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Kampong Ayer: The Venice of the East

Explore Kampong Ayer, the 'Venice of the East,' a historic water village offering a unique glimpse into Brunei's rich cultural heritage and traditional lifestyle.

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Kampong Ayer, Brunei's historic water village, is a sprawling settlement of houses on stilts connected by wooden walkways. Home to thousands for centuries, it offers a glimpse into Brunei's past and unique cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Kampong Ayer

  • VWJV+W55, Kampong Ayer, BN

Local tips

  • Take a water taxi to explore the village and experience daily life on the water.
  • Visit the Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery to learn about the village's history and customs.
  • Be respectful of the residents and their way of life.
  • Dress modestly and wear comfortable shoes for walking on the wooden walkways.
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Getting There

  • Water Taxi

    The most common way to reach Kampong Ayer is by water taxi from the main waterfront in Bandar Seri Begawan. Water taxis are readily available and can be hailed from various points along Jalan McArthur and Jalan Residency. A short trip across the river to the Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery typically costs BND 1.00 per person. Negotiating the price is generally not required as fares are usually fixed.

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Discover more about Kampong Ayer

Kampong Ayer, meaning "Water Village" in Malay, is the world's largest stilt settlement and a significant part of Brunei's history and culture. Located on the Brunei River in Bandar Seri Begawan, it's comprised of numerous villages linked by a network of wooden walkways stretching over 30 kilometers. For centuries, it was the capital and heart of the Bruneian Empire. In 1521, Antonio Pigafetta, an Italian scholar, famously dubbed Kampong Ayer the "Venice of the East". The village boasts mosques, schools, a fire station, and even a cultural and tourism gallery, all built on stilts. Modern amenities like running water, electricity, and satellite TV are common. While the government has encouraged residents to relocate to the mainland, many remain committed to preserving their traditional way of life. Visitors can explore the village by water taxi, observe daily life, and learn about the history and traditions of this unique community.

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