Johor Bahru (JB), located just across the border from Singapore, is a city in Malaysia that is ideal for a road trip, a quick getaway or a day trip. Johor Bahru has so much to offer, from culture to delicious food and family-friendly attractions. If you’re planning a one day trip to JB, you’ve come to the right place! Here’s a guide on Johor Bahru one day trip, where to go, where and what to eat so you can start planning your trip to JB!
Why Johor Bahru is Perfect for a Day Trip from Singapore
Johor Bahru is perfect for a day trip from Singapore due to its close proximity, and it is easily accessible by land. The city is accessible by car, bus or train and takes about 1 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions, making it an ideal destination for Singaporeans without the need to buy plane tickets. Plus, with JB offering diverse attractions like shopping malls, a vibrant cafe scene, affordable dining options and family-friendly attractions like Legoland, it’s an ideal destination for a quick getaway for Singaporeans!
How to Get to Johor Bahru from Singapore
There are several ways to get to Johor Bahru from Singapore:
1. Private Taxi from Singapore to Johor Bahru
For a stress-free and convenient way to travel to JB, hire a private car in Singapore. Private car services to JB from Singapore such as SGPrivateCar offer door-to-door transfers, saving you a lot of time and hassle.
2. Bus from Singapore to Johor Bahru
A budget-friendly option would be to take a bus from Singapore to Johor Bahru. Traveling by bus is one of the popular ways for visitors to travel between Singapore and JB. There are several public and private bus services that operate between these two locations, and it takes about 50 minutes to reach JB, depending on the traffic.
3. Train from Singapore to Johor Bahru
Taking the train from Singapore to Johor Bahru is the fastest way to travel, avoiding potential traffic. It takes only 5 minutes from the Woodlands Train Checkpoint to JB Sentral.
4. Self-drive from Singapore to Johor Bahru
Driving from Singapore to Johor Bahru offers flexibility and convenience as it allows you to travel at your own pace. Driving to JB usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the traffic.
Places to Visit in Johor Bahru for a Day Trip
There are plenty of places to visit in Johor Bahru. Here are some of the places worth visiting when you’re in JB:
1. Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque
Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=399083045734242&set=a.399083025734244&locale=ms_MY
Built in 1892, Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque is a historical building located on Ledang Hill. It’s known as the state mosque of Johor overlooking the Straits of Johor. The mosque has a unique design whereby the design style of the mosque is built with a mixture of Victorian, Moorish and local architecture. Non-muslims are allowed to enter the mosque outside of prayer times. However, do note that decent and modest clothing must be worn as a sign of respect.
Address: Jalan Gertak Merah, Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
2. Johor Bahru City Square Mall
Source: https://www.facebook.com/jbcitysquare/photos/a.323358734390085/1408068682585746/?type=3
Conveniently located near the Johor-Singapore Causeway, Johor Bahru City Square Mall is a shopping centre with over 200 retail outlets. The mall offers a mix of entertainment, international brands, local stores as well as affordable dining options. If you’re up for a shopping spree, this is one of the best malls to visit in JB.
Address: 106-108, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday 10am-10pm
3. Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple
Source: https://tourismjohor.my/old-chinese-temple/
Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple, also known as Old Temple by the locals, is one of the oldest structures in the city, built in the year 1870. The Old Temple, today, remains a religious and cultural attraction visited by worshippers and tourists. It’s also a symbol of unity between the five ethnic Chinese – Teochew, Hoklo (Hokkien), Cantonese, Hakka and Hainan. This Chinese temple is a great place to visit for a cultural experience in JB.
Address: Lot 653, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7.30am-5.30pm
4. Legoland Malaysia (For Families with Kids)
Source: https://www.legoland.com.my/our-company/about-legoland-malaysia/
For families with kids, Legoland Malaysia is a must-visit attraction in Johor Bahru. Featuring over 80 shows, rides and attractions, visitors can explore the theme park, water park and aquarium in a unique LEGO theme setting. For a day of fun and adventure, Legoland Malaysia should be on your list of JB one day trip. Be sure to secure your tickets online to skip the queue!
Address: 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Operating Hours: 10AM-6PM. Check out the Legoland opening hours here.
Book a private car from Singapore to Legoland Malaysia, for a seamless, non-stop journey straight to the theme park.
5. Danga Bay Waterfront
If you’re looking for a place to unwind after a long day of shopping and exploring Johor Bahru, head over to Danga Bay Waterfront, which is located not far from the city. Danga Bay offers a relaxing waterfront area with breathtaking sunset views, a perfect place to rest and admire the waterfront views. Apart from that, this place also offers entertainment and various dining spots. It’s one of the must-visit spots in Johor Bahru!
Address: Danga Bay, 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor
What Local Dishes to Eat in Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru is a paradise for food lovers. It is known by locals and international travelers for its incredible food scene, offering various food from traditional local dishes to modern cafes. Below are some of the must-try dishes in Johor Bahru:
1. Laksa Johor
Source: https://www.kuali.com/recipe/malaysian-favourite/laksa-johor-3/
Laksa Johor is one of Johor’s signature dishes that is popular in Malaysia. It’s a dish made with noodles and thick Malay-style broth. Compared to the other laksa in Malaysia, laksa Johor broth is thick and made of creamy coconut and fish-based ingredients. When it comes to noodles, spaghetti pasta is used instead of the typical rice noodles, making it stand out among the other laksa dishes in Malaysia. It’s a must-try dish for foodies.
2. Banana Cake at Hiap Joo Bakery
Source: https://hiapjoobakery.org/
When in Johor Bahru, you don’t want to miss the famous banana cake! Hiap Joo Bakery is renowned for its freshly baked and moist banana cakes. It is highly recommended to try the spongy and aromatic banana cake. Be sure to head over before noon to avoid disappointment, as it sells out pretty quickly!
3. Kacang Pool
Source: https://johorfoodie.com/cupchai-cafe-kacang-pool-in-a-can/
Known as the Johor version of chilli con carne, which is a mix of baked beans, minced meat, and egg and typically served with toasted bread, kacang pool is a savoury Malay dish that is served for breakfast. Before leaving Johor, be sure to try this dish that is loved by both locals and tourists!
4. Fresh Seafood at Senibong Cove
Source: https://www.senibongbayseafood.com/
Seafood lovers, you can find delicious and the freshest seafood at Senibong Cove. Located by the Tebrau Straits, Senibong Cove is a popular spot for its fresh seafood in Johor Bahru. Offering beautiful views and facilities, this place is one of the go-to places for mouth-watering seafood dishes. Be sure to arrive early to get the best sunset views.
Where to Eat in Johor Bahru
With many places to eat in Johor Bahru, here’s a list of some recommended places to eat during your one day trip to JB:
1. Restoran Ya Wang
Source: https://danielfooddiary.com/2023/04/02/restoranyawang/
Famous for its herbal roast duck, Restoran Ya Wang is one of the recommended places to eat delicious Chinese dishes in Johor Bahru. The herbal roast duck is highly praised by locals and visitors alike, saying that the meat is incredibly delicious, flavourful and juicy. Apart from their signature roast duck, this non-halal restaurant also serves mouth-watering roasted pork and other dishes.
Address: 44, Jalan Segget, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday, 8am – 6pm
Closed: Wednesday
2. Kam Long Curry Fish Head
Source: https://johorkaki.blogspot.com/2015/05/kam-long-restaurant-fish-head-curry.html
Kam Long Curry Fish Head is a great spot for curry lovers. It is known to be one of the best authentic curry fish heads in Johor Bahru. Not only is the fish fresh, but the signature Chinese-style curry is also tasty, with a perfect balance of savoury, sweet and mildly spicy. Plus, the fishhead curry is cooked in clay pots with added fresh vegetables. Be there early to avoid large crowds!
Address: 74, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday, 8am- 4pm
3. Kedai Bak Kut Teh Hin Hock
Source: https://johorkaki.blogspot.com/2013/04/bak-kut-teh-hin-hock-vin-tampoi-johor.html
Another popular restaurant in Johor Bahru worth visiting is Kedai Bak Kut Teh Hin Hock, which has been around for more than 40 years. Serving their famous herbal bak kut teh as well as their famous steamed fish, this place is highly recommended by locals for visitors in JB. Despite the crowd, service speed is fast!
Address: 72, Jalan Dato Mohammed Seth, Taman Tampoi Indah 2, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Operating hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 8.30am – 3.30pm
4. The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen
Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=580690174100260&set=a.580690167433594&checkpoint_src=any
One Instagram-worthy cafe you might want to add to your JB one day trip itinerary is The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen. Inspired by Melbourne’s cafe culture. The star of their menu is the churros, which are said to be crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Apart from that, the hearty Breakfast Platter is also one of the popular items on the menu. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their soft-shell crab dishes!
Address: 33 34, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday, 9am – 4.30pm
Friday, 9am – 5pm
Tips for Making the Most of Your Day Trip
To make the most of your one day trip to Johor Bahru, here are some useful tips so you can have the perfect day!
- Plan Ahead: To maximize your time in Johor Bahru, plan ahead and research your destinations. Make an itinerary so you can have the best experience possible.
- Start Early: Start your trip early in the morning so you can have more time to experience more attractions.
- Book Your Attraction Tickets in Advance: Purchase your attraction tickets online in advance for better deals and to avoid long queues at the counter.
- Bring Essentials: Pack your important items such as your passport, sunscreen, hat and water bottle. Be sure to also bring comfortable clothes and walking shoes.
Book a Day Trip to Johor Bahru with SGPrivateCar!
With many attractions, various dining options and shopping experiences, Johor Bahru is just the perfect getaway for a one day trip from Singapore. Not only is it just across the border, Johor Bahru is easily accessible via various ways.
For a smooth and stress-free journey to Johor Bahru, book a private car to Johor Bahru with SGPrivateCar. We ensure a hassle-free experience, so you only need to sit back, relax and enjoy the trip. At SGPrivateCar, we offer reliable, comfortable and convenient round trip transfers between Singapore and Johor Bahru. With only 3 easy steps, you can book your private car today and start planning your trip to JB!