Discover the backalley shrines tucked between skyscrapers with a twilight walk through the CBD that'll reveal a glimpse into Singapore's secret spiritual landscape.
Street-side Spiritual Life: A tour of Singapore’s backalley shrines
As night falls on the Central Business District, a different Singapore begins to stir—one shaped by myths, quiet devotion, and street-corner spirituality.
Developed by Say Tian Hng Buddha Shop (est. 1840) and Offbeat Tours, this twilight walk uncovers hidden Daoist shrines tucked beside dumpsters, air-con units, and alley walls—fragile sanctuaries lovingly tended by hawkers, office workers, and cardboard collectors.
Explore how these shrines evolve, dodging regulations while keeping tradition alive. Learn the rich symbolism behind everyday objects—like umbrellas, opium pipes, and Guinness stout—used in rituals passed down through generations.
Watch as the city’s spiritual undercurrent reveals itself, from fruit offerings on makeshift altars of upcycled furniture to a Goddess of Mercy statue perched quietly above the Boat Quay party crowd.
This is a different kind of heritage—lived, local, and quietly powerful.
Details:
2-hour walking tour with regular stops
Min age: 7 | Conducted in English
Non-refundable | Wet weather plan in place
Photos may be taken for publicity
Important to note:
- Pls wear comfortable shoes as we will be walking for 2 hours at a comfortable pace, roughly stopping every ten minutes or so when we reach a tour stop.
- Due to limited slots, bookings are non-refundable.
- Minimum age of 7.
- Photos of the workshop may be taken and used for publicity purposes.
- Activities subject to minor changes.
- Tour is conducted in English
- Wet weather plan: We will contact you by phone an hour beforehand if the tour is going to be cancelled due to wet weather.
