Chinese and Japanese Gardens
Photograph: Shutterstock
Photograph: Shutterstock

The ultimate guide to Jurong Lake Gardens

A stunning lakeside destination for families and nature lovers

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There's much ado about Jurong Lake Gardens, especially after the Chinese Gardens and Japanese Gardens reopened in 2024. Aside from the two new gardens, we also have Lakeside Gardens, a landscaped, yet naturalistic, park has tons of attractive spots and nature trails that show off the natural heritage of Jurong, while showcasing ways that man and nature can coexist. 

Easily accessible from Chinese Gardens MRT and Lakeside MRT, Jurong Lake Gardens is a stunning waterfront destination for nature lovers, families, fitness enthusiasts, and just about anyone who wants a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. We break down the main spots you should be checking out, as well as other things to see and do in this sanctuary of the West. 

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Things to do at Lakeside Garden

  • Things to do

We won’t take part in the never-ending debate of which side of Singapore is the best. But we’ll tell you this – the West is thriving with gems like Lakeside Garden, located in Jurong Lake Gardens. This waterfront place has photogenic nature trails, family-friendly activity spots, and several eateries where you can refuel after exploring. We’ve rounded up the best things to see in this ultimate guide to Lakeside Garden, so get your butt up and make your way over to the West.  

How to get to Lakeside Garden

The journey to the West might seem far if you don’t live in the area, but Jurong Lake Gardens is accessible by train and bus. Those taking the train can alight at Lakeside MRT station and exit via Exit A. Turn left and follow the sheltered walkway, cross Yuan Ching Road, and you’ll arrive at the entrance (at Lakeside Plaza). You can also take a 20-minute walk from Jurong East MRT station to the Japanese Garden Bridge in Jurong Lake Gardens. 

If taking the bus is more convenient for you, hop on bus 154 or 246 and alight at the Chinese Garden stop (stop number 21659). Alternatively, there are two carparks, North and South, if you prefer to drive to Jurong Lake Gardens. Parking is free from Monday to Sunday from 5am to 8.30am and 12pm to 2pm. Charges go at $0.60 per 30 minutes for all other timings.

Things to do at Chinese and Japanese Gardens

  • Attractions
  • Parks and gardens

Jurong Lake Gardens went through a major facelift in September 2024 after five years of reconstruction. The results? Two gorgeous new gardens – the Chinese Garden and the Japanese Garden. With lily-filled ponds, structures inspired by ancient Chinese architecture, and serene water features, these new spots make the journey to the West worth it. If you need more convincing, we’ve rounded up the best things to see at the gardens, so read on to find out more: 

Getting to the Chinese and Japanese Gardens

For those unfamiliar with the West turf, Jurong Lake Gardens consists of three gardens: Lakeside Garden, Chinese Garden, and Japanese Garden. All share the same carparks, but since the two carparks are near Lakeside Garden, visitors driving will need to walk 15 minutes to reach the Chinese and Japanese Gardens.

We recommend taking the train and starting at the Chinese Garden. Alight at Chinese Garden MRT Station and take Exit B. Take a short walk along the sheltered walkway and you’ll reach the park in five minutes. 

You can get around the park by walking, cycling or hopping on the free shuttle bus service which operates every 30 minutes between Lakeside and Japanese Garden. Do note that this is a six-month trial service, and National Parks Board (NParks) has not released the end date to this trial – but we did see the shuttle bus when we visited on February 28, 2025.

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