Haw Par Villa
A surreal theme park showcasing Chinese mythology, folklore, and moral tales through vibrant, often startling, statues and dioramas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Haw Par Villa
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A surreal theme park showcasing Chinese mythology, folklore, and moral tales through vibrant, often startling, statues and dioramas.
"Step into a world of vibrant Chinese mythology and folklore at the unforgettable Haw Par Villa!"
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It gets very hot and humid with limited shade. Stay hydrated!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 10 Courts of Hell
Hell Museum
A vivid and often gruesome journey through Buddhist depictions of the afterlife and the consequences of sins.
Mythological Statues & Dioramas
Main Park
Explore a fantastical landscape filled with colorful statues illustrating Chinese legends, folklore, and moral tales.
Tiger Balm Founders' Legacy
Various points
Discover the history of the Aw brothers, creators of Tiger Balm, and their vision behind this unique park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Quirky & Unconventional
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It gets very hot and humid with limited shade. Stay hydrated!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs.
🎟️ Hell Museum Tickets
Entry to the park is free, but the Hell Museum requires a separate ticket.
📸 Capture the Quirky
This place is a photographer's dream for unique and unusual shots.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It gets very hot and humid with limited shade. Stay hydrated!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs.
🎟️ Hell Museum Tickets
Entry to the park is free, but the Hell Museum requires a separate ticket.
📸 Capture the Quirky
This place is a photographer's dream for unique and unusual shots.
⏳ Allow 1.5-2 Hours
To fully explore the park and the Hell Museum, plan for ample time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Haw Par Villa is widely praised for its unique, quirky, and unforgettable experience, offering a free entry to a world of vibrant Chinese mythology and folklore. Visitors are captivated by the sheer creativity and the educational, albeit sometimes graphic, insights into cultural beliefs, especially within the Hell Museum. However, some find the heat and the intensity of certain exhibits overwhelming.
"Interesting 'theme park' rather than a 'villa'. I had no idea what to expect. Luckily there is plenty of information to read on the grounds, which provides enough background to the culture and religion figures displayed. The park is free, the museum charges an entrance fee. One coffee shop was open and we had a coffee. Note that there is a 10 dollar limit to charge a credit card. So, here some cash is needed."
Khun U
"An iconiq theme park from decades ago. I used to visit this during CNY with family when I was little so brought back many memories revisiting the park. There is now a cafe selling snacks and drinks and the hell museum is now a paid feature. Otherwise the park is totally free to visit. The park was built by two brothers and their monuments as well as their parents are within the park. These brothers are also the ones who own Tiger balm cream. The park is very old you can see very nostalgic way of sculpting human figures. A lot of Chinese mythology stories told through the sculptures."
Pauline Yoong
"☀️ Saturday, 7 June 2025 : A Walk Under the Sun at a Cultural Gem
A sunny day well spent exploring a truly unique and artistic park. This Asian cultural park, originally known as Tiger Balm Garden, was created by the Aw family — the founders of the Tiger Balm brand. It's fascinating to read the stories & beliefs behind each statue and scene they've built.
It's a place where both adults & kids can enjoy a blend of culture, art, and history. You could easily spend around two hours wandering through the thoughtfully designed displays and soaking in the atmosphere.
Entry is free, which makes it even more worth a visit. However, the only downside is that the park isn’t as well-maintained as it deserves to be. Not much shelter.
Pro tips:
🦟 Bring mosquito repellent
🐜 Watch out for red ants in some corners
Can bring some handheld fans
Despite those minor issues, it’s a memorable and educational experience — one that leaves a lasting impression."
Yiling Lai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Haw Par Villa is accessible via the Circle Line MRT to Haw Par Villa station. From the station, it's a short walk. Buses also serve the area.
Yes, it's well-signposted from the Haw Par Villa MRT station. The distinctive entrance makes it hard to miss.
The MRT is generally the most convenient and cost-effective method. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also options.
Yes, there is parking available at Haw Par Villa, though it can fill up during peak times.
Absolutely! The Haw Par Villa MRT station is right next door, making it very accessible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The main Haw Par Villa park has free entry! However, the Hell Museum within the park requires a separate ticket. 
Ticket prices for the Hell Museum can vary, but it's generally an affordable add-on to the free park experience. Check their official website for current pricing.
Haw Par Villa is typically open daily from morning to evening. The Hell Museum has specific operating hours, so it's best to check their official schedule.
For the main park, no booking is required as it's free. For the Hell Museum, it's advisable to check if advance booking is recommended, especially during busy periods.
Yes, the sprawling outdoor park of Haw Par Villa is completely free to enter.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Look for the vibrant statues, the iconic 'Gates of Hell,' and the unique dioramas. The 'Tiger Car' is also a popular photo op.
Yes, it's a unique educational experience for families, teaching about Chinese mythology and moral lessons in a memorable way.
It's an immersive museum within Haw Par Villa that vividly depicts the 10 Courts of Hell and Buddhist concepts of the afterlife.
While it has a mysterious and sometimes eerie atmosphere, especially in the Hell Museum, it's not officially considered a haunted attraction.
It retells classic Chinese legends, folklore, and Buddhist tales, often with a moral or cautionary message.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options within Haw Par Villa itself are limited. It's recommended to eat before or after your visit, or pack snacks and water.
Bringing water is highly recommended due to the heat. Food is generally permitted, but it's best to consume it in designated areas and clean up after yourself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to prepare children for the sometimes startling imagery and to focus on the storytelling and cultural aspects. Bringing plenty of water and ensuring they wear comfortable shoes is crucial for a pleasant visit, especially given Singapore's heat. The free entry to the main park makes it an accessible family outing.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Key spots for photography include the iconic 'Gates of Hell,' the various mythological scenes, and the distinctive architecture. The 'Tiger Car' is also a popular and recognizable photo opportunity. Visiting during the morning can offer softer light and fewer people, enhancing your photographic experience.
🧐 Culture & History Buffs
+1Exploring the park allows for an understanding of traditional moral teachings and cultural values. The '10 Courts of Hell' provides a unique perspective on afterlife beliefs and the concept of karma. It's a place where history and mythology converge in a visually striking and thought-provoking manner.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision Behind Haw Par Villa
+1The park's design is a testament to their ambition to create a unique cultural landmark. Unlike traditional gardens or museums, Haw Par Villa embraces the fantastical and the didactic, aiming to entertain while also instilling a sense of morality and cultural pride. The sheer scale and detail of the exhibits, from mythical creatures to scenes of punishment and reward, reflect a deep commitment to their vision.
+1Today, Haw Par Villa stands as a testament to this unique legacy. While its popularity has ebbed and flowed, it remains a must-visit for those seeking an offbeat and culturally rich experience in Singapore. The park's enduring appeal lies in its unapologetic embrace of the bizarre and its ability to spark curiosity and conversation about Chinese culture and beliefs.
+1Exploring the 10 Courts of Hell
+1Visitors often describe the Hell Museum as both fascinating and unsettling. It's a place where you can learn about the consequences of actions like lying, stealing, or disrespecting elders, all presented in a visually impactful way. The detailed sculptures and atmospheric settings aim to create a visceral understanding of these moral teachings.
While the graphic nature might not be for everyone, the Hell Museum offers a unique cultural insight into traditional beliefs about karma and retribution. It's a powerful reminder of the park's original purpose: to educate and guide visitors towards virtuous living through vivid storytelling.
+1Navigating Haw Par Villa: Practicalities
While the main park is free to enter, the Hell Museum requires a separate ticket. It's a good idea to check the opening hours for the museum in advance, as they may differ from the park's general hours. The park itself is quite spread out, so allocating at least 1.5 to 2 hours will allow for a thorough exploration without feeling rushed.
Food options within the park are limited, so it's best to have a meal before or after your visit. However, bringing snacks and drinks is generally permitted, which is essential for staying comfortable during your exploration. The unique nature of Haw Par Villa makes it a memorable experience, but being prepared for the environment is key to enjoying it fully.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit