Former Ford Factory

Continue your journey to the Former Ford Factory—a World War II exhibition gallery which was formerly used as the Japanese army’s headquarters during the war. The British army surrendered here on 15 February 1942, thereby starting the Japanese Occupation in Singapore for three-and-a-half-years. The exhibits present the events surrounding the surrender, the Japanese Occupation, and the legacies of WWII through historical artefacts, archival records and published materials.

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Changi Chapel and Museum

Next, soldier on to the Changi Chapel and Museum, a World War II gallery that focuses on the experiences of British Prisoners Of War (POW). A vast collection of photographs, personal architects and paintings donated by former prisoners of war give us a painful insight into what life was like for wartime inmates during the Japanese Occupation. 

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Reflections at Bukit Chandu

Curious to uncover more war stories? Head over to Reflections at Bukit Chandu, an interpretive centre that recounts the Battle of Pasir Panjang during World War II. The exhibition gallery covers the pivotal battle which formed the final stage of the Japanese invasion of Singapore. Visitors can study the Japanese military’s invasion plans and the British’s defence strategy through photographs, maps and artefacts. Look out for the emotionally wrenching story of Lieutenant Adnan Saidi—the Malayan military officer who fought valiantly against the Japanese and sacrificed his life for Singapore.   

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Kranji War Memorial

Get ready for a serene yet sombre sight at the hillside cemetery of the Kranji War Memorial. Over 4,400 white gravestones line up the gentle slope of this wartime memorial dedicated to the men and women from the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, India, Sri Lanka, Malaya and the Netherlands who lost their lives in World War II. In particular, visit its hilltop terrace to see the four memorials bearing the names of more than 24,000 Allied soldiers and airmen with no known graves. 

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Civilian War Memorial

While the Kranji memorial is dedicated to the fallen soldiers, the Civilian War Memorial is a tribute to the civilians sacrificed during the Japanese Occupation. Unveiled in 1967, the memorial consists of four lean towers hurtling skywards, representing each of the four official races of Singapore.

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Fort Pasir Panjang

For more cannon sightings, hop over to Fort Pasir Panjang, the sister fort to Fort Siloso, at Labrador Nature Reserve. The gun emplacement here is almost camouflaged in the dense forest, complete with two statues of soldiers preparing to load the cannon which faces the sea. If time permits, take a stroll along Labrador Park and enjoy a refreshing view of Singapore’s Southern waterfront.

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Johore Battery

On the eastern side of Singapore lies another coastal artillery battery—one which formerly targeted seabound marauders during WWII. The Johore Battery in Changi is a network of tunnels used to store ammunition, including guns that were the largest of their kind outside of Britain. Today, replicas of these guns are on display, including a 15-inch shell and a large naval gun.

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Need more recommendations for your Singapore staycation? Read about what to do in Destination Insights, or get in touch with us. We look forward to hosting you soon.