Haw Par Villa

What is Haw Par Villa?

Nestled away on the western side of Singapore is Haw Par Villa, an outdoor art park that is nothing short of fantastical. Created by the Haw brothers, who are also famed for Tiger Balm ointment, the park is a wonderland of mythology and folklore that brings together a collection of over 1,000 statues and 150 dioramas depicting scenes from Chinese legends and history, as well as various aspects of Confucianism. Think of it as a window into traditional Chinese beliefs and moral values, but with a twist of eccentricity and unbridled creativity that captivates and educates in equal measure.

History of Haw Par Villa

The story of Haw Par Villa began in 1937, when Aw Boon Haw, the philanthropist and marketing genius behind the Tiger Balm brand, built this park for his brother Aw Boon Par. The idea was to create an educational theme park where the local community could learn about moral values through Chinese folklore. After its heyday in the mid-20th century, the park experienced a decline in visitors, followed by a series of renovations and reinterpretations of its purpose.

In the 1980s, the Singapore Tourism Board took over and tried to commercialize it, which included the addition of rides and attractions. This approach, however, did not resonate well with the public's fondness for the park’s original charm and didactic nature. In recent years, Haw Par Villa has been revitalized as a cultural site that preserves the rich heritage of its creators while attracting a new generation of visitors intrigued by its quirkiness and deep cultural roots.

Why is Haw Par Villa Important?

Haw Par Villa serves as a vital repository of Chinese culture and mythology. Its importance lies in its uniqueness—you won't find another park like it in the world. Many Singaporeans hold a nostalgic attachment to the park, remembering school trips and family visits that introduced them to narratives of virtue and vice, life and afterlife, told through its vivid tableaux.

For the broader community and international visitors, it offers a glimpse into the visual and moral tapestry of Chinese folklore, something that even modern, cosmopolitan Singapore can't capture in its skyscrapers and shopping malls. The park’s most famous attraction, the Ten Courts of Hell, is both a cultural touchstone and a rite of passage for those who grew up here.

Things to Do & See at Haw Par Villa

A visit to Haw Par Villa is, to say the least, educational, whether you're strolling through the gardens admiring the folkloric statues, or immersing yourself in the graphic depictions of the Ten Courts of Hell. Everywhere you look, there's a story waiting to be discovered. Take for instance the “Romance of the Three Kingdoms" diorama, bringing to life the historical novel and teaching the values of loyalty and honor.

Photography enthusiasts have a field day here, capturing the vibrant colors and extraordinary designs of the dioramas. The park frequently hosts cultural events and workshops that delve deeper into the mythologies showcased. But beyond the obvious, visitors can relish in the quieter corners and lesser-known tales that dot the landscape—each statue, no matter how small, carries a moral story or historical anecdote.