Nestled on a lush hill in Pasir Panjang lies Haw Par Villa, a portal to the rich tapestry of Chinese mythology and history. This cultural park, once known as Tiger Balm Gardens, transcends the ordinary with its vivid depictions of folklore, offering a unique glimpse into the ethos that has shaped Asian civilization for millennia. Among its many attractions, the Hell Museum in Singapore stands out as a profound journey through the afterlife, as envisioned by ancient Chinese beliefs.
The Origins of Haw Par Villa
Constructed in 1937 by the entrepreneurial Aw Boon Haw for his brother, Aw Boon Par, Haw Par Villa was born out of a deep-seated reverence for Chinese culture and moral values. The park served not only as a tribute to the Tiger Balm legacy but also as a public space for moral education through its elaborate displays of mythology and virtue.
Surviving the tumults of war and the passage of time, the Villa has evolved, under the stewardship of various Aw family members and later, the Singapore Tourism Board. Today, it stands as a testament to the vision of its founders and the enduring appeal of its teachings.
What Makes Haw Par Villa Special?
Haw Par Villa’s charm lies in its ability to educate and entertain simultaneously. Its sprawling 8.5-hectare landscape is dotted with life-size sculptures that vividly narrate the stories and beliefs underpinning Chinese and broader Asian cultures. This visual storytelling ensures that visitors of all ages leave with a deeper understanding of the moral and philosophical foundations of these cultures.
Is Entry to Haw Par Villa Free?
Yes, entry to Haw Par Villa is free for all. However, those wishing to delve deeper into the underworld can visit the Hell Museum, which requires an admission fee.
Explore the Mysteries: Haw Par Villa Walking Tour
For those looking to delve deeper into the enigmatic world of Haw Par Villa and its depiction of life, death, and everything in between, the Haw Par Villa Walking Tour offers an unparalleled experience. This after-dark, two-hour guided tour illuminates the park in a way that daytime visits cannot capture, shedding light on the darker, more profound aspects of its legacy.
What to Expect on the Tour
- Infamous 10 Courts of Hell: Walk through the chilling scenes that depict the afterlife’s judgment, where the King of Ghosts presides over the souls of the departed.
- Sneak Preview of Hell’s Museum: Before its official opening, get an exclusive look at the upcoming Hell’s Museum.
- Philosophies and Cultures: The bizarre sculptures and dioramas scattered throughout Haw Par Villa are a testament to the rich cultural and philosophical tapestry that influenced its creation.
- Aw Boon Haw’s Legacy: Discover the intriguing history of Aw Boon Haw, the millionaire philanthropist and marketing genius behind Tiger Balm, and how his personal encounters with mortality shaped the creation of Haw Par Villa.
Book your spot on the Haw Par Villa Walking Tour now and see the legendary park like never before.
Hell Museum: A Journey Through the Afterlife
The Museum’s Setup
Housed within what used to be the family’s garage, the Hell Museum offers an immersive experience through its 10 indoor and outdoor sections. The museum, built on the legacy of Haw Par Villa, provides a chilling yet enlightening walk through the 10 gates of hell as depicted in Chinese mythology.
The 10 Gates of Hell
Here, visitors traverse a dimly lit tunnel, encountering vivid and at times disturbing depictions of the afterlife’s punishments. These scenes illustrate the consequences of sins ranging from the mundane to the grave, all rendered in painstaking detail. The museum’s nuanced portrayal of these beliefs invites reflection on life, death, and morality.
Indoor Gallery: Death and the Afterlife Across Religions
Beyond the horrors of hell, the museum offers a thoughtful exploration of death and the afterlife from a multi-religious perspective. This section, cool and contemplative, presents a panoramic view of how death is understood and commemorated across different faiths, offering intriguing insights into Singapore’s multicultural fabric.
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Sculpture Garden and Other Attractions
The outdoor areas of Haw Par Villa complement the indoor exhibits with a sculpture garden that revisits the Ten Courts of Hell, alongside statues of deities and scenes of filial piety. This mix of reverence and renewal ensures that the park’s legacy continues to educate and fascinate.
Beyond the Museum
Haw Par Villa’s transformation includes the addition of a Visitor’s Centre, The Sixth Milestone restaurant, and various activities and events aimed at enriching the visitor experience. Whether it’s through culinary delights or educational programs, the Villa invites exploration and discovery in myriad ways.
Planning Your Visit to Hell Museum at Haw Par Villa
A visit to the Hell Museum within the historic Haw Par Villa is an experience unlike any other in Singapore. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit to this unique attraction, where art, culture, and history converge to explore themes of morality and the afterlife.
Hell Museum Operating Hours
The Hell Museum welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 6 PM, with the last entry at 5 PM.
It’s important to note that the museum is closed on Mondays, except on public holidays, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to explore its depths. Special operating hours apply during the Lunar New Year, with adjusted times for the festive period to accommodate celebrations.
Lunar New Year Operating Hours
- 9th February, Friday: 10 AM – 1 PM (last entry 12 PM)
- 10th – 12th February: Business hours as usual, providing a unique way to celebrate the new year.
Booking Your Tickets to Hell Museum in Singapore
Admission to the Hell Museum requires a ticket, which can be purchased in advance. This ensures your entry into a world that bridges the physical with the spiritual, interpreted through the lens of Chinese mythology.
Visitor Tips
- Umbrella: Given Singapore’s unpredictable weather and the museum’s partial outdoor exposure, bringing an umbrella is advisable.
- Duration: Allocate approximately 2-4 hours for your visit, which allows you to immerse fully in the experience without rush. Your ticket grants you access until closing time, making it flexible for those who wish to explore at a leisurely pace.
- Facilities: It’s worth noting that no food, drinks, or pets are allowed within the museum. This helps maintain the sanctity and cleanliness of the museum environment.
Hell Museum in Singapore: Ticket Pricing
- Adults: $20
- Children: $10 (Free for children aged 6 and under, though the museum is not recommended for children under 9 years old)
- Language Availability: Currently, the museum’s exhibits are available in English and Chinese, accessible via QR codes. Efforts are underway to include more languages, broadening the museum’s accessibility.
Tickets are non-refundable, and any requests for changes in timeslots or dates are considered on a case-by-case basis. Contact the museum at [email protected] for assistance.
Location and How to Get to the Hell Museum in Singapore?
Haw Par Villa’s Hell Museum is situated on a hill in Pasir Panjang, close to the National University of Singapore, making it a landmark with educational and cultural significance. The most convenient way to reach the museum is by taking the Circle Line to Haw Par Villa MRT station. The park is a short walk from the station, located at 262 Pasir Panjang Road. Despite its rich offerings, there is no admission fee for entering Haw Par Villa itself, with its daily opening hours from 9 AM to 7 PM.
Conclusion: Hell Museum in Singapore
Haw Par Villa, with its Hell Museum, remains a cornerstone of Singapore’s cultural heritage, offering a unique window into the complexities of life and the afterlife. Its blend of education, history, and artistry makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with the deeper narratives of Asian culture.
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