Haw Par Villa

Haw Par Villa is an outdoor park in the west of Singapore, filled with colourful statues from Chinese myths, legends and folk tales. It is one of the most unusual places to visit on the island. Entry to the park grounds is free.

The park was built in 1937 by the brothers Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par, who made their fortune with Tiger Balm ointment. They created it to share traditional Chinese values and stories with the public.

Why visit Haw Par Villa

There is nothing else quite like it in Singapore. The park has more than a thousand statues and many scenes, painted in bright colours. Some scenes are funny, some are gentle and some are quite dark. Together they tell stories that many families in Singapore grew up with.

It is also a good free activity for travellers on a budget. You can wander at your own pace, take photos and read the signs that explain each story.

What to see at Haw Par Villa

The paths wind up and down a small hillside, with scenes around every corner. Look out for these:

• Journey to the West: statues of the Monkey King and his companions from the classic Chinese novel.
• Legend of the White Snake: scenes from a well-known Chinese love story.
• The Eight Immortals: figures from Chinese folk belief and Taoist tradition.
• Tales of filial piety: scenes that teach respect for parents and elders.
• Hell's Museum: a museum about ideas of the afterlife, which includes the well-known Ten Courts of Hell.

Hell's Museum charges an entry fee, and its scenes are graphic. Parents may want to look first before taking young children inside. Guided tours are also offered from time to time. Check the official website for details and tickets.

How to get to Haw Par Villa

Haw Par Villa MRT station on the Circle Line is right next to the park. This makes it one of the easiest attractions in the west to reach by train. See our guide on how to use the MRT in Singapore if you are new to the network.

The park is on Pasir Panjang Road. Bring water and a hat, as most of the park is outdoors and some areas have little shade.

Tips for visiting

• Check the official Haw Par Villa website for opening hours and for tickets to Hell's Museum and tours.
• Go in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest midday heat.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as some paths are steep.
• Read the signs, as they explain the meaning of each scene.
• Be respectful near statues of deities and religious figures.

Things to do nearby

Haw Par Villa is a good starting point for a day in the west. Kent Ridge Park is close by and has forest trails and views over the port. The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum is a short ride away and is popular with families. West Coast Park offers open lawns and large playgrounds.

Find more ideas in our 20 free things to do in Singapore list, the free things to do section, and our guide to Jurong and the West. For more on local traditions, browse our culture and heritage pages. If you love taking pictures, our photo spots guides have more places to try.

FAQs about Haw Par Villa

Is Haw Par Villa free?

Yes, entry to the park grounds is free. Hell's Museum charges an entry fee, and so do some guided tours.

Is Haw Par Villa suitable for children?

Most of the park is fine for children. The Ten Courts of Hell scenes are graphic, so parents should decide if they suit their children.

How do I get to Haw Par Villa?

Take the Circle Line to Haw Par Villa MRT station, which is right beside the park.

How long should I spend there?

Allow one and a half to two hours for the grounds, and more if you visit Hell's Museum.