Hougang & the Japanese Cemetery Walking Tour

The Singapore Chinese population has 3 major dialects - Hokkien, Teochew and Cantonese. On this tour, we’ll take a close look at the Teochew community. Once known as one of “the more refined” of the lot, are they still the same today? Au Kang (Hougang), is known as a Teochew enclave. But in reality, it isn’t the only one.

History tells us there were also many Teochew who landed elsewhere in Singapore. Stephen Lee Road (now defunct) was another enclave smack in the middle of Mandai – almost a jungle for its time. The story of how the Teochew community ended up at Stephen Lee Road is a poignant one. It is no secret that the Teochew community has contributed much to society.

We’ll take a look at the perks of being Teochew and also their quirks. The side trip to the Japanese Cemetery at 22, Chuan Hoe Road, is a bonus. Like Bukit Brown Cemetery, the Japanese Cemetery offers a rustic walk full of old-world charm… and full of happy-sad stories, dating back to the days of Karayuki-san. We meet at Kovan MRT (Exit C in the direction of Heartland Mall) at 9am and hope to be done by 12pm at the junction of Yio Chu Kang and Chuan Hoe Road.

Note:

• We do the worldwide practice of tipping at the end of the tour. Tipping guide as follows: $20 for a satisfactory guide, $20+ for a guide who exceeds expectations, and $30 for an outstanding guide.
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and no-shows.

Do not sign up for this tour if you are not sure of your schedule. Please understand that this method of booking platform can only perform its best with your full sincerity. Sign up only when you are sure of your schedule. We look forward to your graciousness and generosity!