national gallery singapore virtual tour

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National Gallery Singapore launches online platform for virtual experiences

Get your daily dose of art right from your living room

Walking through the halls of art galleries have almost become nostalgic. While we wait patiently for the day we get to explore the museums across Singapore and the region, there are various virtual museum tours and exhibitions you can keep yourself occupied with. 

Closer to home, National Gallery Singapore has just launched an online platform for art lovers amidst the 'circuit breaker'. Called #GalleryAnywhere, it is the Gallery's one-stop access to an array of rich digital and virtual experiences to keep art lovers engaged and entertained with art. The portal offers five distinct segments: Browse, Watch, Listen, Play, Explore – each replicating the different experiences you'd get at the Gallery. 

#GalleryAnywhere also features content that allow audiences to connect better with artworks they see in the Gallery. Join artist Chua Soo Bin as he tells you first hand the stories behind three of his photographs in the Truths & Legends exhibition, or listen to musician JJ Lin talk about his masterpiece, Journey of a Yellow Man . 

If you want to venture even deeper and gain insights into the mind of the artists, the National Gallery Singapore's Perspectives Magazine features artist interviews, curatorial essays, and offers a peek at the Gallery behind the scenes. Who says your knowledge for art has to remain stagnant while you're staying home? So keep a lookout as the Gallery progressively improves the experience and add in new content every week.  Read more

The best live streams and online initiatives by local theatre groups  Arts and crafts you can learn at home The best local movies to stream online

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National Gallery Singapore

Take in the region’s newest and largest museum of modern Singapore and Southeast Asian art housed within two of Singapore’s awe-inspiring national monuments.

The gallery is housed in two iconic Singapore buildings: the former Supreme Court Building and City Hall.

In 2015, the two buildings were lovingly restored and enhanced to create the largest museum in Singapore.

Besides housing a trove of gorgeous art, the former Supreme Court and City Hall building are works of art in themselves, hearkening back to the days of colonial Singapore.

The latest jewel in Singapore's art crown, the National Gallery Singapore is a visual arts institution housing an unparalleled collection of modern Singapore and Southeast Asian art.

Where history meets modernity

The National Gallery is Singapore’s largest visual arts venue and largest museum.

The National Gallery Singapore oversees the world’s largest public collection of Singaporean and regional art of the Eastern world.

The gallery aims to give recognition to art and culture through various media while focusing on Singapore’s culture and heritage.

The gallery site is split into two halves, the former Supreme Court Building and City Hall, spread over 64,000 square meters.

This article shares everything you must know before booking tickets for the National Gallery Singapore.

Table of contents

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Be awed by over 8,000 stunning works that showcase Singapore’s rich artistic heritage.

See the exuberant works of some of Singapore’s most prominent local artists, including Georgette Chen, Chen Chong Swee, and Liu Kang.

Keppel Centre for Art Education, Singapore’s first art education center, is housed in the Singapore National Gallery.

Apart from the trove of gorgeous art inside the gallery, the former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings are enticing works of art in themselves.

The Singapore National Gallery is an excellent opportunity to discover the art, culture, and architecture of Singapore.

The tickets for National Gallery Singapore are available at the attraction or online in advance.

However, we recommend booking your tickets in advance to save the hassle of lining up at a counter and wasting time.

Additionally, booking tickets online can help you avail discounts and offers.  

Booking online also helps avoid last-minute disappointment and delays.

Go to the National Gallery Singapore booking page, select your preferred date and the number of tickets, and buy the tickets right away.

After the purchase, you will receive the gallery pass in your email. 

Print your Gallery Passes at any of the Pass Dispensers at the main entrance on the day of your visit.

To self-print your Gallery Pass scan the QR Code that was sent to your email address and walk in.

Bring your official photo ID.

The tickets for National Gallery Singapore are available at discounted prices by clicking here .

Tickets for all adults aged between 13 to 59 are available for S$14.

Tickets for Children aged between 7 to 12, seniors over 59, students & National Servicemen are available at a reduced price of S$11.

Kids under 7, Singaporeans, permanent residents of Singapore, local students and teachers, and visitors with disabilities + one carer get free admission to National Gallery Singapore.

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Be immersed while walking through the historic buildings of City Hall and the old Supreme Court remodeled into a state-of-the-art museum, the National Gallery of Singapore, on a guided tour.

Move within the 64000-meter square area of the gallery and witness the nation’s rich artistic heritage in a perfect cultural day out.

Download the multilingual Gallery Explorer app and get stuck into a gigantic permanent collection and rotating exhibitions.

Witness the world’s largest public display of modern Southeast Asian art at the National Gallery Singapore.

The National Gallery is an opportunity for people of different interests to be fascinated by architecture, art, heritage, and history.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (13 to 59 years): S$14 Child Ticket (7 to 12 years): S$11 Seniors Ticket (59+ years): S$11  Student and National Servicemen Ticket: S$11 Child Ticket (up to 7 years): Free

Combo tickets

Make sure to get the best deal on combo tickets to visit multiple attractions on the same day.

Book once, and get discounts on your visit to major attractions.

The National Museum of Singapore, a three-minute drive from the Singapore National Gallery, is a fusion of cultural wonders bringing the past and future together in a spectacular blend.

Take a trip down 700 years of Singapore’s history and see the inspiring journey of the Singaporean people through interactive exhibits to immersive walk-in art installations.

Experience the mysticism of the woodland at the Story of the Forest exhibition, which transforms 69 famous natural history drawings into breathtaking 3D animations.

Wander into the world of the supernatural in the Magic and Menace exhibition, and see the plants and animals prized by traditional healers. 

See the cultural and spiritual identity on a guided tour in the Voices of Singapore exhibition and the infinite imagination of Singapore’s children in the Growing Up exhibition.

Let kinetic chandeliers put you in a trance forming mesmerizing aerial calligraphy.

Get a 10% discount on booking this combo ticket.

Ticket Cost: S$26

For all people intrigued by Museums and history, the interesting Asian Civilisations Museum is a few minutes walk from the National Gallery Singapore.

Uncover the ancestral cultures of Singaporeans at the wonderful Asian Civilisations Museum.

Get ready for a bucket load of interactive, educational fun for kids and adults alike on a guided tour of the Asian Civilisations Museum.

See fascinating treasures from 9th-century China from the famous Tang Shipwreck collection at the Khoo Teck Puat Gallery.

Learn about Asia’s artistic heritage at the Exchange of Ideas gallery and catch over 300 beautiful Chinese ceramics in the Kwek Hong Png Wing.

Call out your inner child by witnessing the brilliant, expansive collection of world-class vintage toys and collectibles at the MINT Museum of Toys in Singapore.

The museum is under 1 Kilometer (0.6 miles) from the Singapore National Gallery.

The Museum boasts a collection of over 50,000 items, 8,500 of which are put on display in the Museum.

The Museum also houses a vintage collection of posters, confectionery tin boxes, large-item displays, pedal cars, and original enamel advertising signs.

The Museum is bound to rekindle emotions and give you an otherworldly experience.

Ticket Cost: S$35

Save time & money! Buy Singapore Pass and dive deep into the city’s top 35 attractions. Visit Universal Studios Singapore, Madame Tussauds, and Singapore Zoo, or go on a Tiger Brewery tour, Bike Tour at Marina Bay at night, or a romantic cruise. Grab this pass now and get up to a 40% discount!

National Gallery Singapore is located in the Civic District of Singapore.

Address:   1 St Andrew’s Rd, #01 – 01, Singapore 178957. Get Directions

You can reach National Gallery Singapore by public transport or car. 

National Gallery Singapore is adjacent to the Supreme Court Bus Station, which can be reached by Bus 195.

National Gallery Singapore is a 7-minute walk from City Hall MRT Station via the Art Connector.

If you’re driving by car, turn on Google Maps and get started!

You can park on-site or at the Parliament House Car Park , a 1 minute’s walk from the Gallery.

National Gallery Singapore is open every day from 10 am to 7 pm.

The Gallery stays open on all days of the week throughout the year, including public holidays.

To have the best experience, you should spend at least three hours at the National Gallery.

However, you can easily spend a whole day at the gallery carefully exploring the artworks at your leisure.

To have the best experience, you should get to The Singapore National Gallery in the early morning hours on weekdays. 

You can enjoy the gallery peacefully, avoiding crowds and queueing before crowds pour in.

Additionally, weekdays are less crowded than weekends.

Here are some frequently asked questions about National Gallery Singapore.

You are not allowed to touch the artworks at the Gallery.

No, you can only have food at the Gallery’s restaurants and bars.

Although there is no specific dress code, bringing something to keep yourself warm is advisable.

Bulky items and large bags can be stored in the lockers provided at B1. 

Still photography without flash is permitted.

Strollers are allowed inside the Gallery.

Yes, the Gallery is wheelchair accessible.

The Gallery remains open during all public holidays, from 10 am to 7 pm daily.

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This article was researched & written by

Hanan Irfan

Hanan Irfan is fascinated by exhilarating treks, alpine lakes, landscape photography, and football. He loves trying different cuisines and meeting people from around the world. He's a sucker for solitude and sunsets, capturing memories on the run. His favorite cities: Tromsø, Reykjavik, and Seychelles

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All You Need To Know About The National Gallery Singapore

Things to do in Singapore The National Gallery Singapore

24th November 2015 was a defining day for the art climate of Singapore. The National Gallery Singapore (NGS) had finally opened after 10 years and $374 million in the making. Situated in Singapore’s Civic District, the National Gallery Singapore houses the largest public collection of Singapore and Southeast Asian art in the world. Apart from the impressive artwork , the monumental building, state of the art facilities and fine restaurants inside makes the National Gallery Singapore a sound culmination of Singapore’s history, values and vision.

Before you head into the largest museum in Singapore, here’s an all inclusive guide that details all you should know before visiting the Singapore National Gallery

National Gallery Singapore in a Nutshell

The National Gallery Singapore is housed within two former civic buildings of Singapore - the former City Hall building and the former Supreme Court building. Each building constitutes a wing of the Gallery, interconnected by the Padang Atrium and two link bridges. There are 10 galleries inside the voluminous 64,000 sqm of NGS, two of which – the DBS Singapore Gallery and the UOB Southeast Asia Gallery are permanent while the other 8 are temporary exhibitions that often change.

• Sat to Thu : 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM • Friday : 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

National Gallery Singapore, 1 St. Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957 Get Directions

National Gallery Singapore Tickets ✪

Quick Jumplinks to Navigate the Guide

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Save S$10 on your National Gallery Singapore Tickets with promo code GOSNG

Brief History of the National Gallery Singapore

The National Gallery Singapore will always stand as a stark reminder of Singapore's colonial past. Both the Supreme Court and City Hall, formerly known as the Municipal Building was designed by the British in the 1920s.These buildings have seen Lord Louis Mountbatten's announcement of the surrender of the Japanese forces in 1945, the war crime trials of Japanese officers in 1946 and the swearing in of Singapore's first prime minister and founding father Lee Kuan Yew's swearing in 1959. Today, a time capsule containing newspapers and currency laid in 1937 sits beneath the foundation stone and is scheduled for opening in 3000.

National Gallery Singapore - An Architectural Delight

The monumental task of merging the 2 national monuments into an art gallery was awarded to France’s Studio Milou Architecture and Singaporean conservation specialists CPG Consultants . The idea was to preserve the raw historical characters of both buildings while re-purposing the spaces to showcase artworks from the National Collection.

Thanks to the harmonious design by the two firms, the National Gallery Singapore retains a sense of opulence without much artificial grandeur and flaunts the air of an old structure with modern mannerism. The building preserves original details including tiled floors, windows with portico mouldings and canted timber ceilings, while new elements with a limited colour palette have been added to help unify the 64,000 square metres of gallery. The original rooms such as the Courtroom, and the City Chamber, bearing notes of history have been preserved with minimal enhancements. Walkways crisscross an atrium in the centre of the site to connect galleries on either side, while a basement concourse unites the two buildings from below. The Gallery has 8 floors with 20 exhibition spaces in the Supreme Court and 10 in the City Hall.

We highly recommend purchasing your tickets online so as to earn a few online discounts which cannot be availed at the ticket counter. Moreover, purchasing your National Gallery Singapore tickets online allow you to skip the hassle of standing in queue at the ticket line and usher you straight for security check.

• Entry ticket at 20% Discount Exclusive on Headout • Discover 8000 exquisite Singaporean and Southeast Asian works of art • Learn about the history, culture, traditions and art of this city by immersing yourself in it

Amongst the 8000, make sure you hunt down these 5 artworks in the National Gallery Singapore before leaving the premises. Well worth the effort!

Drying Salted Fish

Remnants of an Army

Journey of a Yellow Man

National Language Class

The Ceiling

Throughout the year, National Gallery Singapore hosts changing exhibitions for visitors to explore and appreciate. These are held at various other exhibition spaces and galleries around the museum located in the basement, concourse, 4th floor and even the rooftop. One of the major spaces to take note of is the SingTel Special Exhibition Gallery on the 3rd floor of the City Hall Wing which often hosts blockbuster revolving exhibitions, like the Colours of Impressionism and Between Worlds.

The DBS Singapore Gallery

The DBS Singapore Gallery is a permanent exhibition at the National Gallery Singapore located in the City Hall Wing. On display here are artworks by famous local artists such as Liu Kang and Georgette Chan. Watch out for the exhibition titled “Siapa Nama Kamu?” (“What is Your Name?” in Malay), which features stellar works of major Singaporean artists like Chua Mia Tee and Cheong Soo Pieng. The DBS Singapore Gallery is divided into three sub-galleries

UOB Southeast Asia Gallery

The UOB Southeast Asia Gallery, located in the Supreme Court Wing showcases works of artists from Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines. This Gallery is spread over three floors, Levels 3, 4 and 5 in about 15 rooms. At the UOB Southeast Asia Gallery, you can witness over 400 works from the long-term opening exhibition, “Between Declarations And Dreams”. These art pieces, date from the 19th century to the present day and look into the shared experiences and artistic impulses within Southeast Asia, offering insights into the region’s tumultuous social and political history.

Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery

This is one of the most acclaimed works of the National Gallery Singapore, situated on the the rooftop, Level 4. The installation is by the fabled artist Rirkrit Tiravanija and consists of a large-scale bamboo maze with a Japanese tea house at its centre. Drawing on regional materials, architecture and traditions, the art piece embraces Tiravanija’s interest in cross-disciplinary and collaborative art practice. The space invites visitors to encounter and participate in interactive programmes including tea ceremonies by local and international tea masters.

The Keppel Centre for Art Education

On Level 1 of the City Hall Wing, a good chunk is dedicated to arts education for children and the youth . The Keppel Centre for Art Education is designed with 4 interactive spaces - Art Corridor, Art Playscape, Project Gallery & Children;s Museum and an great lineup of education programmes, which will keep children entertained and captivated for hours together.

Aura Restaurant and Sky Lounge

This elegant Italian fine dine is a culinary treat with traditional Italian delicacies brushed with a tinge of modernism. The decor is excellence par, furnished with Uragano wicker chairs and lighting sculptures. The trump card however is the Aura Sky Lounge flaunting top-notch view of the SG skyline.

National Kitchen by Violet Oon

By the renowned food connoisseur Violet Oon, this posh and chic Bukit Timah establishment is adorned with black marbled surfaces, gold accents and framed Peranakan tiles. The menu is authentically Singaporean with hints of Indian, Hainanese and Eurasian flavours in their scrumptious meal plates.

Gallery & Co.

This hip retail-art-F&B space spans the entire frontage of the City Hall Wing on the ground floor. While you're here, you can look through some drool-worthy, well-designed products including books, design collectibles, as well as savoury & sweet bites, cakes, coffee at the cafeteria.

Saha Signature Restaurant & Bar

Helmed by Chef Abhijit Saha, one of India’s finest culinary masters, this restaurant boasts of modern and innovative plates that showcases India’s diverse and undiscovered regions. Indulge in signatures like the vegetarian paneer matar and baked gulab kamun cheesecake paired with saffron poached pears.

This fine-dine restaurant puts out honest and seasonal modern French food using the finest artisanal produce. Odette offers four- and six-course menus for lunch, six- or eight-course tasting menus at dinner, and vegetarian menus, with very luxurious-sounding dishes like North Highlands beef tartare and Hokkaido saba.

Smoke & Mirrors

Perched atop the old Supreme Court building overlooking stunning views of the Civic District, this swanky bar is responsible for the Asian-flecked cocktail menu consisting of drinks inspired by the art in the Gallery. Drink prices are pretty standard – between $16 to $24 – but bar bites are priced reasonable ($8-$28) considering its upscale environment.

National Gallery Singapore Entrance Fee

There are 2 types of entrance fees to the National Gallery Singapore and each differs for citizens and tourists

You can also buy a Gallery Insiders Pass starting at SGD30 and enjoy free entry to all exhibitions for one year, priority access, invitations to exclusive events and enjoy discounts at the restaurants and shops at the National Gallery Sinagpore.

National Gallery Singapore Guided Tours

Free, guided tours are available daily on a first-come, first-served basis. Duration of Guided Tour : 1 hour Group size : Min of 1 & Max of 20 Departure Point : Information Counter at B1 Tour Themes Building Highlights : English, 11:00 AM daily; Mandarin, 11.30 AM, Fri-Sun DBS Singapore Gallery Highlights : English, 2:00 PM daily; Mandarin, 2.30 PM, Fri-Sun UOB Southeast Asia Gallery Highlights : English, 3.30 PM daily; Mandarin, 4:00 PM, Fri-Sun

National Gallery Singapore Map

If you're engaging in a self guided tour, having a map handy will help you navigate around easily. Though there are ample signboards, you can download the PDF version of the National Gallery Singapore Map on your phone and save yourself from wrong turns and wasted time!

National Gallery Singapore Opening Hours

The Gallery is open every day of the week, even on public holidays. Admission closes 30 minutes before closing time. Saturday to Thursday : 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Friday : 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Getting to National Gallery Singapore

By MRT If you're coming to the National Gallery Singapore by MRT, there are 3 stations that are at a 10 min walking distance from the Gallery.

• City Hall - From Exit B, the Gallery is a 7-minute walk via the Art Connector.
• Clarke Quay From Exit E, the Gallery is a 10 minute walk along the Singapore River
• Raffles Place - From Exit B, the Gallery is a 10-minute walk through the business district.

There are 2 entrances to the National Gallery Singapore: Coleman Street entrance Bus Number 130 stops right outside the Gallery’s Coleman Street entrance. Bus Numbers 63, 51, 80, 32, 851 stop opposite the Peninsula Place which is a 5-minute walk from the Coleman Entrance.

Padang Atrium entrance Bus Numbers 195 and 961 stop at Parliament Place which is a 1 minute walk from the Padang Atrium entrance. Bus Numbers 61, 124, 145, 166, 174, 197 stop opposite The Treasury Building which is a 7-minute walk away from the Padang Atrium entrance. Bus Numbers 75, 100, 107, 130, 131, 167 stop in front of Victoria Concert Hall and the Gallery is a 5-minute walk from here.

The National Gallery Singapore Parking is before St. Andrew's Cathedral to the far right of Coleman Street. Paid Parking Fares 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM : $1.30 per half hour 6:00 PM – 1 :00 AM: $3.20 per entry Motorbike parking: $1 per entry, no overnight parking

Know Before You Go

• Ticket pick up is from the counter at the B1 Concourse. Even Singaporeans and PRs, who enjoy free admission are required to get a pass in order to gain entry.
• Downloading the free National Gallery Explorer app is a great way to enhance your self guided tour.
• Children below the aged 6 and below do not require a ticket for entry.
• Local & locally-based students and teachers can gain free entry into the National Gallery Singapore. Note, these tickets can be bought only on site and cannot be purchased online.
• The gallery has a calendar full of talks, performances, film screenings, workshops and activities for children and adults through the year. Before finalising the date, check the event calendar to see if you can make it to any of the events.
• Flash photography and videography is not permitted in the galleries.
• Food & Beverages are not allowed into the gallery.
• Strollers are allowed into the galleries but there is also a designated stroller parking area available on Level 1.
• The galleries are wheelchair accessible and wheelchairs can be loaned for free at the Information Counters at Level 1 and at the Basement 1 concourse.

I just love how Singapore has worked so hard to showcase their culture and art. Having the National Gallery is just so awesome. The place is very nice and modern. There are so many things on display and exhibit. It is located near the metro thus it is easy to locate. The rooftop also has nice view of the Marina Bay Sands. The Art Gallery is amazing! I would love to visit this again!

- Jasper J, TripAdvisor, June 2018

I visited so many times the national gallery; is one of the most beautifully constructed buildings; you can find so much knowledge about the history of Singapore; about art; it’s one of the most relaxing places and has so many coffee places. I think I went few times and looking forward to go again. Very knowledgeable staff lovely people !! Great place for children to learn about the majestic history of this wonderful country. If you are a tourist this is a must visit!

- AnnaMariaRb, TripAdvisor, May 2018

Read more National Gallery Singapore Reviews on TripAdvisor and see what past visitors have to say about this art gallery.

Ready To Visit The National Gallery Singapore?

Get your National Gallery Singapore tickets at a 20% Discount from Headout , or check out other attractions in Singapore here. Below are a few detailed guides on experiences in Singapore, so browse through and plan your vacation better!

See more of your city. Save more money.

Save S$10 on your first booking with Headout when you use promo code 'GOSNG' !

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Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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Virtual tours conducted by the National Gallery Singapore

画廊之旅 gallery tour - dbs singapore gallery.

This Saturday, 4 July, at 11 am, by the National Gallery Singapore conducted in Mandarin. Sign up for this tour on 4 July here

Date: 4 July 2020 (Saturday)

Time: 11.00am to 12.00pm.

This session will be conducted via Zoom. Sign-in details will be sent to your email.

Silver Tours - Tours on Gallery permanent exhibitions.

This online tour will be focusing on artwork themes that share memories and future hopes among participants. This tour will be conducted in English.

Date: 16 July 2020 (Thursday)

Time: 2.00pm to 3.00pm.

Sign up for this tour on 16 July here

Early bird registrations for invited attendees who participated in the recent eSMS (June 2020). Attendees would receive an invitation email from Eventbrite, please check your promotions/spam folder if not in your inbox.

These virtual tours are part of a pilot programme conducted by the National Gallery Singapore in collaboration with U 3rd Age, for a limited number of participants, we seek your understanding if the events are fully registered.

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Behind the National Gallery doors

It has been 10 years since the plans to turn the old Supreme Court and City Hall buildings into the new National Gallery Singapore were announced. And the journey has been a long and rather rocky one, punctuated by building delays and controversies over staffing.

On April 24, Minister for Community, Culture and Youth Lawrence Wong will be unveiling the restored buildings in their new guise as the nation's grandest museum dedicated to Singapore and Southeast Asian art.

The 60,000 sq m museum, which will open officially in November, cost an estimated $530 million to retrofit. There are more than 10,000 works in Singapore's National Collection and the museum will display about 1,000 of these works at a time. The museum also boasts the world's largest collection of Southeast Asian art.

Before its doors open, explore all the stories behind the buildings' architectural and functional rebirth with The Straits Times' archive.

Get a virtual tour of the National Gallery and find out how to get a real tour of the space before it opens

The Straits Times' Picture Desk got a chance to shoot 360 degree panoramas of the National Gallery's spanking new interiors.

Get a virtual tour of the buildings before the art goes in here.

The National Gallery Singapore is conducting a series of Naked Museum tours for the public this weekend and next. Find out how you can get one of only 360 slots in the Naked Museum tour here.

Former Supreme Court wing of National Gallery Singapore restored to old glory

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Jan 30, 2015

The Straits Times got a sneak peek at some of the interiors of the new National Gallery. Take a look here .

National Gallery Singapore and UOB announce tie-up

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Jan 22, 2015

The National Gallery announced a new partnership with the United Overseas Bank Group to promote the research and exhibition of South-east Asian works. The Gallery has the largest such collection in the world and more than 400 of the works will be displayed in the new UOB Southeast Asia Gallery in November.

Read more here .

High-level staff changes at the National Gallery Singapore just months before it opens

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Jan 2, 2015

Just months before the Gallery opens, one of its senior staff quit. Mr Woon Tai Ho, the museum's director of media and marketing, said he was leaving to go back to writing about the arts and conduct media training.

Explore the National Gallery with an app when it opens next year

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Dec 3, 2014

When the National Gallery Singapore opens in November, it will offer visitors an interactive experience courtesy of a mobile application that tracks visitors' locations.

Information about the museum will pop up depending on where the visitors are located and they can use the app to plan their walk through the museum.

Read more about the app here .

Going for gold: National Gallery Singapore approaches final stages of construction

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Aug 9, 2014

As the opening of the Gallery approached, work on site reached its final stages.

A delicately careful approach was taken during construction to refurbish the gazetted buildings.

In addition, here are 10 things to know about the construction.

Highlights from the 26 works donated to the National Gallery by DBS Bank

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Apr 2, 2014

DBS Bank broke a record with its $25 million donation to the National Gallery. It is the largest single cash donation by a corporate body to an arts institution in Singapore.

Read the details here .

Crane collapse: At least 2 dead and 3 seriously injured at National Art Gallery site

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Sept 30, 2013

Another construction crane collapsed at the National Gallery Singapore's worksite, killing two workers and seriously injuring three.

Read about the accident here .

Keppel gives $12 million to National Art Gallery

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Aug 7, 2013

Keppel Corporation marked its 45th anniversary by donating $12 million to the National Art Gallery to educate young people about the arts.

Read the story here .

Crane topples over at National Art Gallery construction site; no one hurt

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Jul 25, 2013

A construction crane's jib snapped and landed on Coleman Street at the Gallery's construction site.

No one was hurt. Read about the accident here .

New National Art Gallery has largest regional art collection

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Apr 9, 2013

The newly-appointed director of the National Art Gallery Singapore Dr Eugene Tan says the Gallery will be a "museum we can call our own". It will be a showcase for the world's largest public collection of Southeast Asian and Singapore art.

Read about his vision here .

Singaporean appointed director of the National Art Gallery

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Apr 5, 2013

After an international headhunt, the Gallery announced that its new director would be a Singaporean. Dr Eugene Tan, who developed the Gillman Barracks programme, was appointed director.

Read the announcement here .

New head of National Art Gallery Chong Siak Ching wants the art to come first

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Feb 19, 2013

The National Art Gallery, Singapore appointed a new head: Ms Chong Siak Ching, who stepped down from her post as president of business-space solutions provider Ascendas to become chief executive of the Gallery.

Although she admitted she is "not in any way artistically inclined", she has "great admiration and appreciaton for artists".

Read her interview with arts correspondent Deepika Shetty here .

Drawing the crowds to National Art Gallery

This story was first published in The Straits Times on May 7, 2012

The National Art Gallery's hiccups in terms of management are a worrying sign as the institution has a mighty task ahead.

Buildings are the hardware, but the Gallery needs to get its software - the leadership - right if it is to meet its ambitious goal of five million visitors a year.

Read the commentary here .

Renovation work in full swing at new national gallery

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Apr 2, 2012

As restoration work gets into full swing at the Supreme Court and City Hall buildings, some surprises have been unearthed.

The builders have found old graffiti and several superficial cracks in the buildings which are gazetted as national monuments.

National Art Gallery chief to step down as part of role merger

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Mar 28, 2012

Another leadership change at the Gallery as it was announced that chief executive Michael Koh will step down once a new director had been found.

He told The Straits Times that the move was part of the organisation's "succession planning".

Read the full story here .

Gallery goes headhunting

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Sept 22, 2011

As the Gallery went headhunting again for a new director, the arts community weighed in on the search. The general consensus was that there was local talent to lead the institution, even though the Gallery is looking internationally to fill the crucial post.

Read the arts community's opinions in this story .

National Art Gallery director gets a new role

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Sept 21, 2011

Mr Kwok Kian Chow, who was named director of the Gallery after a year-long international headhunt, moved to a new role as senior advisor.

The managerial change comes as the Gallery's projected opening date of 2014 approached.

Gallery gets Chua's works

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Jan 21, 2010

The family of the late Singapore artist Chua Ek Kay donated 38 of his works to the National Art Gallery.

Veterans to lead new gallery

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Mar 18, 2009

The National Heritage Board announced the names of the head honchos who will run the Gallery: the Board's chief executive Michael Koh and Singapore Art Museum director Kwok Kian Chow.

The $300-million gallery was then scheduled to open in 2013 after a postponement on building due to a government-wide deferment of building projects as a result of high construction costs.

Making of an art coup

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Sept 13, 2008

The news of Singapore's ambitious plans for a world-class art gallery snagged the museum a donation worth $66 million.

Chinese artist Wu Guanzhong, 89, a leading figure in the development of 20th-century Chinese art, donated 113 works to the Singapore Art Museum. The works will be housed at the new Gallery when it is ready.

Read the story behind the donation here .

Reuse, but keep the soul

This story was first published in The Straits Times on June 5, 2008

The architects who have the task of turning the old buildings into the new Gallery have a big job ahead of them.

Reusing old buildings has its advantages in space-scarce Singapore, but it also means the architects have to be sensitive to the heritage of the buildings while also ensuring that the new needs of a world-class art institution are met.

Read the viewpoint here .

Canopy wins jury's vote

This story was first published in The Straits Times on May 29, 2008

France's Studio Milou Architecture, in collaboration with Singapore's CPG Consultants, won the competition to design the Gallery.

The winning design, which featured a canopy connecting the two buildings, also won the thumb's up from members of the public during an exhibition of all the entries for the competition.

Read about the winning design here .

National Art Gallery design competition judge steps down

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Aug 4, 2007

Mr Koh Seow Chuan, part of the seven-member judging panel for the architectural competition to design the new National Art Gallery, stepped down from his position.

There was concern over a potential conflict of interest as he founded DP Architects, one of the final five contenders in the second phase of the competition.

5 art gallery designs picked

This story was first published in The Straits Times on May 15, 2007

The competition drew 111 entries from 29 countries, and five teams were shortlisted for the second stage of the competition.

The budget was estimated at between $200 million to $400 million for the gallery, which was then projected to open in 2012.

Wanted: Best design for gallery

This story was first published in The Straits Times on March 21, 2007

An architectural design competition to find a design for the new National Art Gallery was announced.

Read the details of the competition here .

From Supreme Court... to world-class art gallery

This story was first published in The Straits Times on Jan 16, 2005

Dr Tan Chin Nam, then permanent secretary of the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts (Mica), elaborated on the details to plans disclosed by Minister Lee Boon Yang in Parliament.

The plan then was to restore the Supreme Court and City Hall buildings to house a "world-class art gallery" within five years.

The budget was "uncertain" but the aim was to provide about 11,000 sq m to Singapore and Southeast Asian art.

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The front block of the museum building dates back to 1887. It features an elegant neo-Palladian design, a European style of architecture characterised by a highly symmetrical façade and the use of pediments above windows.

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Open Daily 10am - 7pm

The museum will open earlier at 9am on Quiet Mornings.

Last admission times:

Gallery10: 5pm

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The group size of each tour is limited to a maximum of 15 pax (excluding guide).

Note: You are encouraged to contact our front desk on the tour schedule and availability, as the tours are subjected to changes. Each tour is approximately one hour, on a first come, first served basis.

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Tour the courts

Plan your tour to the Supreme Court or State Courts to learn about Singapore's court system, history and architecture.

Things to see and do in the courts

Visitors to the Supreme Court or State Courts can learn more about Singapore's judicial system, history and courthouse architecture.

Visitors to the Supreme Court can explore the following:

• Judicial Heritage Gallery : Experience a multi-dimensional and multi-media walk-through of Singapore's judicial heritage, set in scenes during milestones in social history.
• Learning Court :  Immerse yourself in a delightful and dynamic learning experience about the Singapore court system and the Supreme Court through multimedia enactment and role play with audience participation.
• Viewing gallery : Enjoy a bird's eye view of the old Supreme Court and City Hall, the Parliament House and other significant monuments that define Singapore’s Civic District.
• Hearings are open to the public except for those held in chambers.
• Visitors can see details of all the hearings taking place, the presiding judges, the hearings which are open to the public and the best routes to take between locations.
• The building incorporates sustainable features such as climate control devices, solar shading to the offices and rooftop trees that are purposely planted to shelter over the public promenade.

Find out more about the Supreme Court and its building with a virtual tour .

Navigate around the Supreme Court with the  Wayfinder (best viewed on a mobile device) .

Visitors may also visit the Old Supreme Court, which is now the National Gallery Singapore, an art museum. You can download a free mobile app for a virtual tour of the old Supreme Court.

Visitors to the State Courts can explore the following:

• Service Hub:  Visit the venue where court users would first visit if they require any assistance. 
• Mentions Court Public Viewing Gallery: Attend a live court hearing and witness court proceedings at Court 4A, one of the largest courtrooms in the State Courts. This is where most accused are first charged for a criminal offence.
• Sky Garden:  Take in the architectural building concept as you look up from the Sky Garden and observe how the State Courts building is separated into two distinct towers - the court tower and the office tower with 39 link bridges connecting them.
• HELP Centre: Created to assist court users to navigate the legal process, this is where you will find the Community Justice Centre, Law Society Pro Bono Services and Ministry of Social and Family Development Probation Intake Office co-located in one convenient spot. Their location in the State Courts is to provide assistance that is beyond the scope of the courts.
• State Courts Heritage Gallery: Immerse yourself in an interactive journey as you explore the rich history and progress of the State Courts, and how the State Courts have played an integral role in nation-building.

Navigate around and take a self-guided tour in the State Courts with the  Wayfinder  (best viewed on a mobile device).

Sign up for guided tours

Refer to the following to find out how to sign up for Supreme Court or State Courts guided tours.

Supreme Court guided tours

Visitors interested in signing up for a guided tour of the Supreme Court may contact the following authorised educational partners for more details about the programme and fees.

State Courts guided tours

The State Courts organise free guided walking tours that last for 2 hours. The tours are open to all.

The maximum group size is 25. Tickets are open to all members of public on a first come first served basis.

How to sign up

Visitors interested in signing up for a guided tour of the State Courts may book your ticket here . 

Mobile tours

Download the free  "Old Supreme Court"  mobile app to experience a virtual tour of the old Supreme Court building, which has since been refurbished into the National Gallery Singapore .

With the app, you can get a first-person perspective of the building's previous layout, including the underground holding cells for criminal suspects, jury box and Chief Justice's court.

The app was developed by the Singapore Academy of Law and local artist Eugene Soh.

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Joy of Museums Virtual Tours

Virtual tours of museums, art galleries, and historic sites, national museum of singapore – virtual tour.

The National Museum of Singapore is the oldest museum in Singapore, and it started as a section of a library at Singapore Institution and called the Raffles Library and Museum.

The museum focuses on exhibits related to the history of Singapore, and it is one of four national museums.

A Virtual Tour of the National Museum of Singapore

Abraham ortelius map of southeast asia, jacques-nicolas bellin map of the straits of malacca, melaka print, 1750, portrait of sir thomas stamford bingley raffles, highlights tour of the national museum of singapore.

The Abraham Ortelius Map of Southeast Asia, created in 1570, shows the Malay Peninsula as an elongated extension of mainland Southeast Asia. Modern-day Singapore is depicted and labeled as “Cincapura.”

his map is illustrated with mermaids and imaginary sea monsters.

“Jacques-Nicolas Bellin Map of the Straits of Malacca,” is a maritime map of Singapore and Governor’s Straits dating to 1755.

This map shows landmarks along the western coast of the Malay Peninsula, including an island named Pulo ou Isle Panjang meaning “Long Island,” which is modern-day Singapore.

The purpose of this map was to provide the best maritime charts for the French ships. The French were competing against the British.

Jacques Nicolas Bellin was a French hydrographer and geographer. When this map was made, he was head of the French Hydrographic Office.

“Melaka” is a print depicting Melaka of the 1750s. It shows Portuguese-built fortifications at the mouth of the Melaka River with Dutch ships in the foreground.

This print is from a 15-volume publication “Histoire générale des voyages” by Antoine François Prévost. Antoine François Prévost d’Exiles (1697 – 1763) usually known only as the Abbé Prévost, was a French author and novelist.

This print illustrated Melaka in Abbé Prévost’s book called “General History of Travel.”

This print depicts Banda Aceh in the 1750s with Dutch East India Company ships in the foreground. This panoramic view shows the early settlements amongst the rice fields. 

The print was produced by Jacques Nicolas Bellin, a French hydrographer and geographer. When this print was made, he was head of the French Hydrographic Office.

This “Portrait of Sir Thomas Stamford Bingley Raffles” depicts Raffles as youthful and knowledgeable, surrounded by symbols of his scholarly work.

He was an amateur writer and wrote “The History of Java” in 1817. He is shown with a manuscript in his hand sitting at his writing desk with sculptures from Java, where he contributed to the expansion of the British Empire.

Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles (1781 – 1826) was a British statesman, Lieutenant-Governor of British Java, and Governor-General of Bencoolen, a British possession in Sumatra based in the area of what is now Bengkulu City. He is best known for his founding of Singapore.

• National Museum of Singapore
• Museum:          National Museum of Singapore
• City:                  Singapore
• Established:     1849; Former name: Raffles Library and Museum
• Location:         93 Stamford Rd, Singapore
• Building:          Built 1849, Architectural styles: Neo-Palladian, Renaissance

National Museum of Singapore Map

National Museum of Singapore: 125 years of history

Explore Singapore’s Museums

• Asian Civilisations Museum
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• Changi Museum
• Old Ford Motor Factory
• Peranakan Museum
• ArtScience Museum
• Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
• Singapore Philatelic Museum
• Chinatown Heritage Centre
• The Battle Box

Artefactually Speaking, Museum Based Learning at National Museum of Singapore

Explore Asian Museums

• China Museums
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• Singapore Museums
• India Museums
• South Korea Museums
• Thailand Museums
• Jakarta Museums
• Cambodian Museums

The National Museum of Singapore

“To bend a bamboo, start when it is a shoot.” – Singaporean / Malay Proverb

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