Beneath the seeming ordinariness of the streets of Jalan Besar, there lies a rich and diverse community. The working man's district, where hardware stores and machinery repair shops are cheek by jowl with hipster cafes, backpacker inns, yummy food stalls, nightclubs and karaoke bars. In the words of one resident, the area exudes a certain sense of darkness and exoticism, an almost schizophrenic existence with traditional places open in the day and a totally different set of businesses open at night. We will hear stories of the most famous nightclub of a bygone era. Discover the unique and striking shophouses, some which boast of facades seen nowhere else in Singapore.
Come join this tour with Charlotte to explore a 'hidden city with a global soul', one that has gone from swamp to shops and sleaze and now to swag.
Date and time: Monday, 1 April 2026 from 9.30 am - 12.30 pm
Meeting point: Farrer Park MRT exit H street level, in front of City Square Mall
Tour language: English
Member price: 49$ Non-member price: 59$
Please note: As there will be a lot of walking, please put on comfortable footwear and bring your umbrella and lots of drinking water.
For Vox sets, please bring along headphones with 3.5mm jack if possible.
Please note: A minimum number of participants is needed for the tour to proceed. Tour will be cancelled should the required minimum number of participants not be met 2 days before the tour date. Your ticket will be refunded in this case.
