Asian Civilisations Museum,Singapore

Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) is Singapore's premier museum dedicated to exploring the artistic heritage of Asia, with particular strength in Chinese, Southeast Asian, South Asian and Islamic civilizations. Housed in the colonial-era Empress Place Building, ACM highlights Singapore's historical role as a trading entrepôt and showcases how cross-cultural exchange shaped art, religion and daily life across Asia.

Places to visit

  • Maritime Silk Route Gallery — trade networks, maps and maritime artefacts
  • China Gallery — ceramics, ritual bronzes and carved jades
  • Southeast Asia Gallery — textiles, gold regalia and everyday objects
  • South Asia Gallery — Buddhist and Hindu sculpture, coins and textiles
  • Islamic World Gallery — ceramics, metalwork and manuscript art
  • Peranakan Collection — beadwork, porcelain and domestic objects
  • Special & rotating exhibitions — contemporary displays and international loans
  • Empress Place Building — distinctive colonial architecture and riverside setting

Unique Aspects

  • Extensive collection of Asian ceramics and ritual objects
  • Strong focus on cross-cultural influences and trade connections
  • Picturesque location along the Singapore River with scenic views
  • Adaptive reuse of a 19th-century colonial building blending architecture and museum design
  • Family-friendly interactive displays and education spaces

Things to do

  • Guided tours led by museum educators
  • Self-guided audio tours and gallery trails
  • Hands-on workshops (e.g., batik, ceramics and crafts)
  • Family programmes and school tours
  • Lectures, curator talks and panel discussions
  • Museum shop browsing and café visits
  • Riverfront strolls and photographic opportunities

Best Time to Visit

When: Year-round, but visit on weekday mornings (opening hour to early afternoon) for fewer crowds. Avoid major Singapore public holidays if you prefer quieter galleries.

Weather Conditions

Tropical equatorial climate — hot and humid year-round with short, frequent showers. Typical temperatures around 24–33°C (75–91°F). Indoor galleries are air-conditioned.

Entry Fees & Permits

Typical hours: Tue–Sun ~10:00–19:00 (some late-night Fridays/selected days). Closed Mondays. Admission (indicative): Adults SGD ~20; concessions and Singapore residents may have reduced or free access on certain days. Always check the official ACM website for current opening hours, ticket prices and booking requirements before you go.

Accessibility

Located at 1 Empress Place on the Singapore River. About a 5–10 minute walk from Raffles Place and City Hall MRT stations; also accessible from Clarke Quay and Esplanade on foot or by short taxi/ride-hail. River taxi/bumboat services stop nearby (Boat Quay/Clarke Quay). The museum provides step-free access, lifts, and accessible restrooms; contact the museum for specific assistance needs.

Recommended Duration

Plan 1.5–3 hours depending on how many galleries and special exhibitions you want to see.

Clothing & Gear Tips

Light, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Bring a small umbrella or rain jacket for sudden showers. Photography without flash is usually allowed in many galleries — check signage. Carry water and a small bag for personal items.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Nearby food options include Lau Pa Sat, Maxwell Food Centre, and riverside dining at Boat Quay and Clarke Quay. The museum shop sells books, prints, Peranakan-inspired souvenirs, postcards, and craft items — popular keepsakes include ceramics reproductions, batik textiles and coffee-table books on Asian art.

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