Singapore WWII Monuments

Written by Viator, December 2010

RECOMMENDATION Keywords:

Cultural Experience, Religious Experience, Monument - Historical, Monument - Military

Singapore is a treasure trove of World War II sites and memorials, a poignant testament to the harship and cost of war. The 'Gibraltar of the East,' Singapore fell to the Japanese on February 15, 1942 in the largest surrender of British-led forces in history. The Japanese occupation ended in September 1945, when the Japanese surrendered to the Allies on the steps of City Hall.

Intricate strategies, subtle plots, great follies, explosive action – be guided by experts in Singapore's rich heritage and colorful history, through the intense fire of battle that led to Singapore's fall in WWII. Mount Faber offers a stunning view of the port and city to appreciate the strategic nature of the former command post. Labrador Park, the site of Fort Pasir Panjang was one of nine sites where British forces set up their defence of Singapore. Kranji War Memorial near Johore Causeway is where the main thrust of the Japanese invasion forces landed. The infamous massacre at Alexandra Hospital took place on 14 February 1942.

Now an idyllic seaside spot, Changi was once the site of many prisoner-of-war camps during the Japanese Occupation and has gone down in history as a place of pain, torture and human suffering. The Changi WWII trail commemorates the fight of brave men and women during battle and in internment. Changi Prison Chapel is a replica of the Chapel built by POW's who were held there. Next to it the Changi Prison Museum has an excellent collection of drawing, sketches and photographs depicting life inside Changi Prison during the war. Sook Ching Memorial Monument at Hong Lim Park is where the feared Japanese secret police rounded up Chinese males before their massacre. Visit Selarang Barracks Japanese PoW internment WWII camp, Johore Battery, Changi Village, Changi Beach and view the remains of Old Changi Prison.

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Reply by Phil W, May 2012

Doing what: Singapore Haw Par Villa and Round-Island Day Trip including Lunch

Great trip with wonderful tour staff. Would recommend to anyone visiting Singapore.

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Reply by Suzanne62, May 2012

Doing what: Singapore Haw Par Villa and Round-Island Day Trip including Lunch

This was a fantastic tour. My son and I enjoyed every moment of this trip. My son learn t respect for other cultures and their beliefs, especially at the Buddhist Temple. Changi museum was an eye opener to him, as he realised how a distant relative was forced to live during his internment at Changi Prison, during the 2nd World War. My son has Autism, and this tour was excellent for both him and myself to learn more about Singapore. The guide was extremely knowledgeable and very funny and the luncheon was outstanding.

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Reply by Kasandra, March 2012

Doing what: Singapore Haw Par Villa and Round-Island Day Trip including Lunch

All along the way our guide gave us an extremely interesting insight into the urban and social side of Singaporean life.
There are times when the loud, inconsiderate chatter between some tourists on the buses makes it very difficult to hear the Tour Guide. In this case I was very impressed by our Guide's professionalism and grateful for his quiet, but firm, 'çrowd control'.
Lunch was lovely.
A very enjoyable and informative day. Many thanks.