Discover Changi: 5 Gems to Check Out
Changi has undergone significant transformation since the early 19th century. Once cloaked in primary forest, the land was gradually cleared for timber, plantations, and settlements. The 20th century saw a surge of activity, with land reclamation and redevelopment projects starting in the 1920s dramatically reshaping the eastern coastline.
Other than the world-class Changi Airport, Singapore’s eastern corner also offers a treasure trove of other experiences waiting to be discovered. From its rich cultural history to serene natural landscapes, Changi is a destination for enriching experiences.
1. A Gastronomic Journey at Changi Village Hawker Centre
Foodies, rejoice. Changi Village Hawker Centre is a haven for indulging in local cuisine. With rows upon rows of stalls, you can take your pick from an eclectic selection of hawker fare.
The hawker centre is known for delicious nasi lemak, with several stalls offering set meals consisting of dishes like chicken wing, fish, and otak-otak, all served with spicy sambal. Other popular dishes here include barbecue chicken wings, satay, crayfish white bee hoon (vermicelli), and goreng pisang (banana fritters). Looking to complete your meal? Choose a range of dessert options, from ice kachang to cendol.
Beyond food, Changi Village Hawker Centre is also situated close to Sungei Changi (or Changi Creek), where you can take a breezy stroll by the waterfront after a hearty meal.
2. Unveiling Changi’s Rich History: The Changi Heritage Trail and NLB Node at Changi Cottage
For history buffs, Changi offers a fascinating glimpse into Singapore’s past. Embark on a self-guided exploration with the Changi Heritage Trail. The 15 points on the trail reveals the area’s rich history, from its strategic significance as a military outpost to its transformation into a recreational haven and thriving community.
There are three thematic routes to embark on — Bungalows and Beaches, War and Peace, Gateways and Communities. To enrich your journey, you can download a companion guide which features the diverse narratives of Changi, from the hardships endured by prisoners-of-war and civilians during the Japanese Occupation to the vibrant culture of the kampongs in the area.
One of the routes — Bungalows and Beaches — takes you on a 4km coastal route that winds past recreation clubs and chalets, and coastal views. You will also pass through Changi Cottage, where the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew spent time reflecting and developing plans for Singapore’s future after independence from Malaysia in 1965.
Here you can check out the NLB Node and learn more about Mr Lee’s life and contributions to Singapore. The Node features an artistic black-and-white impression of Mr and Mrs Lee at the cottage during the declaration of Singapore’s independence while QR codes provide access to books on Mr Lee, including autobiographies and biographies.
3. Embrace Nature: Changi Beach Park and the Intertidal World
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find tranquility at Changi Beach Park. One of the oldest coastal parks in Singapore, the park retains a kampong charm, boasts white beaches, barbecue pits, playgrounds, and serves as a spot for recreational activities.
For a truly unique adventure, try venturing into the fascinating world of the intertidal zone. At low tide, the receding waters reveal a hidden world teeming with an incredible diversity of marine life. Spot sand dollars hiding beneath the sand, marvel at vibrant pink warty sea cucumbers and watch the hermit crabs scampering along the beach.
Check out Changi Beach’s intertidal zone and learn more about NLB’s sustaianbility initiatives here:
4. Unleash Your Inner Child: Changi Jurassic Mile and Jewel Changi Airport
Let your imagination run wild at Changi Jurassic Mile. Conveniently located between Terminals 1 and 4 at Changi Airport, the one-kilometre stretch features more than 20 different pre-historic creatures from nine different species. As you cycle, jog, or walk along the path, look out gigantic dinosaur eggs and the towering Tyrannosaurus Rex.
After the adventure, head over to Jewel Changi Airport, and explore its array of attractions from gardens and play spaces to retail and dining. At the centre of it all is the Jewel Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, cascading down seven stories amidst lush greenery.
For the young (and young at heart), visit the play attractions at Canopy Park, with features such as Discovery Slides, a network of tube slides that wind through the park, and Foggy Bowls, where mist-filled craters create a mystical atmosphere.
5. Gateway to Yesteryear: Pulau Ubin
Besides being a destination in itself, Changi also serves as a gateway to the rustic charm of Pulau Ubin. Just a 15-minute bumboat ride away from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, the island is reminiscent of kampong life with traditional wooden houses and narrow dirt paths.
Nature enthusiasts will find the island fascinating with its 700 native plants, and over 500 wildlife species. For the adventurous, rent a bike from the shops by the jetty and cycle along the trails. You could even try mangrove kayaking.
Don’t miss Chek Jawa Wetlands in the eastern end of Pulau Ubin, home to one of Singapore’s richest ecosystems where six major ecosystems — sandy beach, rocky beach, seagrass lagoon, coral rubble, mangroves and coastal forest — meet.
From idyllic beaches to bustling tidal zones, mouth-watering food to rich heritage trails, Changi is a place of interesting contrasts. Take the time to explore and you may just be rewarded by unexpected discoveries around the corner.
