This post is long overdue, but I’m finally getting around to writing a quick travel review! After three years, I’m looking back at one of our favorite spots in Singapore — the National Museum of Singapore.
Every time we travel abroad, there’s always one non-negotiable on our itinerary: a visit to the local museums. For us, it's the best way to connect with a country’s culture — to walk through its history, see how it has evolved, and gain a sense of how the past has shaped the present.
We love "time-traveling" through the stories of the places we visit, and this museum definitely made that experience unforgettable. So, in this first travel review at Molmisa Point, we’re excited to share a few highlights of what you can find inside the National Museum of Singapore — and why it’s a must-visit!
The Museum: Bridging the Past and Present
Did you know that the National Museum of Singapore is the oldest museum in the country? Yup — it’s been around since 1887! But don’t let its age fool you. This place is a cool mix of old and new, giving visitors an immersive way to explore Singapore’s rich history and modern culture all in one stop.
From ancient treasures to high-tech digital exhibits, there’s something for everyone. It’s the kind of place where you can geek out over history and snap IG-worthy photos — all in the same visit.
The building itself is a gem. Designed back in 1882 by Colonial Engineer Henry Edward McCallum, the original structure has those elegant Neo-Palladian vibes — think symmetrical facades, grand columns, and a stunning rotunda dome with Victorian stained glass that’s straight out of a period drama.
Then in 2006, the museum got a glow-up. A sleek modern extension was added, blending old-world charm with contemporary style. One of the highlights? The Glass Rotunda — a towering 16-meter-high cylinder that houses immersive experiences like “Story of the Forest,” which brings historical drawings to life through animation and lights. It’s a must-see!
Alright, so while I can’t show you photos from inside the museum (rules are rules!), I still wanna take you on a quick tour through words. I’ll share what you can expect to see and some cool takeaways from each stop. Ready? Let’s go!
Singapore History Gallery: A Journey Through Time
If there’s one section of the museum you can’t miss, it’s this one. Covering a massive 2,800 square meters (yup, it’s huge!), the Singapore History Gallery walks you through the Lion City’s epic transformation — from a sleepy fishing village to a futuristic global hub.
Here’s what you’ll explore (and some cool things to watch out for):
🔍 SINGAPURA (1299–1818)
Step way back in time to when Singapore was still known as "Temasek." You’ll see ancient artifacts, trade ceramics, and early maps that show just how connected Singapore already was to the rest of Asia.
🏛️ CROWN COLONY (1819–1941)
When Sir Stamford Raffles landed in 1819, everything changed. This section shows how the island boomed into a buzzing trade port.
⚔️ SYONAN-TO (1942–1945)
This part is a bit heavier — it tells the story of the Japanese occupation during WWII. You'll hear real stories of resilience, see wartime relics, and walk through a recreated bomb shelter.
🇸🇬 POST-WAR INDEPENDENCE (1945–1965)
The post-war hustle was real. Learn how Singapore rebuilt itself, tackled political unrest, and finally gained self-governance.
🚀 MODERN SINGAPORE (1965–Present)
The final stretch is a celebration of what Singapore has become — a sleek, smart city that blends tradition with innovation.
Iconic Artifacts and Exhibits
The National Museum of Singapore has some seriously cool artifacts that give you a peek into the country’s long and colorful history. One of the most mind-blowing pieces is the Singapore Stone — it’s a chunk of a giant slab with super old inscriptions that no one’s been able to decode yet. It could be from as far back as the 10th century! Historians think it might hold secrets about ancient rulers or lost kingdoms. Total mystery vibes.
Then there’s the William Farquhar Collection — basically, a massive collection of hand-drawn wildlife art from the 1800s. Think of it as a vintage nature Instagram, filled with super detailed drawings of Southeast Asian birds, bugs, and plants. These were commissioned by one of Singapore’s early colonial leaders, and they’re not just pretty — they also give you an idea of what nature looked like back then.
And don’t skip the Majapahit gold jewelry found at Fort Canning Hill. These 14th-century pieces — a gold armlet and earrings — are insanely detailed and may have belonged to someone royal. They’re believed to be from the powerful Majapahit Empire, showing that Singapore was already a pretty important place way before it became a modern city. Each artifact has its own story, and together they make exploring the museum a total time-travel experience.
Wings of a Rich Manoeuvre: A Dance of Light
One thing you’ve got to check out when you visit the National Museum of Singapore is Wings of a Rich Manoeuvre — a gorgeous kinetic art installation by Singaporean artist Suzann Victor. Hanging high in the Glass Atrium, this piece features eight stunning, wing-shaped chandeliers decked out with over 14,000 Swarovski crystals. Yep, it’s as sparkly and elegant as it sounds!
Goh Seng Choo Gallery: Magic and Menace
If you're into the mystical and mysterious, this gallery might just be your kind of adventure. The Goh Seng Choo Gallery dives deep into the spiritual side of Southeast Asian culture — from traditional healing rituals to beliefs in spirits, charms, and the supernatural.
You’ll spot fascinating artifacts once used to cure illnesses, ward off bad luck, or connect with unseen forces. It’s like walking through a time capsule of Southeast Asia’s mystical past — spooky, sacred, and seriously cool.
Some of the objects here were believed to have magical powers. Oh, by the way, I’m not into mystical or magical stuff (I’ll pass on the ghost-hunting, thanks 😅), so this wasn’t really my jam. But hey, if you're into mysterious vibes and cultural curiosities, you’ll probably love it!
Life in Singapore: The Past 100 Years
Now this is the gallery that really hit home for me — hands down, my favorite spot in the whole museum. Life in Singapore: The Past 100 Years takes you on a heartwarming (and sometimes eye-opening) journey through the everyday lives of Singaporeans across the last century. It’s not about big battles or flashy politics — it’s about real people, their homes, their food, their fashion, and their stories.
The gallery is set up like a nostalgic time-travel experience. You’ll see recreated living spaces from different decades, complete with old-school furniture, retro appliances, and even TV commercials from back in the day. One of my favorite parts? The hawker centre-inspired setup and the vintage school uniforms — super cute and very Insta-worthy! 📸
If you're like me and you enjoy seeing how history connects to real people (plus love a bit of nostalgia), then don’t just walk past this gallery — take your time and soak it all in!
Throwback to November 30, 2022
When we visited the National Museum of Singapore on November 30, 2022, we got lucky — two super interesting temporary exhibitions were on display! It was such a cool mix of cultures and creativity, and it made our visit even more unforgettable.
🦋 Día de Muertos: Magic Migrations
This colorful exhibit celebrated Mexico’s Day of the Dead, and it was absolutely stunning. The gallery was filled with over 5,000 paper monarch butterflies fluttering overhead — a symbol of souls returning to visit loved ones during the festival. The centerpiece? A beautifully decorated three-tiered pyramid, filled with traditional elements like marigolds and candles. It felt like walking into a vibrant piece of Mexican culture, right in the heart of Singapore.
🤖 The Doraemon Exhibition Singapore 2022
As a certified '90s kid, this was such a nostalgic treat! This exhibit marked the first time The Doraemon Exhibition went international, straight from Japan. It ran from November 5, 2022 to February 5, 2023. We got to see original manga drawings by Doraemon’s legendary creator, Fujiko F. Fujio, and 28 contemporary artists gave their own creative spin on the iconic robot cat. From cute to quirky to downright mind-blowing — it was such a fun tribute to a childhood classic.
Both exhibits offered a unique blend of cultural tradition and modern art, serving as a definite reminder that museums are about creativity and connection.
Overall Tour Review: We Shall Return
Looking back, our visit to the National Museum of Singapore was truly time well spent. From the immersive exhibits to the stunning architecture (and a few surprising moments of nostalgia), we absolutely enjoyed every corner of the museum. It’s been three years since that trip, and honestly, we’re already itching to go back and see what’s new! I can’t say for sure if all the spots I mentioned in this blog are still around — exhibits change and evolve — but that’s part of the magic. I’ll definitely update this post when we finally return!
If you’re planning to visit Singapore, this museum is a must. It’s the perfect place to appreciate how far the nation has come — from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most innovative and well-organized countries in the world. The National Museum does an amazing job of showing not just what Singapore is, but how it became. So yes, this is your sign to put this on your itinerary. Trust me. Your curious, culture-loving self will thank you later. 🇸🇬✨
Plan to Visit?
If you're planning a trip to the National Museum of Singapore, here's everything you need to know to make the most of your visit:
Monica is the Senior Editor and VP for Content Strategy at The Molmisa Point, and also the CEO of Molmisa Ventures Corporation. On top of that, she’s a licensed speech-language pathologist, a business communication trainer, and a lecturer at UP Manila. She also serves as the Treasurer of the Philippine Association of Speech-Language Pathologists (PASP). Monica finished her BS in Speech Pathology at UP Manila and took up Real Estate Management at iAcademy. With everything she juggles, traveling has become her favorite way to unwind and recharge—it’s her go-to therapy and source of inspiration.
Stapled Destination: National Museum of Singapore
This post is long overdue, but I’m finally getting around to writing a quick travel review! After three years, I’m looking back at one of our favorite spots in Singapore — the National Museum of Singapore.
Every time we travel abroad, there’s always one non-negotiable on our itinerary: a visit to the local museums. For us, it's the best way to connect with a country’s culture — to walk through its history, see how it has evolved, and gain a sense of how the past has shaped the present.
We love "time-traveling" through the stories of the places we visit, and this museum definitely made that experience unforgettable. So, in this first travel review at Molmisa Point, we’re excited to share a few highlights of what you can find inside the National Museum of Singapore — and why it’s a must-visit!
The Museum: Bridging the Past and Present
Did you know that the National Museum of Singapore is the oldest museum in the country? Yup — it’s been around since 1887! But don’t let its age fool you. This place is a cool mix of old and new, giving visitors an immersive way to explore Singapore’s rich history and modern culture all in one stop.
From ancient treasures to high-tech digital exhibits, there’s something for everyone. It’s the kind of place where you can geek out over history and snap IG-worthy photos — all in the same visit.
The building itself is a gem. Designed back in 1882 by Colonial Engineer Henry Edward McCallum, the original structure has those elegant Neo-Palladian vibes — think symmetrical facades, grand columns, and a stunning rotunda dome with Victorian stained glass that’s straight out of a period drama.Then in 2006, the museum got a glow-up. A sleek modern extension was added, blending old-world charm with contemporary style. One of the highlights? The Glass Rotunda — a towering 16-meter-high cylinder that houses immersive experiences like “Story of the Forest,” which brings historical drawings to life through animation and lights. It’s a must-see!
Singapore History Gallery: A Journey Through Time
If there’s one section of the museum you can’t miss, it’s this one. Covering a massive 2,800 square meters (yup, it’s huge!), the Singapore History Gallery walks you through the Lion City’s epic transformation — from a sleepy fishing village to a futuristic global hub.
Here’s what you’ll explore (and some cool things to watch out for):
🔍 SINGAPURA (1299–1818)
Step way back in time to when Singapore was still known as "Temasek." You’ll see ancient artifacts, trade ceramics, and early maps that show just how connected Singapore already was to the rest of Asia.
🏛️ CROWN COLONY (1819–1941)
When Sir Stamford Raffles landed in 1819, everything changed. This section shows how the island boomed into a buzzing trade port.
⚔️ SYONAN-TO (1942–1945)
This part is a bit heavier — it tells the story of the Japanese occupation during WWII. You'll hear real stories of resilience, see wartime relics, and walk through a recreated bomb shelter.
🇸🇬 POST-WAR INDEPENDENCE (1945–1965)
The post-war hustle was real. Learn how Singapore rebuilt itself, tackled political unrest, and finally gained self-governance.
🚀 MODERN SINGAPORE (1965–Present)
The final stretch is a celebration of what Singapore has become — a sleek, smart city that blends tradition with innovation.
Iconic Artifacts and Exhibits
The National Museum of Singapore has some seriously cool artifacts that give you a peek into the country’s long and colorful history. One of the most mind-blowing pieces is the Singapore Stone — it’s a chunk of a giant slab with super old inscriptions that no one’s been able to decode yet. It could be from as far back as the 10th century! Historians think it might hold secrets about ancient rulers or lost kingdoms. Total mystery vibes.
Then there’s the William Farquhar Collection — basically, a massive collection of hand-drawn wildlife art from the 1800s. Think of it as a vintage nature Instagram, filled with super detailed drawings of Southeast Asian birds, bugs, and plants. These were commissioned by one of Singapore’s early colonial leaders, and they’re not just pretty — they also give you an idea of what nature looked like back then.
And don’t skip the Majapahit gold jewelry found at Fort Canning Hill. These 14th-century pieces — a gold armlet and earrings — are insanely detailed and may have belonged to someone royal. They’re believed to be from the powerful Majapahit Empire, showing that Singapore was already a pretty important place way before it became a modern city. Each artifact has its own story, and together they make exploring the museum a total time-travel experience.
Wings of a Rich Manoeuvre: A Dance of Light
One thing you’ve got to check out when you visit the National Museum of Singapore is Wings of a Rich Manoeuvre — a gorgeous kinetic art installation by Singaporean artist Suzann Victor. Hanging high in the Glass Atrium, this piece features eight stunning, wing-shaped chandeliers decked out with over 14,000 Swarovski crystals. Yep, it’s as sparkly and elegant as it sounds!
Goh Seng Choo Gallery: Magic and Menace
If you're into the mystical and mysterious, this gallery might just be your kind of adventure. The Goh Seng Choo Gallery dives deep into the spiritual side of Southeast Asian culture — from traditional healing rituals to beliefs in spirits, charms, and the supernatural.
You’ll spot fascinating artifacts once used to cure illnesses, ward off bad luck, or connect with unseen forces. It’s like walking through a time capsule of Southeast Asia’s mystical past — spooky, sacred, and seriously cool.
Some of the objects here were believed to have magical powers. Oh, by the way, I’m not into mystical or magical stuff (I’ll pass on the ghost-hunting, thanks 😅), so this wasn’t really my jam. But hey, if you're into mysterious vibes and cultural curiosities, you’ll probably love it!
Life in Singapore: The Past 100 Years
Now this is the gallery that really hit home for me — hands down, my favorite spot in the whole museum. Life in Singapore: The Past 100 Years takes you on a heartwarming (and sometimes eye-opening) journey through the everyday lives of Singaporeans across the last century. It’s not about big battles or flashy politics — it’s about real people, their homes, their food, their fashion, and their stories.
The gallery is set up like a nostalgic time-travel experience. You’ll see recreated living spaces from different decades, complete with old-school furniture, retro appliances, and even TV commercials from back in the day. One of my favorite parts? The hawker centre-inspired setup and the vintage school uniforms — super cute and very Insta-worthy! 📸
If you're like me and you enjoy seeing how history connects to real people (plus love a bit of nostalgia), then don’t just walk past this gallery — take your time and soak it all in!
When we visited the National Museum of Singapore on November 30, 2022, we got lucky — two super interesting temporary exhibitions were on display! It was such a cool mix of cultures and creativity, and it made our visit even more unforgettable.
🦋 Día de Muertos: Magic Migrations
This colorful exhibit celebrated Mexico’s Day of the Dead, and it was absolutely stunning. The gallery was filled with over 5,000 paper monarch butterflies fluttering overhead — a symbol of souls returning to visit loved ones during the festival. The centerpiece? A beautifully decorated three-tiered pyramid, filled with traditional elements like marigolds and candles. It felt like walking into a vibrant piece of Mexican culture, right in the heart of Singapore.
🤖 The Doraemon Exhibition Singapore 2022
As a certified '90s kid, this was such a nostalgic treat! This exhibit marked the first time The Doraemon Exhibition went international, straight from Japan. It ran from November 5, 2022 to February 5, 2023. We got to see original manga drawings by Doraemon’s legendary creator, Fujiko F. Fujio, and 28 contemporary artists gave their own creative spin on the iconic robot cat. From cute to quirky to downright mind-blowing — it was such a fun tribute to a childhood classic.
Both exhibits offered a unique blend of cultural tradition and modern art, serving as a definite reminder that museums are about creativity and connection.
Looking back, our visit to the National Museum of Singapore was truly time well spent. From the immersive exhibits to the stunning architecture (and a few surprising moments of nostalgia), we absolutely enjoyed every corner of the museum. It’s been three years since that trip, and honestly, we’re already itching to go back and see what’s new! I can’t say for sure if all the spots I mentioned in this blog are still around — exhibits change and evolve — but that’s part of the magic. I’ll definitely update this post when we finally return!
If you’re planning to visit Singapore, this museum is a must. It’s the perfect place to appreciate how far the nation has come — from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most innovative and well-organized countries in the world. The National Museum does an amazing job of showing not just what Singapore is, but how it became. So yes, this is your sign to put this on your itinerary. Trust me. Your curious, culture-loving self will thank you later. 🇸🇬✨
Plan to Visit?
If you're planning a trip to the National Museum of Singapore, here's everything you need to know to make the most of your visit:
📍 ADDRESS:
93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897
🕒 OPENING HOURS:
Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
(Last admission at 6:30 PM)
🎟️ ADMISSION FEES:
Singapore Citizens & Permanent Residents: Free (with valid ID)
Tourists & Foreign Residents:
- Standard Adult: S$24
- Concession: S$18 (for seniors aged 60+, students, and persons with disabilities)
Children aged 6 and below: Free📞 CONTACT:
Phone: +65 6332 3659 / +65 6332 5642
Email: nhb_nm_hospitality@nhb.gov.sg
For more details and the latest updates, visit the official website:
🔗 National Museum of Singapore – Visitor Information
Monica is the Senior Editor and VP for Content Strategy at The Molmisa Point, and also the CEO of Molmisa Ventures Corporation. On top of that, she’s a licensed speech-language pathologist, a business communication trainer, and a lecturer at UP Manila. She also serves as the Treasurer of the Philippine Association of Speech-Language Pathologists (PASP). Monica finished her BS in Speech Pathology at UP Manila and took up Real Estate Management at iAcademy. With everything she juggles, traveling has become her favorite way to unwind and recharge—it’s her go-to therapy and source of inspiration.
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