Pulau Ubin, an island northeast of mainland Singapore, offers a glimpse into the country’s past with its preserved kampong (village) atmosphere and rustic landscapes. Unlike the modern cityscape of Singapore, Pulau Ubin retains its traditional charm, with wooden houses, coconut palms, and unpaved roads where bicycles are the main mode of transport. It is often described as a living museum of Singapore in the 1960s.

The island is best known for Chek Jawa Wetlands, a unique ecosystem where six different habitats: mangroves, seagrass lagoons, sandy shores, rocky beaches, coral rubble, and coastal forest meet. Visitors can explore boardwalks and viewing towers to observe diverse wildlife such as mudskippers, monitor lizards, wild boar, and migratory birds. Pulau Ubin also features granite quarries, once central to Singapore’s development, now transformed into tranquil lakes surrounded by greenery.

Accessible by a short bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, the island is popular for cycling, hiking, and eco-tourism. For those seeking an escape from the city, Pulau Ubin provides a rare opportunity to experience a slower pace of life in a setting rich with both cultural history and natural beauty.