22 May 2017
Hidden Gems of the East Coast
While the East Coast offers a wide variety of choice eateries for foodies, it also offers hidden gems for those seeking to immerse themselves in interesting activities or hoping to discover local folklore.
Bedok Jetty, located along East Coast Park Area F, is the longest and most popular fishing jetty in Singapore.
In this next installment of our East Coast series, we look at some of the out-of-ordinary things you can try out this weekend!
Enrich yourself with the Nonya culture
Peranakan chinaware often feature symbols inspired by Chinese folklore such as phoenixes and peonies.
The neighbourhoods of Katong or Joo Chiat are almost synonymous with the Baba-Nonya culture, as early Peranakans settled into the enclave at the beginning of the 20th century.
Little museums, tucked away in small shophouses like Rumah Bebe, The Intan, and Rumah Kim Choo offer remnants of the culture with a collection of clothing, chinaware, ornaments and other furniture.
The intricate designs on the slippers is a testament to a Peranakan woman’s craft in beadwork.
From the intricate beading on exquisite footwear to the pastel colours that adorn porcelain crockery and traditional costumes, the unique Straits Chinese designs draw inspiration from symbols of China such as the peony, lotus and dragon.
This row of Peranakan houses, built in 1927, is characterised by the prominent ceramic tiles with floral and geometrical designs.
Look no further than the floral motifs on the facades of these houses, and you will find that the architecture here is heavily influenced by descendants of early Chinese immigrants in the Malay Archipelago.
Having recently been given a splash of life with a makeover by the Urban Redevelopment Authority, this row of Peranakan houses along Koon Seng Road is a popular spot for Instagrammers seeking vibrant backgrounds for their new profile pictures.
Going back in time
This bakery was a thriving breakfast haunt, where East-siders frequented for its signature cakes and curry puffs.
Immersing yourself in the rich heritage of the area is indeed an experience like no other. It feels as though these buildings are the remaining links between yourself and a piece of Singapore’s history, forever etching memories into our consciousness. One great example is the Katong Bakery, which remains to this day, one of the most prominent landmarks still standing in the East Coast.
Information signs along the pillars of Katong Bakery gives readers a peek into the history of the neighbourhood.
One of the oldest and most recognisable brick building in this area, the property is now home to the Heavenly Wang franchise. Fret not history buffs, you can read all about it on the information boards found there.
Fun for the family
Completed in 2016, the Marine Cove playground is jam packed with families on the weekends.
Next on the list is a family favourite along the bustling East Coast Park stretch, the Marine Cove. The vast expanse of sea-front was recently given a refreshing makeover, and is once again a popular entertainment hub in East Coast Park.
A one-stop entertainment shop awaits visitors. From renting a bike at the Park Connector Network pit stop to grabbing a quick bite at the iconic McDonald’s, Marine Cove is the best starting point to explore the East Coast. However, the star of the show is definitely the spanking new 3,500 square metre outdoor children’s playground. Although meant for ages 2 to 12, you can revisit your childhood by climbing up the lighthouse and trawling through the suspended rope bridge.
Unwind and watch the world go by
The lookout and lawn deck at the end of Siglap Canal is the latest addition to East Coast Park, having opened only recently in March.
Further along the coast is a snazzy new addition to the coastline. Unveiled only recently in March, the lookout and lawn deck at Siglap Canal is already a regular haunt for fishing enthusiasts.
The new hangout spot can accommodate more than 1,200 people, providing enough lawn space for mass yoga get-togethers, picnics and even Frisbee games. Along with Bedok Jetty, this new community area also offers some of the best, uninterrupted, panoramic views of the coast, which stretches 15 kilometres all the way to the city centre.
Apart from the avid anglers that frequent the jetty and the joggers taking a breather, you can also find visitors making full use of the scenic backdrop for selfie shots.
The famed Bedok Jetty, measuring 250 metres long, is packed with crowds on weekends, from beginner and intermediate anglers, to curious onlookers. The most common catch here is the White Sardinellas, locally known as “Tamban”. Some fishing enthusiasts have also reported hauls of the larger Cobia fishes and even Stingrays.
Our Route
In our quest to pursue all of the things you can do in one weekend, there are few areas in Singapore that can match the East Coast’s storied past, and possess such a perfect balance of fun, food and relaxation. But why take our word for it, get out there with your loved ones and experience the charming East Coast for yourself!