Known as a melting pot of diversity, Singapore is home to a smorgasbord of cultural influences. This small island city-state is located on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. Though the city may have a limited land area, it doesn't fall short of exciting spots to photograph. With the recent demolition of the Merlion, Singapore’s national symbol, this edition of our travel destinations series will still more than make up for its loss.
Check out some of the most photogenic locations to shoot your camera in Singapore via our list below.
1. Jewel Changi Airport
Arriving in Singapore gives you a preview of what to expect during your trip as their airport is already a welcoming spectacle to behold. Jewel Changi Airport houses the majestic rain vortex that is a staggering 131 feet high. It’s an enchanting demonstration of natural and industrial synergy that captures glistening daylight under the waterfall or the lights and sounds show in the evening. There's no question that you will be captivated by its enthralling vista.
2. Helix Bridge
As its name would suggest, this intricate display of modern architecture mimics the helical structure of the human DNA. Its interesting steel coils and arches represent the constant progress that this small but affluent city-state has achieved throughout the years. Soak up the view of the Marina Bay area as you explore this pedestrian bridge adjacent to Bayfront Avenue.
3. Gardens by the Bay
As you are on the Helix Bridge, you'll also be able to see the Gardens by the Bay, which is a vast nature park that has an area of 43,500 square feet or 250 acres. It houses the Supertree Grove, which is comprised of concrete and steel canopy that resembles the CGI-drawn trees that were featured in the sci-fi movie, Avatar. From the ground, you can admire the majestic awning of the towering trees. From about 160 feet up, you can stroll the Skyway that links the tree crowns together and enjoy the dazzling display of lights at night.
4. Esplanade
On the diagonal opposite side is the Esplanade, which is also referred to as “the big durians” by locals since they resemble the thorny fruit native to the Southeast Asian region. Dubbed as the King of the Arts in Singapore, its tessellated aluminum design covering the two domes is eye-catching to say the least. Photograph the edifice at any angle and you can capture its grandeur along with its visual art installations and world-class performances.
5. Masjid Sultan
One of the most historic landmarks in the city is the Masjid Sultan. It was completed in 1932 and until now, has been the premier place of worship for Singapore’s Islamic community. Its majestic façade features an onion-shaped golden dome, pristine white minarets and detailed balustrades. It provides a stark contrast of figures and hues against the bright blue sky.
6. House of Tan Teng Niah
Located in Little India along Kerbau Road, the former house of Tan Teng Niah was restored in the 1980s as the last enduring Chinese villa in the area. Although this eight-room villa is presently a commercial zone, its colorful portico provides a stimulating backdrop for photos, making it an ideal location to add to your bucket list.
7. Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
Just a couple of blocks away from the House of Tan Teng Niah is the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. This remarkable landmark in the Indian community boasts its unique and vibrant features. Displayed on the front pf the temple are the various statues of Kali, the Hindu protector goddess. Filled with hundreds of Hindu statues and symbols, the masterpiece is impressive to any onlooker and attracts tons of tourists every year. Each nook and cranny within the building is intricately designed and ready to be photographed, including its entrance and interior.
8. Old Hill Street Police Station
Currently used by the Ministry of Communications and Information as its headquarters, the Old Hill Street Police Station dates back to the early 1900s when it was used as Singapore’s first jail. The neo-classical style building has 927 windows that were painted like a rainbow. Embrace its colors that shine during the day or its lights at night time.
9. Public Transport
They say good photographers find the fascinating in the mundane. Most of the daily sights we commonly see on our daily commute we just take for granted. However, Singapore’s MTR stations can give you that much needed visual break from the monotony. Take a stop at these stations and be as creative in your shots as you can be: Tan Kah Kee, Dhoby Gaut, Rochor, Stadium, Marina Bay.
Those are just a few of the photographable sights you can't miss when you visit Singapore. Tell us which city you want to discover next, and we’ll give you a rundown of the best spots to complete your photo bucket list. Be sure to check out some of our other travel photography spots to visit!