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.

Places to visit

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Sila" - Please
  • "Maaf" - Sorry

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring Heritage and Nature

morning:Start your day at the Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple, where you can immerse yourself in the heritage and traditions of the local Chinese community. Make sure to visit the traditional morning market to sample some local delicacies. For a delicious breakfast, head to Restoran Hua Mui for a classic kopitiam experience.

afternoon:After the morning outing, take a trip to the stunning Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, known for its architectural grandeur and peaceful surroundings. For lunch, head to the Kampung Senibong Seafood for a delightful feast by the sea.

evening:In the evening, take a relaxing stroll through Hutan Bandar, a lush urban forest park perfect for unwinding amid nature. For a night-out, visit the intriguing Kilang Bateri for a mix of dining and entertainment.

day 2

Art and Culture Extravaganza

morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Johor Bahru Art Gallery, where you can admire the works of talented local artists and gain insights into the local art scene. Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast at the cozy Flowers in the Window cafe.

afternoon:Continue your cultural exploration with a trip to the Istana Besar, the Grand Palace of Johor with its rich historical significance and breathtaking architecture. Enjoy a delightful lunch at the Dapur Ummi Abdullah, known for its authentic Malay cuisine.

evening:In the evening, head to Jalan Dhoby, which transforms into a lively street art and performance hub as the sun sets. Experience the vibrant local art scene and enjoy an exciting night-out at the hipster cafes and bars in the area.

day 3

Family Fun Day Out

morning:Kick-start your day with a visit to the Angry Birds Activity Park, an exhilarating family-friendly destination filled with fun activities and attractions for all ages. Don't forget to grab a satisfying brunch at The Replacement – Lodge & Kitchen.

afternoon:After the thrilling morning, head to the Johor Zoo for a fascinating wildlife encounter and an enjoyable afternoon exploring the diverse animal exhibits. Tantalize your taste buds with a late lunch at Chakra Restaurant, renowned for its delectable Indian cuisine.

evening:In the evening, take the family for a leisurely evening stroll at the scenic Danga Bay Park, where you can enjoy lovely waterfront views and unwind amidst serene surroundings. For a delightful night-out, visit Puteri Harbour, a charming waterfront complex offering various dining and entertainment options.

day 4

Culinary and Shopping Escapade

morning:Embark on a flavorful morning by exploring the local food scene at Pasar Karat, a bustling flea market offering a wide array of local street food to whet your appetite. Make sure to sample some mouthwatering local treats for breakfast while you're there.

afternoon:After the culinary adventure, satisfy your shopping cravings with a visit to Komtar JBCC, a premier shopping destination offering a wide range of retail outlets and entertainment options. Fuel up with a scrumptious lunch at the vibrant Meldrum Kitchen, famous for its fusion cuisine and lively ambiance.

evening:As evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along Jalan Wong Ah Fook to experience the bustling local street food and shopping scene. For a fantastic night-out, head to the lively nightlife district of Stulang Laut for an exciting array of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Johor Bahru Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Nasi Lemak

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!

Mee Rebus

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.

Otak-Otak

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.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Pasar Karat

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.

Pasar Malam

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.

Things to do in Johor Bahru

Unique local experiences...

Pet sitters in Johor Bahru

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

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