Exploring Haw Par Villa: A Unique Cultural Experience in Singapore
A Brief History
Haw Par Villa, originally known as Tiger Balm Gardens, was established in 1937 by Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par, the Burmese-Chinese brothers behind the famous Tiger Balm ointment. They moved their business to Singapore in 1926 and chose the site for its favorable feng shui, facing the Singapore Strait. The villa, designed in Art Deco style by Ho Kwong Yew, was unfortunately bombed during World War II and later demolished. However, the garden remained and was transformed into a public park in 1954, serving as a platform to teach traditional Chinese values through its statues and dioramas.
Attractions at Haw Par Villa
Haw Par Villa offers a fascinating glimpse into Chinese mythology and folklore through its unique attractions:
1. Ten Courts of Hell
The Ten Courts of Hell is perhaps the most famous attraction at Haw Par Villa. This exhibit provides a vivid depiction of the Chinese afterlife, where souls are judged and punished for their sins. The attraction, now part of the air-conditioned Hell’s Museum complex, features intricate statues and dioramas that illustrate the consequences of various transgressions.
2. Journey to the West and Other Mythological Scenes
Beyond the Ten Courts of Hell, visitors can explore dioramas depicting scenes from classic Chinese literature such as Journey to the West, Fengshen Bang, and Legend of the White Snake. These exhibits bring to life the adventures of legendary figures like the Monkey King, offering a captivating look at Chinese mythology.
3. Monuments and Statues
Throughout the park, you’ll find statues of mythological figures such as the Laughing Buddha and Guanyin, as well as historical personages like Jiang Ziya and Lin Zexu. The park also features monuments dedicated to the Aw brothers and their parents, highlighting their contributions to Singapore’s cultural landscape.
Practical Tips for Visiting
Here are some practical tips to enhance your visit to Haw Par Villa:
1. Best Time to Visit
Consider visiting during the cooler months from November to February for a more comfortable experience. The park is open daily from 9 am to 10 pm, with the last entry at 9:30 pm. Note that while general admission is free, the Hell’s Museum requires an entry fee.
2. How to Get There
Haw Par Villa is easily accessible via public transportation. Take the MRT to the Haw Par Villa station on the Circle Line. From there, it’s a short walk to the park entrance.
3. Navigating Singapore
Singapore’s public transportation system is efficient and user-friendly. An EZ-Link card can be a convenient option for traveling on buses and trains. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available if you prefer a more private mode of transport.
Haw Par Villa offers a unique cultural experience that combines art, history, and mythology. While the park’s attractions may not be for everyone, particularly the graphic depictions in the Ten Courts of Hell, it remains a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring Chinese folklore and heritage.
