1. What is the significance of the Ngee Ann City building in Singapore’s history?
The Ngee Ann City building, also known as Takashimaya Shopping Centre, is significant in Singapore’s history for several reasons:
1. Iconic landmark: The building is a prominent and recognizable landmark in the heart of Orchard Road, one of Singapore’s most famous shopping and entertainment districts.
2. Economic impact: Ngee Ann City was one of the largest and most luxurious shopping centers when it opened in 1993, contributing to Singapore’s economy as a popular shopping destination for both locals and tourists.
3. Development milestone: The construction of Ngee Ann City marked the beginning of Orchard Road’s transformation from a colonial residential area into a bustling commercial hub.
4. Historical value: The building was built on the site of an old Chinese cemetery and former National Library building, representing the evolution of Singapore’s landscape and urban development over time.
5. Cultural significance: With its distinctive architecture inspired by traditional Chinese pagodas, Ngee Ann City showcases the blend of modernity and traditional cultural influences in Singapore’s architecture.
6. Community hub: In addition to retail shops and restaurants, Ngee Ann City also houses a community theater, public library, rooftop park, and various community services that cater to different segments of society.
7. Legacy: The name “Ngee Ann” holds historical significance as it is derived from the Hokkien dialect meaning “amiable people”. This highlights Singapore’s multiculturalism and migrant roots as many early settlers in the country came from China.
Overall, the Ngee Ann City building serves as a symbol of Singapore’s progress, cultural diversity, and economic prosperity since its opening more than 25 years ago.
2. How long has Ngee Ann City been standing and what is its architectural style?
Ngee Ann City has been standing for over 27 years, since it was opened in 1993. Its architectural style is considered modern and contemporary, with a mix of glass, steel, and concrete elements. It also incorporates traditional Asian design elements such as red roofs and pagoda-style towers.
3. Can you tell me about the historical background of Orchard Road, where Ngee Ann City is located?
Orchard Road is a major 2.2-kilometre long road in Singapore that is known for its shopping and entertainment district. It was named after the orchards and nutmeg plantations that lined the road in the early 19th century.
In the late 1800s, Orchard Road was a quiet countryside area with fruit orchards, pepper farms, and nutmeg plantations. It was also home to some of Singapore’s wealthy Peranakan families who lived in ornate villas along the road.
However, in the early 20th century, urban development began to transform Orchard Road into a bustling commercial hub. In 1903, Tanglin Market was established along Orchard Road, which became a popular trading center for fruits and vegetables.
By the 1950s and 1960s, Orchard Road had become a prominent retail destination with many international brands setting up shop there. The increase in tourism also led to the development of luxury hotels such as The Hyatt (now Pan Pacific Hotel) and The Mandarin (now Mandarin Orchard).
In the 1970s and 1980s, Orchard Road underwent further transformation with the construction of large shopping complexes like Plaza Singapura and Ngee Ann City. These developments cemented Orchard Road’s reputation as a premier shopping destination in Southeast Asia.
Today, Orchard Road continues to evolve with new malls and attractions being built regularly. Despite undergoing significant changes over the years, it remains a vibrant symbol of Singapore’s progress and prosperity. Ngee Ann City stands as one of its most iconic landmarks, offering an extensive range of luxury brands, restaurants, and entertainment options for locals and tourists alike.
4. What are some popular tourist attractions near Ngee Ann City?
Some popular tourist attractions near Ngee Ann City include:1. Orchard Road: This famous shopping district is known for its luxury brands and high-end shopping malls, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes.
2. National Museum of Singapore: Located just a short walk from Ngee Ann City, this museum showcases Singapore’s history and culture through various exhibitions and artifacts.
3. Botanic Gardens: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Botanic Gardens are a beautiful and peaceful escape in the heart of the city. Take a stroll through the gardens or have a picnic on the expansive lawns.
4. Singapore Flyer: This giant observation wheel offers stunning views of the city skyline from 165 meters above ground. It also has dining options for a unique dining experience with panoramic views.
5. Chinatown: Known for its traditional shophouses, street food, and bustling markets, Chinatown gives visitors a taste of traditional Singaporean culture.
6. Marina Bay Sands: This iconic hotel, casino, and shopping complex features a rooftop infinity pool with sweeping views of the city.
7. Sentosa Island: Just a short distance from Orchard Road, this popular island resort has attractions such as Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A Aquarium, and Adventure Cove Waterpark.
8. Gardens by the Bay: These futuristic gardens feature stunning flora displays, as well as light shows at night in their famous Supertree Grove.
9. Clarke Quay: Located along the Singapore River, this lively area has numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs for nightlife entertainment.
10. Merlion Park: One of Singapore’s most recognizable landmarks, this park is home to the iconic Merlion statue that symbolizes the country’s humble beginnings as a fishing village.
5. How has Ngee Ann City evolved over the years since its establishment?
Ngee Ann City has evolved significantly since its establishment in 1993. Here are some key changes and developments that have taken place:
1. Expansion and redevelopment: In the early 2000s, the original Ngee Ann City building underwent a major expansion and redevelopment effort, which saw the addition of a new wing called Ngee Ann City Tower B. This increased the gross floor area of the complex from 250,000 square feet to 334,000 square feet.
2. Enhanced retail offerings: Over the years, Ngee Ann City has continually refreshed its retail offerings to stay relevant and attract shoppers. This includes introducing new tenants and brands such as Takashimaya Department Store, Kinokuniya Bookstore, Best Denki electronics store and many international fashion brands.
3. Diversification of tenant mix: Ngee Ann City has also diversified its tenant mix beyond just retail stores. Today, it houses various food and beverage outlets, beauty salons, medical clinics, educational institutions and more.
4. Introduction of lifestyle elements: To cater to changing consumer preferences and boost footfall traffic, Ngee Ann City has incorporated lifestyle elements into its complex. These include a dedicated kids’ zone on level four with an outdoor playground and a rooftop garden.
5. Technological advancements: The mall has implemented various technological advancements over the years to improve visitors’ experience. This includes free Wi-Fi access throughout the mall, interactive digital directories for easy navigation, and mobile apps with e-commerce capabilities.
6. Events and promotions: To maintain its appeal as a shopping destination, Ngee Ann City regularly organizes events such as fashion shows, exhibitions and pop-up markets. It also offers attractive promotions throughout the year to attract shoppers.
7. Sustainability efforts: In recent years, Ngee Ann City has made efforts towards sustainability by implementing eco-friendly practices such as reducing plastic usage in its food outlets and installing energy-efficient lighting.
Overall, Ngee Ann City has evolved into a modern and vibrant lifestyle destination while still retaining its reputation as a premier shopping complex in Singapore.
6. Are there any interesting stories or legends associated with Ngee Ann City or Orchard Road?
Yes, there are several interesting stories and legends associated with Ngee Ann City and Orchard Road. One famous story is about the origins of the name “Orchard Road”. It is said that in the early 19th century, this area was filled with fruit orchards, particularly of nutmeg and pepper. The road was thus named after these orchards. Interestingly, some old buildings in the area still bear names such as Nutmeg Court and Pepper Street, which serve as a reminder of this origin story.
Another legend associated with Orchard Road is about a mysterious Chinese prince who supposedly roamed the streets looking for his long-lost love. According to the legend, the prince came to Singapore in search of his sweetheart who had been sold into slavery by her evil stepmother. He searched high and low along Orchard Road but never found her. Some say his lost lover was a Peranakan woman while others believe she was actually a local Malay princess. Till today, there are reports of sightings of a ghostly figure dressed in imperial Chinese clothing roaming around Orchard Road.
In addition to these legends, there are also many urban myths surrounding Ngee Ann City and Orchard Road. One popular myth is about the “Lucky Light”. It is said that if you make a wish while passing under this special light located at Ngee Ann City’s Civic Plaza, your wish will come true. This myth has led to long lines forming at this spot on certain auspicious dates.
Another well-known urban myth revolves around Takashimaya Shopping Centre within Ngee Ann City. It is believed that the store’s basement car park was built over an ancient cemetery. Many people claim to have experienced paranormal activities such as strange noises or seeing ghostly apparitions in this area.
Lastly, there is also a legend surrounding Wisma Atria shopping mall at Orchard Road. It is rumored that when it first opened in 1986, the mall’s escalators were designed to move only in one direction – upwards. This was supposedly done to encourage shoppers to visit all the levels of the mall and not just stay on the lower floors. Although this myth has been debunked, it still remains a popular story that is told by locals and tourists alike.
7. What is the cultural significance of Orchard Road and Ngee Ann City to Singaporeans?
Orchard Road and Ngee Ann City hold great cultural significance to Singaporeans as they are iconic landmarks that represent the country’s urban development and modernization. Orchard Road is a major shopping district and entertainment hub, attracting both locals and tourists alike. It is home to numerous luxury brands, department stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a popular destination for shopping, dining, and leisure. Additionally, the street is decorated with colorful light installations during festive periods such as Christmas, appealing to the senses of Singaporeans.
Ngee Ann City, located on Orchard Road, is Singapore’s largest shopping mall and a well-known landmark in its own right. It comprises of high-end retail stores and eateries as well as a Japanese cultural center that promotes traditional Japanese arts and culture. The building’s architecture also incorporates design elements from Asia and Europe, reflecting Singapore’s diverse cultural influences.
Apart from their commercial significance, Orchard Road and Ngee Ann City hold historical value for Singaporeans. Before the area became a bustling shopping district in the 20th century, it was primarily an area where plantations were located. The transformation of Orchard Road into one of Asia’s most famous retail destinations showcases Singapore’s economic growth over the years.
Furthermore, events like the annual Christmas Light-Up along Orchard Road have become an important part of Singaporean culture and tradition. Families often gather here during festivals to admire the spectacular decorations and enjoy time together.
Overall, Orchard Road and Ngee Ann City play an integral role in shaping Singapore’s image as a progressive city-state with a strong focus on commerce, culture, and modernity. They represent vitality, prosperity, and multiculturalism – values that are highly cherished by Singaporeans.
8. Has Ngee Ann City been affected by any major events in Singapore’s history?
Yes, Ngee Ann City has been affected by several major events in Singapore’s history. Here are some examples:
1) Asian Financial Crisis (1997) – During this period, many businesses in Ngee Ann City were affected as consumer spending decreased and tourism declined.
2) SARS Outbreak (2003) – The outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) resulted in a significant drop in foot traffic to Ngee Ann City, as people avoided crowded places during the epidemic.
3) Global Financial Crisis (2008-09) – Many retailers and businesses in Ngee Ann City were impacted by the economic downturn, leading to store closures and reduced sales.
4) Haze Crisis (2013-2015) – The recurring haze from forest fires in the region caused a decline in tourist arrivals to Singapore and subsequently affected businesses at Ngee Ann City.
5) COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-present) – The ongoing pandemic has significantly impacted business activities at Ngee Ann City due to travel restrictions, reduced footfall and changes in consumer behaviour. Several retail outlets have also closed down permanently due to financial strain caused by the pandemic.
9. Can you recommend any must-see landmarks or sightseeing spots around Ngee Ann City for tourists?
1. Orchard Road: This iconic shopping street is home to many luxury brands as well as local shops and restaurants.
2. Istana Park: A peaceful park located just across the road from Ngee Ann City, featuring beautiful greenery and a playground for children.
3. Fort Canning Park: A historical park just a short walk away from Ngee Ann City, featuring colonial relics, lush gardens, and stunning views of the city.
4. Singapore Botanic Gardens: One of the oldest botanic gardens in the world, featuring various themed gardens and a stunning orchid display.
5. National Museum of Singapore: This impressive museum showcases the history and culture of Singapore through its exhibitions and artifacts.
6. Marina Bay Sands: This iconic landmark features an observation deck with breathtaking views, luxury shopping, dining options, and a casino.
7. Chinatown: A cultural enclave with traditional shops selling souvenirs, food stalls offering local delicacies, and temples within walking distance from Ngee Ann City.
8. Gardens by the Bay: This nature park features futuristic Supertrees and two domed conservatories showcasing diverse plant species from around the world.
9. Little India: A vibrant neighborhood filled with colorful shophouses, Indian restaurants, markets selling spices and traditional goods.
10. Does Ngee Ann City play a role in preserving Singapore’s heritage and culture?
Ngee Ann City does play a role in preserving Singapore’s heritage and culture by showcasing and promoting traditional arts, crafts, and performances through events and exhibitions held at the mall. The mall also houses the Ngee Ann Cultural Centre which promotes Chinese performing arts and culture through various activities such as classes, workshops, concerts, and cultural festivals. In addition, Ngee Ann City is located in the Orchard Road area, which is known as the shopping street with a rich history and cultural significance in Singapore. The mall’s design and architecture also incorporate traditional elements of Singaporean culture, such as its Lotus-inspired dome structure, to reflect the city-state’s multicultural identity. Through these efforts, Ngee Ann City plays a valuable role in preserving and promoting Singapore’s heritage and culture.
11. Are there any museums or galleries within or near Ngee Ann City that showcase the history of Singapore?
Yes, there are several museums and galleries within or near Ngee Ann City that showcase the history of Singapore, including:
1. National Museum of Singapore – located within walking distance from Ngee Ann City, the National Museum of Singapore is the oldest museum in the country and houses various exhibitions related to Singapore’s history.
2. Peranakan Museum – also located within walking distance from Ngee Ann City, the Peranakan Museum showcases the hybrid culture of people descended from early Chinese and Indian migrants who settled in Southeast Asia.
3. Asian Civilisations Museum – a short 5-minute walk from Ngee Ann City, this museum focuses on the diverse cultures of Asia, including Chinese, Southeast Asian, South Asian, and Islamic civilizations.
4. Singapore Art Museum – located in Bras Basah complex opposite Ngee Ann City, this contemporary art museum also has exhibitions that touch on Singapore’s cultural and historical identity.
5. Fort Canning Centre – situated on top of Fort Canning Hill beside Ngee Ann City, this former British military headquarters now serves as an interpretive centre for visitors to learn about Singapore’s heritage and history.
12. How does the architecture of buildings around Ngee Ann City reflect Singapore’s past and present?
The architecture of buildings around Ngee Ann City reflects Singapore’s past and present in several ways:
1. Cultural Fusion: Ngee Ann City itself is an example of cultural fusion, with its Chinese-inspired pagoda roof and modern glass facade. This reflects Singapore’s diverse and multicultural society where traditional influences blend with modernity.
2. Historical References: The buildings around Ngee Ann City incorporate elements from Singapore’s colonial past such as the use of Doric columns that were commonly used in British architecture during the colonial period. This shows how Singapore has evolved from a British colony to a thriving modern city.
3. Modern Skyscrapers: The skyline surrounding Ngee Ann City is dominated by modern skyscrapers, reflecting the rapid development and urbanization of Singapore in recent decades. These buildings showcase Singapore’s growth and prosperity as a global business center.
4. Preservation of Heritage Buildings: Despite the push for modernization, many heritage buildings around Ngee Ann City have been preserved and restored, showcasing the government’s efforts to conserve its history and cultural identity.
5. Green Spaces: The development around Ngee Ann City includes green spaces such as rooftop gardens and parks, highlighting the importance placed on creating sustainable living environments in Singapore.
Overall, the architecture of buildings around Ngee Ann City showcases Singapore’s evolution from its colonial past to its present as a vibrant and cosmopolitan city while also preserving its cultural heritage.
13. Is there a specific time period or era that is most represented in the surrounding landmarks and sights near Ngee Ann City?
The surrounding landmarks and sights near Ngee Ann City represent a mix of different time periods and eras. Some of the buildings, such as the National Museum of Singapore, have historical significance dating back to the 1800s. Other buildings, like ION Orchard, showcase modern architecture from the 21st century.Overall, the area surrounding Ngee Ann City has a mix of colonial-era buildings, post-independence architecture, and contemporary developments. This reflects Singapore’s rich history and continuous evolution as a city-state.
14. Are there any historical events that took place at or around Ngee Ann City that have shaped Singapore’s development?
Yes, there are several historical events that have taken place at or around Ngee Ann City that have shaped Singapore’s development. Some notable examples include:
1. Founding of Orchard Road: The area where Ngee Ann City now stands was once a nutmeg and fruit plantation before being developed into a bustling shopping district in the early 20th century. This laid the foundation for Orchard Road to become one of Singapore’s most iconic and popular shopping destinations.
2. Japanese Occupation: During World War II, Ngee Ann City (then known as Sian Teck Tng Temple) was used as the headquarters for the Japanese Kempeitai military police. It was also one of the sites where prisoners of war were held and tortured. The building still bears witness to this dark period in Singapore’s history.
3. Post-war reconstruction: After World War II and during the 1950s and 1960s, Orchard Road underwent major reconstruction as part of Singapore’s nation-building efforts. This included widening roads, building new housing estates, and developing commercial buildings like Wisma Atria (which used to stand on the site of Ngee Ann City).
4. Development into a shopping complex: In the 1980s, developer Dr Tan Chin Tuan acquired the land where Ngee Ann City now stands and proposed to build a large-scale retail complex with an integrated hotel and office tower. The project was completed in 1993 and became one of Singapore’s first top-tier luxury shopping centers.
5. Hosting international events: Over the years, Ngee Ann City has hosted many international events that have helped put Singapore on the world map. These include fashion shows, concerts, and exhibitions that have attracted visitors from all over the world.
6. Incorporation of green spaces: In recent years, Ngee Ann City has been part of a larger effort to integrate more green spaces into urban areas in Singapore. This includes the development of Ngee Ann City’s rooftop garden, which provides a peaceful respite amidst the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road.
Overall, Ngee Ann City has played a significant role in shaping Singapore’s development as a bustling metropolis with a vibrant shopping and tourism scene. Its history and evolution are intertwined with that of Singapore, making it an important landmark in the country’s progress.
15. How do locals view and interact with the historical landmarks and sights near Ngee Ann City compared to tourists?
Locals may view and interact with the historical landmarks near Ngee Ann City differently than tourists. While tourists may be more interested in learning about and taking photos of these sights, locals may see them as part of their everyday surroundings.
Some locals may take pride in the historical significance of these landmarks and appreciate their presence in the city. They may also have a deeper understanding and connection to the stories and events associated with these sights.
On the other hand, some locals may simply view these landmarks as part of the cityscape and not give them much thought or attention. They may walk past them without acknowledging their significance or historical value.
In terms of interaction, tourists are more likely to visit these landmarks specifically for sightseeing purposes, while locals may use them as a meeting point or gathering spot with friends or family.
Overall, locals’ perspectives towards historical landmarks near Ngee Ann City can vary, but they may not place as much emphasis on them compared to tourists.
16. Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known historical sites to visit around Ngee Ann City?
Yes, there are a few hidden gems and lesser-known historical sites to visit around Ngee Ann City. Some of these include:
1. Fort Canning Park: Located just 10 minutes away from Ngee Ann City, Fort Canning Park is the site of an old military fort built by the British in the early 19th century. Today, it is a popular spot for outdoor activities and also houses several heritage sites such as the Battle Box and the Fort Gate.
2. Old Hill Street Police Station: This iconic building was once the headquarters of Singapore’s police force until it moved to its current location in Cantonment Road. The colorful rows of windows on its facade make for a striking sight and it now serves as an arts center with galleries, studios, and performance spaces.
3. Istana Kampong Glam: Located within walking distance from Ngee Ann City, Istana Kampong Glam was once the residence of Malay royalty in Singapore. Today, it serves as a museum showcasing Malay heritage and culture.
4. Armenian Church: Tucked away behind Ngee Ann City is Singapore’s oldest church, built in 1835 by Armenian merchants who settled in Singapore in the early 1800s. The church still holds regular services and is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows.
5. Bukit Brown Cemetery: Just a short bus ride away from Ngee Ann City lies Bukit Brown Cemetery, one of Singapore’s largest Chinese cemeteries dating back to the 19th century. It is home to many elaborate tombs and is also a peaceful green space for walks or picnics.
6. Tan Si Chong Su Temple: This small but ornately decorated temple was built in 1876 by Hokkien immigrants from China. It is dedicated to Ma Zhu (Goddess of the Sea), who is believed to protect seafarers and offers an interesting glimpse into the Chinese community’s history and beliefs.
7. Singapore Art Museum: Housed in a heritage building formerly occupied by St. Joseph’s Institution, the Singapore Art Museum is a lesser-known gem for art lovers. Its collection spans Southeast Asian contemporary art and regularly hosts exhibitions by local and international artists.
17. Has there been any efforts to preserve or restore any historical buildings near Ngee Ann City for future generations to appreciate?
Yes, there have been efforts to preserve and restore historical buildings near Ngee Ann City. In 2017, the Singapore Heritage Board identified two pre-war buildings – Ngee Ann Chambers and Cher Teck Tapestry Gallery – along with the eight-storey Tower Block of Ngee Ann City as conservation areas. These buildings were declared national monuments in recognition of their cultural, social, and architectural significance.
In addition to conservation efforts, various restoration projects have also been carried out in the area. For example, in 2001, the National Parks Board embarked on a project to restore Fort Canning Park, which is located just behind Ngee Ann City. The project aimed to revive the park’s historic landscape and structures from the time when it served as a military stronghold for early settlers in Singapore.
Furthermore, there are ongoing efforts by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) to conserve other historical buildings near Ngee Ann City, such as Istana Kampong Glam and CHIJMES. These efforts aim to maintain the unique character and heritage of this area for future generations to appreciate.
18.Is it possible to take guided tours or walks that focus on the historical aspects of places around Ngee Ann city?
Yes, it is possible to take guided tours or walks around Ngee Ann City that focus on its historical aspects. Some popular options include:1. The Singapore Walking Tour: This 3-hour walking tour includes a section on Orchard Road and Ngee Ann City, where you can learn about the history of this iconic shopping district and its development over the years.
2. Orchard Heritage Walk: Organized by the National Heritage Board, this guided walk takes you through the streets of Orchard Road where you can discover the rich heritage and stories behind some of Singapore’s most famous landmarks, including Ngee Ann City.
3. Civil War in Singapore Tour: This tour focuses specifically on the consequences of World War II in Singapore and how it impacted Ngee Ann City and the surrounding area.
4. Audio Walking Tours: These self-guided audio tours allow you to explore at your own pace while learning about the history of Ngee Ann City and other nearby areas like Emerald Hill and Fort Canning.
5. Customized Tours: There are also companies that offer customizable tours in and around Ngee Ann City, allowing you to tailor your experience according to your specific interests in history or architecture.
It is advisable to do some research and book these tours in advance, as availability may vary.
19.What is the best way to experience the historical landmarks and sights near Ngee Ann City?
The best way to experience the historical landmarks and sights near Ngee Ann City is to take a walking tour or a guided tour. This will allow you to learn about the history and significance of each landmark while also getting an up-close look at the details and architecture. Another option is to rent a bike and explore the area on your own, stopping at each landmark along the way. You could also join a hop-on-hop-off bus tour that includes stops at popular historical sites in the area. Whichever method you choose, be sure to do some research beforehand so you know which landmarks are must-see attractions for your interests.
20. Are there any events or festivals held around Ngee Ann City that celebrate Singapore’s cultural heritage and history?
Yes, there are several events and festivals held around Ngee Ann City that celebrate Singapore’s cultural heritage and history. These include:
1. Singapore Heritage Festival: Held annually in April at various locations around the city, this festival showcases and celebrates Singapore’s diverse cultural heritage through a variety of activities such as food trails, heritage tours, workshops, performances, and exhibitions.
2. National Day Parade: The annual National Day Parade is held on 9 August at the Padang, which is within walking distance from Ngee Ann City. It commemorates Singapore’s independence and often features traditional cultural performances.
3. Mid-Autumn Festival: Celebrated by the Chinese community in Singapore, this festival falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month (usually in September or October). During this festival, lanterns are lit up all around Ngee Ann City as well as Chinatown to mark the occasion.
4. Deepavali (Diwali): Observed by the Indian community in Singapore, this “Festival of Lights” falls between mid-October to mid-November. Little India, located near Ngee Ann City, comes alive with colorful decorations and lights during this period.
5. Chingay Parade: This annual street parade consists of elaborate floats and vibrant performances showcasing different cultures and traditions in Singapore. It takes place near Marina Bay Sands which is also within walking distance from Ngee Ann City.
6. Thaipusam: This Hindu holiday celebrates the birthday of Lord Murugan and involves a procession featuring devotees carrying kavadis (ornate structures) while pierced with hooks and skewers along a route stretching from Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple to Tank Road near Orchard Road.
7. River Hongbao: Held during Chinese New Year at The Float @ Marina Bay, this event features large lantern displays depicting scenes from Chinese mythology as well as cultural performances such as lion and dragon dances.
8. Singapore Night Festival: Held annually in August, this festival showcases the city’s arts and heritage through street performances, light installations, and art exhibitions at various locations including Bras Basah-Bugis, which is a short distance from Ngee Ann City.