Toa Payoh, one of Singapore’s oldest housing estates, is a gem that offers a mix of rich heritage, serene parks, and bustling cafes.This guide to Toa Payoh will take you through its hidden gems and popular spots, ensuring you uncover everything this charming neighbourhood has to offer.

A Journey Through Toa Payoh’s Heritage

Toa Payoh, which translates to “Big Swamp” in Hokkien and Malay words, is a vibrant residential area.As one of the first HDB (Housing and Development Board) estates in Singapore, it holds a significant place in the country’s urban development history. Let’s dive into some of the key sights and activities that make Toa Payoh a must-visit.

Exploring Toa Payoh Town Park and Playground

#1 A Serene Retreat in the Heart of Toa Payoh

Toa Payoh Town Park is an idyllic escape from the urban bustle. The park features a tranquil pond with a picturesque bridge, lush greenery, and a famous observation tower. Built in 1972, the tower offers panoramic views of the estate, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

#2 Dragon Playground: A Nostalgic Landmark

No visit to Toa Payoh is complete without a stop at the Dragon Playground. This iconic structure, built in the 1970s, is one of Singapore’s most beloved playgrounds heritage. Its dragon-shaped slide is a favourite among little ones and adults alike, evoking memories of childhood for many Singaporeans.

Culinary Delights: Toa Payoh’s Foodie Heaven

#3 Toa Payoh Central: A Food Lover’s Paradise

Toa Payoh Central is a hub of culinary delights, featuring a variety of hawker centres and food courts. Here, you can indulge in local dishes such as prawn noodles, and a generous bowl of chilli laksa.

Popular Hawker Centres

• Toa Payoh Lorong 8 Market & Food Centre: This food centre is a haven for foodies looking to savour authentic local dishes. Try the aromatic Hokkien mee, nasi lemak, or fish ball noodles.
• Swatow Teochew Seafood: This Teochew restaurant above the Toa Payoh Central supermarket feels like a time capsule with old-school banquet decor and pushcart dim sum, offering over 30 varieties for a weekday high tea buffet starting at $25.80.
• Toa Payoh Lucky Pisang Raja: No foodie can resist the tempting goreng pisang from this stall near the library, with its crispy batter and creamy banana, or the savoury deep-fried sweet potato balls filled with red bean, yam, or mung bean paste and coated in crunchy sesame seeds.

#4 Cafes and Eateries

Toa Payoh also boasts a variety of cafes perfect for a leisurely brunch or an afternoon coffee.

• Larder Cafe: Known for its friendly staff and cosy decor, Larder Cafe offers a range of delectable dishes including waffles with unique ice cream flavours and aromatic coffee.
• Shrove Tuesday: Once a dental clinic in Toa Payoh, Shrove Tuesday is now a charming café serving homemade waffles ($5), various gelato flavours ($3/single scoop, $5/double), and espresso-based drinks (from $4.50). 

Discover Temples & Monasteries

#5 Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery

This Buddhist temple is one of the oldest in Singapore. Its serene atmosphere and stunning architecture make it a peaceful retreat for those looking to explore Buddhism and its heritage.

#6 Sri Vairavimada Kaliamman Temple

This Hindu temple is another cultural gem in Toa Payoh, built at Killiney Road before being relocated several times. It’s a place where visitors can learn about Hindu traditions and enjoy the intricate structure.

Visit Modern Recreational Spots

#7 SAFRA Toa Payoh

SAFRA Toa Payoh is a popular spot for families and fitness enthusiasts. It offers a range of recreational facilities, including a tunnel for kids to crawl in, themed play zones to explore, and various puzzles to solve. The club also hosts events like birthday parties and activities for all age groups.

#8 Benson Cycle Trading 

Benson Cycle Trading in Toa Payoh provides a range of quality bikes from brands like KHS, Java, GT, and Raleigh at reasonable prices. Their friendly staff can help you choose the right model and also provide repair services.

Go Shopping and Get Entertained

#9 Toa Payoh Vista Market (Lorong 4)

At this market, alongside regular grocery shoppers, you’ll find food enthusiasts seeking out the best bites. Our top breakfast choices? Rahmath Cheese Prata (#01-08) for fluffy, crispy prata with aromatic curry, and Uncle Gen’s Hong Kong Cuisine (#01-03) for comforting Cantonese congee and melt-in-your-mouth yam cake with fried shallots.

 #10 Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall

The Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall in Singapore celebrates Dr. Sun Yat Sen, a Chinese revolutionary and the Republic of China’s founding father. Housed in a historic villa once used as headquarters by the Chinese Revolutionary Alliance, it offers interactive exhibits and events, showcasing Dr. Sun’s life and the Chinese revolutionary movement in Southeast Asia. It’s a must-visit for those interested in modern Chinese history and the contributions of Chinese pioneers in Southeast Asia.

Uncover Lesser-Known Spots

#11 Toa Payoh Sensory Park

Toa Payoh Sensory Park, nestled in a mature estate, offers an engaging experience for all ages with its sensory-focused design. Opened in 2009, it encourages the exploration of sight, smell, touch, sound, and taste through various attractions like sign language learning, tactile sculptures, historical panels, and interactive play equipment. 

The park features a butterfly garden and a playground with vibrant equipment, providing a serene yet playful environment. Adjacent to a food centre, it’s a perfect spot for a family outing, offering a balance between sensory stimulation and relaxation.

#12 HDB Living Space Gallery

The HDB Living Space Gallery in Singapore, situated at the HDB Hub in Toa Payoh, showcases various types of public housing in the country. Through interactive displays and a model HDB flat, visitors gain insights into the design and arrangement of these homes. Additionally, the gallery provides information on HDB policies, amenities, and services, serving as an informative resource for those curious about Singapore’s public housing.

Conclusion: Embrace the Charm of Toa Payoh

Toa Payoh is a vibrant estate that beautifully blends heritage with modern amenities. Whether you’re exploring its iconic playgrounds, indulging in delicious local cuisine, or visiting its cultural landmarks, there’s something for everyone in this heartland. So, come and uncover the hidden gems of Toa Payoh, and experience a slice of Singapore’s rich history and lively present. If you’re looking for fast access funds to go to these places, you can contact the licensed money lender in Toa Payoh or check the list of licensed money lenders in Singapore.