Changi Museum

What is Changi Museum?

Changi Museum is a poignant reminder of Singapore's history, particularly during World War II. Nestled in the eastern part of Singapore, this historical site is dedicated to all those who lived and died in Singapore, particularly the prisoners of war who suffered through the Japanese Occupation. It serves as a war memorial, narrating the tale of those tumultuous years through its exhibits and artifacts.

Here, you can immerse yourself in personal accounts of the prisoners and discover the many facets of their life during the war. Visitors often find themselves engulfed in the somber but important reflections of the past.

History of Changi Museum

The Changi Museum has a history as compelling as the stories it houses. Originally opened in 1988 at a different location, the museum moved to its present site in 2001 to more accurately situate itself on the actual site of the Changi Prison where numerous soldiers and civilians were interned.

Have you ever stood in a place and felt the weight of history pressing down on you? That's often the sentiment visitors comprehend as they walk through the museum, where the air seems steeped in the memories of the fallen and the survivors of a time when Singapore was under the grip of a foreign power.

Why is Changi Museum Important?

Changi Museum's significance lies in its role as a custodian of Singapore's wartime heritage. It's a necessary pilgrimage for understanding the resilience and fortitude displayed during the nation's darkest hours. The truth engraved here speaks to the heart of human strength and serves as a grim reminder of the atrocities of war, ensuring that such history is not forgotten.

Have you ever wondered how the human spirit endures in the face of adversity? The museum's collections poignantly address this question, showcasing the unyielding spirit of those who lived through the war.

Things to Do & See at Changi Museum

Visiting Changi Museum presents an array of solemn and introspective experiences. You can explore the Changi Chapel, an emblematic representation of the original chapel built by the POWs. It's a place of silent homage, where some visitors come to pay their respects or to simply sit in quiet contemplation.

Take a guided audio tour that details the history of the site and brings to life the stories of the internees - their struggles, hopes, and daily existence. It's a narrated journey that often connects on a deeply personal level for many.

• Peruse the extensive collection of drawings, photographs, and personal effects that paint a vivid picture of life during the occupation.
• Inspect the replicas of murals painted by Bombardier Stanley Warren, which bear witness to the creativity and solace found in art amid despair.
• Visit the neighbouring Changi Chapel, reconstructed in homage to the original, and pause to reflect on the narratives that unfolded within its walls.

At Changi Museum, the emphasis is as much on remembrance as it is on education. So, whether you're a history buff, a student of human nature, or simply looking to understand more about Singapore's past, there's a slice of living history here that speaks volumes beyond the written word.