Haw Par Villa

Haw Par Villa is a quirky outdoor art park built in 1937 by the Aw brothers, creators of Tiger Balm. Its centerpiece is the vivid “Ten Courts of Hell,” a diorama illustrating Chinese Buddhist and Taoist moral lessons. Across the hillside, more than a thousand statues and tableaux depict folklore, mythology, and historical scenes. Visitors come for its unusual, thought‑provoking storytelling, retro aesthetics, and cultural insight rather than serenity. Easily reached via Haw Par Villa MRT, the park is mostly outdoors and can be intense for young children. Entry is free; a small museum offers additional context.