Johor Bahru is the capital of Johor in southern Malaysia. The bustling city is fast gaining interest as a tourist spot, due to its natural beauty as well as its proximity to Singapore. For years Johor Bahru was looked upon as a chaotic border town, but that is a thing of the past. The city has rebranded itself, and everything here is awesome. There is plenty to keep the tourists busy with those mosques, shopping malls, museums, temples and party zones. It is an excellent destination in its own right.
How to reach Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru can be easily reached via domestic and international flights. Locals commonly use Singapore Changi Airport due to its better connections. One can also take a bus from Singapore. Cars are available but a bit more expensive. Johor Bahru is also connected via railway lines. Many locals and tourists prefer traveling by ferries.
Where to stay in Johor Bahru
At Johor Bahru, you will never face any dearth of options when it comes to dodging. Look for a hotel in Johor Bahru which is at a walking distance from shopping malls, eating outlets and the city center. An excellent choice is Hotel Sentral Johor Bahru which is safe, clean and at the most convenient location for tourist. The hotel is already a favorite with the tourists because of its professional services and friendly staff.
The top attraction in Johor Bahru
Local government and communities have made Johor Bahru a lively city with its revamped heritage district. There are some great places to visit in Johor Bahru.
- The imposing Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim sits atop Bukit Timbalan and is a concoction of Islamic motifs, imperial pomp, and indigenous design. The city landmark was completed in 1942 and was used as a fortress by the Japanese as they were getting ready to attack Singapore.
- Visit the Royal Abu Bakar Museum which is a marvelous palace of the Johor royal family. Built in 1866, the Victorian style architecture of the museum is sure to floor you. One of the most excellent museums of Malaysia, it lies in the midst of e the 53-hectare palace grounds. There are displays of the incredible wealth of the sultans.
- Another great museum is the Chinese Heritage Museum with well-laid-out exhibits. Explore the displays to learn about the history of Chinese immigrants and how the Cantonese brought their carpentry skills here. Learn how the Hakkas traded in Chinese medicines and how the Hainanese started a trend in a coffee shop.
- Istana Bukit Serene is another impressive building. The green-roof, stone building is the official residence of the Sultan of Johor. It was built in 1933 in the Art Deco style, and those sprawling garden are a common site for royal gatherings and celebrations. There are fantastic and exquisite carvings on the walls of the palace.
- The beige building of Roman Catholic Church is one of the leading Roman Catholic churches here in Johor Bahru. It was built in 1883 in the British colonial style. It is one of the oldest structures here and hosts the colorful harvest festival service in mid-January within the church.
- Danga Bay is a waterfront development where you will come across residential properties, commercial buildings and loads of recreational facilities. The major attractions are World Petting Zoo, World Theme Park, and Rumah Limas.
- Roufo Gumiaois the Taoist temple in Johor Bahru and it was once a primary center for the Chinese immigrant community. Five different ethnic groups worshipped here and followed different Chinese gods. The temple is more than a hundred years old and carries an original masonry. One can see some genuine antiques here.