Tanjong Pagar | |
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Subzone of Downtown Core Planning Area | |
Other transcription(s) | |
• Chinese | 丹戎巴葛 Dānróng Bāgě (Pinyin) Tan-jiông Pa-kat (Hokkien POJ) |
• Malay | Tanjung Pagar (Rumi) تنجوڠ ڤاڬر (Jawi) |
• Tamil | தஞ்சோங் பகார் Tañcōṅ Pakār (Transliteration) |
Government | |
• Mayor | Central Singapore CDC
|
• Members of Parliament | Jalan Besar GRC
Tanjong Pagar GRC |
Tanjong Pagar (alternatively spelled Tanjung Pagar) is a historic district located within the Central Business District of Singapore, straddling the Outram Planning Area and the Downtown Core under the Urban Redevelopment Authority's urban planning zones. The district has a rich history and is known for its cultural and architectural landmarks, making it a popular tourist destination.
The name comes from the Malay language, which means "cape of stakes". It is said that the area was once covered with mangroves, and the stakes were used by fishermen to mark their fishing boundaries, as it was a fishing village. Today, the district is a vibrant mix of old and new buildings, which creates an interesting contrast. One of the most iconic landmarks in Tanjong Pagar is the Tanjong Pagar railway station. Built in 1932, it ceased operations in 2011. The station, with a distinct art deco style has been repurposed into a museum as well as being the site of Cantonment MRT station, named after Cantonment Road.[1]
Notable landmarks in Tanjong Pagar also include the Thian Hock Keng Temple, which was gazetted as a national monument in 1973. It is one of the oldest temples in Singapore and was built in the early 19th century. There is also the Baba House, a museum showcasing the country's Peranakan history, architecture and heritage. Tanjong Pagar is also known for its local street art. Prominent street art murals are often found on the sides of various shophouses and buildings within the district, adding a colorful and artistic flair to the district. There are two public housing estates in Tanjong Pagar, located at Everton Park and Spottiswoode Park; these were built from the 1970s to the 1980s. Tanjong Pagar also contains both the tallest public housing building, the Pinnacle@Duxton, and the tallest building outright, the Guoco Tower, in the country.
In addition to its cultural and architectural landmarks, Tanjong Pagar is also a foodie's paradise.[2] The district is home to a diverse range of eateries, from hawker centers such as the Amoy and Maxwell Food Centres to high-end restaurants. Tanjong Pagar has a number of restaurants and stalls with Michelin Bib Gourmand awards.[3] A number of Korean restaurants has also popped up along Tanjong Pagar Road within the last few decades, leading to it being described as the Little Korea of Singapore.[4]