Discover the Peranakan Museum Singapore: A Cultural Gem
Singapore’s vibrant tapestry of cultures is a delight for any explorer. One thread particularly stands out for its unique blend of influences – the Peranakan heritage.The Peranakan Museum Singapore offers a deep dive into the unique culture of the Peranakan communities, also known as Straits Chinese, who are descendants of Chinese immigrants who came to the Malay archipelago, including Singapore, between the 15th and 17th centuries. Situated in the heart of Singapore, this unique museum, which located inside a beautifully restored colonial building, stands as a testament to the vibrant and eclectic mix of cultures that characterize the Peranakan heritage.
Get ready for a journey through exquisite craftsmanship, rich traditions, artistry and a captivating story of immigrants who carved their own identity in Southeast Asia.
Location and How to Get There
The Peranakan Museum is conveniently located at 39 Armenian Street, Singapore 179941, in the central Bras Basah district, close to many other key cultural attractions. This central location makes it easily accessible by various modes of transport.
How To Go To Pernakan Museum Singapore
Visitors can choose from various transportation modes to go to Peranakan Museum Singapore. Due to it convenient location at the city’s centre, taking a public transport is easy.
| Transport Method | How to Get There |
|---|---|
| MRT | Take the North-South Line or Circle Line to City Hall or Bras Basah stations. From City Hall, it’s about a 10-minute walk. From Bras Basah, it’s a 5-minute walk. |
| Bus | Numerous buses stop near the museum. The nearest bus stops are along Stamford Road, Hill Street, and Victoria Street.
Capitol Bldg (04111) – Bus 7, 14, 14e, 16, 16M, 36, 77, 106, 111, 131, 162, 162M, 167, 175, 652, 656, 660, 663, 665, 850E, 857, 951E SMU (04121) – Bus 7, 14, 14e, 16, 16M, 36, 77, 106, 111, 124, 131, 147, 162, 162M, 166, 167, 174, 174e, 175, 190, 652, 656, 660, 663, 665, 850E, 857, 951E Armenian Ch (04142) – Bus 2, 12, 12e, 32, 33, 51, 61, 63, 80, 197, 640E Stamford Ct (04143) – Bus 124, 147, 166, 174, 174e, 190, 640 Aft CHIJMES (04159) – Bus 2, 12, 12e, 33, 147, 190 City Hall Stn Exit B (04167) – Bus 61, 124, 145, 166, 174, 174e, 197 Aft City Hall Stn Exit B (04168) – Bus 32, 51, 63, 80, 195, 851, 851e, 961, 961M |
| Taxi/Grab/TADA/Gojek | Simply input “Peranakan Museum” on your phone’s ride-hailing APPs as your destination for direct drop-off at the entrance. |
Opening Hours and Ticketing Information
The museum is open year-round, offering visitors ample opportunity to explore its galleries. Here’s a quick guide to the museum’s operating hours and ticket prices:
Opening Hours of Peranakan Museum Singapore
| Day | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday – Sunday | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
Ticket Types and Prices of Peranakan Museum Singapore
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | SGD 12.00 |
| Seniors (60+) | SGD 8.00 |
| Students | SGD 8.00 |
| Persons with disabilities (PWD) and 1 caregiver | SGD 8.00 |
| Children (6 and under) | Free |
| Singapore Residents | Free for all ages |
What to See and Do in Peranakan Museum Singapore
Exploring the Peranakan Museum Singapore’s Galleries
The Peranakan Museum spans three floors, each dedicated to a distinct aspect of Peranakan culture, showcasing everything from clothing and jewelry to wedding traditions, furniture, and cookware. The museum is organized into three thematic galleries: “Origins,” “Home,” and “Style,” each focusing on different elements of Peranakan life. Over 800 artifacts are on display, including newly acquired pieces, generous donations, and cherished set pieces, all of which help to explore the Peranakan identity through universal themes of heritage, domestic life, and fashion.
The ORIGIN Gallery
Located at the ground floor, this gallery provides an overview of Peranakan history, culture, and society, highlighting the unique blend of Chinese, Malay, and other local influences.
The Origins gallery introduces visitors to the crafts and material culture of the Malay-Indonesian world. It explores the routes of trade and migration that brought diverse communities to the region, leading to the blending of their heritage with the local Malay-Indonesian cultures and the evolution of Peranakan communities. The gallery features a collection of photographs contributed by the Peranakan communities, showcasing the diversity and richness of their cultural heritage. The gallery also includes video interviews where respondents share their personal perspectives on the meaning of “Peranakan.”
The HOME Gallery
Located at the 1st floor, there are 2 galleries that are themed as “HOME”. This 2 galleries are Family and Community Life and Ceramics and Food Culture.
Family and Community Life
Peranakan homes have evolved over time, ranging from simple attap houses in rural areas to modern HDB flats, with shophouses and grand villas in between. These homes were filled with furniture and items bought from bustling port cities, reflecting global trends and urban tastes.
This gallery showcases objects that reveal Peranakan customs, foods, languages, and beliefs, through displays of ornate furnitures, portraits, intricate architecture and household items-including exquisite porcelain collections, embroidedred textiles etc., offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and cultures of the Peranakan families.
Ceramics and Food Culture
This gallery showcases the Peranakans’ use of ceramics and their rich food culture. Key highlights include a stunning floor-to-ceiling display of rare and beautiful ‘nyonya ware,’ from traditional pieces to modern designs. There’s also a traditional tok panjang, a long dining table set with specially commissioned dining ware. Visitors can further explore Peranakan food culture through videos featured in the gallery.
The STYLE Gallery
The whole of 3rd floor focus on “STYLE” theme, highlighting batik, decorative textiles, Nyonya fashion, and jewelry to celebrate Peranakan craftsmanship and design. The exhibits showcase both the creator’s and wearer’s perspectives, exploring how fashion and adornment were expressed in Peranakan culture.
The Batik Gallery
In the batik gallery, visitors learn how the rise of Peranakan communities across Java, including Chinese, Dutch-Eurasian, and Arabic groups, led to a demand for diverse batik designs. By the mid-19th century, batik production thrived in Java, and its popularity spread throughout Southeast Asia, especially in Malacca, Penang, and Singapore, where Peranakans were avid wearers of Javanese batik.
The Decorative Textiles
Peranakan needlework, from slippers to bed curtains, played a key role in gifting, accessorizing outfits, and decorating textiles, especially for important celebrations like weddings. Many intricate and beautiful pieces that have survived are linked to these major life events. Since many ceremonies took place at home, embroidered textiles were used to transform ordinary spaces into symbolic settings for rituals and festivities.
The Nyonya Fashion Gallery
This gallery is designed to feel like a boutique, showcasing a wide variety of fashion items such as womenswear, menswear, shoes, bags, and accessories, inviting visitors to embrace Peranakan style. Like Peranakan food and art, the fashion here reflects the diverse influences of Southeast Asia’s bustling port cities, blending traditional and modern elements.
The exhibit goes beyond the iconic sarong kebaya, featuring over 130 items, including menswear and contemporary pieces like a batik cheongsam worn by Madam Kwa Geok Choo, a sarong kebaya worn by Ivan Heng, and beaded slippers from the drama series The Little Nyonya (2008).
The Jewellery Gallery
This gallery showcases a stunning collection of over 180 pieces of Peranakan jewelry, reflecting the various stages of life and significant occasions. Peranakan jewelry is a blend of cultural influences, borrowing and adapting motifs from different communities over centuries, making it difficult to pinpoint “pure” elements. The display traces the evolution of these pieces alongside changing fashion trends. Highlights include heirlooms like a Chitty Melakan addigai necklace, an Arab Peranakan hairpin, and adornments from one of the oldest Chinese Peranakan families in Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Guided Tour in Peranakan Museum Singapore
The museum offers guided tours in English, Mandarin Japanese and French at different timing, conducted by volunteer docents. English guided tour is available on a daily basis while Mandarin, Japanese and French are only scheduled on certain days. *Check with counter staffs when you are inside the museum for more detail.
These tours provide an in-depth look into the history and significance of the exhibits and are highly recommended for first-time visitors. Tours are conducted on a first come first served basis, and last about 45-60 minutes. You may register for the public guided tour at the Visitor Services counter, with each tour accommodating up to 15 visitors.
Special Exhibitions and Events
The museum regularly hosts special events, workshops, and performances that celebrate Peranakan culture. Be sure to check their website for the latest happenings before your visit. During your visit (until August 25th, 2024), you can catch the special exhibition “Fukusa: Japanese Gift Covers from the Chris Hall Collection”.
Souvenirs Shop inside Peranakan Museum Singapore
Museum merchandise is available at the Co.Lab Space, at level 1 behind the Visitor Services counter. Take a piece of Peranakan culture home with you from the museum shop. You’ll find a variety of souvenirs like sarongs, tableware, and handcrafted ornaments.
Dining Options
After a day of exploring, visitors can enjoy some traditional Peranakan cuisine at nearby restaurants. While the museum itself doesn’t have an in-house restaurant, there are several excellent dining options in the vicinity:
- True Blue Cuisine: Located just next to the museum, this restaurant offers an authentic Peranakan dining experience in a heritage building. The ambiance, combined with dishes like ayam buah keluak and nonya chap chye, makes it a perfect end to your cultural exploration.
- Violet Oon Singapore: A short walk away, Violet Oon’s is another top choice, known for its modern take on traditional Peranakan dishes, blending heritage with a contemporary twist.
- Candlenut: Michelin-starred Candlenut is a must-visit for those seeking a taste of authentic Peranakan cuisine. Their tasting menus showcase the richness and complexity of Peranakan flavors.
- Artichoke: This casual cafe offers a delightful selection of local and international dishes. It’s a perfect spot for a quick bite or a refreshing drink after exploring the museum.
Visitor Reviews of Perankan Museum Singapore
Visitors to the Peranakan Museum Singapore frequently praise its well-curated exhibits and the depth of cultural insight it offers. On TripAdvisor, the museum holds an impressive 4.5-star rating, with many reviewers highlighting the beauty of the artifacts and the engaging storytelling provided by the guides.
One visitor wrote, “The Peranakan Museum is a hidden gem in Singapore. The exhibits are incredibly detailed, and the guided tour was both informative and entertaining. I left with a deep appreciation for Peranakan culture“.
Another noted, “It’s a small museum, but it’s packed with beautiful displays that are rich in history. The wedding section was my favorite!”.
“This museum was a real gem. The Peranakan culture is so unique and the museum does a great job of showcasing it. The beadwork and textiles were particularly impressive.” – Sarah K. (TripAdvisor)
A Step Back in Time with a Modern Touch
Being one of the Top 10 Museum in Singapore, the Peranakan Museum Singapore is a dynamic and enriching destination that offers a deep dive into the history, culture, and identity of Pernakan Community in Singapore. It is more than just a museum; it’s a journey into the heart of a unique cultural heritage that blends Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences. Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or just looking for an enriching experience, the Peranakan Museum is a must-visit, as shared by many visitors on tripadvisors. With its convenient location, accessible pricing, and rich array of exhibits, it promises a memorable experience that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the Peranakan legacy.
Suggested Musuems in Singapore: Do not miss the National Gallery Singapore and National Museum of Singapore here!
FAQ About Peranakan Museum Singapore
1. What is the Peranakan Museum?
The Peranakan Museum showcases the rich culture, traditions, and history of the Peranakan community through fascinating artifacts like fashion, jewelry, and unique cookware. It’s a deep dive into Peranakan life and customs!
2. Where is the Peranakan Museum located?
You can find the museum at 39 Armenian Street, Singapore. It’s centrally located and super easy to reach, whether you’re on the MRT or taking a leisurely stroll or ride-hailing cars. Check out the “How To Get There” section in the above comprehensive guide for more detail.
3. What are the opening hours of the Peranakan Museum?
The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, with extended hours on Fridays until 9 PM.
4. How much is the admission fee?
Tickets are SGD 12 for adults and SGD 8 for seniors, students and 1 caregiver. If you’re a Singapore resident, good news—admission is free! Kids under 6 also get in for free.
5. What are the must-see exhibits at the Peranakan Museum Singapore?
Some of the highlights include the “Origins” gallery, which explores the roots of Peranakan identity, and the “Family & Community Life” gallery, which showcases the importance of family and tradition. Don’t miss the stunning nyonya ware ceramics, the tok panjang (a traditional long dining table), Sarong Kebaya that worn by Ivan in a local drama and over 180 pieces of Peranakan jewelry. These gems highlight different stages of Peranakan life and are absolutely dazzling. ✨
6. What can visitors expect to learn about Peranakan culture?
Visitors can learn about Peranakan history, traditions, fashion, beliefs, and rituals. The museum’s exhibits offer a comprehensive overview of this fascinating culture.
7. Are there any special events or exhibitions?
Yes! The museum often hosts temporary exhibitions and special events like talks, workshops, and even cultural performances. Check the museum’s website or social media for the latest updates. The museum regularly hosts special exhibitions and events. It’s best to check their website for the latest updates.
8. Is the museum wheelchair friendly?
All galleries can be accessed by wheelchairs. Manual and motorised wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and standard-size strollers are allowed in all galleries. Wheelchair-friendly washrooms are also available at Level 1 and Level 3.
9. How long does it take to tour the Peranakan Museum?
Most visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the museum, depending on how deep you dive into each exhibit. But take your time, there’s a lot to see!
10. Is there any food or dining option inside the museum?
There are no restaurants inside the museum itself, but you’ll find plenty of great dining options nearby on Armenian Street or in the surrounding area, including restaurants specializing in Peranakan cuisine. Grab a bite after you soak up some culture!
Special Experience for you..
Discover Peranakan culture at The Intan! Tour a unique home museum, enjoy tea, learn about lavish Peranakan weddings, and admire beautiful handmade beadwork. Click image below to book now!
