Haw Par Villa is a unique theme park located in the Pasir Panjang district of Singapore. Also known as the Tiger Balm Gardens, it was built in 1937 by the Aw brothers, Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par, the inventors of the famous Tiger Balm ointment. The park is a testament to the brothers’ love of Chinese culture and mythology, and features over 1,000 statues and dioramas depicting scenes from Chinese folklore and history.
The park is divided into several sections, each with its own theme and set of exhibits. The main attraction is the Ten Courts of Hell, which is a graphic depiction of the Buddhist concept of the afterlife. Visitors walk through a series of dioramas that depict the punishments awaiting sinners in each of the ten courts, with graphic depictions of torture and suffering. This section of the park is not for the faint of heart, but it is a fascinating look at Chinese beliefs about the afterlife.
Other sections of the park include the Eight Immortals, which features statues of the mythical figures and tells their stories, and the Journey to the West, which depicts scenes from the classic Chinese novel of the same name. There is also a section dedicated to Chinese mythology, with statues of gods and goddesses, and a section dedicated to historical figures and events.
One of the most striking features of Haw Par Villa is the level of detail in the statues and dioramas. The exhibits are incredibly intricate, with each figure and scene carefully crafted to tell a story. The park is also surrounded by lush greenery, which adds to the sense of tranquility and beauty.
Haw Par Villa has a fascinating history, and its survival is a testament to the perseverance of the Singaporean people. During World War II, the Japanese army occupied the park and used it as a military base. After the war, the park fell into disrepair, and it was almost demolished in the 1980s to make way for a housing development. However, a group of concerned citizens banded together to save the park, and it was eventually declared a national monument.
Today, Haw Par Villa is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. It’s a great place to learn about Chinese culture and mythology, and the park’s exhibits are a feast for the eyes. The park is also a popular spot for locals to go on weekend picnics, and it’s not uncommon to see families enjoying a leisurely afternoon in the shade of the trees.
Haw Par Villa is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into Chinese culture and mythology. It’s a great place to learn about history, religion, and art, and the park’s exhibits are sure to leave a lasting impression. The park is also a testament to the resilience of the Singaporean people, and its survival is a tribute to the country’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for something different to do in Singapore, Haw Par Villa is definitely worth a visit.
Address and Location:
262 Pasir Panjang Rd, Singapore 118628
Click this link for Google directions.
Hours of Operation:
Park Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 9am – 8pm (last entry 7.30pm)
Hell’s Museum Opening Hours:
Wed – Sun: 10am – 6pm (last entry: 5pm)
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays (even hell needs off days! – Except Public Holidays)
Entrance Fee:
Ticket Price:
$18 / Adult, $10 / Child
Free for children aged 6 and under
(Not recommended for children under 9 years old)
