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.

Home
Brunei
Muara
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 glimpse into Brunei's past and present, with modern amenities blending seamlessly with traditional lifestyles.

A brief summary to Kampong Ayer

Kampong Ayer, BN

Local tips

Take a water taxi from the main jetty in Bandar Seri Begawan for easy access to Kampong Ayer.
Visit the Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery to learn about the village's history and traditions.
Explore the village on foot via the wooden walkways to experience daily life.
Bargain with boatmen before taking a tour of the water village.
Dress modestly and be respectful of the local culture when visiting homes and mosques.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Kampong Ayer

Discover the Unique Floating Village of Kampong Ayer

Water Village Settlement (Kampong Ayer)

Explore the Enchanting Water Village Settlement (Kampong Ayer)

Kampong Ayer Museum

Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery

Getting There

Water Taxi

From the waterfront in Bandar Seri Begawan, flag down a water taxi near the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah shopping mall. The ride across the river to Kampong Ayer typically costs BND 1.00 per person each way. Negotiate the price beforehand if you plan to tour multiple locations within Kampong Ayer.
Walking

If arriving via the Sungai Kebun pedestrian bridge, you can access the Tamoi Tengah area of Kampong Ayer by foot. From the city center, walk through the Sungai Kedayan Eco-Corridor park, next to the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, to reach the bridge. There is no cost for using the bridge.

Discover more about Kampong Ayer

Kampong Ayer, meaning 'water village' in Malay, is the world's largest stilt settlement, a historical marvel on the Brunei River. For over a thousand years, it has been a significant part of Brunei's history, serving as the capital and primary port of the Bruneian Empire from the 15th to 18th centuries. Often called the 'Venice of the East,' Kampong Ayer comprises numerous villages linked by a network of wooden walkways stretching over 38 kilometers. Today, Kampong Ayer is a vibrant community where modern life intertwines with tradition. Residents enjoy amenities like electricity, running water, and internet access. The village features schools, mosques, a fire station, and even a cultural and tourism gallery showcasing its rich heritage. Visitors can explore the maze-like walkways, observe traditional crafts, and experience the unique culture of this floating city. While modernization has led some residents to relocate to the mainland, Kampong Ayer remains a cherished landmark and a testament to Brunei's enduring connection to its riverine past. A visit offers a fascinating glimpse into a unique way of life and a deeper understanding of Brunei's cultural identity.