A welcome respite from the heat and humidity. What an innovative way of displaying the numerous bowls. Also appreciated the additional displays from other Asian countries and a brief explanation. Just wish some of the write up was easier to read in the darker rooms. Was disappointed with the small textile display. A region so rich in textile history could have had more.

This 2006 museum has expanded the 1865 Empress Palace Building. After paying US$15 for 2 seniors, we were presented with a guide and took the elevator to Level #2. Its 5 rooms focused on Ancient Religions; outstanding exhibits included a 4th C Taxilla Buddah, 5th C 5-faced Indian Linga, 6th C Chinese stele & a 9th C gold/silver Lord from Champa. Walking up to Level #3, a jewelry foom featured a fascinating collection of gold bridal wear, a Textile room showed a perfect Indian 16th C “Dancing Woman” cotton ceremonial cloth & the Ceramic room had an earthenware Chinese Tower from 225. The entry Level #1 displayed numerous exquisite 17th C cabinets/bureaus/boxes although its primary focus was the ceramic artifacts from the 9th C 59’ Tang shipwreck discovered 360 miles south of Singapore in 1998. Nice cafe in this very good museum.

Went with 2x under 12yo kids. Wasn't expecting much but our trio left impressed. The collection was vast and varied and well announced. There was a fair mix that wasn't overwhelming or overindulging. It's not a full day activity for casual visitors. We left after 90min as the kids didn't like the darker lit galleries but they too were enthralled by many of the displays and reading the write ups. If I went with just adults, this could occupy a good 3hours enough - a decent reprieve from Singapore afternoon sun. We enjoyed the white ceramics room at L3 the most as the collection from the donor family was rather unique. The main exhibit of the Tang shipwreck is well written up for casual visitors. There was a more indepth book on the wreckage at the gallery for reading up for those more interested. There is a lovely cafe within the building, and chilled water coolers at the basements to refill before heading off to the next venue. For gallery lovers, it's a 5min walk to/from the National Gallery. Easily accessible by train or MRT. Better than some of the other museums in Singapore. Recommend it for anyone with some interest in Asian past. We give it a thumbs up. Additional thumbs up for the fact the wafer ice cream vendor usually parks himself right at the entrance.

I don't know if my review can do justice to this museum and its vast collection of treasures. Positive impressions begin with the street art strategically located around the building, the historic Empress Place Building dating to 1867 and then the informative advice from personnel at the ticket/reception counter. The collections and exhibits are world class, from the Manila Galleon collection through the sections on Islamic art, ancient religions, ancestors and rituals, Christian art and so much more. Our half day at the museum was simply mesmerising and we didn't managed to see all. Another visit beckons.

It is a gem near Victoria Street and some beautiful buildings and monuments such as( The Parliament, Supreme Court, The National Gallery, Singapore river and an obelisque erected in 1850 bythe European Chinese and the inhabitants of Singapore to commemorate the visit of Governor General of British India ( The Marquis od Dalhousie). Regardless of the natural beauty of this area, this museum is a Must to visit. It is located in two floors and involves Faith and Belief sections such as Art in the Islamic World ( Persian , Turkish and Arab ..heritage). Asian Chinese civilisation, Malay World ( Javanese, Batak tribes, Dayak Tribes..), Galleons across the Pacific, Ancient Religions, Manila Galleon, maritime trade, Chiniese snd Hindu beliefs. The ticket fee is SGD 25 which is worth visiting . It took me two hours to have a quick visit.

Absolutely beautifully curated 3 floors of ethnology: ceramics, textiles, sculptures, wooden artifacts from all the countries which influenced the making of Singapore. Very informative labels in English and special exhibitions. Nice café by the river.

This is a modern, well-organized and well-run museum. It displays different Asian cultures and the historical connections between them. The archaeological artifacts and ancient artworks on exhibition show the history of Singapore's special position as a global trading center and a melting pot of different cultures. The content is excellent, and the layout is well designed. The exhibition will be of interest to art lovers and history or archeology buffs. You may spend half a day to visit.

I liked this museum but didn’t love it. The main areas of emphasis when we visited were the Southeast Asian trade routes and the development of different religions in the region. They have an impressive collection of artifacts, most of which are in great condition. I found it difficult, however, to completely follow the history of trade and religion. It seemed disjointed to me and would benefit from more informative signage. It was also a little confusing as to which order you should see the different rooms. I’m sure some people will love the place but I preferred the Singapore National History Museum and the National Gallery Singapore.

We spent around thre hours in this museum, and it wasn't enough time. You could easily spend twice that in there. There are so many exhibits, in the various different rooms. We didn't even see all the rooms, there was so much to see. It's all well laid out, with lots of good explanatory notes. Of special interest for us was the displays showing the old trade routes and the religious history, but really there is so much for everyone. We would definitely go back in the future.

Ticketing was rather poor. There was issue with paying with the credit card and we were there for ages whilst they fuffed about trying to solve the issue Rather interesting exhibition on the antiquity findings of a sunken Tang Ship. The other floors of textile and jewellery , religious artifacts was also very good. The interactive station was excellent and could with more of that.