World War II Sites
In Singapore


  Curious about what happened in Singapore during World War II? Well, World War II is very much a part of the history of Singapore in the 20th century.

The Japanese invaded and occupied Singapore from 1942 to 1945. Those years were the darkest days for the little island.

Today, there are many memorials that illustrate what happened during World War II in this little nation. If you're a history buff, then please read on ...

1. Overview

Whether you're a visitor and even a war veteran coming to Singapore, you will be able to see what happened in World War II through a series of heritage tours. There are also many World War II attractions worth visiting - a few of them are described below.
 

2. The Battle Box

Located within the hillside of Fort Canning Park is a curious thing called the Battle Box. This 'box' was essentially the largest underground command centre of the British army in Malaya during World War II. It is an amazingly large place, comprising of 22 rooms linked by a central corridor. The place is also bomb-proof and also capable of recycling the air supply.

Open 10am - 6pm daily
Getting There Take the MRT to Dhoby Ghaut Station and walk uphill past Park Mall and towards Fort Canning Road.

 

3. Changi Chapel & Museum

This chapel served as an important beacon of light for the hopeless during World War II. A symbolic replica of chapels built in the war time, the Changi Chapel is a wondrous sight for the eyes.

Open 9.30am to 4.30pm
Getting There Take SBS bus 2 from Tanah Merah MRT station. Drop off at the bus stop right in front of Changi Chapel and Museum.


4. Civilian War Memorial

The experiences and struggles of various races in Singapore during World War II are embodied in the Civilian War Memorial. This imposing structure in the heart of the city, and memorial services are held there annually on 15 February to remember war victims.

Open Always open.
Getting There Take a very short walk from the City Hall MRT Station.


5. Fort Siloso

Tucked away in Singapore, Fort Siloso in Sentosa was built by the British way back in the 1880s to protect the west entrance into Singapore. Its the only intact British coastal fortification in Singapore today. A must-visit.

Open 10am – 6pm daily
Getting There Take the bus into Sentosa from the Habourfront Centre Interchange.


5. Johore Battery

Dating back to 1939, the Johore Battery was a big gun site laced with a labyrinth of tunnels. Ammunication was stored in tunnels to support three huge guns firing 15-inch shells.

Open 9am - 5pm (daily)
Getting There Take SBS Bus 2 from Tanah Merah MRT Station and alight at the bus stop opposite Selarang Camp.

 

Conclusion

Ok! What a lot of World War II attractions! If you have always been curious about the history of Singapore or even Southeast Asia in general, these attractions are the best places to visit. Happy touring!




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