Things To Do
in Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru is the capital city of the state of Johor in Malaysia, located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. It is a vibrant city known for its cultural diversity, bustling shopping districts, and delicious street food. Johor Bahru is a popular destination for tourists, offering attractions such as Legoland Malaysia and the historic Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque.
The city is also a major transportation hub with easy access to Singapore via the Causeway bridge.
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Tolong" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Sultan Ibrahim Building, an iconic landmark. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the nearby parks to admire the architecture and greenery.
Head to Johor Bahru City Square for lunch and some shopping. Don't forget to try local delicacies at the nearby food stalls.
Wind down your day at the JB Waterfront with picturesque views of Singapore. Enjoy a casual dinner at one of the many restaurants along the waterfront.
Begin your culinary adventure at the famous Restoran Foon Lock for breakfast. Indulge in traditional Johorian dishes that will fuel your day.
Take a food tour around Jalan Dhoby and explore various street food options. Sample local favorites like Laksa and Nasi Lemak.
Finish the day with a visit to a night market like the Taman Tun Aminah. Enjoy delicious snacks and shop for unique crafts.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategically located near Singapore, making it a popular destination for both tourists and expatriates.
- More affordable cost of living compared to Singapore, especially in housing and food.
- Rich cultural heritage with a variety of local food options and markets.
- Growing economy with multiple job opportunities in various sectors.
- Developing infrastructure and convenient transportation options, including Johor Bahru's proximity to major highways and public transport.
- Traffic congestion can be a significant issue, especially during peak hours and weekends.
- Safety concerns and crime rates are higher in certain areas compared to more developed cities.
- Limited entertainment and leisure options compared to larger cities.
- Flooding can be a problem during heavy rains, affecting certain regions.
- Healthcare facilities may not be as advanced as those found in more developed nations.
Best Activities in Johor Bahru
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy waterfront activities, such as leisurely strolls, cycling, or dining at waterfront restaurants.
Relax on the beach, engage in water sports, or visit the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark.
Explore nature trails, have a picnic, or go birdwatching in this urban forest park.
Embark on a hike to reach the picturesque waterfall and enjoy the surrounding lush greenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Johor Bahru with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Johor Bahru
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the cityscape and coastline of Johor Bahru
Scenic waterfront area with beautiful sunset views and various photo opportunities
Royal palace with well-maintained gardens and architectural beauty, ideal for photography
Food in Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, often served with anchovies, peanuts, boiled egg, and sambal (chili paste). Try it at Makan Kitchen or Restoran Hua Mui.
Must-Try!
Egg noodles in a sweet and spicy curry-like sauce, topped with a hard-boiled egg, bean sprouts, and fried tofu. Visit Restoran Selera Rasa for an authentic taste.
Spicy fish cake made from a mixture of fish paste, coconut milk, and spices, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled. Look for it at Pasar Karat or Pasar Malam.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Johor Bahru better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling flea market transforms into a vibrant street food haven at night, offering a wide array of local delights such as satay, grilled seafood, and fresh fruit juices.
The night markets in Johor Bahru are a treasure trove of street food, where you can sample dishes like grilled stingray, oyster omelette, and various skewered meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to show respect for the Johor Royal Family and refrain from speaking negatively about them.
When visiting religious sites or traditional villages, it is important to dress modestly and cover shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
Being polite and using greetings such as 'Selamat pagi' (good morning) and 'Terima kasih' (thank you) is an important aspect of interacting with locals in Johor Bahru.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Johor Bahru with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Johor Bahru
Ensure a smooth experience
In Johor Bahru, Malaysia, tipping is not a common practice, and it is not expected in most situations. However, in some high-end restaurants or hotels, a 10% service charge may be added to the bill, and additional tipping is not obligatory.
Cash is widely accepted in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, but major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are also commonly used, especially in larger establishments. Some smaller businesses may only accept cash, so it's advisable to carry some local currency for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Johor Bahru.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Johor Bahru, with pleasant weather and lower rainfall. You can expect clear skies and warm temperatures. This season is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
During the monsoon season, Johor Bahru experiences higher rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. It's still possible to visit during this time, but outdoor activities may be limited. Be prepared for occasional heavy rain and check weather forecasts before planning outdoor excursions.
Johor Bahru at Night
Hiking in Johor Bahru
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot featuring lush greenery and a moderate trail that leads to a beautiful waterfall.
A scenic hill offering various trails for hikers of different skill levels, with stunning views of the surrounding area.
A vast rainforest area with numerous trails, suitable for both hiking and wildlife spotting.
An urban park with paved walking paths and trails, ideal for casual hikes and family outings.
Known for its picturesque trails, this area features challenging routes and beautiful natural landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Johor Bahru through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Johor Bahru by plane.
Located in Singapore, approximately 30 km from Johor Bahru, Changi Airport is one of the world's busiest international airports, offering extensive international flights.
Situated about 330 km from Johor Bahru, Kuala Lumpur International Airport serves as the main airport for Kuala Lumpur and is a major travel hub in Southeast Asia.
Located approximately 25 km from Johor Bahru, Senai International Airport is the main airport serving Johor and offers regional and international flights.
About 650 km from Johor Bahru, Penang International Airport serves the island of Penang and offers both domestic and international flights.
Approximately 800 km from Johor Bahru, Langkawi International Airport serves the tourist destination of Langkawi with domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Johor Bahru, comprising the majority of the population. Malays are primarily Muslim and have a rich cultural heritage.
The second largest ethnic group, contributing significantly to the business and economic sectors. Chinese Malaysians often celebrate both traditional Chinese festivals and local Malaysian customs.
A significant minority in Johor Bahru, with a vibrant community that includes Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalee cultures. Indian Malaysians are involved in various sectors including food, textiles, and services.
Includes various indigenous groups such as the Orang Asli who have their own distinct languages, cultures, and practices, contributing to the biodiversity of identities in Johor.
A growing demographic due to Johor Bahru's proximity to Singapore, with a mix of Western, South Asian, and East Asian expatriates residing and working in the area.
The Soul of Johor Bahru
Discover the essence of Johor Bahru through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in Johor Bahru, with a strong local following and successful clubs, particularly Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT).
Badminton is a favorite pastime in Johor Bahru, with many players participating at both amateur and competitive levels.
Basketball is gaining popularity among the youth, with various courts and leagues available throughout the city.
A traditional sport in Malaysia, sepak takraw is played widely in Johor Bahru, showcasing cultural heritage and athletic skill.
Cycling has become increasingly popular for both leisure and sport, with many scenic routes and cycling events in and around Johor Bahru.
Running events and marathons are held regularly, promoting fitness and outdoor activities among the residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Johor Bahru.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Malay cuisine features abundant use of seafood and meats, several restaurants in Johor Bahru, such as Vegetory Vegetarian Fusion Cafe and Olive at Bay, offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes.
For gluten-free dining, places like Seven Oaks Bakery Cafe and Sangkaya Ice Cream provide various gluten-free treats, including cakes, pastries, and ice cream.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Johor Bahru with these cultural adventures.
