Behind the Neon: Geylang’s Hidden History and Haunting Secrets

Singapore
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Duration3h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesChinese, English
Group sizeUp to 30 travelers

Overview

Geylang, one of Singapore's most intriguing districts, is a place where the old and new converge. With a history steeped in drug trade, sex work, and hidden societies, this area offers a captivating look into the city's urban transformation. Geylang is more than just its neon lights; it is a place of contradictions, blending faith, survival, and survivalist secrets in every corner.

This walking tour dives into the lesser-known history of Geylang. It’s a journey into the heart of Singapore’s legal red-light district, uncovering tales of crime, faith, and resilience that are rarely seen. You’ll get to experience Geylang’s streets, from sacred temples to shady corners where the drug trade and gambling dens once thrived. Along the way, you’ll hear from an ex-offender guide who will share rare insights into the survivalist world of Geylang.

Options

Walking Tour + Drink + Meal

Meal: Participants can have meal including drink at Get Some @ Guillemard Craft Beers during sharing session.

Walking Tour + Drink

Drink: Drink will be provided to all participants during sharing session at Get Some @ Guillemard Craft Beers

What's included

  • Guided walking tour
  • Non alcohol drink
  • Private transportation
  • Tip for Tour Guide

What to expect

  1. Pass by
    Checkpoint: Welcome to Singapore’s Legal Red-Light Zone. Learn how Geylang evolved into the only designated red-light district, setting the tone of contradiction, survival, and coexistence.
    Meeting Point – Not a “pass by,” travelers gather here
  2. Geylang
    Pass by
    Lorong 25 – Spirituality Meets Secrets
    Explore a street where temples and churches stand alongside remnants of old secret societies. Discover how this unique blend of faith and shadowy history paints a fascinating picture of Geylang’s dual identity—sin and salvation intertwined.
  3. Geylang
    Pass by
    Lorong 24 - Back Alleys of the Drug Trade
    Walk through the back alleys that were infamous hotspots for the drug trade during the 70s and 80s. Uncover the gritty stories of addicts and dealers evading relentless law enforcement in their pursuit of the next high.
  4. Geylang
    Pass by
    Introduction to HCSA Community Services. the non-profit organization, founded in 1996, focuses on empowering people who face significant challenges and helping them rebuild their lives.
  5. Geylang
    Pass by
    Lorong 16 – Brothels and Transit Hotels
    Discover the regulated sex trade in Lorong 20 and 16, where licensed brothels operated under strict laws and transit hotels offered discreet stays. These sites, once infamous for police raids and hidden activities, now stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Aljunied MRT Station, Exit B. Look out for your guide near the exit — they will be holding a Chrysalis Tours sign.

End point

The tour will conclude at Get Some, where your guide will have a sharing session by talking about their personal history, including past wrongdoings, struggles, and reflections, as well as how they managed to turn their lives around.

Additional information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
120.00 SGD per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
Operated by Chrysalis Tours · Booked through Viator
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From
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