UPTOURIST

Johor Bahru, situated between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, sometimes get unfairly and unfortunately distinguished only by its location. But Johor Bahru is more than just a city in the middle of two bustling and modern metropolises. In fact, JB is a great destination for foodies, it has Asia’s very first Legoland theme park, and it also has plenty of shopping options to suit every budget. In short, Johor Bahru is an awesome choice when it comes to city tours.

Another great reason to book Johor Bahru tour packages is culture. Despite the city being one of the fastest-developing areas in Malaysia, it manages to maintain its deep cultural roots. Johor Bahru is definitely a delightful city to visit, especially for history and culture enthusiasts. Don’t believe it? Here are some of the best cultural attractions you can visit in JB.

1. Hakka Heritage Gallery

The Hakkas are Han Chinese people whose ancestors lived in Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, Sichuan, Zhejiang, and other Hakka-speaking provinces. They are considered the most diasporic Chinese community, with a worldwide population numbering up to 120 million. In Malaysia, they are the second largest Chinese ethnic group. Their heritage is kept alive and celebrated in the Hakka Heritage Gallery in Johor Bahru.

This small gallery is in fact a townhouse, decorated in functional yet colourful styles. You’ll also see old farming tools on display, along with kitchen utensils, home accessories, and antique furniture. Entering the Hakka Heritage Gallery feels so much like visiting a period movie set. Make sure to call and arrange an appointment before you visit. There’s also a minimal entrance fee of RM10 per person.

2. Old Chinese Temple

The Old Chinese Temple or the JB Old Temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Johor Bahru. Built between the 1870’s and 1880’s, the Old Chinese Temple is the sign of the friendship between the Johor sultanate and the Chinese community in the state. The temple is also built to unite five Chinese ethnic groups, including the aforementioned Hakka. The other four are Cantonese, Hainan, Hokkien, and Teochew.

Among the many reasons people visit the Old Chinese Temple include the bronze temple bell, which is more than a century old, and the annual Chingay or Parade of Deities. This event is held during the 20th to 23rd day of the first lunar month.

3. Royal Abu Bakar Museum

Along with the Old Chinese Temple, the Royal Abu Bakar Museum is one of the oldest buildings in Johor Bahru. It was built in 1866, commissioned by the late Sultan Abu Bakar, and was once the principal palace of Johor Bahru’s sultanate.

The museum contains a collection numbering up to 60,000 pieces, including traditional Malaysian weapons, royal artefacts, and several photographs. You can also find a family tree, which details the ancestry of Johor’s royal family. Outside is a sprawling garden, perfect for a relaxing stroll and taking some gorgeous photos.

After exploring the museum, you can also visit the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque and the Sultan Abu Bakar Monument, which are both located nearby.

4. Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

Johor Bahru is home to several Hindu temples, including the Arulmigu Rajamariamman Devasthanam, Sri Subramanian Temple, and the Senthil Murugan Arulmigu Thirukovil. The most popular, perhaps, is arguably the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple. This beautiful temple is made from more than 300,000 pieces of glass, shimmering with dazzling colours as they reflect the light. There are also huge glass chandeliers inside the temple, adding to the striking beauty of the place.

The Glass Temple was built in 1922 but was only remodeled into glass in 1991. The remodeling was said to have been inspired by a visit to Bangkok, where Guru Bhagawan Sittar saw a temple with glass artwork decorating the entrance.

5. Putuo Village

Putuo Village is a Buddhist pilgrimage destination in Johor Bahru. The main hall features a huge statue of Cundi Buddha, while another building houses a statue of Medicine Buddha. With a sprawling yet serene environment, this is the perfect place to escape the hectic city and refresh one’s mind, body, and spirit. There’s also a bamboo forest within the complex, where you can take photos or simply listen to the rustling of the wind.

Despite being a holy site, Putuo Village doesn’t get too many visitors. As such, you’re guaranteed to have some privacy and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Bonus: Plaza Seni

Located on Wong Ah Fook Street, Plaza Seni or Arts Plaza gathers performers, artists, and retailers for a showcase of Johor Bahru’s culture and heritage. Expect to see live cultural performances and art exhibitions side-by-side vendors who sell clothes, handicrafts, and even traditional batik.

Are you ready for an enjoyable cultural trip? Pack your travel bags and head on over to Johor Bahru!

Cover photo credit: xiquinhosilva / Flickr