Chinatown Street Market, Singapore - Image 1
1 / 10

Chinatown Street Market Singapore

4.4
·3k reviews·Singapore, Singapore

A vibrant tapestry of colorful shophouses, bustling markets, and delicious hawker food, offering a taste of Singapore's rich Chinese heritage.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Chinatown Street Market, Singapore - Image 1

Chinatown Street Market Singapore

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant tapestry of colorful shophouses, bustling markets, and delicious hawker food, offering a taste of Singapore's rich Chinese heritage.

4.4
(3k reviews)

"A must-go place in Singapore for shopping, souvenirs, and feeling the warmth of Chinese culture, art, and food."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Bargain Like a Pro

Don't be afraid to haggle for souvenirs! Many vendors expect it, and you can often get a better price .

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes to explore all the market lanes .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chinatown Complex Food Centre

Chinatown Complex Food Centre

Block 216, Smith Street

Singapore's largest hawker center, offering an overwhelming array of affordable local delights.

Pagoda Street Market

Pagoda Street Market

Pagoda Street

Bustling street market filled with souvenirs, traditional crafts, and vibrant street food stalls.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

288 South Bridge Road

A serene sanctuary offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into rich Buddhist heritage.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for the Best Finds

Chinatown Street Market can get busy, especially on weekends and during festive seasons like Chinese New Year.Instagram Arrive early to snag the best deals and avoid the midday heat and crowds. Many shops open around 10 AM, so an early morning stroll offers a more relaxed experience.Reddit

Embrace the Hawker Culture

Singapore's hawker centers are legendary, and Chinatown is home to some of the best. Don't miss the chance to sample affordable and delicious local dishes. Chinatown Complex Food Centre is a must-visit for a true taste of Singaporean street food.TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, food stalls open
Crowd
Medium
When
Chinese New Year
Why
Festive decorations & markets
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Everything I ate at Chinatown Complex Food Centre in Singapore 😍🍗🥟🍚 #singapore #chinatown #chinatowncomplex #food #foodcentre #hawkerfood #hawkercentre #foodreview #singaporefood #chickenrice #hainanesechicken #wonton #noodles
@biteswithlily
114.8K likes • 1.4M views

🎯 Bargain Like a Pro

Don't be afraid to haggle for souvenirs! Many vendors expect it, and you can often get a better price.Instagram

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes to explore all the market lanes.Reddit

CHINATOWN’S MOST FAMOIS FRIED CHICKEN SHOP 🐔 Always been a fan of this spot - super simple great Taiwanese fried chicken with a huge selection of seasons which will fizz around your mouth. Garlic and chilli, garlic and plum and seaweed are my favourites. ⭐️If you can’t take a date, take a mate! Tag tag tag x #chinatown #chinatownlondon #Foodie #london #taiwan #taiwanese #friedchicken #halal #c...
@eatingwithtod
85.9K likes • 1.4M views
CHINATOWN STREET MARKET This is the only street market in Singapore and street food is what we are eating from bamboo cake, banh mi to cold pressed juice. 📍Located beside 37 Smith street along Trengganu Street #sgfoodie #streetfood #chinatownsg #chinatownsingapore #banhmi #coldpressedjuice #bamboocake #eatshopplay #streetmarket #foodreview #wheretoeat #hojiakbo #viral #makeitviral #fyp #bigjohnj...
bigjohnjiak
5.4K likes • 781.4K views

📱 Flash for Discounts

Some shops, like vintage camera stores, offer discounts if you mention their TikTok.TikTok

🍜 Hawker Food Adventure

Try local favorites like Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow, and dim sum at the food centers.TikTok+1

CHINESE NEW YEAR MARKET 2024 @CHINATOWN 🧧🏮🇸🇬 DID YOU KNOW?💭💭 Chinatown Singapore closed one of its streets (Pagoda street) to host the CNY market 🧧🧧 From CNY cookies🥠, goods to chinese traditional products. This place has truly more to offer than words can describe🏮🧧✨️🌟 NEAREST MRT STATION: MRT Chinatown (Blue🔵 & Purple🟣 line) Who would you bring along to the CNY market?🌟🫂🧧 Tag the person in...
kitravel_hubb
684 likes • 49.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Bargain Like a Pro

Don't be afraid to haggle for souvenirs! Many vendors expect it, and you can often get a better price.Instagram

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes to explore all the market lanes.Reddit

📱 Flash for Discounts

Some shops, like vintage camera stores, offer discounts if you mention their TikTok.TikTok

🍜 Hawker Food Adventure

Try local favorites like Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow, and dim sum at the food centers.TikTok+1

📸 Capture the Colors

Chinatown is incredibly photogenic, especially the colorful shophouses and market stalls.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Chinatown Street Market is a lively and vibrant destination, praised for its bustling atmosphere, diverse shopping options, and delicious, affordable street food. Visitors enjoy the cultural immersion and the chance to find unique souvenirs. However, some find it quite touristy and can be overwhelming during peak hours.

"Touristy Chinatown market street
A lively place to stroll and soak in the atmosphere.
Plenty of small shops and stalls to browse, with a few historical landmarks and a grand Chinese temple nearby.
Always bustling with visitors, and you’ll find eateries and local snacks at every corner.
Maxwell food centre is a good choice for a quick meal and refreshments.
Worth a visit for the vibrant mix of culture and commerce."

K Tan

"Chinatown street market - a destination for shopping, souvenirs, and feel the warmth of Chinese culture, art and food.
Variety of products with wider range of collections, quality and price to meet your needs and pocket.
Also you may taste the Chinese food with variety and taste."

Deepankar Borgohain

"A must go place in Singapore.

Buddha Tooth Temple - get to soak in the peaceful and serene environment. Most importantly positive energy.

Lots of shops selling delicious and affordable food. If u are searching for souvenirs to bring back to your country, walk around the area and explore yourself.

Take your time to feel the vibes of the locals!"

Kelvin Ong

What People Like

Vibrant atmosphere
Affordable street food
Souvenir shopping

What People Dislike

Can be touristy
Crowded during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is via the MRT. Alight at Chinatown MRT Station (DT19/NE4), which is served by the Downtown and North-East lines. From the station, it's a short walk to the main market streets like Pagoda Street and Smith Street.Instagram

Parking in Chinatown can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport like the MRT. If you must drive, there are several multi-storey car parks available, but they can fill up quickly.

Yes, taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are readily available in Singapore and can drop you off at various points within Chinatown. Just specify your destination within the market area.

Several bus services stop along New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street, which are very close to the Chinatown Street Market. Check your preferred transit app for the most convenient bus routes from your location.

While the main streets are generally flat, some market stalls and older shophouses may have steps. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple has accessible facilities. Navigating crowded areas can also be challenging.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Chinatown Street Market itself is free. You only pay for the items you wish to purchase from the shops and food stalls.Instagram

Most shops and stalls operate from around 10 AM to 10 PM daily, though some food stalls in the hawker centers may open earlier or close later. It's best to check specific stall hours if you have a particular place in mind.Reddit

Entry to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is generally free, though donations are welcome. Some smaller temples might have a small donation box.

Yes, various guided walking tours are available that cover Chinatown's history, culture, and food. These can offer deeper insights than exploring on your own.

Weekday mornings are generally the least crowded. Weekends and evenings, especially during festive periods, can be very busy.Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You'll find a wide variety of souvenirs, including traditional Chinese crafts, tea sets, silk clothing, calligraphy items, fans, and novelty items. Pagoda Street is particularly known for its souvenir shops.Instagram+1

Yes, bargaining is common, especially for souvenirs and non-food items. Don't hesitate to politely negotiate for a better price.Instagram

Keep an eye out for smaller, independent shops. Some TikTok creators have highlighted vintage stores selling digital cameras and other unique finds.TikTok

Most stalls accept cash, but many larger shops and some food stalls also accept credit cards or mobile payment options like PayNow. It's always good to have some cash on hand.

Pagoda Street is famous for souvenirs and trinkets. Smith Street is more about food and dining. Trengganu Street also offers a mix of goods.Instagram

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

You must try Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow, laksa, and dim sum. Chinatown Complex Food Centre is a treasure trove for authentic hawker dishes.TikTok+1 Don't miss out on local desserts and snacks too!

Chinatown Complex Food Centre is a top recommendation for affordable and authentic hawker food.TikTok+1 Maxwell Food Centre is also nearby and highly regarded. For specific dishes, Reddit users suggest Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice.Reddit

Yes, many hawker stalls offer vegetarian dishes, often indicated by a 'V' symbol. Look for stalls specializing in vegetarian noodles, rice dishes, or mock meats.

You can enjoy a delicious meal for as little as S$5-S$10. Many TikTok videos highlight how affordable and filling the food is.TikTok+1

Absolutely! Look for stalls selling mooncakes, pineapple tarts, bamboo cakes, and other traditional Chinese sweets, especially during festive seasons.Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The colorful shophouses along Pagoda Street and Trengganu Street are iconic. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple offers stunning architecture. The vibrant market stalls themselves are also great subjects.Reddit

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the essence of the market. Evenings can be atmospheric with neon lights, but can be crowded.

Some creators highlight the unique street art and cultural elements. Henna artists like David on Pagoda Street offer a chance to capture cultural interactions.TikTokInstagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both street scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the shophouses. However, a smartphone camera is often sufficient for capturing the vibrant atmosphere.

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful and ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals or inside private establishments.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chinatown Street Market offers a sensory overload that can be exciting for families. The vibrant colors, bustling atmosphere, and variety of street food provide plenty of stimulation for children. Consider visiting the Chinatown Complex Food Centre for a wide array of kid-friendly options, though it can get crowded. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple offers a calmer, cultural experience that can be educational. Remember to keep a close eye on children in crowded areas and consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Chinatown is a haven for budget travelers. The hawker centers offer incredibly affordable and delicious meals, with many dishes costing under S$10.TikTok+2 Souvenirs on Pagoda Street are also generally more budget-friendly than in other tourist areas, and bargaining can further reduce costs.Instagram Exploring the streets, soaking in the atmosphere, and visiting the temple are all free activities, making Chinatown an excellent destination for those watching their spending.

🍜 Food Enthusiasts

For food lovers, Chinatown is a pilgrimage site. The Chinatown Complex Food Centre is a legendary spot with an overwhelming number of stalls to explore.TikTok Reddit discussions often highlight specific stalls for dishes like claypot rice or pork noodles.Reddit Don't shy away from trying local favorites like chicken rice, char kway teow, and various desserts. The sheer variety and quality of food at such low prices make it a must-visit for any foodie exploring Singapore.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Hawker Culture

Chinatown is a prime destination for experiencing Singapore's renowned hawker culture. The Chinatown Complex Food Centre is a sprawling hub with over 200 stalls, offering an incredible diversity of local dishes at budget-friendly prices.TikTok From the iconic Hainanese chicken rice to flavorful noodles and local desserts, it's a culinary adventure for every palate.TikTok Many TikTok creators have documented their 'what I ate' challenges here, showcasing the sheer volume and affordability of the food.TikTok+1

Beyond the Complex, Maxwell Food Centre is another highly-rated hawker spot nearby, famous for its Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice. Reddit users often share their favorite stalls, recommending hidden gems like Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice for a comforting meal.Reddit Exploring these food centers is not just about eating; it's about immersing yourself in the local way of life, where delicious, affordable food brings people together.

Shopping for Treasures and Trinkets

Chinatown Street Market is a shopper's paradise, especially for those seeking souvenirs and unique finds. Pagoda Street is the main artery for souvenir shops, offering everything from traditional Chinese handicrafts and tea sets to quirky t-shirts and magnets.Instagram+1 Instagram reels often showcase the vibrant displays and the sheer variety of items available.Instagram+1

For those looking for something a bit different, keep an eye out for smaller, independent stores. Some TikTok creators have highlighted vintage shops selling unique items like old-school digital cameras.TikTok Bargaining is part of the experience here, so don't be afraid to negotiate politely to get the best deals.Instagram Whether you're looking for a memento of your trip or a unique gift, Chinatown's markets offer a treasure trove of possibilities.

A Glimpse into Heritage and Art

Chinatown is more than just markets and food; it's a place where heritage comes alive. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is a magnificent landmark, offering a serene escape with its intricate architecture and peaceful ambiance.Reddit It's a must-visit for a dose of culture and positive energy.Reddit

Street artists also contribute to the vibrant cultural tapestry. Henna artists like David on Pagoda Street connect with people from all over the world, turning their art into a piece of tradition that customers carry with them.TikTokInstagram These interactions, along with the colorful shophouses and traditional shops, offer a rich cultural experience that goes beyond mere commerce. The area truly embodies the blend of heritage and modern Singapore.