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From pottery workshops to art spaces, here are some of the most unique spots to explore in the neighbourhood

Hidden behind People’s Park Complex, in Chinatown, is 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace, a hip neighbourhood teeming with art studios and rich history. Along this bustling neighbourhood, you will find a treasure trove of shops and studios perfect for unleashing our inner artists.

That said, Pearl’s Hill Terrace wasn’t always this vibrant. In fact, in the 1930s, the vibrant art enclave was once the upper barracks of a police station. During this time, the area was used to survey and control the Chinatown area which was previously plagued with crime and violence.

The neighbourhood was vacated in 2001 and redeveloped over the years to become what it is today. So, the next time you are in the area, why not check out this artsy neighbourhood? Here are some spots to get you started.

Eat and drink

Asaru Studio

Take a break from exploring the area at Asaru Studio and savour a range of Japanese inspired wagashi (traditional Japanese confections). Book the Uchi experience and try a range of desserts and drinks like its juicy strawberry daifuku and fluffy matcha roll cake. The latter is filled with cream and sweet adzuki beans. The sweet treats pair perfectly with its clean and bittersweet matcha.

While you are here, don’t forget to explore its retail section where you will find a stunning selection of Japanese-inspired pieces.

Asaru Studio, 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace, 01-07, S(168976)

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Kult Yard

After a day of exploring, there is nothing better than relaxing with a cocktail—at Kult Yard, you can do just that. Take your pick from its selection of cocktails, or Kultails, like the Kult Julep. One of its most popular cocktails, this concoction is a mix of kaffir lime leaves, gula Melaka, fresh lime juice, and your preferred spirit.

Its cocktails pair perfectly with its selection of tacos. Try the grilled Angus steak that sees corn tortillas stuffed with beautifully flame-grilled skirt steak, refried beans, salsa, chipotle mayonnaise and cheese. 

Kult Yard, 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace, 01-54, S(168976)

Workshops

The Potters' Guilt

The neighbourhood is home to various pottery studios, one of them being The Potters' Guilt. At this quaint ceramic studio, a range of workshops are available, suitable for any level of experience. Beginners can go for the pottery on the wheel experience, a one and a half hour workshop where you can have a go at making your own tableware on the wheel.

The Potters’ Guilt, 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace, 01-03, S(168976) 

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The Glass Hut

At this immersive and multi-faceted art space, anything is possible. On a mission to support and revive the local art scene, this space is constantly changing—you may find music performances on one day, and art activations the next. Check out its Instagram page, where you will find regular updates on the various events happening each week.

The Glass Hut, 140 Cecil Street, 14-03/04, S(069541)

The Art Nooq

This studio is taking art jamming to another level with its macaron art jam. During this two-hour edible art jamming session, learn more about edible painting and get to paint your own macarons.

If edible art jamming isn’t for you, classic art jamming sessions are available too. Its two-hour unguided art jam session includes everything you need to channel your inner Bob Ross, from paint to canvases.

The Art Nooq, 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace, 01-58, S(168976), +65 8042 1689

Black Crow Taxidermy

Try your hand at taxidermy at Black Crow, Singapore’s only commercial taxidermy studio. Choose from a selection of workshops like the chick dome workshop and get a guided hands-on experience at preserving your own chick. Depending on the workshop you choose, the session can take from 90 to 120 minutes.  

Black Crow Taxidermy, 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace, 01-10, S(168976), +65 8950 1432

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Neon Booth

Ditch the classic B&W photo studios and head to Neon Booth, Singapore’s first neon-themed self-studio. Here, regular white light and solid-coloured backgrounds are swapped with neon ones, allowing you to stand out against the psychedelic backdrops.

Neon Booth, 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace, 02-08A, S(168976), +65 9236 5652

Shopping

The Everyday Studio

If you’re after some retail therapy, check out The Everyday Studio and find a range of chic and minimalistic bags, perfect for your everyday needs. Take your pick from slings and totes to pouches and drawstrings. What’s more, these bags come in a wide variety of colours making it easy to outfit match.

The Everyday Studio, 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace, 01-16, S(168976), +65 8832 2061

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Parks and Tours

Pearl’s Hill City Park

Find peace in nature at Pearl’s Hill City Park. Located atop the hill itself, this hidden oasis offers picturesque views of Chinatown. Whether you are seated by the pond or exploring the park, keep your eye out for squirrels and monkeys roaming around the park.

Former Combined Operations Room

History buffs can embark on a tour of the Former Combined Operations Room to learn more about the ‘significant and iconic historical structure’ of the Singapore Police Force. Head down and you will find a recreation of the Former Combined Operations Room’s 1950 set up. Each tour will last 40 to 45 minutes.

Former Combined Operations Room, 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace  Courtyard, S(168976), +65 9893 5140

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