Trying to learn more about Singapore's history while escaping the crowds? You can still head to Fort Siloso – in groups of two, that is.
We're calling it. If you visit only one World War II-related site, make it this one. On the northwestern tip of Sentosa, past Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa is the last remaining inactive coastal gun battery in Singapore. Here's a brief history: Fort Siloso was built in the 1880s on Mount Siloso to aid in protecting the port, mainly the western entrance to Keppel Harbour and the coal stocked nearby. It formed part of Singapore's coastal defence alongside Fort Serapong and Fort Connaught.
Today, it's been converted into a military museum containing a treasure trove of WWII memorabilia: including coastal guns, the remains of fortified military structures and tunnels, as well as an interactive video documentary complete with wax figures of Japanese and British soldiers at the Surrender Chambers. Explore the sprawling grounds of Fort Siloso and learn about how it played a vital role in Singapore's defence in World War II.
Travel back in time
The main story of Japan’s victory is punchily told, alongside displays on resistance hero Lim Bo Seng and Force 136, and on the local civilian experience during the Japanese occupation. Step into the Surrender Chambers containing exact waxwork replicas of the main players, which are surprisingly effective at reconstructing the British surrender of the Japanese, and vice versa. The main attraction, however, is the sprawling structure of the fort itself. Wander around the gun emplacements and underground tunnels at your own pace. Climb through tunnels and examine original guns, cannons, film clips and photographs from days past.
Colourful art
Mural hunters shouldn't miss Singaporean muralist Yip Yew Chong's largest physical artwork ever created, 'Waves of the Straits'. Found right at the gate of Fort Siloso, his work ripples over the 230m long Fort Siloso Road and comprises a series of paintings on the walls, the road, and rocks. Take your time and admire the three "windows" that look out to three historical eras of Sentosa and the Singapore Straits.
Sentosa from above
Enjoy a birds-eye view of Fort Siloso – and Sentosa – from above at the Fort Siloso Skywalk. The 181-meters treetop trail towers 11 storeys above the ground, surrounded by the island's oldest trees and looking out to views of the sea. The bridge is characterised by triangulated trusses and columns, designed to move to accommodate the movement of people walking on it. For the daredevils, check out the section of the Viewing Platform that is glass-bottom, giving the illusion of you being 36 metres in the air with nothing below your feet.
Entrance to Fort Siloso is free.
If you're looking to get out into nature and take on lesser-known hiking trails, you can find the best-hidden trails to explore here. However, remember to follow existing social distancing measures and only stick to groups of twos. If you need more ideas, check out our guide on the best things to do in groups of twos.