Old Hill Street Police Station (Photo: Ministry of Digital Development and Information)
Cover Old Hill Street Police Station (Photo: Ministry of Digital Development and Information)
Old Hill Street Police Station (Photo: Ministry of Digital Development and Information)

The popular social media app and lifestyle platform Xiaohongshu, also known as Red or Rednote, shows how an unassuming road in Singapore can become a dramatic photo spot for tourists

The Chinese equivalent of Instagram, Xiaohongshu, or ‘Little Red Book’, has surged in popularity in recent years as it slowly emerged as the go-to platform for inspiration on a range of trends. This includes everything from viral Chinese make-up looks to the latest in fashion. Interestingly, within the vast amount of information available on the lifestyle platform, there is a certain topic that stands out because of its relevance to our sunny island. And that is a handy travel itinerary or guide to taking photos specifically when on vacation in Singapore. 

While many of us may be aware there are plenty of Insta-worthy spots around the city, the Chinese tourists seem to know better when it comes to capturing the best and most unique shots in town.

What looks like everyday spots that Singaporeans may overlook apparently sit high atop Xiaohongshu’s photo-worthy locations. So where exactly are these trendy places? Read on to find out more below.

Read more: 8 sculptures by famous artists in unexpected places around Singapore

 

Old Hill Street Police Station

Tatler Asia
Old Hill Street Police Station (Photo: xiaohongshu / 橙子的小旅橙)
Above Old Hill Street Police Station (Photo: xiaohongshu / 橙子的小旅橙)
Old Hill Street Police Station (Photo: xiaohongshu / 橙子的小旅橙)

Old Hill Street Police Station, affectionately referred to as the rainbow building by some Singaporeans, is unmissable when you’re driving or walking down Hill Street. Now, this historical landmark is a must-visit for every Xiaohongshu user. With its coloured window panels, the building has since become a magnet for tourists waiting for a photo op. Don’t believe us? The next time you are in the area, pay attention to the streets surrounding this building and you will see what we mean! 

I Love Singapore souvenir shop

Tatler Asia
I Love Singapore souvenir shop (Photo: xiaohongshu / 雾梨子)
Above I Love Singapore souvenir shop (Photo: xiaohongshu / 雾梨子)
I Love Singapore souvenir shop (Photo: xiaohongshu / 雾梨子)

Tourists sure have a knack for spotting aesthetic photo opportunities no matter the location. And this Arab street favourite is no different. Thanks to its unmissable ‘I heart SG’ signage, this once undiscovered Arab street store is now a tourist favourite photo location. 

35 Keong Saik Road

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35 Keong Saik Road (Photo: xiaohongshu / Alicia)
Above 35 Keong Saik Road (Photo: xiaohongshu / Alicia)
35 Keong Saik Road (Photo: xiaohongshu / Alicia)

This iconic red and white triangular shophouse preserves a streamlined shape with rounded canopies, courtesy of Art Deco architecture. To us locals, it might just be another preserved heritage building we admire. But for the users at Xiaohongshu, it is a fantastic backdrop for an artsy snap–they certainly know how to use their angles. 

Temple Street

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Temple Street (Photo: xiaohongshu / 陈启瑞)
Above Temple Street (Photo: xiaohongshu / 陈启瑞)
Temple Street (Photo: xiaohongshu / 陈启瑞)

Dubbed a must-visit spot by Xiaohongshu influencers, Temple Street is where tourists flock to take that popular shot with a certain yellow building in the background. For the uninitiated, that bright yellow building is the People’s Park Complex, a commercial and residential building that has since become the beacon of Chinatown.

Kampong Kapor Methodist Church

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Kampong Kapor Methodist Church (Photo: xiaohongshu / 陈启瑞)
Above Kampong Kapor Methodist Church (Photo: xiaohongshu / 陈启瑞)
Kampong Kapor Methodist Church (Photo: xiaohongshu / 陈启瑞)

Located in the Little India district, Kampong Kapor Methodist Church may not be familiar to some of us. However, this same building is what draws tourists, in this case, Xiaohongshu users to the area. Built in 1894, this pristine, quasi-Art Deco building is known to Xiaohongshu users as a must-visit location for those who visit Singapore. 

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