The essence of this museums focus is of the diversity of Asian cultures that established cosmopolitan Singapore over the last 200 years.

The main ethnic heritages shown include the Chinese, Malay, European cultures also known as the Peranakans.

The museum which first opened in 1997 is housed in the beautifully restored Tao Nan Chinese School originally built in 1910. This school was also the first school to teach the Chinese language dialect 'Hokkien'.

Be sure to visit this museum to view art and artefacts of Asia, China, India and the Islamic world. Permanent collections include bronze sculptures, Chinese furniture, jade and ceramics.

The Asian Civilisations Museum is closed Mondays and also offers free-guided tours at specific times.