Exploring Singapore observations of an expat in Singapore
Singapore’s Steamy Side
Written by and Photography by Amanda Jaffe
Much of what I write these days seems outdated or out of reach days later. Sadly, this installment of Exploring Singapore feels like one of those pieces. I strongly encourage you to visit Sembawang Hot Spring Park -- when it’s a good time to explore Singapore’s distant corners once again. Until then, enjoy the story and the pictures. Like hope, these waters spring eternal. Looking for a “spa” with a twist? Look no farther than Sembawang Hot Spring Park, mainland Singapore’s only natural hot spring and foot onsen. If you’re seeking anything remotely approaching glamour, look elsewhere. But if you’re seeking a uniquely Singaporean experience, this may be your spot. While Sembawang Hot Spring Park was opened to the public in January 2020, the hot spring was discovered in 1908 on what was then a pineapple plantation. The spring water was tested in London with good results, after which it was bottled and sold over the years under different brand names. It was the hot spring’s reputation for the curative properties of its waters, though, that became the key to its longevity. The spring and a nearby well became popular with local villagers, who sought the healing waters but also came by to boil eggs, wash clothes,
Wooden ladles (and buckets) available for use
the war, plans to turn the spring into a spa never came to fruition, but locals kept visiting. When Singapore’s Ministry of Defense (MOD) acquired the hot spring and surrounding land for the expansion of Sembawang Air Base, the public lobbied to keep the spring open. While development of the Air Base went forward, MOD allowed the public continued access to the spring during daytime hours. Over the years, the spring was reduced to a concrete slab with
Newly renovated Sembawang Hot Spring
and de-feather poultry. Eventually, the nearby village became known as Kampong Ayer Panas (“Village of Hot Water”).
a few pipes and the old well, but people continued to visit. Finally, in 2016, Singapore’s National Parks Board began developing the grounds into a park.
During the Japanese occupation, the Japanese built thermal baths in the area for the use of officers. A bomb dropped during an allied air raid damaged the spring, temporarily slowing the water flow. After
Today, Sembawang Hot Spring Park offers an upgraded visitor experience but remains delightfully low key. The Floral Walk leading to the hot spring is beautifully landscaped with information about
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Bamboo Telegraph - May/June 2020
