This is a tour where we are going to delve deep into the history of Chinatown. We’ll trace the beginning of Chinatown. We’ll study her progress from early days to what it is today.

For the Hokkiens, with many being illiterate, it was simply, “Gu Chia Chwee”, meaning “bullock cart water”. Others call it “Niu Cher Siu”, which also means the same.

For the Malays, it was simpler – “Kreta Ayer”, hence Kreta Ayer Road. It is not an unknown secret that many of our young do not know why water had so much to do with the bullock cart at Chinatown.

The answer – It had to do with several hills, (or knolls) that once dotted Chinatown. Except for Ann Siang Hill, all hills are now gone. Most were excavated as landfills at Telok Ayer, which happened to be the major landing point for many of our ancestors (Mazu Temple).

The hills were our water catchment reserves. Unlike Dhoby Ghaut, which has its own water supply, Chinatown wasn’t so lucky. So, water had to come from the hills, by way of the bullock carts.

Today, our Chinatown is the only one Chinatown that isn’t authentic (compared to the rest of the world), but yet, it is a successful, happy colourful place to be.

We’ll take a scenic walk, and admire what many of us miss along the way. I will be your tourist guide, and I will do my darn best to show and tell the true story (and stories – both happy and sad) about Chinatown.

This tour will begin at Chinatown MRT and end at the very spot where our ancestors landed eons ago, at Telok Ayer Street. Meet me, 9am on Sun, 25th June 2023, Chinatown MRT, Exit A – near the teller machines, next to the toilet. You can’t miss the toilets!

For reservations, contact:
UNCLE CHRIS WALKING TOURS
Chris WK Ng
T: 65 91814298
E: [email protected]
W: www.unclechrisdrivingholidays.com

Note:
• We do the worldwide practice of tipping at the end of the tour.
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.
• Do not sign up for this tour if you are not sure of your schedule. Sign up only when you are sure of your schedule.