Haji Lane: The Indie Heart of Kampong Glam | Singapore Purple Travel Guide

(map, reviews)

Haji Lane is famous for being one of the narrowest and most vibrant streets in Singapore. Tucked away in the Kampong Gelam precinct, this hidden gem has evolved from a quiet residential alley into a world-renowned destination for street art, independent boutiques, and eclectic nightlife. It is the creative heart of the district, offering a stark but harmonious contrast to the traditional religious sites located just a few blocks away.

Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the GuruWalk and Viator tours below.

Why You Should Visit

Visiting Haji Lane is essential for anyone who wants to see the ‘hipster’ side of Singapore. It is a place where you can escape the uniform look of large shopping malls and discover one-of-a-kind items made by local designers. The lane is an outdoor art gallery, with massive, floor-to-ceiling murals covering almost every available wall. It is the perfect spot to spend an hour wandering, taking photos, and enjoying the relaxed, artistic energy that defines the neighborhood.

What is Special About It?

• Stunning Murals: The lane features some of the most impressive street art in Southeast Asia. The ‘Aztec-inspired’ mural at the end of the lane is a massive, multi-story masterpiece that is a favorite for photographers.
• Boutique Shopping: Unlike the mass-produced goods in other areas, the shops here specialize in vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and unique home decor items.
• Quirky Cafes: You can find specialty coffee shops, cat cafes, and small bars that offer a more intimate and personalized atmosphere than the larger chain outlets.
• Atmospheric Architecture: The lane is lined with traditional pre-war shophouses that have been restored and painted in bold, unconventional colors, preserving the historical structure while embracing modern creativity.

History and Facts

• Pilgrimage Roots: The lane takes its name from the word ‘Haji’ (a title for a Muslim who has completed the pilgrimage to Mecca). In the 19th and early 20th centuries, this street was a hub for pilgrims from the region who would stay here before and after their journey.
• Traditional Origins: Historically, the shophouses here served as lodging for poor Malay families and provided warehouse space for the businesses on Arab Street.
• Urban Renewal: In the early 2000s, young entrepreneurs began moving into the quiet lane, attracted by the lower rents and historical character, sparking the transformation into the trendy destination it is today.
• Conservation Area: As part of the Kampong Gelam conservation district, the physical structures of the buildings are strictly protected, ensuring the lane maintains its narrow, intimate scale.

Self-Guided Information

Traveler Tip

If you want to photograph the murals without people in your shots, you must arrive before 10:30 AM. Most shops do not open until midday, so the lane is remarkably quiet in the morning. However, if you want to experience the true spirit of the place, visit in the late afternoon when the bars begin to play music and the ‘five-foot-ways’ come alive with shoppers and diners.

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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