Asian Civilisations Museum
Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) is Singapore’s leading museum tracing the artistic heritage of Asia, with a special emphasis on the interconnected cultures of the Asia-Pacific region. Housed in a restored colonial-era riverside building at Boat Quay, the museum presents archaeological and decorative arts collections from China, Southeast Asia, South Asia and the Islamic world, along with rotating special exhibitions and public programmes.
Location
Asian Civilisations Museum (Empress Place, Boat Quay), Singapore, Singapore
Duration
1.5–3 hours (typical visit); allow up to half a day if attending talks or special exhibitions
Best Time to Visit
Year-round. Best times: weekday mornings (to avoid crowds) or early afternoons on non-holiday weekdays. Drier months: roughly February–April for more comfortable riverfront walks.
Pricing
Typical pricing (subject to change): Adult: SGD 10–20; Concession / Student / Senior: discounted rates; Children (usually under 6): free. Special exhibitions may carry separate charges. Always check the official ACM website for current ticket prices and promotions.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Extensive Chinese ceramics, jades and bronzes collections
Straits Chinese / Peranakan and Southeast Asian textiles and objects
South Asian sculptures and trade-related artefacts
Special rotating exhibitions showcasing contemporary and historical Asian arts
Riverside location at Boat Quay — combine with a Singapore River stroll or bumboat cruise
Educational programmes, guided tours and family-friendly activities
Museum shop with unique gifts and a café with views of the river
Itinerary
Ticketing, coat/bag storage, pick up a museum map or audio guide.
Buy tickets online to skip queues. Check current gallery closures or temporary exhibition locations.
Explore the China and Early Asian Trade galleries
Look for ceramics, jades and trade-route displays that explain regional cultural exchanges.
Visit Southeast Asian and Straits Chinese (Peranakan) galleries
These galleries highlight local material culture — textiles, beadwork and domestic objects.
Temporary / special exhibition
Special exhibitions may require a separate ticket; allow extra time if you want audio tours or curator talks.
Museum café and shop; riverside walk
Enjoy light refreshments at the café and browse the museum shop. Finish with a stroll along Boat Quay or take a river cruise.
Safety Requirements
Follow museum signage and staff instructions
No flash photography in galleries; certain items may be photography-restricted
Handle interactive exhibits only where indicated
Supervise children at all times
Secure or check large bags and umbrellas where required
Accessibility: ramps and lifts are available; staff can assist with mobility needs
Tips
Pre-book timed tickets online to avoid queues and to confirm access to special exhibitions
Arrive early on weekends and public holidays to avoid crowds
Combine the visit with a Singapore River cruise, colonial Civic District walk, or nearby national monuments
Allow 1.5–2 hours for the core galleries; add more time for special exhibitions and programmes
Check the ACM website for guided tour schedules, family programmes and temporary exhibition details
Wear comfortable shoes — the building and nearby riverside are best explored on foot
If you’re photographing for personal use, check gallery signage and staff about restrictions; avoid flash
