Named after the legendary street that carves through its heart, Bugis is a lively shopping district in central Singapore. Bugis Street was named after the Bugis people from South Sulawesi who once sailed up its canal to trade with Singaporean merchants. The area garnered a reputation as a red-light district in the mid-20th century before being redeveloped as a shopping destination in the 1980s.
Things to do in Bugis Street Shopping District
Get your retail fix along Bugis Street, a wide, cobblestone avenue lined with fashion boutiques, casual eateries and souvenir stores that form part of the Bugis Junction shopping mall. Nearby is charming Queen Street with its historic churches and the monumental National Library.
North-east of Bugis Street is the Kampong Glam Malay Heritage District, which centres around the impressive Sultan Mosque. Constructed in the 1920s, this golden-domed house of worship is designated as a National Monument. You can learn about the cultural heritage of Malay Singaporeans at the Malay Heritage Centre before dining at the Halal eateries along colourful Arab Street.
Bugis makes an excellent base for visiting the National Museum of Singapore, which was originally established in 1849 as part of the Raffles Library and Museum. It occupies a magnificent Neoclassical-style building with modern glass additions and hosts everything from art installations to film screenings throughout the year. The museum lies on the edge of Fort Canning Park, a historic green space where live music concerts are regularly held.
Getting around Bugis Street Shopping District
Bugis is around 20 minutes’ drive from Singapore Changi Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Buses travelling from Johor Bahru stop at the Queen Street Bus Terminal while local subway lines serve Rochor, Bencoolen and Bras Basah stations. Most of Bugis’ attractions can be accessed on foot.