Joo Chiat and Shophouses

Joo Chiat is a neighbourhood located on the East Coast of Singapore. It is the perfect place to go to if you are looking to experience the shophouses in Singapore, eat at some unique places and shop in some independent stores.

How to get there

I recommend that you get off at Eunos MRT station and start at the bottom of Joo Chiat and make your way up.

About Joo Chiat

Joo Chiat dates back to the early 19th century when coconut plantations used to go from Geyland river to Siglap Road with kampungs (villages) spread throughout the areas. In the 1920's, Joo Chiat became a place for the wealthy with the rise in houses and holiday bungalows. Until the 1950's the area was used as a seaside retreat. Now, Joo Chiat is well known for the Peranakan shophouses which date back to this time. These shophouses have been preserved due to the Urban Redevelopment Authority taking 518 buildings in Joo Chiat for conservation in 1991. Many of the terraced houses in the area belong to the transitional, late and Art Deco architectural styles.

What to do

Walk down Joo Chiat to admire the Peranakan shophouses

The shophouses in this area are famous for their pastel colours and beautiful architecture. You can walk around Joo Chiat Road and see some of the most beautiful houses.

Eat at some of the independent restaurants and cafes

• Little Farms Bistro - Bistro

• Sevens Cafe

• Common Man Coffee Roasters

Shopping

Joo Chiat has some really interesting shops along Joo Chiat Road. Make sure you keep an eye out for some of my favourites.

• Cat Socrates - Gift shop

• Singapore Trading Post - Furniture shop

• A Vintage Tale - Vintage clothing shop

• Tiger and Arcadia - Boutique

Street Art

There is also some street art in Joo Chiat, so when you are walking around make sure you keep an eye out for them!