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A Travel Guide to Singapore’s Yishun, the Internet’s Favorite Punchline
I’ll admit—when I told my friends I was heading to Yishun, a few raised their eyebrows. “Yishun?” they asked, half-laughing.
If you’ve ever heard the name, it’s probably been through the flurry of memes and wild headlines that make this northside neighborhood seem like Singapore’s very own urban jungle.
But as with most places in Singapore, once you actually spend time on the ground, Yishun starts to surprise you in the best ways.
I was visiting a friend I hadn’t seen in ages, and he was so excited to play tour guide for the day. We spent our time wandering around and eating everything we could find.
It turned out to be one of those wholesome days that you kind of wish wouldn’t end.
If you’re curious about Yishun or just want to give it a second chance, here’s a little guide to the places we explored.
Where is Yishun?
Yishun is located in the northern region of Singapore. It’s bounded by Sembawang Road to the west, Seletar Expressway (SLE) to the south, Yishun Avenue 1 and Lower Seletar Reservoir to the east, and Canberra Link to the north.
How to Get to Yishun
By Bus: Plenty of buses stop around Yishun Central, especially near Northpoint City and Yishun MRT. Hop on any of these: 167, 169, 171, 520, 640, 800, 812, 812E, 850, 851, 852, 853, 854, 855, 858, 85, or 969.
Most routes will drop you within walking distance of the town’s main shops and amenities.
By MRT: Take the North-South Line and alight at Yishun MRT Station (NS13). The station connects directly to Northpoint City. Use Exit C for the main bus interchange or Exit E for quick access to nearby shops.
By Taxi: Just tell your driver “Northpoint City, Yishun MRT” and they’ll know where to go. Grab and other ride-hailing apps work well here too, with designated pick-up points near the mall entrances.
By Private Car: Set your GPS to “930 Yishun Avenue 2.” There’s ample parking at Northpoint City, GV Yishun, and surrounding HDB lots.
What to Do and See in Yishun
Do a nature loop from Yishun Park’s canopy walk to the open skies at the dam
Media Credit: @neesoontc
Address: Yishun Avenue 1
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Yishun Park and Yishun Dam make for a surprisingly rewarding combo for a peaceful green escape in the north.
You’ll find serenity at the dam, which was built in 1984 as part of Singapore’s water management efforts. It’s also a great landmark to pass for joggers, birdwatchers, and cyclists, especially in the early mornings and golden hour.
A short walk away, Yishun Park feels much livelier. Made on what used to be a rubber plantation, the park still has scattered fruit and rubber trees dotting its hilly terrain.
I liked how family-friendly the whole layout is—most of the playgrounds, gardens, and even a dog run are clustered near the lower plaza, so it’s easy to explore without getting too lost.
There’s even a bridge linking it to Yishun Pond Park, complete with a spiral viewing tower.
Explore Yishun’s spiritual side at the century-old Sree Maha Mariamman Temple
Media Credit: @sreemahamariamman
Address: 251 Yishun Avenue 3
Phone: +65 6756 6374
Operating Hours:
- Daily except for Tuesday and Friday – 6 AM to 12 PM; 6 PM to 9 PM
- Tuesday and Friday – 6 AM to 12 PM; 5:30 PM to 9 PM
Website: http://www.sreemahamariamman.org/
Found in Yishun Industrial Park, Sree Maha Mariamman Temple offers a calm, spiritual space that’s especially appreciated after a long workday. You can even spot office workers stopping by to pray in the evening.
Devotees often speak of the welcoming atmosphere, made even more comforting by the kindness of the temple staff and priests. The workers here are known to guide and support visitors with genuine care.
Many also describe a deep sense of connection when standing before the main goddess’s idol, often calling the experience “divine” and centering.
Separate from the spiritual rituals, the temple-run canteen adds another reason to visit. The dosa, idly, vada, and snacks are filling enough—served fresh and generously, and especially comforting after a prayer session.
With ongoing plans to set up a scripture library and expand community outreach, this temple continues to evolve as a spiritual and social anchor for its devotees.
Unwind with a variety of activities and chill bites at ORTO
Media Credit: @orto.sg
Address: 27 W Coast Highway
Pricing: $ – $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 3 PM
Website: http://orto.sg/
ORTO has earned its title as Singapore’s largest multi-recreational park, and it definitely lives up to that label once you see the variety packed into one place.
Whether you’re there to go prawning, try out paintball, or just chill with a drink and live music, it’s easy to spend a whole day (and night) here without running out of things to do.
I’ve seen families gather around the well-ventilated indoor prawning ponds, drawn to the massive bighead prawns that seem to make every catch a win. Apparently, you can grill them on the spot at 88 Seafood or pack them up to cook at home.
For something a little more out there, there’s INMERS—a themed immersive experience that’s got some gaming with theatrical visuals. The light-reactive floor games and escape room setups are definitely quirky and fun for groups.
Design your own tiny jungle at J2 Terrarium’s hands-on workshop
Media Credit: @j2terrarium
Address: 1 Yishun Industrial Street 1, #04-33 A’Posh Bizhub, Floor 4
Phone: +65 9792 4464
Pricing: $ – $$
Operating Hours: Daily – 10 AM to 5 PM
Website: http://www.j2terrarium.com/
J2 Terrarium Studio is the kind of place that feels like a breath of fresh air—literally. What began as a hobby between two nature lovers turned into a workshop space for anyone keen to bring a little green into their lives.
Their terrarium workshops seem to be very popular for the quality of materials provided. I noticed participants loved the wide selection of plants, stones, and mini figurines, which made every creation feel personal and unique.
It’s a hands-on session that’s equal parts craft and therapy, and many walked away not only with a lovely terrarium but also with solid care tips to keep it thriving.
Where to Eat and Drink in Yishun
Slow Bakes
Media Credit: @tsubasa.tan
Address: 30A Yishun Central 1
Pricing: $
Operating Hours: Daily – 7 AM to 2 PM
Website: https://www.realfoodgrocer.com/slow-bakes-menu
You can find Slow Bakes tucked beside Yishun Pond Park. The name alone sets the tone—easy mornings, sourdough buns, and a peaceful waterfront setting that brings in both locals and early risers in search of a calm start.
This café is best known for its naturally leavened bread, especially the generously topped avocado toasts that get frequent shoutouts.
The breakfast sets, while on the pricier side, are also praised for their quality, which includes large, well-cooked eggs, crisp-on-the-outside toast, and smooth black coffee or iced Yuan Yang that pairs nicely with the meal.
There’s plenty of seating both indoors and out, with birdsong in the background and just enough greenery to buffer the buzz of the city.
No Horse Run Gelato
Media Credit: @nicholaslgl
Address: 160 Yishun Street 11, #01-216
Phone: +65 8931 6568
Pricing: $ – $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 4 PM to 1 AM
Website: https://www.facebook.com/nohorserunsg/
Started by two friends, Jason Lee and Chia Jia Ho, this gelato café focuses on nostalgic flavors with a local twist. No Horse Run Gelato is one of those late-night dessert stops where the pandan waffles usually seal the deal.
The Pandan Gula Melaka waffle is often praised for its crispy-chewy texture, though a few visitors say the gula melaka flavor can be too subtle.
Pair it with a scoop of Thai coconut or one of their rotating gelato flavors (there are plenty), and you’ll see why people keep dropping by after dinner.
The space itself has a playful, retro vibe, but once the crowd rolls in, it can feel a little tight. Still, many guests are happy to wait for their scoop or try something different, like their surprisingly good carbonara or fragrant milk tea.
Baker’s Brew
Media Credit: @bakersbrewstudio
Address: 6 Jln Tampang
Phone: +65 6635 7166
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Daily – 11 AM to 8 PM
Website: https://www.bakersbrew.com/
If you’re planning a birthday or celebration and want a cake that looks as good as it tastes, Baker’s Brew is a dependable go-to.
They’ve made a name for themselves with adorable custom cakes, professional service, and the bonus of offering baking classes for those who want to try their hand at decorating too.
Food-wise, the 4-inch cakes make great after-dinner treats, and many people say the designs impress just as much as the flavor.
The sponge tends to be light, while the buttercream hits a rich, smooth note without being overly sweet. And if you’re eyeing something more unique, their jelly cakes are a good pick for their glossy finish and bouncy jelly textures.
Where to Shop in Yishun
Northpoint City
Media Credit: @northpointsg
Address: 930 Yishun Avenue 2
Phone: +65 6754 2300
Pricing: $ – $$$
Operating Hours: Daily — 10 AM to 10 PM
Website: https://www.northpointcity.com.sg/
Northpoint City is one of the biggest suburban retail hubs in northern Singapore, directly linked to Yishun MRT and filled with surprises at nearly every turn.
What used to be a modest shopping center has transformed into a sprawling complex with everything from a cinema and library to fitness centers and two full-sized supermarkets.
They also have a strong food game here, with options spanning from McDonald’s and Uniqlo’s trusty café corner to a full Malaysian street food court (“Malaysia Boleh!”) and a spread of Korean, Japanese, and Taiwanese chains.
If you get tired, no worries, I’ve seen tons of families take advantage of the child-friendly activity zones and the sheer number of sit-down restaurants.
Popular Bookstore
Media Credit: @spirit_soul
Address: 930 Yishun Ave 2, #03-12, Floor 3 Northpoint City
Phone: +65 6852 2100
Pricing: $ – $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 9:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Website: https://www.popular.com.sg/
Popular Bookstore has long been a household name in Singapore, but the Northpoint City branch feels especially well-stocked and community-driven.
It’s not just about textbooks and stationery here—you’ll find an eclectic mix of items like educational toys, mobile gadgets, kitchenware, snacks, and even electronics, all under one roof.
On weekends, the place can get pretty packed with families and students browsing assessment books or picking up art supplies.
Chong Pang City
Media Credit: @chongpangcity
Address: Block 126 Yishun Street 11, #01-427
Phone: +65 6250 6391
Pricing: $
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Chong Pang City is popular for being one of Singapore’s oldest and most vibrant neighborhood centers.
It’s where generations of residents have gathered to shop, eat, and socialize since the 1980s. While redevelopment is currently underway for its future facelift, the spirit of the place is still very much alive.
Tons of people come here because of the community. I can recall the vendors calling out to their regulars, and neighbors greeting each other—just absolutely adored the atmosphere!
The place people usually mingle is the beloved wet market and food center, where over a hundred stalls serve everything from freshly butchered meats to nostalgic hawker fare like nasi lemak and prawn noodles.
You’ll also find corner shops selling everything from household goods and textiles to handmade accessories and religious items, reflecting the area’s multicultural roots.
Where to Stay in Yishun
Orchid Country Club
Media Credit: @orchidcountryclub
Address: 1 Orchid Club Road
Phone: +65 6755 9811
Pricing: $$
Check-in: 2 PM
Check-out: 12 PM
Website: https://www.orchidclub.com/
Set against the calm backdrop of Seletar Reservoir, Orchid Country Club gives us a rare blend of leisure and peace in northern Singapore.
It’s a 4-star hotel and recreational hub all in one, with spacious rooms that overlook either a sweeping golf course or peaceful waters.
I’ve heard that the club is particularly known for its award-winning 27-hole golf course, which is also one of the few in Singapore offering night golf.
Families and non-golfers will still find plenty to do: there’s a bowling alley, multiple swimming pools, a gym, and even kids’ play areas for more casual stays.
Some guests also highlighted the breadth of food options—like local, Indian, and Middle Eastern selections—though vegetarians mentioned breakfast could use more variety.
Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree
Media Credit: @voyagerseasia
Address: 60 Mandai Lake Road
Phone: +65 6038 3939
Pricing: $$ – $$$
Check-in: 3 PM
Check-out: 12 PM
Website: https://www.banyantree.com/mandairainforestresort
If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to fall asleep beside the rainforest without leaving Singapore, this is it.
Located within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, the new Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree offers a refreshing escape. You’ll be truly immersed in nature, sometimes even spotting a curious animal or two just outside your window.
It’s the connection to the outdoors that guests seem to adore most. Patrons have mentioned that the rooms reflect the layered beauty of the rainforest, from forest-floor-inspired tones to elevated canopy videos.
That appreciation extends to the other features within the space. Guests also love the views of Upper Seletar Reservoir, the open-air bathrooms with double sinks, and how the interiors blend naturally with the lush surroundings.
Village Residence Hougang
Media Credit: @rave_photography_
Address: 1 Hougang Street 91
Phone: +65 6019 0400
Pricing: $$
Check-in: 2 PM
Check-out: 12 PM
Website: https://www.villagehotels.asia/en/serviced-residences/village-residence-hougang?
Village Residence Hougang does a great job of utilizing space, comfort, and convenience, especially for families or those on longer stays.
Laid right above Hougang One Mall, it’s easy to duck downstairs for groceries, meals, or a quick errand, and there are multiple bus stops within walking distance.
Inside, the serviced apartments are clean and practical, with soundproofing that makes for restful nights and spacious layouts that include a washer/dryer and a fully equipped kitchen.
Some guests I spoke to even highlighted how the setup made it feel like a proper home away from home.
