and Streamline Moderne buildings, we see distinctive architecture that stands as a testament to the neighbourhood’s heritage.
The elegant facades and intricate detailing transport us back in time while retaining a charm that’s still relevant today.
We are fortunate that so many of these buildings have been preserved and are still in use today.
4. Ever-Evolving Vibrancy:
Tiong Bahru is a dynamic canvas that continuously reinvents itself.
With trendy cafes, a surprising number of art galleries and boutiques, the neighbourhood attracts a diverse blend of residents, local explorers, and international tourists.
Whether you’re a connoisseur of cuisine, an art aficionado, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking some vibrant energy, Tiong Bahru always has something special, and surprising, to offer.
5. Authenticity:
Although Tiong Bahru has become a trendy tourist destination, it has retained a sense of authenticity and neighbourliness.
While walking past one of the archetypal pre-war flats, I was greeted by an ‘auntie’ who, spotting the camera in my hand and the sweat on my brow, invited me in for a glass of water and a look around her flat.
She was shy about having her face photographed, but more than happy to show off pictures of herself in her glory days.
Her eclectic flat was fascinating, and her spontaneous, altruistic and genuine hospitality was unforgettable.
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6. Finally, there's the name "Tiong Bahru" itself.
Originally, the “Tiong” in Tiong Bahru was written as 塚, which means grave or graveyard, so Tiong Bahru meant “new graveyard”.
It was called that because it was next to an older graveyard (“Tiong Lama”, of course) at the site of the current Singapore General Hospital.
However, as “new graveyard” was not a very appealing name for a residential area, 塚 became 中, which is also pronounced as “Tiong” and means “centre, central or middle” – a much more appropriate for the dynamic, and centrally located, Tiong Bahru of today.
We invite you to share your stories, impressions, and suggestions regarding Tiong Bahru so that, together, we can continue to uncover the special character of this remarkable neighbourhood.
