Asian Civilisations Museum

Review

Many of Singapore's people are descendants of immigrants from countries within Asia. The Asian Civilisations Museum shows the beauty and intricacies of the culture and history of these countries as well as of the surrounding Asian countries. The Museum is appropriately located along the Singapore River, the landing and living site for these early immigrants.

Organised according to themes, the Museum has several galleries. Our journey begins with the Singapore River Gallery, where the story of migrants who have come to Singapore to make a living began, and moves on to galleries displaying artefacts from the different parts of Asia: China, Southeast Asia, South Asia and West Asia.

We enjoyed walking through the various galleries - there are stories, pictures and artefacts that gave us a glimpse of what life was like in Singapore in the early years. The beautiful, elaborate jewellery, garments, instruments, etc., with stories of the different ethnic groups and their lifestyles also gave glimpses into life during the past Asian civilisations.

Tips

If you can, join the guided tours for a more interactive visit and a deeper appreciation of the exhibits. If you have kids, do bring them along as they have their own special corners within the galleries where they can explore the Asian culture and history through touch and play!

Things to Bring

Drinking water. Once within the galleries, it's difficult to find drinks until you've completed the galleries. A jacket may be useful as it can get a little chilly inside.

Opening Times

Opening times: Monday - 1 pm to 7 pm Tuesday to Sunday - 9 am to 7 pm (Friday is till 9 pm) Guided tours (Available throughout the year except during volunteer guides' annual break in end Dec/early Jan and public holidays): English Monday - 2 pm Tuesday to Friday - 11 am, 2 pm Saturday & Sunday - 11 am Mandarin Saturday & Sunday -  11:30 am Japanese Tuesday to Friday -  10:30 am Every second Saturday of the month - 1:30pm Lunchtime Gallery Tours Tuesday to Friday - 12 noon [Tuesday: Southeast Asia Gallery Wednesday: West Asia Gallery Thursday: China Gallery Friday: South Asia Gallery] Best time to go: Anytime.

Admission Fees

Admission charges may vary during special exhibitions. Adult - $8 Student, Child (7 to 18 years old) and Senior Citizen (tourist 60 years old and over) - $4 There's a package for admission to both Asian Civilisations Museum and Peranakan Museum: Adult - $11 Student, Child (7 to 18 years old) and Senior Citizen (tourist over 60 years old) - $5.50 Ticket must be used within 7 days of purchase. Discounted admission on Friday, 7 pm to 9 pm: Adult - $4 Student, Child (7 to 18 years old) and Senior Citizen (tourist over 60 years old) - $2 Family Admission (Up to 5 adult visitors, only available during special exhibitions) - $20 Free admission for child aged 6 years old and under. Free admission for senior citizen (Singaporean or Permanent Resident) 60 years and over. Free admission for students & teachers (Singaporean or Permanent Resident) & NSF (with valid 11B pass).

How to Get There

By Taxi - This is the fastest and easiest way to get there. By MRT - Take the North-South Line or the East-West Line and alight at Raffles Place MRT Station. Cross the Singapore River and you'll see the Museum. It is about 5 minutes' walk to the Museum.