Discover the hidden stories behind one of Chinatown’s most historic roads – South Bridge Road.

Though just 1.6 km long, this stretch was once the bustling heart of Chinatown. On this leisurely walking tour, we’ll explore what life was really like here during the early colonial years.
Step back in time to when tough choices shaped everyday lives.

Many of our forefathers arrived in Singapore poor, unskilled, and desperate. Their job options? Back-breaking labour as coolies, rickshaw pullers, or hawkers. Others were drawn into darker paths – gangsters, smugglers, or members of secret societies. Becoming a policeman wasn’t popular – it was a dangerous, often thankless job, and local forces had to call in the Sikh police to help restore order.

With waves of male immigrants arriving alone, Chinatown’s population became overwhelmingly male – at one point, 14 men for every woman. When women finally began arriving in greater numbers, their options were limited. Honourable roles included becoming a majie (amah) or samsui woman, but many were lured or forced into vice. Poverty led some families to sell daughters into servitude or worse.

But even in these grim times, stories of resilience and hope emerged. Matchmakers, for instance, sometimes rescued women from brothels by arranging marriages – though often to wealthy men with several wives already.

Join us as we trace these stories, hear the whispers of the past, and walk in the footsteps of those who helped shape this vibrant district.

Meeting Point: Maxwell MRT Station – Exit 2. We meet at 9am sharp. After exiting, look for the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple on your left – that’s where we’ll begin our journey through time.

For reservations, contact:
UNCLE CHRIS WALKING TOURS
Chris WK Ng
T: 65 91814298
E: [email protected]
W: www.unclechrisdrivingholidays.com

Note:
• We do the worldwide practice of tipping at the end of the tour.
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.
• Do not sign up for this tour if you are not sure of your schedule. Sign up only when you are sure of your schedule.