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Kampong Ayer: Brunei's Historic Water Village

Discover Kampong Ayer, Brunei's historic water village: a unique blend of tradition and modern life on the Brunei River.

Kampong Ayer, the 'Water Village,' is a historical district of Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei. This unique settlement, comprised of houses on stilts above the Brunei River, has existed for over a thousand years and was once the capital of the Brunei Empire. Explore its traditional lifestyle, connected by wooden walkways, and discover a blend of history and modern living.

A brief summary to Kampong Ayer

  • Kampong Ayer, BN

Local tips

  • Take a water taxi to explore the different parts of the village and experience daily life on the water.
  • Visit the Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery to learn about the village's history and traditions.
  • Be respectful of the residents and their homes; remember that this is a living community, not just a tourist attraction.
  • Dress modestly and be mindful of the weather, as it can be hot and humid.
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Getting There

  • Water Taxi

    The most common and convenient way to reach Kampong Ayer is by water taxi from the main waterfront in Bandar Seri Begawan. Water taxis are readily available and easily hailed from the jetty near the Yayasan Shopping Complex. A short ride across the Brunei River will take you to the heart of the water village. The typical fare is BND 1 per person each way. Confirm the fare before boarding.

  • Walking

    It is possible to walk to one part of Kampong Ayer, Tamoi Tengah, via the Sungai Kebun pedestrian bridge located in the Sungai Kedayan Eco-Corridor park, near the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. From the city center, follow the signs to the Eco-Corridor and cross the bridge to reach Tamoi Tengah. There is no cost for using the bridge.

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Discover more about Kampong Ayer

Kampong Ayer, Brunei's iconic 'Water Village,' offers a captivating glimpse into the nation's past and present. This sprawling settlement,traditionally home to all levels of Bruneian society, is composed of numerous stilt villages interconnected by a network of wooden boardwalks stretching over 38 kilometers. Founded over a millennium ago, Kampong Ayer served as the Brunei Empire's primary port and capital from the 15th to 18th centuries. Once dubbed the 'Venice of the East' by Antonio Pigafetta in 1521, the village boasts a rich history and unique architectural adaptations to its aquatic environment. Traditional homes were constructed using durable local materials like nibung and bulian wood, designed to withstand the challenges of living on the water. Today, Kampong Ayer maintains its distinct cultural identity while embracing modern amenities. While some residents continue traditional crafts like boat building, others commute to the mainland for work, showcasing a blend of old and new. Visitors can explore mosques, schools, a fire station and even a cultural and tourism gallery within the village. Taking a water taxi offers an excellent vantage point to observe daily life, and interacting with locals provides a deeper understanding of Brunei's heritage. While modernization has led to some migration to the mainland, Kampong Ayer remains a vibrant community and a must-see destination for those seeking an authentic Bruneian experience.

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