Quaint Encounters

The upper end of North Bridge Road is commonly referred to as Kampong Glam. Kampong means ‘village’ while glam refers to ‘gelam’, the name of cajeput trees that once populated the area. It is located in close proximity to the greater area of Bugis. In the 1980s, the area remained clustered with shophouses, parting ways for a few sporadic skyscrapers dominating the skyline.

Within Kampong Glam, lies Arab Street which serves as one of the main thoroughfares for the eclectic and rejuvenated Kampong Glam. It used to house many entrepreneurs with wooden shacks peddling their wares to passing pedestrians. Now, many people consider the Malay conservation district to be the most vibrant among its peers, for it has successfully found a delicate balance between its youthful vibrancy – through its artistic diversity – and its historical heritage. 

Those that are looking to spruce up their Instagram feed or soak in the artistry of the district can find plenty of inspiration in the whimsical backstreets of Kampong Glam. Through the efforts of Gelam Gallery and One Kampong Gelam, artists and students have been commissioned and given space to allow their artistic talent to flourish.

As you head further down on North Bridge Road, you’ll step into the Bras Basah precinct –  home to a number of temples, museums, artistic practices, shopping districts and dining establishments. You can be sure of surprises on every corner! In the 1970s, congregations of book lovers used to frequent the bookstores that were distributed along Bras Basah and North Bridge Road. With the completion of Bras Basah complex in 1979, the bookstores are now consolidated in the single mixed-use development.

Scroll down to see what this neighbourhood has to offer!