Battle Box Singapore: A Fascinating Look into Singapore’s Military History
If you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique experience, the Battlebox in Singapore is a must-visit destination. This underground bunker played a pivotal role in World War II and is now a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into Singapore’s past.
Located within Fort Canning Hill, the Battlebox served as the headquarters for the defending Allied forces against the invading Japanese army in the final days of the Malayan Campaign. The bunker was built in 1936 and completed in 1939 and is the only operational World War II bunker in Singapore. Today, visitors can explore the Battlebox and learn about the history of Fort Canning Hill and the role of the bunker in Singapore’s heritage through exhibits, tours, and reviews.
Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique experience, a visit to the Battlebox is an unforgettable experience. From exploring the underground bunker to learning about Singapore’s past, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So why not plan your visit today and discover the fascinating history of the Battlebox for yourself?
Key Takeaways
- The Battlebox is an underground bunker in Singapore that played a pivotal role in World War II.
- Today, the Battlebox is a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into Singapore’s past through exhibits, tours, and reviews.
- Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique experience, a visit to the Battlebox is an unforgettable experience.
Exploring the Battlebox
If you’re interested in history and want to learn more about the Japanese occupation of Singapore during World War II, then visiting the Battlebox is a must. This underground bunker, located in Fort Canning Park, was the site of the decision to surrender Singapore to the Japanese in 1942. Here’s what you need to know before exploring the Battlebox.
Historical Significance
The Battlebox was built in 1936 as part of the headquarters of Malaya Command, the army which defended Malaya and Singapore in WWII. It served as the underground command centre for the British and Allied forces during the Malayan Campaign and the Battle of Singapore. The Surrender Conference Room, where the decision to surrender Singapore to the Japanese was made, is one of the highlights of the Battlebox tour.
Visiting Details
The Battlebox is open to the public from Wednesdays to Sundays, from 09:30 to 17:00 (last entry at 16:00). It is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and public holidays. To get there, you can take the MRT to Dhoby Ghaut Station and walk to Fort Canning Park. The bunker is located near the entrance of the park, and signs will guide you to the entrance.
Tours and Experiences
To fully experience the Battlebox, we recommend taking the audio tour. The audio tour is available in English, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, German, and French. It takes you through the different rooms of the bunker, including the Projection Rooms, where you can see and hear what life was like in the bunker during WWII. The tour is informative, engaging, and provides historical accuracy.
If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, you can try the Escape Room or the Virtual Reality Experience. The Escape Room is a fun and challenging way to learn more about the history of Singapore and the Battlebox. The Virtual Reality Experience allows you to explore the bunker in a 360-degree view and experience what it was like to be in the bunker during the war.
Overall, the Battlebox is a fascinating museum that provides insight into the history of Singapore and the Japanese occupation. It’s a great way to learn about the Allied forces, Lieutenant-General Arthur Percival, and the British Army. We highly recommend visiting the Battlebox on Sundays or during public holidays when admission is free.
Planning Your Visit
If you are planning to visit the Battlebox in Singapore, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. This section will provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit, including admission information and how to get there.
Admission Information
Admission to the Battlebox is available for adults, children, and students. Children aged four years and below can enter for free, but they must be accompanied by a paying adult. Admission tickets can be purchased online or at the Visitor Centre on a first-come, first-served basis.
There are different types of admission tickets available, such as the Basic Experience and the Enhanced Experience. The Basic Experience includes an audio tour, while the Enhanced Experience includes a guided tour and souvenir anaglyph glasses. Standard local and Singaporean tickets are also available.
Getting There
The Battlebox is located in Fort Canning Park, at 2 Cox Terrace, Singapore 179622. The nearest carpark is Fort Canning Park Carpark B. If you are taking public transportation, the nearest MRT station is Fort Canning Station.
The Battlebox is open from Wednesdays to Sundays, from 09:30 to 17:00. The last entry is at 16:00. We recommend that you set aside at least one hour to experience the Battlebox fully.
Cancellations, Refunds, and Changes
If you need to cancel or change your booking, please contact us as soon as possible. Cancellations made more than 24 hours before the launch time will be refunded in full. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the launch time will not be refunded.
Changes to your booking can be made up to 24 hours before the launch time, subject to availability. Please note that changes made less than 24 hours before the launch time may not be possible.
Heritage and Restoration
The Battlebox is a world-class institution that has received international recognition and attracts international tourists, students, military personnel, VIPs, politicians, and military commanders. It is a symbol of Singapore’s heritage and the Fortress Singapore that played a significant role during the 70 days of the Battle for Singapore in 1942.
The Battlebox has been restored to its original state by the National Parks Board, with the help of the curatorial team, operations department, docents, visitor services officers, and volunteers. The restoration was led by Dr Kevin Tan and Peter Stubbs. The Battlebox now offers an immersive experience that takes visitors back in time to the day of the British surrender.
We hope this information has been helpful in planning your visit to the Battlebox in Singapore. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to the Battlebox!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ticket prices for visiting the Battle Box in Singapore?
There is no entry fee for visiting the Battle Box in Singapore. However, due to a limited number of slots per session, all visitors will need to register online for tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
How can one book a visit to the Battle Box?
To book a visit to the Battle Box, you can register online for tickets in advance. You will need to provide your name, email address, and preferred date and time of visit.
What are the opening hours for the Battle Box?
The Battle Box is open from Wednesdays to Sundays, from 09:30 to 17:00. The last entry is at 16:00.
Can you tell me about the history of the Battle Box?
The Battle Box is an underground command centre located in Fort Canning Park in Singapore. It was constructed in 1936 and was one of the most important military sites during World War II. The Battle Box played a crucial role in the defence of Singapore during the war.
Are there any reviews available for the Battle Box experience?
Yes, there are reviews available for the Battle Box experience. The Battle Box has won the TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award and is rated as the #1 museum in Singapore. Visitors have praised the museum for its informative exhibits and immersive experience.
When does the Battle Box typically close for visitors?
The last entry to the Battle Box is at 16:00, and the museum closes at 17:00. Visitors are advised to set aside one hour to experience the Battle Box fully.