Uncle Chris Walking Tours, 13 Lorong 8 Toa Payoh (2025)

13/12/2024

HERITAGE AND FESTIVITIES:
THE 15 DAYS OF CHINESE NEW YEAR
Sun, 26th Jan 2025
9am to 12pm

Join us for an enlightening journey into the vibrant traditions of Chinese New Year (CNY). As the festivities approach, it's the perfect time to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage passed down by our ancestors. With cultural practices slowly fading, this tour is a precious opportunity to understand and celebrate our history.

Together, we'll explore why certain rituals, foods, and customs have endured through the decades. Discover the significance of traditional rites, the importance of festive foods and fruits, and the reasons behind our use of red packets. We'll delve into the intriguing customs, such as depositing money on auspicious days, that add layers of meaning to the celebrations.

This tour is ideal for families and tourists alike. It's a chance for the younger generation to learn why these traditions matter and for everyone to experience the joy and colour of CNY. We'll take you through a list of activities for all 15 days, offering insights that will deepen your appreciation of this festive season.

Meeting point: Chinatown MRT, Exit A near the ATM machines next to the restrooms at 9am on Sunday, 26th January 2025. Don't forget your MRT card, as we'll travel to Albert Street (Bugis MRT) during our tour.

Embrace the spirit of Chinese New Year with us and uncover the stories that make this celebration so special. We can't wait to share this colourful, joyous morning with you!

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

13/12/2024

FOOTSTEPS OF THE PAST: CIVIC DISTRICT EXPLORATION
Sat, 25th Jan 2025
9am to 12pm

Join us for a leisurely stroll through the heart of Singapore's Civic District. We’ll meet at The Arcade, conveniently located just above Raffles MRT, at 9am sharp.

This isn’t just a sightseeing tour; it’s an opportunity to really engage with our rich heritage as we uncover the stories behind some of our most cherished monuments.

How often do we walk past our historical gems without a second thought? It’s time to change that! During our walk, we’ll take the time to appreciate the beauty around us while diving into the fascinating history of places like the Old Supreme Court, which, surprisingly, was built in 1939.

It’s incredible how much our city has evolved since then, especially as it faced the challenge of providing housing for a booming population.

This tour is also a wonderful chance for our senior citizens to reminisce about the past, while younger participants gain valuable insights about the Singapore River and the significant events that unfolded there.

Plus, you’ll discover the intriguing dynamics between Sir Stamford Raffles and William Farquhar, a historical rivalry that adds depth to our understanding of Singapore's history.

So, grab your walking shoes and get ready for an informative and delightful morning. We’ll wrap up by noon, but we promise you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for our city and its heritage. We can’t wait to see you there!

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

13/12/2024

GEYLANG RED-LIGHT DISTRICT WALKING TOUR
Thurs, 23rd Jan 2025
7pm to 10pm

Here’s a chance to peek behind the curtain at a fascinating and complex part of our city: Geylang.

Our little adventure kicks off at 7pm and wraps up by 9.30, definitely no later than 10pm. This engaging itinerary covers the vibrant streets from Lorong 12 to Lorong 18. And don’t worry, if you’re tight on time, this condensed tour has fewer stops for lengthy explanations, giving you more freedom to explore on your own afterwards.

Once we finish, you’ll have plenty of time to wander the neighbourhood and soak it all in – or grab a quick bite – before heading to Aljunied MRT to catch your train home.

Your tour guide, Uncle Chris, is all set to deliver a thought-provoking and, dare I say, educational experience. I promise to navigate the intriguing differences between “cheap sex” and “high-class scandals,” all while keeping it respectful.

We'll stroll through the bustling streets and take a closer look at the lives and stories that inhabit this district. Plus, I’ll inform you of what a customer might encounter – just in case you’re ever curious!

A quick heads-up: this tour is strictly for adults, and you’ll need to approach the subject matter with an open mind. We’ll use some frank language that might not suit everyone, but that’s part of the experience!

So, mark your calendars and meet me at Aljunied MRT at 7pm on Thurs, 23rd Jan 2025. I’ll be waiting for you next to Nenek Place. Let’s uncover the stories and nuances of Geylang together.

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

13/12/2024

RIDE THROUGH TIME:
A HERITAGE JOURNEY ON BUS SERVICE 167
Sun, 19th Jan 2025
9am to 12pm

Step aboard Bus Service 167, one of Singapore’s oldest and most iconic routes, for a nostalgic journey through time. From its humble beginnings to its near-retirement, this route carries a rich history worth celebrating.

Back in the day, when buses were un-air-conditioned and drivers took leisurely lunch breaks at Casuarina Road (leaving passengers patiently waiting), no one complained. It was all part of the charm of a simpler era. Bus 167 began its long journey at Admiralty Road West, near the Woodlands Checkpoint, passing scenic colonial roads through Sembawang, Upper Thomson, and into town.

Despite its historic significance, Bus Service 167 nearly faced the chopping block in December 2023 due to dwindling ridership, with the TEL MRT line offering a quicker alternative. Thanks to passionate advocates, the route was saved – a testament to its enduring place in Singapore’s transport heritage.

Now starting from Sembawang Bus Interchange and ending at Bukit Merah, this bus ride offers more than just convenience—it’s a moving connection to our past. Let’s honour it as the "Heritage Bus Trail", a living memory of days gone by.

Join me on Sun, 19th Jan 2025, at 9:00 am, as we take this historic ride together. Starting at Sembawang Bus Interchange, Berth 1A, we’ll travel down the route, stopping at:

Chong Pang Village: Once known as “chap sar koh,” located near Sembawang Shopping Centre.
Nee Soon Village: “Chap koh cheok,” at the junction of Upper Thomson, Sembawang, and Mandai Roads.
Orchard Road: Discover a slice of Orchard’s history at Lucky Plaza and Ngee Ann Building, which once housed Peugeot and Mazda showrooms.

This journey is more than a bus ride – it’s a chance to revisit forgotten memories, celebrate our heritage, and relive Singapore’s evolution from its colonial days to the vibrant city we know today.

Details:
Date: Sun, 19th Jan 2025
Time: 9:00 am
Meeting Point: Sembawang Bus Interchange, Berth 1A

Don’t miss this reawakening ride on Bus Service 167 – a nostalgic experience for locals and visitors alike.

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

13/12/2024

THE 15 DAYS OF CHINESE NEW YEAR
Sat, 18th Jan 2025
9am to 12pm

Unwrap the magic of Chinese New Year (CNY) traditions with this tour! With CNY just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in the joy and traditions of the season. But beyond the festivities, have you ever wondered why we celebrate the way we do?

Join this engaging tour to uncover the cultural practices that have been handed down through generations. As times change, many of these customs are fading, despite the efforts of clans, associations, and huay kuans to preserve them. Together, we’ll revisit the rich traditions that define CNY and explore their meanings.

From the rituals of foods, fruits, and red packets to the superstitions surrounding banking on auspicious days, this tour will walk you through the essence of what makes this festival so unique. You’ll also learn the significance of practices observed throughout the 15 days of Chinese New Year.

Whether you’re a foreign visitor, a curious local, or a family eager to teach younger generations about our heritage, this tour promises to be a lively and educational experience. Bring your children along – it’s a wonderful way to share the stories behind the traditions we hold dear.

Details:
Date: Sat, 18th Jan 2025
(Optional second session on Sun, 26th Jan 2025)
Time: 9:00 am
Meeting Point: Chinatown MRT, Exit A. Look for me near the ATM machines next to the restrooms.
Info: Bring your MRT card as we’ll travel from Chinatown to Bugis MRT (Albert Street).

This is a colourful and happy morning tour – perfect for anyone who wants to rediscover or learn more about the joys and meaning of Chinese New Year. Book your spot today and join in the festive spirit!

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

13/12/2024

GEYLANG: THE MOTHER OF ALL RED-LIGHT DISTRICT TOURS
Thurs, 16th Jan 2025
7pm to 11pm

Step into the shadows and discover the untold stories of Singapore’s red-light district in this bold, full-length walking tour. Running from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm, this experience offers an in-depth look at one of Singapore’s most taboo subjects.

Your guide, Uncle Chris, promises an informative and daring exploration of Geylang’s infamous streets, from Lorong 12 to Lorong 24A. This is a walk that doesn’t shy away from hard-hitting truths. We’ll dissect the stark differences between “cheap sex” and “high-class scandals,” and delve into the inner workings of the trade—no sugar-coating here.

But this isn’t just a walk of indulgence – it’s also an educational journey, offering insights for those curious about a topic often deemed too taboo to discuss openly. Whether you’re exploring for personal curiosity or seeking a deeper understanding of this facet of Singapore’s history, this tour holds nothing back.

Be prepared for explicit language and vivid descriptions. This is strictly an adult tour and not suitable for everyone. Please come with an open mind, as we explore the controversial, the intimate, and the unexpected.

Details:

Date: Thursday, 16th January 2025
Time: 7:00 pm
Meeting Point: Aljunied MRT (next to Nenek Place).
Important Notes:

This is a long walking tour. For a shorter experience, consider the “compressed” version on 23rd January 2025. In addition, wear comfortable walking shoes and bring an umbrella – it’s rainy season, and we’ll proceed rain or shine. A rainy evening adds a certain charisma to this tour!

Book your spot only if you’re ready to walk with us through rain and revelation. Come experience Geylang like never before – an unfiltered journey into its past and present.

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

13/12/2024

CHINATOWN: SECRETS, STORIES, AND SCANDALS
Sun, 12th Jan 2025
9am to 12pm

Most Chinatown walking tours are neatly wrapped up in two hours. I’m asking you for three. Why? Because I’ll show you Chinatown’s full story—the glory, the grit, and everything in between.

Our journey begins with the arrival of immigrants and their heartbreaking tales of survival. Amid the cacophony and chaos, we’ll uncover how figures like William Pickering shaped this community (hence Pickering and Upper Pickering Streets). You’ll hear how the British struggled to manage the vibrant but unruly immigrant population, and how secret societies rose—not just as organisations, but as lifelines for many, including the most vulnerable.

Life in Chinatown wasn’t all gloom, though. By the late 1900s, things began to change. The Peranakans brought joy and festivity to the area, ensuring life wasn’t just about toil. Cabarets, o***m dens, and sultry entertainers in figure-hugging cheongsams painted a picture of Chinatown’s hedonistic heyday. Whether you preferred a lift ride to the 4th floor of The Great Southern Hotel or a discreet walk up a back-alley staircase to Lai Chuen Yuen, entertainment was always close at hand.

Fast forward to today, and Singapore’s Chinatown is a far cry from its raucous past. But look closely, and you’ll see whispers of history still etched in its streets and buildings.

Join me, Uncle Chris, as we stroll through Chinatown’s fascinating past, sharing true stories—some happy, some heartbreaking, all unforgettable. Together, we’ll walk through time, peeling back the layers of this iconic district.

Tour Details:

Date: Sunday, 12th January 2025
Time: 9:00 am
Meeting Point: Chinatown MRT, Exit A. Take the escalator up and meet me between the UOB and POSB teller machines, next to the restrooms.
Let’s dive deep into Chinatown’s captivating history. Book your spot and discover the stories that make it so much more than just a tourist stop.

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

13/12/2024

REDISCOVER BUGIS: FROM VICE TO VIBRANCE
Sat, 11th Jan 2025
9am to 12pm

The Bugis Street of today bears little resemblance to its notorious past. Once the epicentre of Singapore’s lively, and at times infamous, nightlife, the traces of its colourful history are now hard to find amidst the sleek modernity.

Few know that Bugis Street was not only a hotspot for vice but also home to the Karayuki-san, Japanese women who worked in a distinct enclave known as “Little Japan.” For decades, these communities existed side by side, though their paths rarely intertwined. While the plight of the Karayuki-san is well-documented, the rise and fall of Bugis culture and heritage remains a fascinating and complex story to unravel.

Join us as we explore Bugis’ transformation over the years, tracing its journey from humble gravel streets to a vibrant, if controversial, nightlife hub, and now to its current reinvention as a centre for arts and culture.

Along the way, we’ll walk through some of Singapore’s oldest streets, like Waterloo Street, once known as “Si Beh Lor” or “Number 4 Horse Road,” and Albert Street, which began as a nameless dirt path.

We’ll also discuss plans to reshape the Bugis area into a glitzy destination for locals and tourists alike. What will this new identity mean for the rich tapestry of history that still lingers in the shadows?

Tour Details:

Date: Sat, 11th Jan 2025
Time: 9:00 am
Meeting Point: Bras Basah MRT, Exit D/E (Waterloo Street).

Take the escalator to street level, where I’ll be waiting with my Tourist Guide badge. Join us to rediscover the forgotten stories of Bugis Street and see how this once-vivid neighbourhood continues to evolve.

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

13/12/2024

UPPER THOMSON ROAD & THE HAINANESE VILLAGE
Sun, 5th Jan 2025
9am to 12pm

Explore Upper Thomson Road’s hidden charms. Join us for a leisurely morning walk along Upper Thomson Road and Old Upper Thomson Road, two of the most scenic and serene routes in northern Singapore. With their lush greenery and cool temperatures, these roads offer a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

On cool mornings, a thick mist blankets the area between the 7th and 10th milestones, creating a magical atmosphere. This might not last forever, as new developments are planned with the Springleaf MRT now operational. But amidst these changes, one treasure remains untouched – the Hainanese Village, nestled within the Thomson Nature Park.

Our walk will take us through the remnants of this once-bustling kampong, rich with heritage and charm. Imagine the vibrant village life that once thrived here as we stroll through this tranquil slice of Singapore’s history.

Beyond its natural beauty and cultural significance, this area holds a thrilling past. From 1961 to 1973, Upper Thomson Road and Old Upper Thomson Road roared to life as part of the Singapore Grand Prix circuit. On Easter weekends, the roads echoed with the thunder of racing cars and motorcycles. Today, the contrast couldn’t be starker – tranquillity reigns where speed once dominated.

The walk will end near the Springleaf MRT, where you can explore the many eateries nearby to round off your morning.

Date: Sunday, 5th January 2025
Time: 9:00 am
Meeting Point: Springleaf MRT, Exit 2.

Look for me at the bus stop next to Hans Café, wearing my Tourist Guide badge. Come and experience the unique blend of history, nature, and nostalgia that makes Upper Thomson Road so special.

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

13/12/2024

GEYLANG: HERITAGE & CULTURAL WALK
Sat, 4th Jan 2025
9am to 12pm

Discover Geylang beyond its stereotypes. Often associated with its infamous red-light district, Geylang is a neighbourhood shrouded in both intrigue and misconceptions. But beneath its colourful reputation lies a rich tapestry of history, culture, and everyday life waiting to be uncovered.

Join us for a morning walk through Geylang, where we’ll explore its lesser-known stories, from its humble beginnings to its vibrant present.

In the early to mid-1800s, as Singapore flourished as a bustling trading port, communities began to take root in Geylang. Many Malay families, who had relied on fishing along the Singapore River, were relocated to the Geylang and Kallang areas. Simple folks lived off the land, farming and fishing to sustain their livelihoods.

By the 1920s and ’30s, Geylang transformed with the rise of amusement parks like The New World and Happy World. These lively venues brought entertainment and excitement, making the neighbourhood a cultural hub. However, the area’s character changed over the decades, evolving into what it is today – a juxtaposition of old and new, tradition and modernity, modest livelihoods and the allure of the nightlife industry.

On this tour, we’ll delve into the deeper layers of Geylang. You’ll see temples, clan associations, historic shophouses, and modern eateries – all coexisting alongside the red-light trade. We’ll discuss the industry’s origins and its place in Geylang’s history, but our focus will be on the lives and careers that shape the area beyond its nocturnal identity.

Experience Geylang in a different light as we explore its streets during the calm of the morning. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the area’s unique blend of heritage and resilience, far removed from its nighttime buzz.

Details:

Date: Sat, 4th Jan 2025
Time: 9:00 am
Meeting Point: Kallang MRT (at the control station after exiting)

Come with an open mind and a curious heart. Let’s walk through Geylang together and uncover the stories that make it truly one of a kind.

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

06/11/2024

BOAT QUAY MORNING WALK
Sun, 29th Dec 2024
9am to 11am

Join us for a special tour of Singapore’s Civic District, where history and modernity meet. This isn’t your typical sightseeing tour – prepare to see some of the city’s most unique landmarks, tucked-away gems, and places that often go unnoticed.

Singapore’s Civic District is home to historic architecture, iconic landmarks, and scenic riverside views. As we walk through beautifully restored colonial buildings and lush green spaces, you’ll get a glimpse into how Singapore transformed itself from a humble trading post to one of the wealthiest cities in the world. We’ll also explore how this district preserves Singapore’s heritage while embracing innovation in urban design.

Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating stories behind landmarks like the Tang Shipwreck, an ancient treasure that reveals much about Singapore’s maritime past. We’ll also visit the Lee Kong Chian Museum, home to American dinosaur fossils – a surprising find in the heart of a tropical city!

Our journey begins at Raffles Place MRT, in front of The Arcade, at 9am on 29th Dec 2024. Discover the Civic District’s blend of old and new and see a side of Singapore you’ve never experienced before.

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

05/11/2024

MANDAI TEKONG NIGHT WALK
Sat, 28th Dec 2024
7pm to 9.30pm

Step into the past on a night-time walk through what was once Mandai Tekong Village, an area steeped in Singapore’s National Service history. Join us at Springleaf MRT on 28th Dec 2024, at 7pm, where we’ll start our journey by taking bus 138 to this nostalgic location.

In the 1960s to early 1980s, Mandai Tekong was a key training ground for National Service men. Hill 265, nearby, became infamous for its gruelling challenges and the foxholes soldiers dug during training exercises. For many, this was a place of unforgettable memories, from drills on steep hills to the fried kway teow served by a local girl at the village foot.

Jalan Ulu Sembawang once connected this area to Sembawang Road, passing farms and ponds that evoked a rustic kampong charm. Here, villagers were accustomed to the sight of soldiers and maybe even the odd “borrowed” rambutan during fruit season. The landscape, with its neat veggie plots and duck ponds, resembled a scene from Cameron Highlands, but this all changed when Singapore moved forward with development.

Now part of the Park Connector Network (PCN), Jalan Ulu Sembawang sits quiet and still. But for nature lovers and those who trained here, this area offers a chance to relive a piece of our past. This walk will reawaken memories of NS night training, the camaraderie, and the wildness of a time gone by.

Bring a torchlight – there are no streetlights here, so the brighter, the better!

We’ll meet at Han’s Café, Springleaf MRT (Exit 2), at 7pm and finish around 9:30 or 10pm at Woodlands South MRT. Don’t forget your bus card; we’ll be taking a bus along Mandai Road. Join us for a unique, nostalgic journey through Mandai’s lost village and re-experience Singapore’s hidden history in the dark.

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

05/11/2024

GEYLANG RED-LIGHT DISTRICT WALKING TOUR
Thurs, 26th Dec 2024
7pm to 10pm

If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a shorter tour, this itinerary offers a more compact journey through Singapore’s lesser-known streets. This walk focuses on Lorong 12 to Lorong 18 with a streamlined narration, allowing you extra time for independent exploration after the tour.

We’ll meet at Aljunied MRT, next to Nenek Place, at 7pm on Thursday, 26th Dec 2024. Expect to finish around 9:30pm, or by 10pm at the latest, giving you ample time to delve further into the community or catch a train home.

Guided by “Uncle Chris,” this tour doesn’t shy away from the sensitive and often hidden aspects of the area’s history. In this short but eye-opening experience, we’ll touch on intriguing contrasts – such as the difference between “cheap thrills” and “high-class scandals.” We’ll explore how these streets operated and delve into the details of their historical characters, with no subject too taboo.

Please be aware: this is an adult-themed tour with explicit language and content. It’s designed for those ready to learn and engage with Singapore’s past from a unique perspective.

Join us to uncover the untold stories behind Lorong 12 to Lorong 18 – an experience that’s bold, informative, and perhaps even a little daring.

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

04/11/2024

KARAYUKI-SAN: THE LAST JAPANESE PR******TE
Sun, 15th Dec 2024
9am to 12pm

Step back in time and uncover a lesser-known, hidden chapter of Singapore’s history on our walking tour about the Karayuki-san -- the Japanese women who were brought to Singapore as prostitutes in the early 20th century.

This story isn’t one of glamour or allure, but rather a sombre reminder of a world often kept in the shadows. Our journey will explore why these women came to Singapore, how they lived, and what eventually happened to them.

While it may seem surprising, Singapore was once home to numerous Japanese brothels, especially around Chinatown. Originating from places like Amakusa, Japan, the Karayuki-san journeyed far from home, often under difficult circumstances. As we walk through historical areas, you’ll learn about how these women left their mark on early Singapore and the forces that led to their eventual disappearance by the mid-20th century.

Today, few visible traces remain of this chapter, yet the impact and stories of these women linger. We’ll also touch upon the parallels between the Karayuki-san and other stories of wartime exploitation, including the “Comfort Women” of World War II. This exploration sheds light on why Singapore keeps this past quiet and why these stories, though hidden, still matter.

Join us on Sun, 15th Dec 2024, at 9am. We’ll meet at the coffee shop in front of The Working Capitol, 1 Keong Saik Street, and walk through areas once marked by this clandestine past, ending at Terengganu Street – also known as “Japanese Street” in historic Chinatown.

This tour is an eye-opening journey into a chapter of history that deserves to be remembered. Discover the untold stories and better understand Singapore’s layered past.

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. The following is a general rule of thumb when tipping your tour guide:
S$20: "I pass this tourist guide."
S$20+: "This guide is doing an above-average job."
S$30: "This guide is really excellent."
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.

Uncle Chris Walking Tours

13/12/2024

13/12/2024

13/12/2024

13/12/2024

13/12/2024

13/12/2024

13/12/2024

13/12/2024

13/12/2024

13/12/2024

06/11/2024

05/11/2024

05/11/2024

04/11/2024

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