Sarah Jane Lee
Image credit: National Heritage Board
Hougang, originally Au-kang, is a Hokkien and Teochew name meaning ‘river end’. What used to be pig-rearing farms and villages is a far cry from today’s Hougang. Stories from old will tell you about its bustling fishing villages and Chinese opera shows, and gems of neighbourhood classics that leave you feeling warm and fuzzy. Despite undergoing redevelopment since 1977, many landmarks remain alongside trendy new-age establishments that keep this quaint little town young at heart. If you’re looking for new adventures, here is the ultimate Hougang neighbourhood pocket guide to rediscovering Singapore.
Also read: Enjoy These Six East-Side Escapades In Singapore That Prove “East Side Best Side”
Admire Gothic architecture at one of Hougang’s landmarks
Image credit: CatholicSG
Avid travellers would know the beautiful architecture of churches across European countries. However, would you have imagined this similar style being found right on home soil? The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary stands as one of Hougang’s landmarks. It was constructed in 1901, and was gazetted as a national monument by the National Heritage Board in 2005.
Image credit: Roots
Fun fact: the marble statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the courtyard was a gift from Sultan Ibrahim of Johor back in 1946. Overall, the church’s Neo-Gothic style of pointed arches and ribbed vaults make for a captivating view. You might even feel you’re in Europe for a moment as you gaze at this gem in Hougang!
Be a #fitspo at Punggol Park
Image credit: NParks
Punggol Park was designed with the theme of “family leisure”, and it sure does live up to that. Both young and old can enjoy themselves around the various zones of the park. Its plaza area is an open space with floral archways, where groups can be seen doing morning tai chi or carefree animals running freely in the evening breeze.
Image credit: Five&2
Besides these open spaces, a five-hectare pond lies in the middle of this relaxing park. Running enthusiasts and cyclists can clock in their workouts while admiring the shady trees and lush flora surrounding the area. Reward yourself to a post-workout meal at Five&2 afterwards, which serves Asian cuisine and boasts cosy cafe vibes with a breathtaking view of the park if you choose to dine outside.
Ponggol Nasi Lemak
Image credit: Ponggol Nasi Lemak
Unlike its name suggests, we promise you can find this in Hougang. The heavenly combination of fragrant rice, crispy chicken wings, ikan bilis and exotic chilli is purely chef’s kiss. Established in 1979, Punggol Nasi Lemak has redefined local hawker cuisine by delivering its authentic tastes to patrons from across the island.
Image credit: Ponggol Nasi Lemak
It’s not surprising then that this store has been around since time immemorial. More importantly, the queues have been snaking down the street since! If you’re in the area and looking for a quick bite, Ponggol Nasi Lemak is definitely a must-try.
Unleash your inner geek at Dueller’s Point
Image credit: Dueller’s Point
This store nestled in Hougang specialises in the trading card game Magic: The Gathering. In addition, they carry a wide range of gaming accessories to suit everyone’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a new hobby to pick up or expanding your repertoire of trading cards, Dueller’s Point is the place to be.
Eat to your heart’s content at Ci Yuan Hawker Centre
Image credit: Foodpanda
If there’s something Singaporeans bond over, it’s got to be sumptuous hawker food. That’s why heartlanders and die-hard foodies will be in for a treat when they visit Ci Yuan Hawker Centre. Duck rice, satay bee hoon, and western mains. You name it, they’ve got it. There’s something for everyone with these 40 stalls, all bringing Singapore’s unique flavour to the Hougang neighbourhood food scene.
Furthermore, you won’t need to pay through your nose to afford a meal here. Its reasonable prices keep patrons coming back for more, and here’s why! Hint: a picture speaks a thousand words.
Image credit: Ci Yuan Hawker Centre
Image credit: Ci Yuan Hawker Centre
Venture through the tranquil beauty of the Japanese Cemetery
Image credit: Visit Singapore
While a cemetery may be the last place you’d want to visit, the Japanese Cemetery is a serene spot nestled in Hougang’s residential neighbourhood. The tombstones belong to some 1,000 Japanese civilians and soldiers from the early 20th century. Japanese War Memorials and Heritage Trees can also be found in this offbeat place. For those anxious about visiting a supposedly grim place, its floral archways are symbolic of entering into an entirely different place. They make for a good photograph too for shutterbugs out there.
Needless to say, Hougang has its beauty that dates back to kampong days. Immerse yourself in the true blue Singaporean life as you wander the byways of this quaint little town. Lastly, enjoy this guide to sights and sounds of Hougang as a unique neighbourhood as you rediscover Singapore.
