Whimsical sculptures at the surreal Haw Par Villa

Filled with some of Singapore’s strangest sights, Haw Par Villa is a wonder even for most Singaporeans. While typically referred to as a theme park, it’s really more of a fantastical garden you can spend an afternoon strolling through. 

I never get bored of exploring this crazy wonderland, a creation of millionaire philantrophist Aw Boon Haw, founder of the Tiger Balm empire. Spanning over 8.5 hectares, the park is filled with life-sized sculptures based on Asian folktales and Buddhist mythology. 

Operating since 1937, the cultural park is at once both educational and jaw-dropping, with dioramas depicting Chinese classics like the Eight Immortals and Journey to the West, as well as grand furnishings like majestic stupas and archways. 

You’ll also spot some rather odd international-inspired additions, like a mini Eiffel tower, and two burly Sumo wrestlers. 

 

Image credit: TODAYonline

Wander around the quirky, oriental park, where strange sculptures lurk around every corner. 

 

Image Credit: Joseph Chua

Photo-taking opportunities abound, with larger-than-life statues like this Smiling Buddha.

 

 

Image credit: Bandwagon

Haw Par Villa is undoubtedly the most interesting crash course in Asian mythology and legends. 

 

Image credit: Remote Lands

Don’t miss one of Haw Par Villa’s most grotesque yet intriguing highlights — a depiction of Buddhist Hell.