I have always loved stones. Not for their price. For their secrets. When I enter a place like the Gem Museum in Singapore, something happens to me. My skin tingles. My eyes widen. I forget about time. Because gems are not just pretty objects – they are chemistry frozen into art, geological history compressed into crystal, and light trapped inside matter.

This tiny private museum, hidden inside a three-storey shophouse at 9 Perak Road, is Singapore’s first and most comprehensive gemology museum. It is also one of the most unusual museums I have ever visited – partly because you cannot simply walk in. Entry to the museum is free but you must register online and receive confirmation via email before visiting.

Normally, only the ground floor is open to the public. The upper two floors remain restricted. But on the day of my visit, as part of my Singapore media trip for Asian Itinerary, I was given rare access. A kind lady named Jo, who supervises the museum, took me upstairs to see the laboratory and the private collections that are still closed to most visitors. What I saw – and what I felt – I will not forget.

A Family of Gems

Mr Tay Thye Sun is an honorary recipient of the Fellowship of the Gemological Association of Great Britain

The Gem Museum is a family affair. It was founded by Mr Tay Thye Sun, a certified gemologist who has been in the gem trade for over 40 years. His son, Mr Tay Kunming, and daughter-in-law, Ms Loke Huiying, both certified gemologists themselves, now run the museum together.

The museum first opened in 2015 in a conserved building on Queen Street. In 2025, it moved to its third and current location on Perak Road – a move that allowed the family to consolidate their ventures under one roof: the elder Tay’s gemological laboratory and institute, and the younger Tay’s bespoke jewellery business.

Jo is the kind of guide every museum dreams of having

The Gem Museum is privately owned, but it is also part of Singapore’s Museum Roundtable – a collective of museums and heritage galleries that collaborate on exhibitions and programmes.

A One-Hour Journey

I spent about one hour at the museum, most of it with Jo. She is the kind of guide every museum dreams of having: knowledgeable without being pedantic, passionate without being overwhelming, and genuinely excited to share what she loves.

Jo explained the museum’s layout simply. The route follows the journey of a gemstone from mine to market in four stages: formation, mining and extraction, cutting and polishing (lapidary), and finally the trade and industry.

On the ground floor, I saw raw specimens from around the world. On the upper floors – the ones not yet open to the public – Jo showed me the laboratory where gems are tested and authenticated. I saw equipment I did not recognise, and stones so small they could fit on a fingertip, yet worth fortunes. But the most magical moment came when Jo turned off the lights.

UV Light: The Hidden World of Gems

Jo used a UV torch to get the gems to change color and glow

Jo picked up a UV torch – sometimes called a black light or an ultra torch. She aimed it at a row of ordinary-looking rocks. And suddenly, they were not ordinary anymore. Some glowed bright blue. Others flashed neon green. A few turned deep fiery red. This was fluorescence – the ability of certain minerals to absorb invisible ultraviolet light and re-emit it as visible colour. In normal daylight, these stones look dull, even boring. Under UV, they become magical. I stood there like a child watching fireworks. Jo smiled. She had seen this reaction many times before.

She explained that different qualities of gems – iridescence, luminescence, phosphorescence – all depend on their chemical composition. A ruby from Myanmar glows red under UV because of chromium. A diamond from Africa might glow blue because of boron. The same mineral can look completely different depending on where in the world it was formed.

This is what fascinates me most about gems. They are not just beautiful: they are geological postcards from specific places on Earth, each with its own chemical signature, each telling a story of heat, pressure, time and luck.

From the Earth to the Hand

The museum does an excellent job explaining the four stages of a gem’s journey.

Stage 1: Geology and Formation

The Earth’s rocks are divided into three types: igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary. Gemstones of mineral origin are found in rocks or in gem gravels derived from those rocks. Some gems, like quartz and garnets, can be found worldwide. Others, like diamonds and rubies, are rare because they require very specific geological conditions – intense heat, immense pressure, and just the right chemical mix.

Stage 2: Mining and Extraction

For most minerals, only about 10–20% of total production at any given site is of gem quality. Mining methods vary from modern industrial operations to traditional techniques that have not changed in centuries. In Sri Lanka, miners still work underground by hand. In Myanmar, rubies are retrieved from marble matrices using simple tools. The museum displays photographs of these mines, and I found myself staring at the faces of the miners – tired, dusty, but somehow proud.

Stage 3: Cutting and Polishing (Lapidary)

This is where raw stone becomes a gem. The museum displays both uncut crystals and finished stones side by side, so you can see the transformation. A rough diamond looks like a dull piece of glass. After cutting, it explodes with fire. The skill of the lapidary – the cutter – is almost as rare as the gem itself.

Stage 4: Trade and Industry

Finally, gems enter the global market. Singapore, as a major trading hub, plays an important role in this stage. The museum explains how gems are graded, certified and sold – from the mine to the jeweller’s window.

What I Learned from Jo

As we walked through the upper floors, Jo told me about the museum’s geologists. They travel often – to Africa, to South America, to remote parts of Asia – in search of perfect stones. Not perfect in the commercial sense (flawless and expensive), but perfect in the geological sense: rare formations, unusual colours, crystals that teach us something new about how the Earth works.

The owner of this private museum, Mr Tay Thye Sun, has dedicated his life to gemstones. So did his father. Two generations of gem lovers. That kind of passion cannot be faked.

I asked Jo if she ever gets tired of showing the same stones to visitors. She laughed and said no – because every visitor sees something different. A child sees colours. A scientist sees chemistry. A jeweller sees value. And someone like me, a gem enthusiast, sees magic.

Practical Information

Getting There:

• MRT: Rocher Station (Downtown Line – Blue), Exit B. The museum is right beside the station.
• Bus: Several services stop along Jalan Besar or Serangoon Road, a short walk away.

Final Verdict

The Gem Museum is not for everyone. It is small. It requires advance planning. It does not have blockbuster exhibitions or interactive gimmicks. But for anyone who loves gems – truly loves them, not for their price but for their beauty and their science – this museum is a hidden treasure or, as Jo liked to put it, “a hidden gem”.

I spent one hour with Jo but I could have stayed three. I saw rubies from Myanmar, amethysts from Mexico, diamonds from Africa, and a hundred other stones whose names I have already forgotten but whose colours I will remember forever.

And when Jo turned on that UV torch, and the rocks began to glow in the dark, I felt something I have not felt in a long time: pure, childlike wonder. That is what a good museum does. That is what the Gem Museum did for me.

Disclosure & Thanks

My visit to the Gem Museum was hosted as part of my media trip to Singapore. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Jo for her time, her patience, and her passion. This article is for Asian Itinerary and, as always, all opinions, words and images are my own.

The Gem Museum

Address: 9 Perak Road, Singapore 208130

Telephone: +65 6734 3172 

Email: info@fegj.com.sg 

Website: thegemmuseum.gallery

Facebook: The Gem Museum Singapore

YouTube: The Gem Museum Singapore 

The post The Gem Museum: Singapore’s Hidden Treasure of Light and Colour appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

During our Asian Itinerary media trip to Suphanburi, one of the most memorable stops was the Dragon Descendants Museum and temple. Nestled in this historic province, the temple is not just a place of worship but also a showcase of Thai heritage, mythology, and artistry. As an enthusiast of cultural travel, I was eager to explore this unique site, and it definitely exceeded my expectations.

The Significance of the Dragon Descendants Museum

The Dragon Descendants temple is a modern marvel that beautifully blends traditional Thai temple architecture with mythological storytelling. The museum aims to preserve and celebrate the legendary lineage of the Dragon descendants, believed to be ancestral figures in Thai culture. The temple is a symbol of spiritual connection, storytelling, and cultural pride, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Suphanburi.

A Brief History of the Temple

Built in the early 21st century, the temple was conceived as a cultural project to honor Thailand’s mythological roots. It was designed by local artisans and architects who sought to create a space that would serve both as a spiritual sanctuary and an educational hub. Over time, it has become a popular destination for both pilgrims and tourists, especially after its inclusion in the Asian Itinerary media trip.

Architectural Marvels and Artistic Details

Dragon Descendants Museum and temple

Walking into the Dragon Descendants temple feels like stepping into a mythological world. The architecture is an impressive blend of traditional Thai motifs and contemporary design. The temple’s entrance is guarded by towering dragon sculptures, intricately carved and vividly painted, symbolizing power and protection.

Inside, visitors are greeted with murals depicting legendary tales of dragon ancestors, their heroic deeds, and their significance in Thai culture. The walls are adorned with detailed sculptures, gold accents, and vibrant colors that bring these stories to life. The temple also houses a museum area with artifacts, historical displays, and replicas of ancient relics related to the dragon mythology.

Experiencing Spirituality and Art

The temple’s tranquil grounds create an atmosphere of serenity perfect for reflection and spiritual connection. Visitors can participate in traditional Thai prayers, meditate in peaceful corners, or simply enjoy the lush gardens and scenic courtyards. The museum complements this spiritual experience by offering insights into the mythology that underpins Thai beliefs.

Photography is encouraged but should be done respectfully, especially during prayer or meditation times. Guided tours are recommended for those interested in a deeper understanding of the symbolism behind the artworks and exhibits.

Tips for Visiting

• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
• Dress Code: As with most temples in Thailand, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required.
• Photography: Photography is allowed, but be respectful during prayer times.
• Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the mythology and symbolism behind the artworks.

Why the Dragon Descendants Museum Temple Should Be on Your Itinerary

Visiting this temple offers more than just sightseeing; it’s an immersive experience into Thai mythology and artistry. It’s also a testament to Suphanburi’s rich cultural heritage, often overshadowed by more popular destinations in Thailand. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of art, or seeking spiritual solace, this site provides a meaningful and visually stunning experience.

Final Thoughts

Our visit to the Dragon Descendants Museum and temple was a highlight of the Asian Itinerary media trip in Suphanburi. It’s a place where myth and reality intertwine, offering visitors a glimpse into Thailand’s legendary past. If you’re exploring Thailand’s lesser-known gems, this temple should definitely be on your list.

The post the Dragon Descendants Museum and Temple in Suphanburi appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Nestled in the heart of Kandy, the National Museum of Kandy is a captivating journey into Sri Lanka’s royal past and cultural grandeur. Located next to the revered Temple of the Tooth, this museum offers travelers a unique glimpse into the Kandyan kingdom’s history, art, and traditions. Whether you’re a history buff or a casual explorer, the museum provides an engaging experience that deepens your understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.

An Overview of the Museum

National Museum of Kandy entrance

Housed in the historic Palle Vahala building, the museum is a beautiful blend of traditional Kandyan architecture and colonial influences. Built in 1840, this structure was originally the residence of Kandyan queens and is a testament to the craftsmanship of local artisans. The museum’s collection spans over 5,000 artifacts from the 17th to 19th centuries, showcasing weapons, jewelry, textiles, and everyday tools used during the Kandyan era.

The museum is a vital cultural institution maintained by Sri Lanka’s Department of National Museums. It not only preserves artifacts but also narrates the story of Kandy’s resistance to colonial rule and its significance as the last independent kingdom of Sri Lanka.

The Historical Significance of the Museum

Dome shaped caskets used for storing relics

The origins of the National Museum of Kandy lie in its historic building, which served as part of the Royal Palace complex and was once home to the Kandyan queens. After the fall of the Kandyan Kingdom in 1815, the building transitioned from royal residence to colonial administrative office before becoming a museum in 1942.

Today, the museum stands as a symbol of Sri Lanka’s resilience and cultural identity. It vividly recounts the kingdom’s history through its extensive collections, including a copy of the 1815 treaty that marked the end of Kandyan independence and the beginning of British rule.

What to See and Do

The museum is organized into eight sections, each dedicated to different aspects of Kandyan history and culture:

• Royal Ornaments and Dresses: Admire traditional crowns, jewelry, and regal attire worn by Kandyan royalty, including the attire of notable figures like Keppetipola Adigar.
• Culinary Tools: Discover ancient cooking vessels, utensils, and ceramics that reveal Kandyan culinary traditions.
• Weapons Gallery: Explore swords, shields, and cannons used in warfare and royal ceremonies, showcasing the craftsmanship of Kandyan artisans.
• Industries: Delve into local crafts such as woodwork, metalwork, and lacquer industry, with tools and artifacts that highlight daily life and trades.
• Artifacts and Sculptures: View exquisite ivory carvings, Buddha statues, and religious sculptures that embody spiritual and artistic expression.
• ’Pethikada’ and Coins: Learn about traditional storytelling through painted wooden planks and trace the evolution of currency in Sri Lanka.
• Special Exhibitions & Educational Programs: Participate in guided tours, lectures, and workshops that bring Kandyan history to life.

Ladles and cups made from coconut shells

Practical Information

The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entry fees are affordable, with prices for locals and foreigners clearly listed. It’s conveniently located near the Temple of the Tooth and Kandy Lake, making it easy to include in your sightseeing itinerary.

• Address: Kande Vihara Road, Kandy, Sri Lanka
• How to Get There: Walk from central Kandy, take a tuk-tuk, or visit as part of a guided tour.
• Entrance ticket for foreigners: 600 LKR ($2)

Tips for Visitors

• Allocate at least 1-2 hours to explore the museum thoroughly.
• Don’t miss the intricate royal regalia and ancient manuscripts.
• Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Temple of the Tooth and Kandy Lake for a full cultural experience.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the National Museum of Kandy is more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersive experience into the island’s regal past and cultural resilience. It’s a must-visit for anyone eager to understand the historical roots of Sri Lanka’s proud heritage. For more information and travel planning, visit the Sri Lanka Tourism Official Website

View 360 Hotel by Queens Mount

The Asian Itinerary team was kindly hosted by View 360 Hotel by Queens Mount, which offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free WiFi, ensuring a pleasant stay.

Visit their FACEBOOK page HERE.

Metro Tours & Rent A Car

Asian Itinerary explored Sri Lanka by car, courtesy of Metro Tours & Rent A Car, proudly serving travelers across the island since 2005. With over 20 years of experience and a 4.9-star rating from 220+ Google reviews, they are a trusted name in car rentals, known for quality service and customer satisfaction.

WEBSITE:  https://metrotours.lk/ 

EMAIL:  metrotoursrentacar@gmail.com

WHATSAPP:  +94 777327285

The post Explore Sri Lanka’s Heritage at the Kandy Museum appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Ceylon Tea Museum Kandy

To watch all photos in the Gallery, click on the photo above here.

Nestled just south of the hill-city of Kandy in Sri Lanka, the Ceylon Tea Museum is housed in the historic Hantana tea-factory building and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the island’s tea heritage. The museum brings together donated machines from Sri Lanka’s estates, detailed history panels on tea pioneers such as Sir Lipton, and a final tasting that makes the visit memorable.

Exploring the five floors

Although many descriptions mention four floors, your visit revealed five distinct levels:

• 

  Historical panels profiling tea-industry

  Ground Floor: Step into the industrial heart – original rollers, dryers, sorters and fermentation tables once donated by local tea estates. These machines reflect the mechanics of tea production in the factory-era Ceylon.

• First Floor: Head upstairs to the library and museum displays. Here, you’ll find historical panels profiling tea-industry giants such as Sir Thomas Lipton and other 19th/20th century planters, and the evolution of Sri Lankan tea cultivation from colonial times.

• Second Floor: A deeper dive into machinery and process. Many of the vintage machines on this level were donated by several working tea factories in Sri Lanka, preserving real-world equipment for visitors to see up close.

• Third Floor: Tea-café with panoramic views; comfortable seating, a telescope pointing out across the hills of Kandy, and your included tea-tasting experience. Tea sales gallery and display of estate labels. This is where you can view and purchase high-grade Ceylon teas, perfectly placed before finishing with the café.

A guided tour that adds value

Thomas at Ceylon Tea Museum Kandy with Phadma the guide

A highlight of the visit was the tour led by the helpful staff — in particular Phadma, our guide, who explained each machine in the context of the tea-making process: from withering and rolling leaves to drying, sorting and packing. Her clarity, friendly attitude and English explanations made a difference.
I recommend spending time listening to her detailed explanations of how the machines donated by working factories still reflect real practice, rather than just static displays.

The tea-tasting finale

Our comprehensive tea tasting

At the end of the tour you’ll be offered a complimentary cup of the museum’s best black tea — a warm welcome. For a more immersive experience, you can opt for the 1000 LKR (~US $3) tasting of seven different qualities of tea, which gives you a real sense of flavour variation. Entry to the museum was only 1000 LKR (~US $3) at the time of visit — excellent value.
Tip: Arrive in the morning when the café views are best and the machinery displays are quieter.

Why it matters

The museum tells the story of how Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) became one of the world’s premier tea-producing countries — from the plantation era and experimental cultivation, to the modern industry. Exhibits cover the shift from coffee to tea in the 19th century, the work of planters like Lipton, and the role of estates and processing machinery in building the economy.
For tea-lovers, history buffs or those looking for a break from the standard Kandy attractions, this museum offers calm, retail-free contemplation and real insight.

Visitor Tips

• Get a tuk-tuk or taxi from central Kandy; the museum lies about 3-4 km on the Hantana road.

• Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll climb a couple of flights of stairs and spend 60-90 minutes.

• Want a good photo? The top-floor café view of green hills is ideal.

• Tea purchas­ing: bring a little extra cash if you plan to buy a souvenir blend or premium estate teas at a 10% discount on the standard prices.

For more information, visit the museum’s official site here: Ceylon Tea Museum

View 360 Hotel by Queens Mount

The Asian Itinerary team was kindly hosted by View 360 Hotel by Queens Mount, which offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free WiFi, ensuring a pleasant stay.

Visit their FACEBOOK page HERE.

Metro Tours & Rent A Car

Asian Itinerary explored Sri Lanka by car, courtesy of Metro Tours & Rent A Car, proudly serving travelers across the island since 2005. With over 20 years of experience and a 4.9-star rating from 220+ Google reviews, they are a trusted name in car rentals, known for quality service and customer satisfaction.

WEBSITE:  https://metrotours.lk/ 

EMAIL:  metrotoursrentacar@gmail.com

WHATSAPP:  +94 777327285

The post Visiting the Ceylon Tea Museum in Kandy appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

One of my housemates, whom I rented with last year, mentioned that he did his internship at the Ranee Museum in Kuching, Sarawak, Borneo Malaysia. His statement prompted me to inquire further, though my knowledge was limited; to my understanding, the Old Court House presently comprises only two remarkable restaurants and a bistro. However, he merely chuckled, indicating that there’s more to it than meets the eye.

So here I am, embarking on the journey of exploring another heritage site in Sarawak. Yet, despite his revelation, I didn’t take any action. I continued to ponder over it until my office informed me about a Brooke Tour they had organised for us. Being part of the tourism industry, I thought, “Okay, let’s do it.” I believed it would be more enjoyable to go as a group rather than venturing alone.

As scheduled, we convened at the Old Court House – Ranee Museum right after lunch. An evening tour seemed ideal as we could all return home afterward, creating a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere.

Charles Brooke, Second Rajah of Sarawak

Similar to the Brooke Gallery, the Ranee Museum is affiliated with the Brooke Trust. If you plan to visit the Brooke Gallery, make sure to stop by the Ranee Museum first. Why? Because you wouldn’t want to miss witnessing the sunset at The Fort Margherita; it’s truly captivating and worth your time.

Now, what about the Ranee Museum? As the name suggests, the museum commemorates the life of Ranee herself, Margaret Alice Lili De Windt, the wife of the Second Rajah of Sarawak, Charles Brooke. Despite being born in France and raised in the UK during a much more modern era, she possessed a fervent desire to learn about and explore different cultures and places. At the tender age of 19, she embarked on a journey across the ocean to begin her married life.

A guide with visitors at The Ranee Museum

During her time in Sarawak, she immersed herself in the local community, learning about various customs, cultures, and beliefs. As a result, she was admired for her grace, humility, and friendliness towards the locals. The museum showcases a photograph of her alongside prominent Sarawakian women such as Dayang Lehut, Dayang Sahada, Mrs. Maxwell, and other attendants.

According to the museum curator, she greatly valued local customs, evident in her collection, which includes exquisite ‘Songket and Keringkam’ embroidery by the Sarawak Malay community.

‘Songket and Keringkam’ embroidery

Songket is a traditional woven fabric, while Keringkam is a type of Malay embroidery featuring gold or silver threads, typically worn as a headscarf by women. It’s said that she cherished this attire and continued to wear it long after leaving Sarawak. This sentiment is echoed in the personal possessions exhibited at the museum, including heritage textiles, paintings, crafts, and literature spanning 140 years.

Words alone cannot fully encapsulate her profound love for this nation. Therefore, I highly recommend a visit to the Ranee Museum to delve deeper into her remarkable journey. Similar to The Fort, there’s an admission fee, but if you opt for the full tour (both Brooke Gallery and Ranee Museum), you’ll enjoy a discounted price.

Opening Hours:

Monday – Sunday & Public Holidays: 9:00 am – 4:45 pm

WWW: https://sarawaktourism.com/attraction/ranee-museum

Admission Fee

Malaysian:

• Adult – RM10
• Child (7-12 yrs) – RM5

Non – Malaysian:

• Adult – RM20
• Child (7-12) -RM10

The post Old Court House: The Ranee Museum appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Time-honoured techniques and rich visual storytelling form the core of new Batik (traditional painting and dyeing) classes at Avana Retreat, a resort set amid the homelands of the Hmong community. Led by a local Hmong artist, the complimentary and deeper-dive paid options are held at the property’s Stilt House, an on-site museum, to help guests connect with the local customs and traditions.

“If the waterfall is our property’s heartbeat and the spa is the soul, then our Stilt House is the spirit,” said Mr. Vu Huy, founder of Avana Retreat.

Stilt House at Avana Retreat

The same visual designer whose work graces the resort’s suites will lead sessions that introduce a beeswax art and indigo dyeing technique that has been used for generations in the surrounding highlands.

Complimentary 60-minute sessions are held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday with guests learning about the beeswax painting process. Each participant, under the guidance of the teacher, uses beeswax to create their own unique patterns or they can use traditional Hmong designs on a 30 x 30cm cotton cloth.

The paid 2-2.5 hour class is a deeper and more hands-on experience that is available by reservation-only. It’s a more comprehensive introduction to the history, the patterns, the tools, and the technique. In addition guests usher their work through each step of the process, from melting the beeswax to creating the patterns on the cloth, to learning how to use the indigo dye and dyeing the fabric themselves. Each participant keeps the 45 x 45cm cloth that is created.

“While art is core to any culture among a community without a written language for generations, art becomes so much more,” said Huy. “Stories, dreams, myths, are all expressed through Batik in a way that words cannot capture.”

Batik Workshop Credit Bao Khanh

The location of the classes also inspires cultural exploration. The 50-year-old Stilt House, which was standing on the land now occupied by the retreat, was dismantled and rebuilt in a new location on the resort’s grounds.

It was then transformed into a museum to introduce the lives, culture and traditions of the local Thai, Muong, and Hmong ethnic groups. Walls and glass cases filled with tools, clothing, art and jewellery, tell the story of the people who live in the region. The Batik session takes place in the airy space beneath the museum.

Avana Retreat also offers a tour of a nearby Hmong craft village where guests can watch this intricate art being created with a deeper knowledge of the story behind it. Private workshops cost from USD50 to USD75 per person and are only available to in-house guests. For more information visit: https://avanaretreat.com/

The post Avana Taps Hmong Culture for Stilt-House Museum Classes appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

An ode to Haruki Murakami, this is one of the greatest literary figures in the world. Opened in October 2021, the Murakami Library in Tokyo – AKA The Waseda International House of Literature – is for the fans of the Japanese writer’s works. It is housed in the Waseda International House of Literature and has over 3,000 texts documenting Murakami’s works, including essays, short stories and novels.

Haruki Murakami

World-famous Japanese architect Kengo Kuma designed the building, keeping in mind the author’s nature and quirks. The use of curves inside the building, its white exterior and the wooden tunnel around the building symbolise Murakami’s use of the ordinary as well as his sweet, simple and kind-natured deposition. In true Japanese style, Kuma has worked on smaller sections for the visitors to explore.

Explore Your Story, Speak Your Heart

Inspired by Haruki Murakami’s speech on the occasion of receiving the Hans Christian Andersen Literature Award, Director Kei Shichiri created a theme film for the Waseda International House of Literature. The film speaks from a bird’s eye view of architecture and explores the relationship between people and books through the interplay of light and shadow.

Tour of WIHL with Robert Campbell

The Waseda International House of Literature building

The Waseda International House of Literature opened its doors on October 1, 2021. What are the buildings most exciting features? What does each section of the library aim to accomplish? WIHL Advisor Robert Campbell tours the library, asking staff members about exhibitions (including the opening exhibition that ran through February, 2022) and future plans. This video, made by students from WHK, Waseda University Broadcasting Association club, explores WIHL’s charms down to the smallest details.

Facilities

• Stair Bookshelf：Read Murakami’s books—and many others—in the STAIR BOOKSHELF, symbol of WIHL
• Cafe：Grab a drink in the student-run CAFE with a menu based on Murakami’s work
• Lounge／Pocket Park：Take time to relax with a book in the LOUNGE and POCKET PARK
• Author’s Study：Look inside a detailed replica of the AUTHOR’S STUDY
• Nameplate those who make donations to The Haruki Murakami Library Fundraising Campaign
• Gallery：Surround yourself in Murakami—in more than 50 languages—in the GALLERY
• Audio Room：Hear what Murakami is listening to in the AUDIO ROOM
• Reading Space：Come see Haruki Murakami’s bibliography in the READING SPACE.

The price of a ticket is around USD 15.

Visit The Haruki Murakami Library here

The post The Haruki Murakami Library appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

URA gallery

My visit to the Singapore City Gallery was entirely unplanned. A sudden downpour at 4pm cut short my afternoon wandering through Chinatown, and with rain showing no intention of stopping, I ducked into the nearest shelter. That shelter turned out to be one of the most enriching places I visited during my entire time in Singapore.

A City’s Story, Told in Three Floors

Opened in 1999 and housed inside the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) Centre on Maxwell Road, the Singapore City Gallery is a quietly extraordinary place. It tells the story of one of the world’s most remarkable urban transformations — how a small, resource-poor island became a thriving first-world metropolis of six million people in the space of just half a century.

Singapore from present to future

Spread across three floors, the gallery covers more than ten thematic areas through audiovisual presentations, interactive exhibits, and architectural scale models that range from the beautifully detailed to the genuinely jaw-dropping.

The Central Area Model

The amazing island wide model

The centrepiece of the gallery — and one of its oldest exhibits — is the Central Area Model on the first floor. This is one of the largest architectural scale models in the world, and it earns that title. Every building in Singapore’s city centre is rendered with painstaking accuracy, including structures currently under construction and those still in the planning pipeline, such as the vast Marina South development. Once an hour, the model comes alive with a three-minute light and sound show that traces the city’s transformation from above. Standing over it, you get a genuine bird’s-eye view of an entire metropolis — something that never quite loses its sense of wonder no matter how long you linger. Click here for an online virtual tour to explore the Central Area Model up-close: http://www.ura.gov.sg/uol/citygallery/About/architectural-models/central-area-model.aspx

More Than Just Models

Central area model

Beyond the scale models, the gallery offers a rich variety of interactive and experiential exhibits. A panoramic show depicts the rhythms of daily life on the island. Other sections cover Singapore’s ambitious land reclamation programme, its conservation efforts, the careful preservation of heritage neighbourhoods, and the ongoing challenge of planning a dense, liveable city for the future. The information is presented with real creativity — this is not a dry archive. It is a genuinely engaging space that rewards curiosity at every turn.

Practical Information

The gallery is free to enter, fully air-conditioned — a blessing in Singapore’s humidity — and there is a restaurant and café on the ground floor for when you need a break. Over 200,000 people visit each year, and it is easy to understand why. Whether you have a passion for architecture and urban design or simply a couple of spare hours, this is time exceptionally well spent.

Entrance of URA

Singapore City Gallery Free Admission Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9.00am – 5.00pm Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Address: 45 Maxwell Road, The URA Centre, Singapore 069118 Tel: +65 6321 8321 Email: ura_gallery@ura.gov.sg Website: www.ura.gov.sg/citygallery

Getting There: MRT — Tanjong Pagar (EW15) or Chinatown (NE4/DT19) Bus — stops A, B, and C served by multiple routes including 61, 80, 131, 166, 167, and 970 Bicycle — 10 parking lots available at the URA Centre

Located very close to Maxwell Food Centre and a short walk from Chinatown.

The post Singapore City Gallery: The Urban Planning Museum appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Langkawi is an island located in the Kedah province of West Malaysia, an island surrounded by other small islands and rich in natural beauties and lovely viewpoints. Most of Langkawi’s attractions are attached to fables, as the Malay style requires. One of these, and probably the most famous one, is the legend of Mahsuri, a young princess who lived in Langkawi during the 17th century. A tale that has existed since ancient times, a story passed from generation to generation about a curse that was written even before this wonderful island was part of Malaysia.

Cato at the Makan Mahsuri entrance

With this in mind, one of the first thing I did after arriving on Langkawi was to organize a visit to Makam Mahsuri, or Mahsuri Tomb, a tourist attraction on the island. We made our way to Kampung Mawat, the area where the museum is located, paid the 10 Ringgit entry fee and where soon inside the complex where her crypt is, and where we were told the story of Mahsuri with great gamelan music played by the local people in the background.

According to the legend, Mahsuri was the third daughter of Pandak Mayah, a pretty maiden who lived during the Reign of Sultan Abdullah Mukarram Shah II who ruled what is now Kedah province between 1762 and 1800. She was one of the most beautiful women in all of Langkawi and married a warrior who soon had to depart to fight in the war with Siam. During her husband’s absence, Mahsuri befriended a young man, giving her mother-in-law, jealous of Mahsuri beauty and fame, the chance to conspire against her. She spread the rumour that Mahsuri was unfaithful to her warrior husband and this lead to her being openly accused by all the villagers of adultery and sentenced to death. Mahsuri strongly pleaded her innocence, but no one believed her and was tried and sentenced to death by the village elders. When she was finally executed with the ceremonial dagger, white blood flowed from the wound and birds flew in to cover her whole body, signifying her innocence.

The folklore believes that since she was going to die for a crime she did not commit, with her dying breath Mahsuri cursed Langkawi with seven generations of bad luck: “For this act of injustice, Langkawi shall not prosper for seven generations to come.”

at the Mahsuri gallery

Many locals of Langkawi believe the legend to be true, citing occurrences and tragedies during the decades that followed Mahsuri’s death: the Siamese conquered Kedah and invaded Langkawi, with the villagers setting fire to their crops to halt the advance of the invaders. Still to this day, legend has it that after torrential rains, traces of burned rice can be seen in nearby Padang Matsirat (which means ‘the field of burnt rice’)

It was only after the seven generations passed, at the end of the 20th century, that Langkawi prospered as a tourist destination, and this newfound success was attributed to the end of Mahsuri’s curse. In the year 2000, the Malaysian government managed to trace Mahsuri’s descendants in the Thai island of Phuket – apparently Mahsuri was the daughter of a couple who moved from their native Phuket to Langkawi in search of a better life. Mahsuri latest descendant, Wan Aishah, still occasionally returns to Langkawi to visit Mahsuri tomb. It is popularly believed that the discovery of Wan Aishah officially ended the seven generations curse.

reconstruction of a traditional Malay house

Makam Mahsuri’s historical site includes Mahsuri’s shrine (a white slab of marble that stands in a shady garden), a reconstruction of a traditional Malay house, a theatre and a ‘diorama museum’ which houses some of Mahsuri’s jewellery and the weapon that killed her.

The legend of Mahsuri and of her execution was indeed a tragedy of dramatic proportions and her curse, whether it is myth, real story or fantasy, has had significant importance and consequences in the course of Langkawi’s history.

Makam Mahsuri

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 18:00

Location: Makam Mahsuri is located at Kampung Mawat (Kampung means village) 12km from Kuah.

Tel: +60 3 955 6055

Getting there: To reach Makam Mahsuri, follow the Padang Matsirat Road until you pass the Tok Senik Resort on your left, where you will cross the junction to Makam Mahsuri Road. There, turn right and follow the road until you reach the mausoleum. The signposts are in both Malay and English.

Facilities: there are food outlets outside the complex.

The post Langkawi – the legend of Mahsuri appeared first on Asian Itinerary.