Chinese Heritage Centre

The Chinese Heritage Centre is an important institution in Singapore dedicated to Chinese culture and community.

With around 76% of the Singaporean population being Chinese, they are an essential demographic that has significantly contributed to shaping the country.

Chinese Heritage Centre, Admission Fee, Opening Hours, NTU Singapore

The centre was established in 1995 as a non-profit organization. In 2011, it became an autonomous research arm for the Nanyang Technological University, which was the first and only Chinese university located outside China. However, it remains a self-sustaining operation that relies on donations from both government grants and private grants which facilitate numerous necessary research and community outreach projects. In 1999, the centre was proclaimed a National Monument.

This historical destination plays an essential role in advancing the understanding and knowledge of Chinese communities, not just in Singapore, but around the world too. It functions as a research centre, library, and a museum. The centre also serves as a venue for numerous seminars, international conferences, and community outreach activities.

One of the fascinating attractions within the centre is a permanent exhibit entitled, Chinese More or Less: An Exhibition on Overseas Chinese Identity. The sprawling 6,000 square foot exhibit is a major draw, filled with incredible photographs, documents, and stories depicting the story of Chinese from various eras and their influence on different countries around the world, with a particular focus on the Peranakan and Straits Chinese.

After visiting the centre, stopping by the picturesque Yunnan Garden as well as Nantah Lake, located right in front of the centre, is highly recommended.

The Chinese Heritage Centre is located at the Nanyang Technological University, 46 Nanyang Ave, Singapore. Opening hours are 9:30am to 5pm on Monday to Friday, and Sat 10am to 5pm on weekends. Admission is free.