Haji Lane

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Part of Haji Lane in 2016 Haji Lane, November 2016.jpg
Part of Haji Lane in 2016

Located in the center of the bustling Kampong Glam district of Singapore, Haji Lane is an vivid representation of the city-state's rich traditions of culture and contemporary innovative thinking. This charming, relatively small lane, measuring around 200 meters in length, has gone through a remarkable process of transformation from its historical beginnings into becoming a buzzing hub for contemporary culture. It is conveniently located just a short walk from the Bugis MRT station.

Contents

Haji Lane is distinguished by the wide variety of businesses. The street is home to a diverse array of local vintage stores, like Superwasted and The Cartel's Vintage Store, which focus on carefully selected vintage goods. Various dining options can be found among these businesses, including charming cafés such Rumi the Poet's Cup that provide customers with a quiet space. Adding on to the contemporary scene also includes Solace Airlines by Solace Studios, a photography studio with inspiration from Korean popular culture.

The street also offers a culinary experience that reflects the cosmopolitan nature of the city-state, featuring both native Singaporean specialties and international cuisines.

Map of Tanah Jawa EB1911 Java map.jpg
Map of Tanah Jawa

History

1800s-1960s: The shophouses of Haji were most commonly used as lodges for Hajj pilgrims whilst on their journeys. During their stay, the pilgrims would work close by as hawkers in order to save enough money to continue the rest of their journeys.

1960s-1970s: Haji Lane provided shophouse homes for poorer Malay families. [1]

After 1970s: There were a lot of empty shophouses. The ones that were occupied were used as storage spaces. [2]

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References

  1. Hee, J. (2015, June 4). Haji Lane: An Unofficial Shopping Guide, & A Look At Its History And Conservation. Retrieved from Vulcan Post: https://vulcanpost.com/208471/haji-lane- shopping-guide-history/
  2. Williams, Gisela (2009-12-04). "Singapore Lane Springs to Life". The New York Times. ISSN   0362-4331 . Retrieved 2023-04-03.