Tag: Chinatown

Experience A Slice Of 50s And 60s At Chinatown Opera Festival 2019

Many of us are familiar with Getai, but the
art form that truly captures the charm of ancient Chinese performing arts is
Chinese Opera.

It’s ostentatious costumes, over-the-top make-up, and the dramatic falsetto singing are symbolic of a fascinating art form that can be traced way back to the Tang Dynasty. And although Chinese Opera isn’t as popular today, there’s still so much value and beauty to this traditional performing arts, which you can experience at the upcoming Chinatown Opera Festival!

Experience
Traditional Chinese Opera at Chinatown Opera Festival 2019

This 20th to 24th November, Singaporeans
will get to travel back in time and experience the performing arts on the 50s
and 60s at the Chinatown Opera Festival 2019!

The first ever opera festival showcasing
Singapore’s rich local heritage and culture will feature a range of exquisite
performances as well as activities and food that encapsulates the nostalgic
days of the past.

You can expect an array of performances by local troupes like the Qiong Ju Society of Singapore and

For the younger audience, fret not as there are also
‘introductory programmes’ that will guide you in navigating the eclectic world
of Chinese Opera. There’s even a live demonstration of Chinese Opera weapons,
which is sure to excite even the most unenthused!

Other highlights of the shows include puppet shows, face-changing performances, the beautiful water sleeve dance, and also a special Pop Music & Opera segment featuring local artistes Sylvester Sim, Nick Shen, and Gavin Xie.

Live It Up Like You’re In Hao Lai Wu – Enjoy Steamboat And BBQ In Lit Crystal Pots Till 3AM

There’s something to be said about Singaporeans’ devotion to a good, hearty steamboat or BBQ.

Clearly, this is something Hao Lai Wu recognises because they offer both steamboat and BBQ simultaneously, along with one of the widest arrays of ingredients we’ve seen in a single space.

Located at 8 Sago St, this shopfront is conveniently located next to the famous landmark, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. A spot that’s hard to miss, you and your friends won’t have any trouble finding each other at this place.

To cater to all of us Singaporeans whenever hunger strikes, the owners of Hao Lai Wu insist on keeping their store open from 11am – 3am daily! Up and hungry at ungodly hours? Hao Lai Wu’s got you covered!

We loved the charming, lived-in atmosphere permeating the entire shop.

From the moment the DiscoverSG team stepped in, we were taken with the lively, boisterous crowd, the communal cooking over steamboat bowls and BBQ grills, and the cheerful eating of family and friends.

Here, you can choose from 6 different soup bases: Mala, Tom Yum, Tomato, Chicken, Salted Veggie and Pork Bone.

We went with the house special, Mala soup, as well as Chicken soup. The main reason why we ordered the chicken soup was so we had a simple soup base that would allow us to properly appreciate the freshness of the ingredients served here.

Hao Lai Wu provides its customers with a wide range of fresh ingredients, sides, and sauces. It prides itself in its authentic Chinese cuisine, from the spices they put into their Mala soups to the drinks they import directly from China.

We settled down on the re-purposed oil drums and found that they came with detachable seat covers you could lift, to reveal a storage space for your bags or any knick-knacks you were carrying! With your belongings safely stowed away, the only thing you need to focus on is the mouthwatering food before you!

We were given an incredibly warm welcome with a crazy influx of dishes.

We had cute fishcakes…

marinated meats…

an understated but heavenly dish of fried mantous…

and a TON of seafood.

And I mean a TON, because when all the food was brought out, this was what our table looked like:

Someone even cooked an omelette for us on the spot as the food was on its way out! Filled with delicious, juicy sprigs of green onion, red chillis, and tiny morsels of mock crab meat, we loved every last bite of it.

Being able to eat with a whole group of people, cooking and serving one another for 2-3 hours straight, and being given 3 different ways to cook your food (Mala steamboat, Chicken steamboat and BBQ), this is definitely a great place to gather with family, loved ones and friends.

As we said our goodbyes with expanded tummies and hearts, we left with 3 takeaways:

1. Come to Hao Lai Wu HUNGRY. You won’t survive if you’re simply peckish.

2. The Mala is truly delicious, and will leave you sweating as you reach for more.

3. The Mala soup should only be attempted by spicy food lovers. If you’re afraid of McDonald’s chilli sauce, you may want to pass on the Mala.

If you’re looking for a new supper, dinner or lunch spot to have your next family or friend gathering, why not try Hao Lai Wu? We guarantee it’ll be worth your while, leaving you happy and satisfied both in the tummy and the heart.

Hao Lai Wu
Address: 8 Sago St, Singapore 059012
Operating Hours: 11am – 3am daily
Contact no.: 6221 0065
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This Outdoor ‘Escape Room’ Sent Us All Over Chinatown – Here’s How To Ace The Game

Always wanted to go on a treasure hunt? Now you can at Whisper of the Guardians!

The 3rd event of its kind, brought to life by LockdownSG and Think Out Events, this year’s epic adventure will take place in and around Chinatown.

Previously, we wrote about the premise of this adventure. Essentially, a shop house owner found an old scroll containing information leading to a hidden treasure that’s been left behind since WWII. You have been hired to decipher the scroll and find the elusive treasure.

Our DiscoverSG ambassadors took up the challenge and had a blast journeying through Chinatown, trekking past famous (and some not so famous) paths on their quest to find the booty.

Having gone through the experience themselves, here are their golden tips to finding the treasure–and don’t worry, there are no spoilers ahead!

Cheryl: “It’s Very Challenging.”

“It was very challenging–perhaps a little too challenging because we had to get loads of hints from the gamemasters.

Get ready to crack your brains and burn some calories!”

Dawn: “Interact With Your Environment.”

“The game used real, physical things that are there in Chinatown to help you find clues for the next step. 

Be prepared to have your brains fried at the end of the day. I don’t think it’s easy, but it’s worth the try!”

Shivon: “Dress Comfortably And Prepare To WALK”

“The ‘touring’ of this game will actually be like a history excursion which makes studying our history damn fun!

Dress comfortably and prepare to stroll down the whole of Chinatown. You’ll be surprised to find a lot of places where you can take nice OOTDs.”

Jia Min: “Familiarize Yourself With Chinatown Beforehand”

“We basically learnt how to read maps for those of us who didn’t already know how, and practice our map skills for those who do.

Pro Tip: Read more about Chinatown! Maybe know the roads, dress comfortably, don’t bring a big bag, and most importantly, enjoy yourself!”

Vanessa: “Work As A Team”

“I liked how it required us to think thoroughly for each challenge and puzzle and the whole group contributed in one way or another.

Before starting, it would be good to mentally prepare yourself for a lot of time spent on this adventure! And be mentally prepared for very difficult challenges.”

Catered to groups of 6, Early Bird Tickets are still available from now to 8 May at only $228 per team! Tickets include a 1 time entry into the award winning Chinatown Heritage Centre (worth $15, valid for 3 months), which can be used at your own leisure!

There you have it! DiscoverSG’s take on this intriguing journey to find the hidden treasure. Are you up for the challenge?

Click LockdownSG and ThinkOut Events on Facebook!

Whisper of the Guardians
Where: Registration at Chinatown Heritage Centre, 48 Pagoda Street, Singapore 059207
When: 
Price: $228 per team of 6 (early bird)/ $258 (from 8th May onwards); $45 per pax

Also read This Unique Honey Cheesecake Is The Sweetest Way To Say ‘I Love You Mum’

For 2 Days Only, Chinatown Will Become The Ultimate Escape Room – Here’s What You Can Expect

Ever tried an escape room? Come May, LockdownSG and ThinkOut Events are bringing the escape room out onto the streets of Singapore–specifically Chinatown.

Last year’s event saw over 1000 people putting their wits to the test, solving puzzles and journeying through the game, in hopes of bringing their unconscious friend’s soul back.

The rich history of Haw Par Villa, combined with the compelling story line of the game made for an immersive, unique adventure experience–and that’s exactly what you can expect at this year’s Whisper of the Guardians.

This time, the story has changed, but the challenges and the thrills remain the same:

A shop house owner was renovating his attic when he discovered an old scroll, which supposedly contains information leading to the treasure left behind by rich Chinese merchants escaping from the Japanese during WWII. You have been hired to help decipher the scroll, with the promise of a share of the treasure if you find it.

Along the way, you will soon discover that there are guardians of the treasures, loyal families who swore to protect the treasure through generations, who have been waiting for the rightful heir. Your task is to locate the treasure before the thieves get to them.

Sound like your cup of tea? Gather your friends into teams of 6 and make a date on 20th or 27th May. Don’t forget to bring your brains with you–you’re going to need it!

Each game will last approximately 2 hours and requires some travelling, so make sure to bring along your ez-link card, dress comfortably and bring an umbrella!

Tickets also come with a free entry into the award-winning Chinatown Heritage Centre, which can be used after your game, to explore the rich heritage and history of Chinatown at your own leisure! (Entry is valid for 3 months, worth S$15 per person)

Click ThinkOut Events on Facebook!

Whisper of the Guardians
Where: Registration at Chinatown Heritage Centre, 48 Pagoda Street, Singapore 059207
When: 
Price: $228 per team of 6 (early bird)/ $258 (from 8th May onwards); $45 per pax

Also read, 10 Electrifying Experiences To Enjoy To Close Off April [16-30 April]

This Chinese New Year, Let’s Not Forget About The Less Fortunate

With Chinese New Year (CNY) on the horizon, what comes to mind is the abundance of food, the new clothes, and the joyous gatherings – all a display of wealth and fortune. Every year, we sit around a table with family and close friends, and dig into costly delicacies. These are but expected routines and traditions.

However, we forget that not everyone can afford such luxuries.

So while we’re about to celebrate this festive season, let us not forget the less fortunate, for whom these luxuries may not exist.

Here are 4 upcoming charity events that will make your CNY more meaningful this year.

1. AsiaMalls Food Collection & Distribution Initiative

In the spirit of inclusiveness, AsiaMalls has partnered Food from the Heart (FFTH) for a CNY food distribution initiative.

More than 150 volunteers will come together this month to pack and distribute over 500 bags of Chinese New Year goodies and AsiaMalls vouchers to the less privileged.

All food items will go towards supporting Food from the Heart’s 25,000 beneficiaries, especially those living in the surrounding areas of the malls.

Head on down to any of the malls below to donate goodies, volunteer to pack or distribute them!

Items to contribute include:

• Non-perishable food (Instant noodle, canned food etc.)
• Non-food grocery (Toiletries, detergent etc.)
• Condiments (Soy sauce, salt etc.)
• Instant beverages (Milo, coffee etc.)

AsiaMalls Food Collection and Distribution Initiative (in partnership with Food from the Heart)
Century Square: 13 – 19 Jan 2017, Level 1, opposite Universal Optical
Tampines 1: 13 – 19 Jan 2017, Level 1, opposite Sephora
Hougang Mall: 20 – 26 Jan 2017, Level 4, next to The Manhattan Fish Market
Tiong Bahru Plaza: 20 – 26 Jan 2017, Level 1, lift lobby.
Collection time: 11AM – 9PM, daily

2. Have A Reunion Lunch With Stay-Alone Seniors

The eve of every CNY sees members of the family, young and old, bond over a sumptuous meal that is the reunion dinner. But some seniors who live alone in rental flats don’t have anyone share this special occasion with.

GoodLife! Makan by Montfort Care is planning a charity CNY reunion luncheon for 80 to 100 stay-alone seniors in the Marine Terrace. There will also be games and activities, and a red packet for each senior for good health and luck in the new year.

Consider sharing a meal with these seniors in the afternoon before your own reunion dinner with family!

GoodLife! Makan
Address: 52 Marine Terrace, #01-189 Singapore 440052
Tel: 6702 0212
Email: [email protected]

3. Donate Your Pre-Loved Items To Salvation Army

While you’re in the midst of your CNY spring cleaning, don’t throw all your items out yet! Old clothes, toys, books, and even furniture can be given to someone who needs it more.

The Salvation Army is a good place to start. With more than 10 centres across Singapore, their programmes reach out to children and the aged who need care, families in material need, and other needy persons in society.

As long as they’re in good condition, drop your pre-loved items at any of their Redshield centres. Otherwise, if your item is bulky, like furniture or big appliances, you can arrange for collection at your doorstep.

The Salvation Army
Tel: (65) 6288 5438
Email: [email protected]
Address: 20 Bishan Street 22 Singapore 579768 (Open car park)
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun, 24 hours
Image credit: Choo Yut Shing[/caption]

Each wishing card costs $2 and all proceeds will go to the Kreta Ayer Seniors’ Activity Centre.

Also, read 10 Activities To Do During Chinese New Year That Doesn’t Involve Empty Malls

We Never Bluff – Local Food Going For Only 50¢ At Chinatown!

Ever wished you could stuff yourself silly with local delights without breaking the bank? At this year’s 50 Cents Festival, you can! For as little as – you guessed it!- 50 cents, enjoy a great variety of authentic local favourite dishes that will propel you right back to the good old 1950s.

50 Cents Festival at Chinatown

The entire food street at Chinatown will be transformed into a “pasar”, or street hawker food scene. It’s specially designed to transport visitors to an authentic recreation of the 1950s and 60s! Treat yourself to delectable local delights – 35 iconic traditional dishes cooked by 20 stores!

Do also watch out for the mobile hawkers who roam the streets selling old-time favourites.

50 Cents is Bigger Than a Bull Cart Wheel

An old Hokkien saying (translated) goes: “50 Cents is Bigger Than a Bull Cart Wheel!” What does this mean? In the 1950s, SGD 50 cents was enough to buy so much food that most would consider it a ridiculous amount to spend on a meal! Singaporeans and tourists alike will be pleased to note this will be a reality at the 50 cents festival!

35 Iconic Local Delights at as Little as 50 Cents Only

That’s right budget hunters, 50 cents for your favourite Char Kway Teow, UFO (Fried Oyster Cake), Rickshaw Noodle, Ice Balls and Fried Carrot Cake. Other 50 cent dishes include BBQ Chicken Wings, Nasi Lemak wrapped in banana leaf, Satay and Roti Prata. For an additional 50 cents or one dollar, customers can even enjoy specialities such as Hainanese Chicken Rice Balls, Bak Kut Teh and Singapore’s signature Chilli Crab!

Fringe activities

To truly make the experience an unforgettable one, there will be a myriad of Fringe Activities lined up for all ages. Families can indulge in outdoor movie screenings, marvel at performances by martial arts professionals and opera singers. These activities will mimic “kampong-style” communal activities. Get your Chinese name artfully written by calligraphers, or you could also pay a visit to letter writers and fortune-tellers. All these while munching on your food spoils of the day!

50 Cents Festival Details

With so much happening along this street bazaar, we say this is a must-visit for everyone! So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars and get ready to have a feast!

50 Cents Festival
Address: Chinatown Food Street, Smith Street
Date: 30 July, Sat, 3PM – 11PM; 31 July, Sun, 11AM-11PM
Menu: click here.
Also read, A Timbre+ Event: Expect Only The Best Food & Music @ Open Stoves!

More Than Bak Kwa – 6 Things To Do At Our Cultural Gem, Chinatown

Some may think that going to Chinatown to experience ‘Chinese-ness’ is ridiculous as you can get Chinese goodies everywhere in Singapore. So why Chinatown?

If you’re not already in the know, Chinatown holds pretty significant historical and cultural significance. So significant that it has been declared as a national heritage site for conservation by the Urban Redevelopment Authority.

Still not convinced? Listed below are six things you can do in this neighbourhood. You never know, this cultural neighbourhood may just surprise you.

1. Shopping At Pagoda Street

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Stroll along Pagoda Street and you’ll find pavements lined with stalls on either side, peddling anything from knick-knacks to memorabilia. Heck, there’s even a Tin Tin collectibles boutique, themed after the famous comic book character.

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Have a soft spot for kitchenwares? Let yourself loose at Lau Choy Seng or Sia Huat, two of Singapore’s very reliable kitchen supplies shop. The best part is, they are just a few doors away from each other.

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Lau Choy Seng
Address: 23 Temple St, 058568
Operating Hours: Mon-Sat  8:30am-6:00pm (Closed on Sundays & PH)

Sia Huat
Address: 11 Temple St, 058559
Operating hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-6:30pm, Sat 8:30am-5:30pm (Closed on Sundays)

2. Appreciate Religious And Racial Diversity 

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Hindu Temples are all about details and you definitely won’t want to miss the magnificent roof sculptures atop Sri Mariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore.  You’ll be surprised to find that the temple, despite its significance, is successfully complemented by its surroundings. In fact, it blends so well into Chinatown that it adds vibrance to this precinct, which happens to also house the Al-Abrar Mosque and Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Talk about Singapore being the melting pot of religion and culture.

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It is considered disrespectful to wear shoes into the temples, so do remove your shoes and place it neatly at the racks provided before entering. Do also note your attire and clothing (ideally no shorts or revealing clothes) and your etiquette (no yelling or fooling around) as a token of respect.

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Sri Mariamman Temple
Address: 244 South Bridge Rd,058793
Operating Hours: Daily 7am-12pm, 6pm-9pm

Al-Abrar Mosque
Address: 192, Telok Ayer Street, 068635
Tel: 6220 6306

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
Address: 288 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058840
Operating Hours: Daily 7am-7pm

3. Vintage Shopping At Mohamed Ali Lane

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For those who enjoy flea markets and vintage shopping, here’s an insider tip for you. Turn into Mohamed Ali Lane just across the road from the temple and you’ll find a market of sorts, selling awesome second-hand trinkets. If you’re lucky, you may even come across a hidden gem. Did we also mention that this lane is super Instagram-worthy? Play around with angles and treat your fellow followers to architectural eye candy.

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Also read: Join In One Of SG’s Biggest & Best Bazaars – The Market Hop

4. Feast At Chinatown Food Street

If you’re not starving after all that walking, Chinatown’s Food Street will do much to whet your appetite. With street hawker stalls and shophouse restaurants that are completed with al-fresco dining style along the street, Chinatown Food Street sure feels like a food blast from the past.

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Too many choices and can’t decide what to eat? We highly recommend Geylang Lor 9 Fresh Frog Porridge, Newton Circus Ahmad Ibrahim Satay, Boon Tat Street BBQ Seafood and Odeon Beef Noodles. If you prefer a lighter meal (save that stomach for dessert!), do try local delicacies such as the kaya toast, fresh popiah, fried oysters, and traditional Chinese pastries at Tong Heng Confectionary.

5. Play Chess / People Watch At Chinatown Complex

It is not unusual to see residents and senior citizens battling rounds of Chinese Chess as a recreational activity just outside Chinatown Complex. Despite the ‘heated competition’, these uncles are always throwing good-natured banter, filling the place with laughter. We can’t recommend this place more if people watching is your thing. Also, you’re more than welcome to spectate a cerebral game of Chinese Chess and pick up a tactic or two.

6. Architecture Appreciation

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Chinatown is a cache of heritage beset against a backdrop of modern cityscape. Just check out these colourful buildings!

From the heritage buildings to meticulously detailed Sri Mariammam Temple, not forgetting the hidden alleys as well as appetising local delights and friendly banters from the locals, every inch and corner of Chinatown tells a story. What is your Chinatown story, drop us a comment and let us know!

Directions

Chinatown is accessible via MRT on the Northeast Line (purple line) and Downtown Line (blue line). The moment you step out of the station, you’ll truly understand what ‘technicolour’ is. Say goodbye to  Lo-Fi and Sierra filter – take that Instagram.

(Header image by Hipster Hawkers: 5 Stalls That Are Redefining Hawker Culture