Fort Canning Park

Back in the 19th century, Fort Canning was used as an arms store, barracks and hospital. The modern day park now overlooks Orchard Road. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, and historical, cultural and educational experiences. Occasionally, there are bands or groups that stage performances within the park. The park also serves as an important green lung within the city’s downtown core. The conflux of the lush greenery and historical relics makes for an excellent location to host art festivals, and theatre carnivals amongst other outdoor activities.

If you desire a breath of fresh air amidst the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road, why not detour from the shopping frenzy and head down to Fort Canning Park? Even after climbing the steps up to the park, you’ll still enjoy a cool respite under the shady trees. The main attraction on Fort Canning Hill is the Battle Box. During World War 2, this was Singapore’s largest underground military operations centre. Today, this historic place has been transformed into a high-tech exhibition about the fall of Singapore into Japanese hands in 1942. The holographic figures in action, which visitors can view through binoculars-like lenses, is a highlight.

You’ll also find a spice garden within Fort Canning Hill, on the site of Sir Stamford Raffles’ original botanical garden. There are various spices available for tasting here, with the sampling bins labelled with the spice name. Learn more about what Fort Canning Park has to offer here.