The Bugis District
in Singapore


Did you know that the Bugis district in Singapore was traditionally known for its sex trade? From the 1950s to 1980s, the phenomenon made Singapore a top tourist spot.

 

But after 1985 the government of Singapore decided to change things, turning the area into a modern and sophisticated district.

From shops and restaurants to bazaars and temples, there is definitely a lot to do in Bugis street.

This article explores the Bugis district in Singapore and the kinds of things you can do there.


1. Bugis Street Today

Bugis Street has overhauled itself by providing sheltered walkways and air-conditioned shopping zones. Hundreds and hundreds of shops and restaurants occupy the Bugis Street now. One can find several attractive promenades and a bazaar selling the cheapest T-shirts and other apparels in town.

During the weekend you would be amazed to experience Singaporean consumerism at its best. The New Bugis Street is billed as the largest shopping location in the whole of Singapore.
 

2. The Geographical Layout

Bugis Street lies in an extensive area which was previously referred to in the past, by the Chinese-educated community, as Xiao Po or little slope. Now housing over 600 stalls, it offers a diverse mix of trendy and functional street wear, cafes, hawker food and services. Possibly one of the best known areas in Singapore, Bugis Street retains its distinctive street shopping feel.

The actual Bugis Street has now been converted into a cobble stoned street with a relatively wide avenue that stands between the various buildings at Bugis Junction. The New Bugis Street has its entrance at the Victoria Street facing the original Bugis Street and Bugis Junction to its other entrance along Queen Street facing the entrance to Albert Street. You can imagine the area that the Bugis Street occupies.
 

3. Places for Sightseeing

There are not many places for sightseeing in Bugis Street apart from the odd mosque or temple. So the best thing that one can do is to go window shopping and if you like something you can always pink it up. This is exactly what Singaporeans do at Bugis Street.

You can visit the Kuan Yin Thong Hood Cho. The place is dedicated to Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy. According to legend wishes made in here come true, which would explain why it's always packed. Sultan Mosque or the ‘Masjid Sultan’ as it is also known is the largest mosque in Singapore, the building is easily identified thanks to its golden domes, but there's not much to see inside.
 

Conclusion

Bugis Street in Singapore is one interesting and colorful place that you should not miss out on while in Singapore. While there are not too many places for sightseeing, the area has clean and modern shops. Until next time, happy shopping!



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