Uncover the History of Chinatown Singapore: A Look Behind Its Shophouses & Streets

To those interested in Singapore’s history, Chinatown is among the most fascinating places to visit on the island. 

This historically significant district was established in the early 19th century, thanks to the 1822 Town Plan of Sir Stamford Raffles, who designated it for Chinese Settlers. 

Singapore's Chinatown in the past may have been conceived as a Chinese immigrant enclave, but the Chinese eventually became the largest ethnic community on the island. The roots laid in Chinatown have spread all over the country.

This gives you an idea of the importance of Chinatown in Singapore, both past and present. If you want to learn more, we explore this historic place in greater detail here.

Singapore Chinatown in the Past

Old Chinatown Singapore was the chief landing point for Chinese immigrants on the island. This is where they set foot after their voyages from their origins, usually the southern provinces of China.

Landing here, they brought with them their distinct dialects and customs, as well as trades and traditions. 

These would eventually form the bones of the social geography of old Chinatown in Singapore. Neighbourhoods formed around shared places of origin, dialects, and more. These were some examples of the usual areas of congregation:

• Hokkiens - Around Telok Ayer Street

• Cantonese - Around Temple Street 

• Teochews - Near the Singapore River

• Hakkas - Often in smaller pockets all over the area

Clans were a major part of life in this old Chinatown Singapore society. They helped newcomers find footing and housing quickly, offering employment, connections and social support.

Shophouses – iconic today – were the heart of it all. They were the nucleus of both commerce and community life. The ground floors were for shopping, working, or eating. Meanwhile, the upper floors were for housing and the streets were always alive.

There were challenges aplenty in Chinatown Singapore back then, from overcrowding to poor sanitation. But the community thrived despite it all, thanks to strong mutual aid and cultural ties. 

Life in Old Chinatown Singapore

Daily life in Chinatown was driven by hard work and socialisation. 

Mornings opened up with the calls of market vendors going through the narrow lanes. The scent of kopi from corner shops was everywhere, as was the clanging of the blacksmith forges.

Cultural and religious life was concentrated on temples and clan halls. Some of the most important remain today, like the Sri Mariamman Temple and Thian Hock Keng Temple.

Celebrations like the Lunar New Year brought the streets to life, with lion dances, street opera performances and bustling night markets.

Chinatown Singapore’s Transformation

Rapid urbanisation hit Singapore around the mid-20th century, and this affected Chinatown. Residents began moving to new public housing estates en masse, which led to declining commerce and deterioration.

The Urban Redevelopment Authority recognised the cultural value of the district. To preserve it, a conservation plan was introduced in the late 1980s, aiming to preserve over 200 shophouses and streets for future generations.

Today, Pagoda, Smith, and Temple Streets have been transformed into places that blend heritage and modern commerce. Chinatown is now both a tourist destination and a living heritage site for Singapore resident.

Modern businesses operate in the preserved shophouses, while institutions like the Chinatown Heritage Centre play a vital role in ensuring the stories of Singapore Chinatown’s past are never forgotten.

The Shophouses, Architectural Heritage, and History 

Chinatown’s shophouses are critical parts of its heritage. These cultural icons were built mainly between the 1840s and 1960s and thus reflect an evolution of architectural styles and occupant needs.

Styles are generally categorised as:

• Early - Minimal decoration, timber windows

• Traditional - Decorative plasterwork, more colour

• Modern - Geometric patterns, streamlined forms

These shophouses typically all have narrow frontages and deep interiors. Continuous sheltered walkways keep pedestrians safe from the sun and rain while internal courtyards provide ventilation and light.

Despite that practicality, the facades are not without embellishment. Explore the shophouses today and you can still see an abundance of intricate motifs like phoenixes, peonies, and Chinese characters for prosperity and luck.

Chinatown’s History Today

The rich heritage of Chinatown remains, not just in its people but also through its preserved streets and iconic landmarks. Even some of the clan associations persist to this day!

A visit to locations like the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, Sri Mariamman Temple, and Chinatown Heritage Centre offers an enlightening look at this fascinating past. 

The Chinatown Heritage Centre in particular offers an intimate portrayal of Chinatown’s history. You can explore authentic recreations of 1950s shophouse interiors, historical artefacts, and personal stories for a closer look at the people who lived here.

Chinatown is also a culinary hub, where you can refuel with classic Chinese delicacies as well as modern dishes. Many of the old festivals are still celebrated as well, from the Lunar New Year to the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Experience Chinatown for Yourself

The Chinatown Singapore history that has been passed on is a multilayered one. It reflects a community with practicality, artistry, and resilience.

If you want to explore this living testament to Singapore’s identity and history for yourself, walk its streets and visit its shophouses. The legacy of the people who built the district remains, both in their descendants and the buildings that are still standing. 

You can also start with a visit to the Chinatown Heritage Centre, where our guides can show you the true spirit of one of Singapore’s most historic districts through our immersive exhibitions.