Have you ever wondered how Singapore, one of the world’s most densely populated countries with no natural water resources, manages to supply all its households and industries with an ample supply of clean water?  The issue of water sufficiency and security is one of the government’s top priorities.  Since its independence from Malaysia in 1965, the government has embarked on an innovative, comprehensive approach to meet the nation’s water needs and ensure an adequate and affordable supply of water for future generations. 

Join Explore Singapore! on a tour to find out about the Four National Taps to achieve this goal. First we will go on a guided tour of the NeWater Plant with its state of the art technology and equipment which turns waste water into ultra-clean water fit for drinking. Then we will go to the Marina Barrage where we will tour the Marina Bridge, the Sustainable Singapore Gallery and the Green Roof. During our bus ride, you will learn about the historical background and visions behind this remarkable journey.

Do you want to see a completely different side of Singapore?  Then travel with Explore Singapore! on a bus trip through the Kranji countryside to visit two vegetable farms.  You will be surprised that there is still quite a lot of rural scenery with peaceful, green farms and small holdings. 

Our first stop will be a farm growing wheatgrass, pea sprouts and various types of mushrooms. After a guided tour you will have an opportunity to learn to grow one of the farm’s produce, and get to take home the kit to await and enjoy the fruits of your labour.

At the second stop we will be guided through the charming Bollywood Farm, a throwback to old world farming. We end the outing with a delicious lunch of produce grown on the farm (included in fee), before we head back to the modern Singapore you know.

The early 20th century was a defining period that shaped today's Little India as migrants from India, China and Britain settled in the area and established a diversity of trades and institutions.

Our tour will follow some of the most important locations which reflect the history of these early settlers in Serangoon in the 1900s. These include Chinese clan associations, the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Abdul Gaffoor Mosque, Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple and the Tekka Market, amongst many more.

During our walk we will uncover the origins and history of the many fascinating street names. We will also learn about the original cattle trade which gave its name to Kandang Kerbau Hospital (KKH), and the first race course, and trace the changes and development that took place at the turn of the century. In recent years many beautiful street murals showcasing Little India’s history have sprung up. Our guide will highlight some of them, including the Mural of Traditional Trades of Little India by local artist Psyfool.

Join us on this tour to learn about the history of Little India, and follow up with the Deepavali Walk in October to learn about this important Indian festival.

Nestled in a suburban residential area of private houses is a peaceful and tranquil park with lush greenery, pretty arches of bougainvillea and walkways bordered by flowers. Not many people, including Singaporeans, know about this place, and many will be surprised to learn that it is the largest Japanese cemetery outside Japan.

Established in 1891, the Japanese Cemetery Park, was initially used to bury Japanese prostitutes (known as karayuki-san, meaning “women who have gone overseas”), who died destitute in Singapore. Later, after 1920, most of the prostitutes were repatriated by the Japanese government, and, as the Japanese community grew, people from other professions and trades were buried here. These include those involved in agriculture, retail and publishing as well as notable Japanese with intriguing life stories.  In addition, there are remains of World War II casualties and those tried for war crimes. Over nine hundred tombs can be found here, with styles varying from the very raw and simple to ornate and elaborate.

This tour will let you discover another little known part of Singapore and learn another aspect of its history.

Take a walk with ES! through the streets of Little India and see how Singapore’s Indian community prepares for Deepavali – the vibrant and unique festival of light.  FOM docent Abha Kaul will share with us the meaning of Deepavali, explaining the rich customs and traditions associated with this festival, which Hindus consider one of the most important to celebrate. Why is it called the festival of lights?  What are the stories surrounding Deepavali or Diwali?  Not only is this a very festive and auspicious time but one which is associated with wonderful food.  Enjoy a light lunch together to conclude the programme (included in fee).

Walk with us and find out more about Deepavali.

Come and join us on a guided walking tour in Tanjong Pagar, one of the four historical precincts of the iconic Chinatown district in Singapore. We will wander around a precinct full of rich and unique buildings from different historical periods to find out what the history behind them. Our guide will explain in detail the unique architecture of the Singapore shophouse, the most common housing design developed during the colonial era. Moving from the past to the current, we  will find out how the global phenomenon of Street Art was integrated into the local Singaporean culture.

By the end of the tour you will know more about the story of this City and its people.

Want to find out more about our programmes? Click here to download a PDF .