Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Straits Chinese culture, where centuries-old traditions meet contemporary Singapore.
While Singapore is largely a cosmopolitan city, visitors often encounter Marina Bay Sands, Sentosa Island, and Jewel Changi Airport as the defining icons of our modern metropolis. But this city’s modern appeal extends far beyond these landmarks.
The Peranakan legacy—a unique fusion of Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences—represents one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating cultural phenomena, offering travellers an intimate glimpse into the traditions that shaped Singapore long before it became a global hub.
The story of the Peranakans—also known as Straits Chinese or Baba-Nyonya—begins in the 15th century, when Chinese traders settled in the Malay Archipelago and intermarried with local communities. What emerged was a distinctive culture that fuses Chinese traditions with Malay customs, creating an aesthetic and culinary heritage that remains vibrantly alive in modern Singapore.
Recent years have witnessed a renaissance of interest in Peranakan culture, sparked partly by acclaimed television series such as The Little Nyonya and its 2025 continuation, Emerald Hill. These productions have illuminated the richness of Peranakan traditions for both local and international audiences, making this an ideal time to explore this cultural treasure.
Peranakan Culture Singapore: Where to Sleep, Eat and Play
Here’s a 3D2N itinerary for a Peranakan cultural immersion in Singapore.
Day One: Arrival and Heritage Introduction
Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong
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Immerse yourself in Peranakan heritage with a stay at Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong, located at 86 East Coast Road. This boutique hotel isn’t just a place to sleep; it’s an introduction to Peranakan aesthetics, showcasing traditional motifs, vibrant tiles, and Nyonya-inspired designs throughout its property.
Enjoy the hotel’s amenities, including a rooftop infinity pool with panoramic views of heritage shophouses and complimentary bicycle rentals for exploring the neighborhood. Rooms typically range from SGD 200–250 per night, and advanced booking is recommended.
Things to do in Katong and Joo Chiat Districts
The surrounding Katong and Joo Chiat areas represent Singapore’s most concentrated display of Peranakan architecture and culture. These historic districts showcase rows of pre-war shophouses adorned with intricate ceramic tiles, ornate facades, and the characteristic pastel colour palette that has become synonymous with Peranakan design.
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For a comprehensive introduction to the neighbourhood, consider the Baba Nyona Experience Tour. From just S$38, this guided tour takes you through the vibrant Katong-Joo Chiat area, highlighting the charming Peranakan architecture and cultural delights that define the district. The tour includes the opportunity to try on authentic Peranakan costumes—perfect for capturing memorable photographs that showcase your cultural immersion. Tours are available through all Changi Recommends counters in Changi Airport and can be booked on Fliggy.
Dinner at Baba Chews Bar and Eatery
Conclude your first day at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Baba Chews Bar and Eatery, housed within a beautifully conserved shophouse. The menu celebrates traditional Peranakan flavours through contemporary presentation, with standout dishes including ayam buah keluak—a complex preparation featuring chicken braised with the distinctive black keluak nut—and innovative interpretations such as chendol panna cotta that bridge traditional and modern culinary approaches.
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Day Two: Museum and Culinary Experience
Visit to the Peranakan Museum
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To truly understand the origins of the Peranakans, a visit to the Peranakan Museum (39 Armenian Street) is essential. This purpose-built institution houses the most comprehensive collection of Peranakan heritage in the world, tracing the fascinating story from the early Chinese traders who settled in the Malay Archipelago to the vibrant culture that flourishes in Singapore today.
The museum has a collection of over 800 artefacts on display to tell the story of the Peranakan community. From elaborate wedding ceremonies that could last twelve days to the intricate art of kebaya embroidery, every display tells part of the larger story of cultural fusion and adaptation.
Dine at World’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant – Candlenut
Dempsey Road’s Candlenut holds the distinction of being the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, representing the pinnacle of Nyonya culinary art. Chef Malcolm Lee’s interpretation of traditional recipes elevates familiar flavours through meticulous technique and premium ingredients.
Given that Peranakan cuisine is steeped in centuries of tradition with an extensive repertoire of complex dishes, you’ll likely find yourself wanting to taste everything on the menu. Fortunately, Chef Malcolm Lee has created the perfect solution with “Ah-Ma-Kase”—a clever play on the Japanese omakase concept that offers specially curated tasting menus for both lunch and dinner.
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Day Three: Bring Home a Piece of Peranakan Culture
Located at 787 East Coast Road, within walking distance of Hotel Indigo, Rumah Bebe operates as both boutique and cultural preservation centre. This heritage shophouse showcases traditional Peranakan fashion, particularly the intricate kebaya garments and beaded accessories that represent centuries of artisanal skill.
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