There's a quiet park in the peripherals of Singapore's city centre. Unbeknownst to many locals, its tranquil facade not only provides for the perfect picnic spot but also holds snippets of Singapore's past! If you're looking for somewhere new to explore, this might just be it. Pearl's Hill City Park is perfect for both the adventurous and those who just want a quiet day surrounded by nature!
Pearl's Hill City Park
Tucked away in a corner of Chinatown, Pearl's Hill is a hidden gem. Its lush, green space makes it the perfect getaway spot for anyone who needs a break from the bustle of city life. Home to many beautiful sights like a small reservoir and a beautiful view of Singapore's city skyline, the quiet park has a little something for everyone - even little pieces of Singapore's past!
The Story Behind Pearl's Hill
Named after Captian James Pearl, commander of the ship which brought Raffles to Singapore after 1819, this hill was once covered by Gambier plantations sown by Chinese farmers. It was only after Captain Pearl bought it over that it was eventually renamed Pearl's Hill.
The centre of many historical moments and monuments, it's a surprise that this hill is often forgotten in Singapore's tale! From being home to the former police headquarters to being the original location of Tan Tock Seng Hospital, the area is definitely filled with stories. If only trees could talk!
And while closed for quite some time, rumour has it that this hill is home to a mystery bunker. According to a blogpost from 2009, local Kiat San claims to have seen a mystery bunker on this hill during the 1980s. He described it as being very small, but had a large door and a square roof with nothing inside but a steel ladder in a corner, leading up to the roof's opening at the top. However, after some digging through the Internet, HHWT found that this bunker might be the bomb-proof bunker that served as the nerve centre for police communications once upon a time! ?
Things To Do At Pearl's Hill
1. Trek Uphill
Where are HHWT's trekkers? ?? Pearl's Hill City Park is known for its hills and staircases. If you love trekking and are looking for a new place to explore and hike up, this might be the place for you. Especially with its steep gradients which may provide even the active with a little bit of a challenge, so remember to put on your sports shoes!
2. Have A Picnic
Credit: jiatlormee on Instagram
3. Snap Photos Of The City Skyline
Credit: cat_and_a_bunny on Instagram
4. Explore Historical Sights
Credit: One Pearl Bank on Facebook
Pearl's Hill was once home to the famous Pearl Bank Apartments, the former police headquarters and more! Take a walk around the area to walk in the footsteps of our colonial past, and maybe snap an Instagram-worthy photo while you're there! Pearl's Hill is home to colonial architecture which can't be found in many places in Singapore. And while the original Pearl Bank Apartments are no longer there, the new One Pearl Bank stands glorious as an ode to its former self. You have to check it out.
Are you up for another adventure? ? Share this with your trekking or picnic buddy to explore the hidden gem that is Singapore's Pearl's Hill City Park!
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