Istana Heritage Tour - English

Join our NParks volunteers for a one-hour walk through over 150 years of the Istana’s history, stunning architecture, and lush nature right in the heart of the city. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture lover, or on the hunt for a photo spot, the Istana Heritage Tour brings the stories of this iconic landmark to life!

• The Villa: See this historic building on the Istana grounds, which has hosted some of the world’s most prominent Heads of State.
• The Ceremonial Plaza: See the grand outdoor plaza where visiting world leaders are formally welcomed.
• The Japanese Garden: Explore the only themed garden within the Istana grounds with traditional stone lanterns and a dry rock garden (karesansui).
• Flora & Fauna: Discover how the Istana grounds support a variety of plants and local wildlife.

• Tours are conducted in English and Mandarin at the following timings* on 26 July 2026.
• Fees^ apply, and all proceeds go to the benefitting programmes supported by the President’s Challenge.

• 10.30 am
• 11am
• 12pm
• 1pm
• 2pm
• 3pm
• 4pm

Please sign-up here for Mandarin tours.

• 10.30 am
• 1 pm
• 4 pm

*Timings subject to change; participants will be notified of any changes via email.

^Fees for the Istana Heritage Tour are non-refundable and exclude the following admission fees, which must be paid separately:
(i) Admission fees required for entry into the Istana grounds during the Istana Open House.
(ii) Fees for entering the Istana Villa.

Find out more about the Istana Open House here.