Homebound Adventures: Explore Hougang with Lifestyle News

From Jungle to Suburb: A Cheesy Tale of Hougang

Picture this: one sunny afternoon, you’re chatting with a long‑time Hougang resident who just drops a bombshell—you’ll never believe how wild this place used to be! It was once a thick jungle buzzing with pig farms, kampungs, and even crocodiles roaming the swamps. Who knew your suburban playground had a playground for all creatures?

The Jungle Days

Back in the day, the land was a natural playground for locals. Pigs wallowed in mud, kampungs whispered stories on breezy nights, and the occasional croc would patrol waterways – a true back‑to‑nature vibe. It was a far cry from the neatly ordered streets you see now.

Why It’s Called “Ow‑Kang”

Ever wondered why Hougang sounds like “ow kang”? The name actually came from Teochew and Hokkien, meaning “at the back of the river.” It’s a nod to where the original settlers first planted their roots by the end of Upper Serangoon Road, near Sungei Serangoon. Essentially, the town’s history is etched in its very nickname.

What’s Still Here (and a Few New Additions)

• Teochew Community – the heart and soul of Hougang’s culture.
• Food Heaven – locals swear it’s the best food hub in the North‑East.
• Modern shops and condos that grew around the historic roots.

Take the National Heritage Board’s Hougang Heritage Walk

Ready to rewind time? The Hougang heritage walk is your ticket. It’s a fun, photo‑friendly trek with plenty of automatically wholesome “Insta‑worthy” spots. Plus, you’ll hit up the best makan spots along the way. All you need is a sense of adventure and a full stomach.

“Bring your camera, bring your appetite – we’ll be the snack squad on this walk!”

Must‑Try Makan Recommendations

1. Big Pashny Pig Roast – juicy, flavour‑packed barbeque the locals love.
2. Silva Kways Foundation Food Stall – famous for their spicy Laksa.
3. Yong’s Kopitiam – the classic top‑to‑bottom breakfast that’s a true feel‑good meal.

So there you have it – a quick back‑to‑roots journey from jungle to modern suburb. Just remember to keep your camera ready, your stomach hungry, and most importantly, enjoy the ride!

Break your BMT record at Sungei Serangoon

Lost & Found: Hougang’s New Park Connector

Picture this: you’re strolling through a fresh, uninterrupted green corridor that starts at the bustling Punggol Park and winds its way right into the heart of Punggol. Sound like a movie? Nope, it’s happening right now.

What’s on the Trail?

• Space to Stretch – Wide‑open paths that let you move like a yoga master or a marathon runner.
• Exercise Pits – Pop into the built‑in workout stations; perfect for chipping away at that IPPT Gold trophy.
• River Charm – Enjoy the calming flow of the river. A background for selfies or a postcard to send to yourself.
• Wildlife Surprise – A daring otter family might be lurking nearby. Don’t worry, they’re strictly non‑aggressive and loves a good lap in the water.

Why You Should Care

Not only does this connector stitch together two beloved locales, but it also gives you a healthy dose of fresh air, exercise, and scenic splendor, all in one exciting package. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a nature lover, or just looking for a quick escape from the city buzz, this trail’s got your back.

Quick Tips

• Bring a water bottle – you’ll want to stay hydrated while you conquer those pits.
• Dress comfortably – the terrain is mostly flat, but the otter sightings might involve some “spooky” waddling moments.
• Lock your phone in a waterproof holder – you don’t want to miss the otter selfie opportunity.

So next time you’re in Hougang, grab a friend, lace up your sneakers, and get ready to explore the new park connector. It’s a walk, a workout, and a chance to meet new friends, both human and otter.

Watch out for vintage clocks at Cheong Ann Watch Maker

Clockin’ Around with the Lim Family’s Vintage Time Capsule

Picture a shop that looks like a time‑traveler’s attic—retro vibes that scream “old school chic” while the hands on the clocks keep chugging forward. That’s Lim’s Clock Gallery, a charming place that blends museum‑style charm with a punch of modern swagger. The Lims, now in their second and third generations, have taken over this ticking treasure trove and are keeping the gears turning.

What They Offer

• Selling classic timepieces: from wall‑mounted beauties to pocket‑watch relics.
• Restoring aged clocks that need a little pick‑me‑up—think rust, broken gears, or a warped dial.
• Repairs the mechanical heartbeats so your old timer doesn’t hit the brakes on you.
• Restoration Projects that turn forgotten antiques into showstoppers.

Big Win: The Raffles Grandfather Clock

When the legendary Raffles Singapore wanted to revitalize its oldest furniture piece—a grand boombox known as a grandfather clock—Lim’s crew rolled up their sleeves and brought the gear‑junk back to life. The result? A pristine, chiming masterpiece that still takes center stage in the hotel’s lobby, reminding guests that even the classics can be fresh.

Why It Matters

This isn’t just about polishing metal; it’s about preserving a slice of history that tells a story of time itself. The Lims’ blend of expertise and wit keeps the past alive while making it accessible—and a bit giggly—to everyone who walks through their doors.

Follow the Hougang heritage makan trail

Teck Chye Terrace

From Carrot Cakes to Global Flavors: A Journey Through Time

Picture this: 1928, a bustling corner of Singapore’s old Lim Tua Tow market. A Chinese businessman named Lim Teck Chye turned a humble slot into a food paradise that would become the go‑to spot for locals for almost a century.

Back in the Day

• Hungry on a budget? You’d spot hawkers grilling fried carrot cakes and steaming bowls of beef noodles.
• By the ’90s, the aroma of those classic treats still lingered, but the vibe was changing.

Fast‑Forward to Today

The place still burns with culinary fire, but now it’s a playground for worldwide flavors.

• Yaowarat Seafood & Thai Cuisine – taste that tangy, spicy Thai flair right on a bustling street.
• Kaiyo Sushi & Grill – fresh sashimi that’ll make your taste buds do the happy dance.

Keep It Local (and Delicious)

Noticed a craving for that “real Singapore” vibe? Jump over to the second‑generation champions:

• Ah Seah Teochew Porridge – the recipe’s been on the menu since the 1960s, and it’s still as comforting as a grandma’s hug.

So whether you’re chasing the world’s tastes or craving that nostalgic comfort, this spot’s got it all—one bite at a time.

939 Upper Serangoon Road, the former Simon Road Market

From Chicken Feasts to Egg Frenzy: A Day at the Revamped Upper Serangoon Market

Once a bustling poultry hub dating back to 1948, the old Upper Serangoon Market once stood proudly on Simon Road. Closed in 1999, it’s now transformed into a culinary playground where a single‑storey terrace hosts a whole spectrum of munchies.

What to Pounce On

• Yaowarat Thai Kway Chap – Thai noodle soup so flavorful it practically sings in your mouth. A must‑try!
• Qi Wei Ji Bao – Their spicy chicken hotpot is the perfect rainy‑day companion, a steaming bowl that warms both heart and soul.
• Ponggol Nasi Lemak – A long queue proves its worth. The coconut‑rice dish wrapped in crispy skin is worth every minute.
• Lola’s Café – This corner spot serves eggs Benedict that could grant you breakfast royalty, crab cake that’s practically a line‑up star, and pulled pork that melts in your mouth.

Why It Still Rocks

Although the market closed decades ago, its legacy lives on. The terraced units now buzz with diverse food stalls that keep the old spirit alive while injecting a fresh, vibrant energy.

Bottom Line? Bring a Fork (and a Laugh)

Whether it’s a savory hotpot or an egg‑centric delight, the market’s culinary lineup is a tongue‑tasting journey worth taking. So next time you’re strolling by Simon Road, step into the renovated Upper Serangoon Market and let your taste buds thank you!

Neo Kian Guan Confectionary

Meet the Charismatic Bakery that Has Been Scoffing & Snack‑ing Through 70+ Years of Hougang History

Why Hougangites Can’t Stop Raving About This Classic

Every time you pass 7, Hougang Ave 3, there’s an irresistible smell of old‑world sweetness wafting out of the shop. That’s the legacy of a family‑run bakery that’s been around since the roaring 1930s—“70 years” is like a full heart‑stroke of time, not just passing years. Hougangites (the locals) have known it or heard the legend, and they’re all in for a treat.

From Your First Bite to First‑Class Histories

• 1930s: Jalan Kayu – The ground was laid on Hokkien and Teochew biscuits to start the dynasty.
• 1949: Lim Tua Tow Road – As the city grew, so did the bakery, moving to better show its cookie prowess.
• 2008: The Final Stop – 7 Hougang Ave 3 – The current home, only because the city begged, “Where can we put all these delicious goodies?”

The All‑Handmade Affair

The third generation is running the show now. In a world of conveyor belts and mass production, they’re still whipping up those iconic biscuits by hand. “Pass out crumbs like a secret code,” says the family, and the result is a mouth‑watering nostalgia that has diners coming back for each perfect crumbout.

What Taste Do You Expect?

Think of the savory sweetness of a freshly baked Hokkien biscuit with a whole lot of love, or the silky soft texture of a Teochew cake. Each bite feels like a trip to a time capsule while standing in the bustling lanes of Hougang.

Wrap‑Up: A Place That Keeps On Giving

Inside the humble walls of 7 Hougang Ave 3, every cup of coffee and square of cookie is a testament to perseverance, family bonds, and rice‑flavored dreams. It’s the bakery that survived WWII and still cares about a good dose of flavor—so next time you’re craving something sweet, just pop in, and let the third‑generation magic take you on a flavor adventure.

The first McDonald’s in a housing estate

McDonald’s: A Bungalow‑Bumpin’ Adventure

Remember the “golden” hours of the 1980s?

Picture a hot summer evening in May 1984, the air humming with the scent of sizzling burgers. The first Golden Arches ever rolled into a public housing estate didn’t pop up in a flashy mall—no, it landed right in the heart of Hougang. That’s the place where my friends and I swapped our local hawker delights for a juicy, ever‑golden Big Mac, and it felt like a secret party opened to the world.

The Epic Story of Hougang Street 21

Fast‑forward hundreds of years—okay, just 35 years—to the very same spot on Hougang Street 21. The outlet still stands, a steadfast guardian of the Big Mac legend. Every time we stroll past, the smell of fried onions, fresh lettuce, and that unmistakable burger harmony sends a warm ping through our brains.

• Golden Dream – The first archive of the Golden Arches in a public housing estate.
• Big Mac Hero – The same outlet has faithfully served this icon.
• Heart of Hougang – A spot where community and tasty meals meet.

Why It Still Makes Our Souls Sing

Local food? Sure, you can crank up a wok and simmer down a city. But there’s a personal rhythm that only a McDonald’s drives: the crisp, familiar crunch of a Big Mac that can feel like a hug in a box. Hougang’s rock‑solid McDonald’s reminds us that a taste adventure can be local, yet world‑class.

Your Insta-walk checklist here:

“Welcome Block” Block 25

If you’re looking for the ultimate giveaway that says “welcome, you’re in Hou gang” the place to check out is the chunk of concrete that sprays a cheeky grin on every passer‑by. The building sports a gigantic “Welcome to Hou gang Town” quote in Bangla, Tamil, Mandarin, and English—so you know you’re right.

In short, this block is literally a flag with a font that’s louder than leaving a “Welcome” sign on a postcard. If you step into the intersection, you’ll see the sky, feel the friendly vibe, and know you’ve stepped onto the official frontline of Hou gang.

“Rainbow Block” Block 316

The Story Behind the Instagram Rainbow Wall

Why It’s a Fan‑Favorite

Think of that rainbow block you see flanking every Insta story and sit‑down wedding shoot. It’s not just a pretty splash of color; it’s the social media equivalent of that one friend who always shows up to the party wearing a pineapple hat. People love it because it’s the opposite of a dull background—eyes pop, photos click, and not a single follower is left scrolling past without a grin.

The Colorful History of Repainting

What most of us don’t realize is that the rainbow tiles are an evolving piece of art. Over the years, designers have given it a new look as often as a kid gets a new toy. Here’s the timeline of those curtain calls:

• 2007‑2010: Classic Vibrant Gradient – a simple switch‑on‑to‑off of stripes, straight from the “so‑you‑can‑make‑life‑a‑gallery” era.
• 2011‑2013: Pastel Pop – rainbows in “soft but still extra” mode.
• 2014‑2016: Neon Nostalgia – industrial‑grade LED glow that let people get their Phat‑Mask good on.
• 2017‑2019: Stencil Art – sprayed with half‑acidic code for that hipster vibe.
• 2020‑2023: Mood‑Sync – LED strips that change color to the beat of the music in real time.

Why Each Update Sticks

Every new version is a response to the next big trend: reviewers say the page snore‑mode feels dead after a decade of purple-waves. Instagram’s algorithm treats fresh, color‑rich posts with extra love, so the designers kept our hearts—and phones, and banter—happy.

Bottom Line: A Living Piece of Art

So next time you tap “swipe up” on one of those rainbow stories, remember: you’re looking at a dynamic, ever‑changing backdrop that’s been repainted like a precious piece of M. C. Escher’s mind‑bending geometry. Just add a dash of “look‑at‑me” and you’ll have a photo that’s braver than a bull, brighter than a sunrise, and last longer than a week’s worth of social media posts.

Masjid Haji Yusoff

A Century‑Old Mosque in Hougang

Meet the “Sembahyang Tng”

Back in 1921, a modest prayer pavilion was built on the corner of Hougang’s main road, giving birth to the area’s oldest mosque. Today, the local Chinese community affectionately calls it Sembahyang Tng – a playful blend of the Malay word for “prayer” and the Hokkien word for “pavilion.”

1. 1921: The foundation stone was set.
2. Houses a vibrant mix of residents, shoppers, and commuters.
3. Still standing strong, symbolizing enduring unity.

Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Unearthing Singapore’s Gothic Gem

Picture this: a sprawling, soaring cathedral with stained‑glass windows that look like they’re straight out of a medieval storybook, right smack in the middle of Singapore’s buzzing urban life. Yeah, you read that right. We’ve got a Gothic‑style church that’s more brick than elevator lobby.

Where It Lives

St. Mary’s Mission stands proudly at the crossing of Hougang Ave 8 and Upper Serangoon Road, and if you’re wandering past Punggol Park, you’ll spot the stone façade that wears its history like a badge of honour.

The Long‑Lasting Tale

• Built in 1901—so it’s older than your great‑grandma’s cassette recorder.
• Masses are still held within its walls, even in Teochew, proving that language can spill across centuries.
• Declared a National Monument in 2005, giving it the prestigious status of a cultural treasure.

Why It’s Worth a Visit

Whether you’re a history buff, a theology enthusiast, or just looking for a quiet escape from the neon lights, this church offers:

• Architectural grandeur that will make your breath‑taking moment cards jealous.
• An underground story of colonial ties and local faith.
• Speakers who still chant in Teochew—because tradition never really goes out of style.

Don’t forget to bring your camera; the glossy tiles and vaulted ceilings are the perfect backdrop for that Insta‑worthy snapshot. And while you’re there, soak in the quiet serenade and appreciate how this gothic symbol stands as a testament to Singapore’s diverse, richly layered past—no altar for the restless spirit it seems!

Hougang Tou Mu Kung

Step into History – The Oldest Nine Emperor Gods Temple

Did you know that this isn’t just any old temple? No, it’s the pioneer shrine for the Nine Emperor Gods in the whole country, built back in 1921 and later crowned a National Monument in 2005.

Why It’s a Must‑See

• Historic vibes – The stone walls whisper stories from the early 20th century.
• Architectural charm – Notice how the rooflines dance with traditional curves, a testament to the craftsmanship of its era.
• National pride – Being listed as a Monument guarantees the temple’s protection and highlights its cultural importance.

The Festival Magic

Picture this: the Nine Emperor Gods festival swirling around you, starting on the last day of the 8th lunar month (October 4, 2021). If you happen to wander in, you’ll experience an unforgettable procession that kicks off right here and marches all the way to Sungei Serangoon.

Why is the route so epic? Because these deities are believed to have descended from the heavens, and the procession invites them back into the temple – a full circle of celestial celebration!

What to Expect

• Colorful banners flapping in the wind.
• Archways guarded by lion dancers.
• Soundtrack of drums beating in harmony with booming drums.
• Smell of incense that feels like time traveling.

Don’t miss it – it’s a blend of faith, folklore, and sheer spectacle that turns a regular stroll into a thrilling cultural adventure.

Happening history sia

Discover Hou — From Past to Present

Ready to step back in time and sprint forward to the hip, vibrant neighbourhood you see on the street? The NHB’s Hougang Heritage Trail does just that, taking you on a whirlwind tour of the district’s storied past and its lively present. Below are three self‑paced routes that let you soak in Hou’s heritage while fitting your busy schedule.

1. Landmarks of Hougang – 1 Hour (Public Transport)

• Irving Park Shopping Centre – Where the old mall mall meets new‑school retail vibes.
• Hou Gong Commercial Building – A blast‑from‑the‑past architectural gem, still standing like a proud testament to older‑day Singapore.
• Chui Cheung Temple – A spiritual stop that’s been soaking up believers for centuries.

Grab a bus, hop the MRT, and discover how these landmarks have shaped the community.

2. Architectural Gems – 1 Hour 45 Minutes (Public Transport)

• Lake View Village – The iconic water‑blessed housing complex that’s more than just a neighbourhood.
• New Town Chwee-street – Picture‑perfect streets blending heritage kitchens with futuristic aesthetics.
• Riverside Park Boundary – Think of it as the park that connects past memories with present moments.

Turn your eyes to those sharp lines and refreshed facades and marvel at the countless stories that line Hou’s pages.

3. Institutions of Service – 1 Hour 30 Minutes (Public Transport)

• Hou Gong Public Library – Where Willow Windsor books have inspired minds for generations.
• Hou Gong Sports Complex – The place to swing, bounce, and chirp while cheering for the local sports.
• Hou Gong Engineering Institute – Meet the engineers who keep the city moving along with a touch of history.

With a quick ride through public transport, you’ll see how the same area that once sustained a whole cluster of community workers has now become a hotspot for drop-and-go, hard‑workingness, full‑of‑learners, and excitement.

Fun fact: Hou Gong’s entire history is a recipe for adventure, plus a splash of community vibes!