We read about Haw Par Villa reopening on July 1st after a nine month closure for upgrading and we thought we should revisit but we left it as it is. Today we drove past it and thought maybe we should and we did.
Driving in there’s a security post at the entrance where they will collect $5 per car for parking. If you are not driving there’s always the Haw Par Villa MRT station (circle line) right outside.
Parked the car and saw this sign “Shiok Lah”.
Proceeded up to the entrance where you have to do your safe entry and have your temperature taken. Covid style.
Walking up, (this might show my age) I have fond memories of this place. My parents used to bring me here when I was a kid. Back then, it was very happening, lots of people and the 10 Courts of Hell was a slow boat ride through. Then it went downhill and I remember bringing my parents to revisit once in 2000ish (can’t even remember when) and there was so little people perhaps you can count using your fingers, the paint works were fading and the whole place looked so old and rundown. OK enough of flashbacks.
I must say the upgrading works have given new life and colours to Haw Par Villa. Instagram worthy? See below.
We ended today Haw Par Villa adventure feeding the fishes and the terrapins. There’s a honesty box next to the pond where you can get the terrapins food in small zip lock bag for $1 each.
Honestly if you walk through the entire Haw Par Villa and read the signs, you should have learned all about good morals values and be honest enough to pay for the terrapin food I hope.
Definitely worth a re-visit. Maybe in October when the 10 Courts of Hell reopened. (It was closed when we went today). Kudos to the painters who did the restoration works. Must be hard work painting the statues.