Johor Bahru

Introducing Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru is the capital of Johor State in Malaysia. It is also the southernmost city on the Malay Peninsula and the southernmost city on the Eurasian continent. It is separated from its neighboring country Singapore by the Johor Strait. It is known as the "Southern Gateway of Malaysia". It is the second largest city in Malaysia and is known as the "Southern Gateway of Malaysia".

Johor Bahru is connected to Singapore by a long causeway. Since the consumption level in Malaysia is lower than that in Singapore, many Singaporeans take advantage of holidays to go to Johor Bahru for shopping.

Johor Bahru boasts many notable historical buildings, including the legendary village of Old Johor; the Victorian-style Sultan Gardens and Royal Palace; and the Johor Art Museum, showcasing Malay cultural artifacts and artwork. Beyond the capital lies a picturesque countryside dotted with rubber plantations, palm groves, and simple fishing villages. It's also home to Asia's first Legoland.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a tropical rainforest climate with no distinct four seasons and is suitable for the whole year.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Sultan Abu Bakar Palace

Also known as the Grand Palace, it was one of the royal palaces of the Johor Sultanate during the reign of the Johor Sultan. It was built in the 19th century by the then-Sultan Abu Bakar of Johor, Huang Yafu, then a Chinese port owner in Johor Bahru. The palace is located on Jalan Tun Dr. Ismail, facing the Johor Straits and across from Singapore. The palace houses a museum and a mosque. Today, Sultan Abu Bakar's Palace has become the Johor Royal Museum, displaying precious photographs and exhibits from the Sultanate's reign. It also occasionally serves as a venue for royal festivities.

Legoland

The Legoland theme park in Johor Bahru is the first in Asia and the sixth in the world, costing US$235 million to build. It's a Small World, Legoland, Lego Technopolis, Adventureland, and Lego City are all located within the park. Constructed using 30 million Lego bricks, the park features 15,000 Lego models of famous buildings from around the world, including landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers, the Pink Mosque, and Johor Bahru's Old Street. Children can also enjoy 40 rides.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Johor Bahru

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Johor Bahru, the capital of Johor state, was founded in the mid-19th century and grew as a trading and administrative hub. It borders Singapore, making it an important gateway for commerce and tourism. The city blends Malay, Chinese, and colonial heritage, reflected in its architecture, temples, and mosques.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Location: Southern tip of Peninsular Malaysia, just north of Singapore.
• By air: Senai International Airport, 32 km from the city center.
• By bus: Intercity buses connect Johor Bahru with Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, and Singapore.
• By taxi or Grab from Singapore via Woodlands or Tuas checkpoints.
• In the city: Taxis, Grab, or walking for short distances in central areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Shopping malls: Usually 10:00 AM–10:00 PM.
• Temples and mosques: Generally 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
• Best time to visit: February to April for dry weather.
• Avoid monsoon season: November–January due to heavy rain.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Legoland Malaysia: 170–250 MYR depending on the package; tickets available online or at the gate.
• Hello Kitty Town: 70–100 MYR; buy online or on-site.
• Temples and mosques: Free entry, donations welcome.
• Shopping malls and public areas: Free access.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For theme parks like Legoland or Hello Kitty Town, booking 1–3 days in advance is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. For attractions like temples or mosques, no advance booking is needed.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• 1–2 days for the main city attractions.
• 2–3 days if visiting Legoland, Puteri Harbour, and nearby attractions.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Legoland Malaysia and water park
• Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque
• Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple
• Pasar Karat Night Market
• Puteri Harbour and Sanrio Hello Kitty Town
• Danga Bay
• City Square and Komtar JBCC shopping malls

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided city tours and Legoland tours are available in English and Malay. Audio guides for heritage sites may be limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Skyline views from Danga Bay at sunset.
• Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque for its colonial architecture and city views.
• Legoland colorful displays and themed areas.
• Puteri Harbour waterfront for sunset and marina photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Morning: Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque and Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple.
• Afternoon: Danga Bay or shopping malls.
• Evening: Pasar Karat Night Market for street food and souvenirs.
• Optional: Next day, spend full day at Legoland Malaysia or Puteri Harbour.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

• Danga Bay has evening lights and entertainment along the waterfront.
• Night markets operate from evening until around 11 PM.
• Legoland offers occasional evening events and seasonal light shows.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Crowded: Weekends, Malaysian public holidays, and school vacations.
• Least crowded: Weekdays and outside peak tourist periods (February–April).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Malls and theme parks have toilets, restaurants, cafes, water stations, rest areas, and souvenir shops. Danga Bay has public amenities and restaurants along the waterfront.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most shopping malls, parks, and theme parks are wheelchair accessible. Some heritage sites have stairs that may limit access for the elderly or disabled. Theme parks offer facilities for children.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Cash (MYR) is useful for small vendors and markets.
• Malls, theme parks, and restaurants widely accept cards and mobile payments (e.g., GrabPay, Touch 'n Go).

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Restoran Hua Mui — traditional Malaysian dishes.
• IT Roo Cafe — popular local breakfast spot.
• Chinoz on the Park — cafe with casual dining and coffee.
• Various eateries in City Square and Komtar JBCC malls.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

• Yes, numerous halal restaurants and street food options.
• Vegetarian options available in malls and dedicated vegetarian cafes.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru — central and upscale.
• Amari Johor Bahru — luxury option near city attractions.
• The Puteri Pacific Johor Bahru — comfortable and central.
• Budget options: KSL Hotel & Resort and various hostels near City Square.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Legoland Malaysia
• Puteri Harbour and Sanrio Hello Kitty Town
• Johor Premium Outlets
• Desaru Coast (approx. 1.5–2 hours drive)

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Souvenirs at Pasar Karat and malls.
• Typical items: local snacks, batik fabrics, keychains, handicrafts, and Malaysian coffee.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Bus or taxi to Singapore via Woodlands or Tuas checkpoints.
• Drive or bus to Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, or Desaru Coast.
• Fly from Senai International Airport to other Malaysian cities or regional destinations.