Kampong Ayer: The Venice of the East

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

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Kampong Ayer

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 unique glimpse into Brunei's past and present. Experience life on the water, explore the traditional architecture, and discover the cultural heart of Brunei.

A brief summary to Kampong Ayer

Kampong Ayer, BN

Local tips

Take a water taxi from the main jetty in Bandar Seri Begawan for a quick and affordable way to reach Kampong Ayer.
Visit the Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery to learn about the history and traditions of the water village.
Explore the village on foot via the wooden walkways, but be mindful of uneven planks and large spaces.
Respect the local culture by dressing modestly and asking permission before taking photos of residents.
Consider a boat tour to explore the wider waterways and possibly spot wildlife in the nearby mangrove forests.

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Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery

Getting There

Water Taxi

From the waterfront in Bandar Seri Begawan, water taxis are readily available to take you to Kampong Ayer. The main jetty is near the Yayasan Shopping Complex. Simply wave down a boat, and the ride across the river is short. The typical cost is BND 1 per person for a one-way trip. Negotiate the price beforehand, though the rate is generally fixed.
Walking

Some parts of Kampong Ayer, like Tamoi Tengah, are accessible by land via the Sungai Kebun pedestrian bridge next to the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. From the city center, follow the Sungai Kedayan Eco-Corridor park to reach the bridge. There is no cost for walking.
Public Transport

Local buses run various routes around Bandar Seri Begawan. Check with your hotel for the nearest bus stop. The main bus terminal is in the heart of the city. From the terminal, you can connect to other parts of the city, including the waterfront area where you can catch a water taxi to Kampong Ayer. Bus fare is approximately BND 1 per ride.

Discover more about Kampong Ayer

Kampong Ayer, meaning 'water village' in Malay, is the world's largest stilt settlement and a treasured piece of Brunei's living history. For over a thousand years, this unique village has thrived on the Brunei River, with historical records dating back to ancient Chinese merchants. Once the primary port and capital of the Brunei Empire from the 15th to 18th centuries, it was famously dubbed the 'Venice of the East' by Antonio Pigafetta in 1521, an Italian explorer. Today, Kampong Ayer is a vibrant community of approximately 10,000 residents spread across 42 villages, seamlessly blending tradition with modernity. Connected by over 38 kilometers of wooden walkways, the village features mosques, schools, a fire station, and even a cultural and tourism gallery. Many houses have modern amenities like electricity, running water, and satellite TV. Residents navigate the waterways by boat, maintaining a unique way of life while still commuting to the mainland for work and parking their cars in nearby lots. Visitors can explore the village's intricate network of boardwalks, observe daily life, and appreciate the colorful and unique designs of the stilt houses. A visit to the Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery offers insights into the village's history and traditions. Taking a water taxi provides a closer look at the stilted structures and the bustling river life. Kampong Ayer is more than just a tourist destination; it's a living, breathing community that offers an authentic taste of Brunei's heritage.