Koon Seng Road Shophouses

The Koon Seng Road Shophouses are a row of brightly painted Peranakan-style houses in Joo Chiat, in the east of Singapore. Their pastel colours, decorative tiles and carved details make them a favourite spot for photos. A visit is free and fits easily into a morning in Katong.

Most of these buildings are private homes, not shops. Please enjoy them from the street and respect the people who live there.

What Are the Koon Seng Road Shophouses?

Koon Seng Road starts at Joo Chiat Road, in a district with strong Peranakan roots. The houses here date from the early 20th century. Many people call them shophouses, but most are terrace houses built as homes.

The Peranakans are communities in this region with mixed local and immigrant roots. In Singapore, the term often refers to Peranakan Chinese families. Their culture blends Chinese, Malay and European influences. You can see this mix in the design of these houses.

Joo Chiat is a conservation area. This helps keep its old streets, houses and shophouses looking much as they did decades ago.

What to See on Koon Seng Road

Walk slowly along the row and look closely at each house. No two are exactly the same.

• Pastel colours: pink, green, blue and yellow fronts sit side by side.
• Decorative tiles: look for bright tiles with flowers and patterns on the walls.
• Carved and moulded details: spot the plaster designs above windows and doors.
• Timber doors and windows: notice the tall wooden shutters and doors.

Take your photos from the pavement or the opposite side of the road. A wide view of the whole row often works best. Then explore nearby Joo Chiat Road, where many more old shophouses line the street.

How to Visit Respectfully

Residents live in these houses every day. Please do not open gates, climb steps or walk into front yards. Do not lean on cars, walls or plants for photos. Keep your voice low, especially early in the morning.

Avoid blocking driveways or the road with tripods or large groups. Do not photograph residents or the inside of homes without permission. Take any rubbish with you when you leave.

Following these simple rules helps keep this street welcoming for visitors. Our guide to etiquette and local laws has more advice for visitors to Singapore.

How to Get to Koon Seng Road

Koon Seng Road is in Joo Chiat, close to Katong. Buses run along Joo Chiat Road and East Coast Road, and taxis can drop you at the end of the street. Many visitors combine a walk here with a food trail around Katong.

Our guide on how to use the MRT in Singapore explains train travel. Use a journey planner to find the best station and bus connection.

Food, Hotels and Things to Do Nearby

Katong and Joo Chiat are known for Peranakan food and local snacks. Kim Choo Kueh Chang is known for rice dumplings and Peranakan sweets. Chilli Padi Nonya Restaurant and Guan Hoe Soon serve Peranakan dishes. For dessert, try Birds of Paradise Gelato Boutique.

Learn more about the food in our Peranakan food guide. You can also browse all restaurants in Katong and Joo Chiat.

To stay in the area, Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong is nearby. See more hotels in Katong and Joo Chiat. To learn more about Peranakan culture, visit the Peranakan Museum in the city centre. Our Katong and Joo Chiat guide covers the wider area.

FAQs about Koon Seng Road Shophouses

Can I go inside the Koon Seng Road houses?

No, most are private homes. Please enjoy them from the street and do not enter gates or yards.

Is it free to visit?

Yes, it is a public street and free to visit. Please be respectful of residents.

When is the best time for photos?

Early morning and late afternoon bring softer light and fewer people. Keep noise low at these quiet times.

How long should I spend there?

Around 30 minutes is enough for the street itself. Add an hour or two to explore Joo Chiat and Katong.