Cottagecore is an aesthetic that has been growing in popularity in recent years, embracing and romanticizing nature, the outdoors, and a simple, agricultural lifestyle. It’s become especially well-loved during the pandemic, as this niche theme brings comfort and ease to those who may be looking for an escape from the stress of reality.
Believe it or not, Singapore has cottagecore-themed destinations that many may not have discovered yet. These Instagrammable spots will enable you to take a breather from the hustle and bustle of city life, and enjoy all of what Singapore has to offer in its great outdoors.
Tropical Montane Orchidetum
Located in the National Orchid Garden and Singapore Botanic Gardens, the Tropical Montane Orchidetum opened earlier this year and features three new exhibitions. These exhibitions mimic a tropical montane forest, and showcases more than 1,150 orchid species, including hybrids. Taking a walk inside the misty glasshouse and “Secret Ravine” will make it seem as if you are walking through an enchanted forest, straight out of the fairytale storybooks and the perfect backdrop for a cottagecore photoshoot.
Feel free to explore the National Orchid Garden while you’re at it, and check out our article on the National Orchid Garden here.
Address: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore 259569
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 8.30am–7pm
Contact: 1800 471 7300
Japanese Cemetery Park
Tucked away in the heart of Hougang lies the largest Japanese cemetery in Southeast Asia. It’s home to 910 tombstones with the remains of members of the Japanese community in Singapore, such as Japanese prostitutes, soldiers, civilians, and convicted war criminals. Although some may find this destination rather harrowing, it’s actually quite the opposite (during the daytime, at least). This tranquil Japanese cemetery is also home to a picturesque pink floral archway, which will whisk you away to springtime in Japan.
Address: 22 Chuan Hoe Ave, Singapore 549854
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 8am–6pm
Hampstead Wetlands Park
Right smack in the middle of an aerospace hub lies Hampstead Wetlands Park, a three-hectare rustic green oasis at JTC’s Seletar Aerospace Park. When you take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalks and nature trail, you can feast your eyes on the variety of flora and fauna that inhabit these freshwater habitats.
You can even have a hearty brunch at the nearby Wildseed Cafe, a floral cafe that also allows you to dine in a private garden dome. If these locations don’t scream cottagecore, we don’t know what does.
Address: 1 Baker St, Singapore 799977
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours daily
Jurong Lake Gardens
A haven for nature lovers, Jurong Lake Gardens opened in 2019 after seven years. Along with Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Jurong Lake Gardens is Singapore’s third National Garden. This 90-hectare greenery destination comprises Lakeside Garden, Chinese and Japanese Gardens, and Garden Promenade. These idyllic locations offer many picturesque and panoramic views that will trick you into thinking that you’re taking a walk in another country around East Asia.
Address: 50 Yuan Ching Road Singapore 618661
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours daily
Little Guilin
Known as Bukit Batok Town Park or Xiao Guilin, Little Guilin was created from a disused granite quarry, making it look similar to the granite rock formations in Guilin, China. Out of all the granite quarries, Little Guilin is arguably the prettiest and largest. Take a walk along the stone pathways and admire the rocky landscape that will transport you to Guilin itself. There are even cute rest stops if you get tired along the way. Be sure to choose an equally cute outfit for all the cottagecore photo opportunities that are available here.
Address: Bukit Batok East Ave 5, Singapore 650242
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours daily
Contact: 1800 471 7300
Dempsey Hill
Dempsey Hill is a serene, beautiful enclave that is located just outside the city centre. You can even spend a day in this pretty and verdant hill filled with fantastic cafes, restaurants, shops, spas, and so much more. In the past, it used to be a nutmeg plantation and British army barracks, but it has since gone through an extensive transformation over the years. You can even take a stroll along their walking trails and admire the lush enclave for a different perspective of the historic location.
Address: Blk 8D Dempsey Rd, #03-01, Singapore 249679
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 8.30am–5.30pm
Contact: 6472 1868
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Kampong Lorong Buangkok
Allow yourself to step back in time when you enter Kampong Lorong Buangkok, Singapore’s last surviving village with an uncertain future. Built in 1956, the last kampong in Singapore is a quick respite from the city, surrounded by untouched greenery. However, do note you have to be respectful when visiting and taking photos as there are still around 30 families living here. Walking through this village definitely gives a glimpse into how simple life used to be, and there are definitely plenty of photogenic spots to snap a photo.
Address: 7 Lorong Buangkok, Singapore 547557
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours daily
