Haw Par Villa: The Oldest and Strangest Theme Park In Town

If your kids have had their fill of the run-of-the-mill amusement parks, why not give them a taste of something original, something traditional, and something unusual. Named after the Aw brothers who created the medical ointment Tiger Balm, Haw Par Villa is a celebration of Chinese folklore and mythology.

Sprawled over massive gardens, the park consists of over 1,000 statues and over 150 dioramas depicting scenes and legends steeped in ancient Chinese culture. Although it may not seem like the ideal location for kids to get an education about religion and tradition, it will definitely be an adventurous lesson.

There is even a section dubbed the Ten Courts of Hell where parents will be able to pass of some not so subtle hints about what bad behavior will lead to. Be warned that really young kids might get a bit scared of some of the sculptures. It might be wise to walk ahead of the kids so you can get a quick peek before they come face to face with a gruesome giant looking to strike hard.

The best part about the whole experience is that it’s absolutely free. So if you walk away with nothing else, at least you get a lesson in history, religion and folklore on the house.