A bit confusing, run down, difficult to reach by public transport
Recommend to potential buyers:
yes
Full review
Don't be surprised if despite having been to singapore several times you have not heard of this magical place. It is the remains of a theme park based on ancient mythology set in the Tiger Balm Gardens. The villa itself was built by the creator of Tiger Balm, but is unfortunately no longer standing. The attraction consists of a startling array of painted cast concrete statues and tableau depicting scenes from chinese mythology, and a bizzare selection of oversized animals. I would recommend buying a guide book before you start to help reduce confusion if you are not a student of chinese culture and mythology. I would rate this as the single best attraction in Singapore. Outstanding is the "Ten Courts of Hell" which are entered by going into an enormous dragon's mouth. Although in the park's Heyday these were viewed from a boat ride a walk through allows the best opportunity to view the full details of the scenes showing the specific punishments for each type of sin, and for the faint-hearted to make a rapid exit if necessary. Unfortunately Haw-Par Villa is awkward to reach by public transport, but as the entry is free it justifies the (only slight) expense of getting a taxi. It may also be best to bring a picnic as the cafeteria doesn't seem to be reliably open and there are few shops or restaurants nearby. Plan to spend at least 4 hours here, you'll not regret it.
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