Empress Place Asian Civilisations Museum Singapore: A Must-Visit Cultural Destination

Empress Place Asian Civilisations Museum Singapore: A Must-Visit Cultural Destination

If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience in Singapore, look no further than the Empress Place Asian Civilisations Museum. This museum is dedicated to exploring the rich artistic heritage of Asia, with a focus on Asian antiquities and decorative art. The museum is housed in the historic Empress Place Building, which overlooks the Singapore River and is an architectural treasure in its own right.

The Asian Civilisations Museum in Singapore's Empress Place, with its grand architecture and intricate details, is surrounded by lush greenery and a serene river, creating a picturesque scene for an illustrator to recreate

Visitors to the museum can explore three broad cross-cultural and pan-Asian themes through the museum’s permanent galleries. These galleries celebrate Asian imagination, craft, and aesthetics, and offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the region. In addition to the galleries, the museum also hosts ground-breaking special exhibitions that offer a deeper dive into specific aspects of Asian art and culture.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply curious about the world around you, the Empress Place Asian Civilisations Museum is a must-visit destination in Singapore. With its stunning location, world-class collections, and engaging exhibits, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

Key Takeaways

  • The Empress Place Asian Civilisations Museum is a museum dedicated to exploring the rich artistic heritage of Asia, with a focus on Asian antiquities and decorative art.
  • The museum is housed in the historic Empress Place Building, which overlooks the Singapore River and is an architectural treasure in its own right.
  • Visitors can explore three broad cross-cultural and pan-Asian themes through the museum’s permanent galleries, as well as enjoy ground-breaking special exhibitions that offer a deeper dive into specific aspects of Asian art and culture.

Museum Overview

The museum overlooks the river, with a modern glass facade and traditional architecture. The surrounding gardens are lush and colorful

If you are looking for a museum that celebrates Asian imagination, craft, and aesthetics, the Asian Civilisations Museum is the perfect destination for you. Located in the historic Empress Place Building by the Singapore River, the museum is devoted to exploring the rich artistic heritage of Asia.

Historical Significance

The Empress Place Building was constructed in the mid-19th century as part of the colonial government’s public works programme. It served as the Treasury, Stamp Office, and the Registry of Births and Deaths, and later became the Immigration Department and the Official Assignee’s Office. The building was also home to the Legislative Chamber, where the first elections were held in Singapore. The building’s architecture is a mix of styles, with Doric columns, plaster mouldings, and cornices.

Exhibitions and Galleries

The Asian Civilisations Museum has a vast collection of Asian antiquities and decorative art, with artefacts from China, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and West Asia. The museum’s permanent galleries celebrate Asian creativity and imagination through three broad cross-cultural and pan-Asian themes. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and programmes that showcase the richness and diversity of Asian cultures.

Visiting Information

The museum is open daily from 10 am to 7 pm, and on Fridays from 10 am to 9 pm. Admission to all galleries ends 30 minutes before closing time. To reach the museum, you can take the MRT to Raffles Place MRT and walk to the museum. You can also take a bus or drive to the museum. For more information about visiting the museum, you can check the museum’s website or contact them via email or telephone.

In conclusion, the Asian Civilisations Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Asian art, culture, and heritage. With its rich collection of artefacts, exhibitions, and programmes, the museum offers a unique and enriching experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation of Asian cultures.

Dining and Amenities

The bustling dining area at Empress Place, Asian Civilisations Museum, Singapore, with elegant furnishings and a wide array of amenities

Culinary Experience

At Empress, you can enjoy a unique culinary experience while taking in the breathtaking views of the CBD skyline and Singapore River. This contemporary Chinese restaurant is located in the iconic Asian Civilisations Museum at Empress Place, which is steeped in artistic heritage and rich history.

Whether you’re looking for a quick business lunch or a leisurely dinner with friends and family, Empress has got you covered. You can choose from a wide range of delicious dishes, including dim sum, Cantonese cuisine, and contemporary Chinese dishes.

To complement your meal, Empress also offers a selection of spirits, wines, and other beverages. The Canton Room is a private dining area that can accommodate up to 12 guests, making it perfect for intimate gatherings.

Facilities and Services

Empress provides a range of facilities and services to ensure that your dining experience is as enjoyable as possible. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating areas, with the alfresco dining option being particularly popular due to its stunning views of the Singapore River.

If you have any special requests or requirements, the friendly staff at Empress are always happy to help. You can make reservations online or by phone, and the restaurant also offers promotions from time to time.

The building housing Empress has a rich history, having once been the location of the Public Works and Medical Department, the Treasury and Stamp Office, and even the Citizenship Registry and Secretariat. Today, it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with the Anderson Bridge and Municipal Council just a stone’s throw away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Visitors gather at the Asian Civilisations Museum in Singapore, reading the Frequently Asked Questions section at Empress Place

What are the opening hours for the Asian Civilisations Museum?

The Asian Civilisations Museum is open daily from 10am to 7pm, and on Fridays, it stays open until 9pm. Please note that admission to all galleries ends 30 minutes before closing time.

How much do tickets to the Asian Civilisations Museum cost?

The admission fee for adults is $20, while seniors and students pay $15. Children under the age of six can enter for free. Additionally, admission is free for Singaporean citizens and permanent residents.

Can you tell me about the unique aspects of the Asian Civilisations Museum?

The Asian Civilisations Museum is a national museum that celebrates the rich artistic heritage of Asia. The museum’s permanent galleries explore three broad cross-cultural and pan-Asian themes: Trade, Faith and Belief, and Materials and Design. The museum’s collection includes a wide range of artefacts, from Chinese ceramics to Islamic calligraphy.

Is there an admission fee for Singaporean visitors at the Asian Civilisations Museum?

No, Singaporean citizens and permanent residents can enter the museum for free. However, they are required to show their identity cards or passports as proof of citizenship or residency.

What’s the best way to get to the Asian Civilisations Museum?

The museum is located in the historic Empress Place Building by the Singapore River. You can get there by car, bus, or train. Alternatively, you can take a leisurely stroll along the Singapore River and enjoy the scenic views.

Could you share some insights into the history of the Empress Place building?

The Empress Place Building is one of the architectural treasures in the Empress Place civic area overlooking the Singapore River. It was completed in 1867 and had originally been planned to be used as a courthouse but instead functioned as government offices until the late 1980s. Today, it is home to the Asian Civilisations Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Asia.

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