Jurong, Singapore Travel Guide
Discover Jurong: A perfect blend of innovation, nature, and family-friendly attractions in the vibrant western part of Singapore.
Jurong is a captivating blend of urban innovation and natural beauty. Located in the western part of Singapore, Jurong offers a unique experience for travelers seeking to explore beyond the usual cityscape. The area is best known for its impressive industrial advancements, but it also boasts a wealth of attractions that cater to nature lovers, history buffs, and families alike. One of the must-visit spots in Jurong is the Jurong Bird Park, one of the largest bird parks in the world. Here, you can marvel at over 5,000 birds from 400 species, housed in lush, naturalistic habitats. Nearby, the Jurong Lake Gardens offers a tranquil retreat with its beautiful landscapes, serene lakes, and the picturesque Chinese and Japanese Gardens. This is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. For those interested in science and technology, the Science Centre Singapore is a treasure trove of interactive exhibits and educational fun. It’s an ideal destination for curious minds of all ages. Adjacent to the Science Centre, Snow City offers a unique experience in tropical Singapore: a chance to enjoy snow and ice activities. Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of malls in Jurong, such as JEM, Westgate, and IMM, which offer everything from high-end fashion to outlet bargains. Foodies will also find delight in Jurong’s diverse culinary scene, featuring local hawker centers and upscale dining options. Jurong is easily accessible via Singapore's efficient public transportation system, making it a convenient and enriching destination for tourists. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature, dive into science, or simply enjoy some retail therapy, Jurong has something for everyone.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Jurong.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds at popular attractions like Jurong Bird Park and Jurong Lake Gardens.
- Check out the local hawker centers for authentic and affordable Singaporean cuisine.
- Utilize the MRT and bus services for convenient and cost-effective transportation around Jurong.
- Look out for seasonal events and exhibitions at the Science Centre Singapore for a unique experience.
- Bring sunscreen and water when visiting outdoor attractions to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
Explore Jurong: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Best attractions in Jurong
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
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Singapore Zoo
Experience the magic of wildlife up close at Singapore Zoo, a top-tier attraction showcasing conservation and education in a stunning natural setting.
Night Safari
Discover the magic of nocturnal wildlife at Singapore's Night Safari, where adventure meets conservation in a captivating natural setting.
LEGOLAND Malaysia
Discover a world of fun and adventure at LEGOLAND Malaysia, where creativity comes to life through thrilling rides and interactive LEGO experiences.
Singapore Discovery Centre
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Singapore at the Singapore Discovery Centre, an interactive museum experience for all ages.
Best landmarks in Jurong
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Jurong Point
Explore Jurong Point, Singapore's premier shopping mall, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.
Jem
Explore Jem in Jurong East, Singapore: a shopping haven with diverse retail, delectable dining, and exciting entertainment options for every visitor.
Science Centre Singapore
Explore the Science Centre Singapore, a hub of innovation and learning where science comes to life through interactive exhibits and engaging presentations.
Singapore Discovery Centre
Explore the vibrant history and future of Singapore at the Singapore Discovery Centre, a museum that combines education and entertainment for all ages.
Best restaurants in Jurong
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XW Western Grill
Experience delectable Western cuisine at XW Western Grill in Singapore's Jem mall - perfect for families and food lovers alike!
Mamma Mia Trattoria E Caffè (Jurong Point)
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mamma Mia Trattoria E Caffè in Jurong Point - where every dish tells a story of tradition.
Xi Men Jie 西门街 (West Gate) Wholesome Taiwanese Meals
Experience authentic Taiwanese cuisine at Xi Men Jie in Jurong East - where tradition meets modern dining.
Miam Miam French Japanese Cafe Kitchen (Westgate)
Experience the delightful fusion of French and Japanese cuisine at Miam Miam French Japanese Cafe Kitchen in Singapore's vibrant Westgate.
Best bars in Jurong
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Brotzeit German Beer Bar and Restaurant - WestGate
Discover the taste of Germany at Brotzeit, a vibrant beer bar and restaurant in Jurong East, Singapore, offering authentic cuisine and a lively beer garden.
Tipsy Bunny
Experience the perfect blend of culinary delights and vibrant nightlife at Tipsy Bunny, Singapore's premier gastropub in Jurong East.
YC Dining & Bar | Western Restaurant Bar
Discover the exquisite flavors of Western cuisine at YC Dining & Bar, a top dining destination in Singapore's vibrant Jurong East.
L Bistro
Experience the ultimate karaoke night at L Bistro in Singapore, where fun vibes, delicious food, and endless singing await you.
Best nightclubs in Jurong
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L Bistro
Experience the joy of singing at L Bistro, Singapore's top karaoke bar where unforgettable memories are made with friends and family.
Jewel Music Box Jurong Safra
Experience the ultimate karaoke adventure at Jewel Music Box Jurong Safra, where every night is a celebration of music and joy.
Tap D'Fish KTV Pub and Bistro Bar
Experience the ultimate karaoke and bistro fusion at Tap D'Fish KTV Pub and Bistro Bar in Jurong East, Singapore, where fun meets fine dining.
THE CHEVRONS Aviary KTV
Experience the thrill of karaoke at THE CHEVRONS Aviary KTV - a vibrant nightlife destination in Singapore perfect for friends and families alike.
Best shops in Jurong
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Jurong Point
Explore Singapore's largest suburban shopping mall, Jurong Point, for an exciting blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.
KSL City Mall
Explore KSL City Mall in Johor Bahru – your go-to destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment in one vibrant location.
IMM Building
Explore Singapore's largest outlet mall, IMM Building, where shopping meets family fun and delicious dining.
IMM
Explore IMM, Singapore's largest outlet mall, where shopping meets culinary delights in Jurong East.
Explore Jurong on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Jurong, mapped for you.
Jurong Essentials
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Jurong is located in the western part of Singapore. The nearest international airport is Changi Airport, which is well-connected to Jurong via various modes of transportation. From Changi Airport, you can take the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) on the East-West Line and transfer to the Jurong East MRT station. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services are available, and the journey typically takes about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
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Jurong is well-connected by public transport. The MRT system is the most efficient way to get around, with key stations such as Jurong East, Lakeside, and Chinese Garden. Buses are also widely available and connect different parts of Jurong. For those preferring personal transport, taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are easily accessible. If you prefer cycling, there are bike-sharing services, and Jurong has several cycling paths.
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The official currency in Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. Contactless payments like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayNow are also commonly used. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and hawker centers. ATMs are plentiful, especially in shopping malls and MRT stations.
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Jurong is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid secluded areas late at night and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. Areas like Jurong East and Lakeside are well-patrolled and considered safe. Always be cautious and aware of your surroundings, but there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Jurong.
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In case of emergency, dial 999 for police assistance and 995 for medical emergencies. Jurong has several clinics and the Ng Teng Fong General Hospital for more serious medical issues. Pharmacies are available in most shopping centers for minor health concerns. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
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Fashion: Do dress comfortably due to the tropical climate, but modestly, especially in religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and remove your shoes when entering places of worship. Public Transport: Do keep to the left on escalators and give up your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, and those with disabilities. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a handshake. Avoid overly physical forms of greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes at hawker centers; it's a quintessential Singaporean experience. Don't leave food waste on the table; clear your tray after eating.
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To experience Jurong like a local, visit the Jurong Lake Gardens for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Explore the Science Centre Singapore and Snow City, which are popular with families. For shopping, head to JEM, Westgate, or IMM, which offer a variety of retail and dining options. Try local hawker centers like Jurong West Hawker Centre for authentic and affordable Singaporean food. Engage with locals, as they are typically friendly and willing to share tips about the area.
When is the best time to visit Jurong?
Useful Local Phrases for Jurong
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Jurong. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- Hello你好
[Nǐ hǎo] - Goodbye再见
[Zàijiàn] - Yes是的
[Shì de] - No不
[Bù] - Please/You're welcome请
[Qǐng] - Thank you谢谢
[Xièxiè] - Excuse me/Sorry对不起
[Duìbùqǐ] - How are you?你好吗?
[Nǐ hǎo ma?] - Fine. And you?很好。你呢?
[Hěn hǎo. Nǐ ne?] - Do you speak English?你会说英语吗?
[Nǐ huì shuō yīngyǔ ma?] - I don't understand我听不懂
[Wǒ tīng bù dǒng]
- Hello你好
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- I'd like to see the menu, please请给我看菜单
[Qǐng gěi wǒ kàn càidān] - I don't eat meat我不吃肉
[Wǒ bù chī ròu] - Cheers!干杯!
[Gānbēi!] - I would like to pay, please请给我结账
[Qǐng gěi wǒ jiézhàng]
- I'd like to see the menu, please请给我看菜单
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- Help!帮帮我!
[Bāng bāng wǒ!] - Go away!走开!
[Zǒu kāi!] - Call the Police!叫警察!
[Jiào jǐngchá!] - Call a doctor!叫医生!
[Jiào yīshēng!] - I'm lost我迷路了
[Wǒ mílù le] - I'm ill我病了
[Wǒ bìng le]
- Help!帮帮我!
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- I'd like to buy...我想买...
[Wǒ xiǎng mǎi...] - I'm just looking我只是看看
[Wǒ zhǐshì kànkan] - How much is it?多少钱?
[Duōshǎo qián?] - That's too expensive太贵了
[Tài guì le] - Can you lower the price?可以便宜点吗?
[Kěyǐ piányi diǎn ma?]
- I'd like to buy...我想买...
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- What time is it?现在几点?
[Xiànzài jǐ diǎn?] - It's one o'clock一点钟
[Yī diǎn zhōng] - Half past (10)十点半
[Shí diǎn bàn] - Morning早上
[Zǎoshang] - Afternoon下午
[Xiàwǔ] - Evening晚上
[Wǎnshang] - Yesterday昨天
[Zuótiān] - Today今天
[Jīntiān] - Tomorrow明天
[Míngtiān] - 1一
[Yī] - 2二
[Èr] - 3三
[Sān] - 4四
[Sì] - 5五
[Wǔ] - 6六
[Liù] - 7七
[Qī] - 8八
[Bā] - 9九
[Jiǔ] - 10十
[Shí]
- What time is it?现在几点?
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- Where's a/the...?哪里有...
[Nǎlǐ yǒu...] - What's the address?地址是什么?
[Dìzhǐ shì shénme?] - Can you show me (on the map)?你可以给我看地图吗?
[Nǐ kěyǐ gěi wǒ kàn dìtú ma?] - When's the next (bus)?下一班公交车什么时候?
[Xià yī bān gōngjiāochē shénme shíhòu?] - A ticket (to ....)一张票(去...)
[Yī zhāng piào (qù...)]
- Where's a/the...?哪里有...
History of Jurong
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Jurong's history dates back to the 19th century when it was primarily an agricultural area. The fertile land was used for plantations growing gambier, pepper, and other crops. Early settlers were mainly Malay and Chinese farmers who worked the land and lived in small kampongs (villages).
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During World War II, Jurong played a strategic role in the defense of Singapore. The British military constructed the Jurong Line, a series of defensive positions, to protect against the advancing Japanese forces. However, despite these efforts, Japanese troops eventually captured Singapore in 1942.
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Following World War II, Jurong underwent significant transformation under the leadership of Dr. Goh Keng Swee, Singapore’s first Minister for Finance. In 1961, the decision was made to develop Jurong into an industrial estate to support Singapore’s economic growth. The Jurong Industrial Estate was established, attracting local and multinational companies, and transforming the landscape from rural to industrial.
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In 1968, the Jurong Town Corporation (JTC) was formed to oversee the development of Jurong. The organization played a pivotal role in planning and developing infrastructure, housing, and amenities to support the burgeoning industrial hub. JTC’s efforts led to the creation of numerous industrial parks, residential areas, and commercial facilities.
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Opened in 1971, Jurong Bird Park quickly became one of Singapore’s most beloved attractions. The park is home to thousands of birds from hundreds of species, housed in naturalistic aviaries. It serves not only as a tourist destination but also as a center for avian research and conservation.
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Nanyang Technological University (NTU), established in 1981, is one of Singapore’s premier institutions of higher learning. Located in the Jurong area, NTU has grown to become a global university known for its research excellence and innovation. It attracts students and faculty from around the world, contributing to Jurong’s vibrant academic and cultural landscape.
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The Jurong Lake District is a major urban redevelopment project aimed at transforming the area into Singapore’s second Central Business District (CBD). Launched in the 2000s, the project includes the development of commercial, residential, and recreational spaces around Jurong Lake. The district is envisioned as a vibrant, sustainable, and smart urban hub, reflecting Singapore’s aspirations for future growth.
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Jurong is a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse population that includes Chinese, Malays, Indians, and expatriates. Cultural landmarks such as the Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle, one of the oldest surviving dragon kilns in Singapore, and various temples and mosques, reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the area. Festivals and cultural events held throughout the year celebrate this diversity, adding to the area’s unique charm.
Cities near Jurong
The closest cities to Jurong, if you have time for more than one stop.
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Jurong: Singapore's Hidden Gem of Innovation and Nature
Jurong is a captivating blend of urban innovation and natural beauty. Located in the western part of Singapore, Jurong offers a unique experience for travelers seeking to explore beyond the usual cityscape. The area is best known for its impressive industrial advancements, but it also boasts a wealth of attractions that cater to nature lovers, history buffs, and families alike. One of the must-visit spots in Jurong is the Jurong Bird Park, one of the largest bird parks in the world. Here, you can marvel at over 5,000 birds from 400 species, housed in lush, naturalistic habitats. Nearby, the Jurong Lake Gardens offers a tranquil retreat with its beautiful landscapes, serene lakes, and the picturesque Chinese and Japanese Gardens. This is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. For those interested in science and technology, the Science Centre Singapore is a treasure trove of interactive exhibits and educational fun. It’s an ideal destination for curious minds of all ages. Adjacent to the Science Centre, Snow City offers a unique experience in tropical Singapore: a chance to enjoy snow and ice activities. Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of malls in Jurong, such as JEM, Westgate, and IMM, which offer everything from high-end fashion to outlet bargains. Foodies will also find delight in Jurong’s diverse culinary scene, featuring local hawker centers and upscale dining options. Jurong is easily accessible via Singapore's efficient public transportation system, making it a convenient and enriching destination for tourists. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature, dive into science, or simply enjoy some retail therapy, Jurong has something for everyone.
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