Known for quirky cafés, and affordable shopping and services, Johor Bahru is just one bus or train away from Singapore.
Johor Bahru, just across the Causeway, is a quick getaway from Singapore for both locals and travellers. Perfect for a day trip and a pair of passport stamps, this city in Malaysia offers a mix of budget-friendly shopping and quirky experiences. Here are 5 fun things you can do in JB in a day.
Table of Contents
Johor Bahru Overview
Country: Malaysia
Country Code: +60
Continent: Asia (Southeast)
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR / RM)
Airport: Senai International Airport (JHB)
Language: Bahasa Malaysia (Malay), Mandarin Chinese, Tamil, English
5 things to do on a day trip to Johor Bahru
1. Chill with alpacas at a café
JB has plenty of cool cafés, but As Clouds Cafe stands out for its alpaca experience. You can enjoy a coffee while interacting with these gentle animals in a relaxed, friendly setting. The café is Muslim-friendly and open daily, making it a unique stop for visitors of all ages.
Location: 18, Jalan Nakhoda 2, Taman Ungku Tun Aminah, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 11:00 – 21:00
2. Visit Legoland Malaysia
Playing with big Lego blocks at LEGOLAND® Malaysia Hotel. Photo: Cristina Garcia
Perfect for anyone with a love for Lego or families travelling with kids, Legoland Malaysia is the first theme park of its kind in Asia. It features more than 40 rides, shows, and attractions suitable for all ages. For a full experience, you can also stay at the Lego-themed hotel located on site.
Location: 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 10:00 – 18:00
Cost: From SGD 65
3. Shop and pamper yourself for less at KSL City
Finding Singapore a little too expensive? KSL City is the place for affordable shopping and services. Beyond retail and dining, you can get phone repairs, haircuts, hair colouring, lashes, and nail touch-ups — all without breaking the bank. It’s a convenient one-stop spot for both browsing and pampering.
Location: LG 64, 33, Jalan Seladang, Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 10:00 – 22:00
4. Score premium items at Johor Premium Outlets
Photo: Johor Premium Outlets official website
If it’s time for a wardrobe update, then a visit to Johor Premium Outlets is a must. With around 150 brands spanning luxury and mid-range labels, JPO is a convenient place to pick up quality items at lower prices compared to Singapore. To get here, you can take a direct bus from Singapore that drops you off at the outlet.
Location: Jalan Premium Outlets, Bandar Indahpura, 81000 Kulai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 10:00 – 22:00
5. Hike up Gunung Pulai
At the top of Gunung Pulai after hiking for 5 hours. Photo: Hana Zainal
For those who want to escape the usual tourist trail and get some movement in, a hike to Mount Pulai is a solid option. This beginner-friendly physical activity is often organised from Singapore by Little Monsters Travel. Meeting is typically at Marsiling MRT station around 06:00, then you travel by private transport, stop for a quick breakfast in JB, and reach the trailhead by about 08:00. The ascent usually takes about five hours, with a shorter two-hour descent via a different route.
How to get to Johor Bahru from Singapore
By bus
Taking a bus is an easy and cheap way to get to Johor Bahru from Singapore. There are plenty of pick-up points around the island, most of them conveniently located near MRT stations. But be mindful of your final stop, as buses cross via two different checkpoints:
Woodlands Checkpoint
Final stop: Johor Bahru CIQ
For those going to Johor Bahru City Centre (JB Sentral, City Square).
Tuas Checkpoint
Final stop: Gelang Patah Sentral Bus Terminal
For those going to Legoland, Bukit Indah, Iskandar Puteri.
Cost: SGD 2.60
By train
The KTM train is the fastest way to reach Johor Bahru. From Woodlands CIQ to JB Sentral, the journey time is just 5–10 minutes. Tickets should be booked online in advance, as they often sell out, especially during weekends and holidays.
Pro tip: Book a one-way ticket from Singapore and purchase your return ticket in JB, which is typically cheaper.
Cost: From SGD 6.80
By car
For travellers with kids, elderly or PWD, the most comfortable, yet most expensive, way to get from Singapore to JB is by car. You can either rent one to drive yourself, or hire a private taxi for a smooth journey. Do note that traffic at the Causeway can be heavy during peak hours, weekends, and public holidays, so buffer extra travel time.
So there you have it – a short and sweet guide, perfect for your side trip to Johor Bahru from Singapore.
Discussion
Be the first to comment!