Are you planning a trip to Singapore and looking for a unique neighbourhood to explore? Look no further than Bishan! Located in the central region of Singapore, Bishan is a vibrant and bustling neighbourhood that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. From exploring nature parks to indulging in local food delights, Bishan has something for everyone.
One of the highlights of Bishan is the Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, a sprawling green space that offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can take a leisurely stroll along the park’s walking trails, rent a bike and explore the park on wheels, or even have a picnic by the lake. If you’re travelling with kids, be sure to check out the Adventure Playground, a fun-filled play area with giant climbing structures and slides.
If you’re a foodie, Bishan is the perfect neighbourhood to indulge in local food delights. From hawker centres to cafes, Bishan has a variety of dining options that will satisfy your taste buds. Don’t miss out on trying some of the local favourites, such as Hainanese chicken rice and laksa. And for those who love to shop, be sure to check out Books Beyond Borders, a unique bookstore that offers a wide range of books in different languages.
Key Takeaways
- Bishan is a vibrant neighbourhood in the central region of Singapore that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages.
- Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park is a must-visit destination in Bishan, offering a variety of outdoor activities and a fun-filled playground for kids.
- Bishan is also a foodie’s paradise, with a variety of dining options that offer local food delights, and a unique bookstore that offers a wide range of books in different languages.
Exploring Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park
Are you looking for a serene oasis to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? Look no further than Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, one of the largest urban parks in central Singapore. Here are a couple of things you can do with your family and furry friend at the park.
The Dog Run
Do you have a furry companion who loves to run around and play? Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park has a dedicated dog run where your furry friend can exercise and socialise with other dogs. The dog run is fully fenced and has separate areas for small and large dogs, so you can let your pet off the leash and watch them have fun in a safe environment.
The Playground
If you have children, you can take them to the playground at Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park. The playground has different types of equipment such as swings, see-saws, and slides, which your kids will love and enjoy around the playground. There is also a sand play area quite spacious for toddlers to explore and play around.
Apart from the dog run and playground, Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park offers a variety of activities for park-goers. You can take a walk around the naturalised Kallang River, which is part of the Active, Beautiful, Clean Waters (ABC Waters) Programme. The river is aesthetically pleasing and has lush banks of wildflowers, making it a great spot for bird-watching.
You can spot elegant Purple Herons among tall grasses by the riverbanks looking for food, White-Breasted Waterhens walking on lotus leaves at the Lotus Garden, and Sunda Pygmy Woodpeckers on low tree canopies foraging for insects.
Cafe Hopping in Bishan
Looking for a great cafe experience in Bishan? You’re in luck! Bishan has a variety of cafes that offer good bites and grub. Here are two cafes you should check out:
Good Bites
Good Bites is a cosy cafe that serves up delicious food and drinks. Their menu includes a variety of dishes, from classic breakfast items to sandwiches and pastas. They also have a selection of cakes and pastries that are perfect for a sweet treat.
One of the must-try items at Good Bites is their signature Big Breakfast. This hearty dish comes with bacon, sausages, eggs, mushrooms, and more. It’s perfect for a lazy weekend brunch.
Grub
Grub is a popular cafe that is known for their burgers. Their menu includes a variety of burgers, from classic cheeseburgers to more unique options like the Mentaiko Salmon Burger. They also have a selection of sides, such as truffle fries and onion rings.
One of the must-try items at Grub is their Buttermilk Fried Chicken Burger. This delicious burger comes with a juicy fried chicken patty, coleslaw, and a special sauce. It’s a great option for lunch or dinner.
Local Food Delights
When it comes to food, Bishan is a haven for local delights. From hawker stalls to cafes, there is something for everyone. Here are some must-try local food delights in Bishan that will leave you craving for more.
Ming Kee Chicken Rice
Ming Kee Chicken Rice is a popular hawker stall located in Bishan. It’s known for its delicious chicken rice that is cooked to perfection. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the rice is fragrant and flavourful. It’s no wonder that there are snaking queues during peak hours.
If you’re a fan of chicken rice, you must try Ming Kee’s version. The stall has been around for over 30 years and has perfected its recipe over the years. The staff is friendly and efficient, ensuring that you get your food quickly.
Book Shopping at Books Beyond Borders
If you’re a book lover, you won’t want to miss visiting Books Beyond Borders in Bishan. This local social enterprise sells second-hand books, with 100% of its net profits going towards funding education programs in Nepal.
Located in the Kong Beng Industrial Building on Jalan Pemimpin, Books Beyond Borders is a charming and cosy bookshop that’s perfect for browsing and picking up a few pre-loved reads. The shop is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11am to 6.30pm.
Inside the store, you’ll find a wide variety of genres and titles, from popular bestsellers to lesser-known gems. The prices are very reasonable, and you can often find great deals on bundles or sets of books.
One of the best things about Books Beyond Borders is that you can feel good about your purchases, knowing that the money you spend is going towards a good cause. It’s a great way to support education initiatives while also indulging in your love of reading.
If you’re looking for a specific book, you can also check out the Books Beyond Borders website to see if it’s in stock. You can also donate your gently used books to the store to help support their mission.
Architectural Marvels
Bishan is home to some of the most impressive architectural marvels in Singapore. You can spend hours admiring the stunning buildings and structures that make up the skyline of this vibrant town.
Raffles Institution
One of the most impressive buildings in Bishan is Raffles Institution. This historic school was founded in 1823 and has been housed in several different buildings over the years. The current building was completed in 2008 and is a stunning example of modern architecture.
Cloud Forest
Another must-see attraction in Bishan is the Cloud Forest. This incredible structure is a glass dome that houses a lush tropical forest. The Cloud Forest is an architectural marvel that is designed to mimic the natural environment of a cloud forest.
Marina Bay
No trip to Bishan would be complete without a visit to Marina Bay. This iconic area is home to some of the most impressive buildings in Singapore, including the Marina Bay Sands hotel and the ArtScience Museum. The Marina Bay area is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of Singapore’s architects and designers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top attractions at Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park?
Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park is a beautiful park that offers a variety of attractions for visitors. Some of the top attractions include the River Plains section, which features a river that runs through the park, and the Pond Gardens section, which has several ponds that are home to different species of fish and turtles. The park also has a playground, fitness stations, and a dog run.
Are there any unique cafes to visit in Bishan?
Yes, there are several unique cafes to visit in Bishan. One of the most popular is the Little Wimbly Lu Cafe, which is known for its delicious desserts and cosy atmosphere. Another great option is the One Man Coffee cafe, which serves up some of the best coffee in the area.
What are some recommended restaurants in Bishan?
Bishan has a variety of restaurants to choose from, but some of the most recommended include the Ming Kee Chicken Rice restaurant, which is known for its ice-bath chicken rice, and the Happy Hawkers food court, which has a wide variety of delicious dishes from different cuisines.
What are some fun activities for kids to do at Bishan park?
Bishan park offers several fun activities for kids to enjoy. The playground is a great place for kids to run around and play, while the fitness stations are perfect for older kids who want to get some exercise. The park also has a dog run, which is a great place for kids to interact with friendly dogs. Additionally, the park hosts several events throughout the year, such as movie screenings and concerts, which are fun for the whole family.
