white painted bridge near green trees

Jurong Lake Gardens

Singapore’s Hidden Oasis

About Jurong Lake Gardens

It is one of Singapore’s most beautiful (and honestly underrated) spots. It is located on the western side of the island and outside the city center.

This garden is also MASSIVE - we are talking about 90 hectares of beautifully designed landscapes, gardens, wetlands and open spaces. The gardens are divided into three main sections:

1. Lakeside Garden
2. Chinese Garden
3. Japanese Garden

How to Get Here:

By MRT:

Lakeside Station (EW Line): Exit A leads to Lakeside Garden via a sheltered walkway
Chinese Garden Station (EW Line): Exit B brings you straight to the Chinese Garden

By Bus:

Bus 154 or 246: Alight at Chinese Garden Stop (21659)

Exploring the Three Gardens

Chinese Garden

Reopened in 2024, this garden is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design with pagodas, arched bridges, and tranquil ponds. Here are some landmarks worth checking out:

The Twin Pagoda

Facing each other across the lake stand the Twin Pagodas, three-storey replicas inspired by the Spring-Autumn Towers in China. Each pagoda features internal spiral staircases leading to lookout balconies on every floor, providing scenic views of the surroundings.

Double Beauty Bridge

While crossing this bridge, pause for a moment and admire this stunning architectural masterpiece. Every inch of the bridge is adorned with intricate carvings. Look closely at the dragon twist railing, phoenix carve on stone and other legendary figures from Chinese mythology

The Grand Arch

It is a majestic gateway to the Chinese Garden section, design inspired by the Chinese imperial style of the Song Dynasty. It now houses the Jurong Lake Garden Gallery and Canopy (a pet friendly restaurant with a nice view)

Japanese Garden

A peaceful retreat with rock gardens, water lilies, and traditional pavilions. Walking through feels instantly calming. Below are the highlights for me in this section:

Sunken Garden

Is a majestic gateway to the Chinese Garden section, design inspired by the Chinese imperial style of the Song Dynasty. It now houses the Jurong Lake Garden Gallery and Canopy (a pet friendly restaurant).

waterlilies during daytime
waterlilies during daytime
Water Lily Garden

Home to the country’s largest collection of over 150 varieties of day- and night-blooming water lilies, including the giant Amazon Water Lily (with leaves spanning up to 3m) and the tiny Nymphaea thermarum (just 1cm wide)

Lakeside Garden

It is packed with wildlife, play areas, and scenic boardwalks. Here are some of the must-visit spots:

The Grasslands

It’s this wide open field filled with tall, whispering grasses. You’ll feel like you've stepped into another world. I highly recommend walking on the meandering trails through the grasses. Golden hour magic: Come around 5–6 PM for that soft, dreamy lighting.

Forest Ramble

Okay, even though it’s designed for kids... I couldn’t resist checking it out myself! Forest Ramble is this giant natural playground inspired by animals living around Jurong Lake. Think giant logs to climb, swings, slides, water play zones, and rope bridges. Opening Hours: Tue-Sun, 8 am - 10 pm. Do check the NParks website for any updates on the schedule.

Rasau Walk (Waterfront Boardwalk)

One of my favorite parts was Rasau Walk — a wooden boardwalk that winds along the edge of the lake. Walking here felt so peaceful. You’re right next to the water, and you get amazing views of the trees reflecting on the lake surface. Morning walks are breezy and serene.

Food and Dining Options

🍽️ Fusion Spoon Café (near the entrance): Casual dining spot with both local and western food. I tried their nasi lemak set — super satisfying after a long walk!

🍽️Canopy: is a stylish, garden-themed restaurant perfect for a relaxing meal surrounded by nature.

☕ Starbucks Lakeside – One of Singapore’s most scenic Starbucks, with floor-to-ceiling lake views.

🍦 Ice Cream Man & Friends – Perfect for cooling off with waffles and artisanal ice cream

Discovering Singapore

Your Singapore Adventure Starts Here—Plan, Explore, and Be Amazed!