Ang Mo Kio Area Guide

Located next to Yio Chu Kang Sports Stadium, Lower Seletar Reservoir, and Seletar Country Clubs, residents enjoy easy access to various recreational facilities including in a game of golf and a healthy workout. Already well served by Yio Chu Kang and Ang Mo Kio MRT stations, bus interchanges and two expressways, the neighborhood will see further improvements to public transport services as the expansion of two new MRT stations (Lentor and Mayflower) within the area makes travelling even more convenient. With an upcoming land development near the established private housing estate of Seletar Hills, more residents can look forward to new and alternative homes surrounded by numerous schools such as Presbyterian High School, Anderson Junior College, and Nanyang Polytechnic. On top of that, childcare centers, kindergartens and special schools like Pathlight School and Chaoyang School, catering to children with autism and intellectual disability can also be found. Private housing estates include Thomson Hills Estate, Castle Green, Grandeur 8, The Gardens At Bishan and Seasons Park.

Public transport and amenities in Ang Mo Kio

Brief History of Ang Mo Kio

Ang Mo Kio, which translates from the Hokkien dialect to “Bridge of the Caucasian”, is a neighbourhood that is located in the North-East Region of Singapore. There has been much speculation regarding the reason behind the district's name, but the most widely accepted explanation is that the area was named after a bridge, which was built in colonial times. This bridge, in turn, earned that name among the locals due to it being built by John Turnbull Thomson, who had distinctive red-coloured hair. (“Ang Mo” literally translates to “Red hair” and is a slang term used in Singapore to refer to Caucasians.)

Ang Mo Kio is Singapore's 8th most populous neighbourhood and is divided into twelve subzones for planning and statistical purposes, including the Ang Mo Kio Town Centre and Yio Chu Kang North, East, and West. Aside from being one of Singapore's oldest satellite towns, Ang Mo Kio was the first town to be designed in a metric system, which was later adapted for other towns. 

The development of Ang Mo Kio New Town began in 1973 and was completed in 1980. In less than a decade, Ang Mo Kio had become a well-planned new town. The design of the town even won the Singapore Institute of Architects' Outstanding Buildings Award in 1993.

Ang Mo Kio Planning Area

Ang Mo Kio Planning Area, as defined by the Urban Redevelopment Authority, is located in Singapore's northeast region and spans approximately 1,336 hectares (3,300 acres). It is bordered by Yishun to the north, Sengkang to the northeast, Serangoon to the east, Bishan to the south, and the Central Water Catchment to the west. Ang Mo Kio Planning Area is officially divided into 12 subzones, including:

• Ang Mo Kio Town Centre
• Cheng San
• Chong Boon
• Kebun Baru
• Sembawang Hills
• Shangri-La
• Tagore
• Townsville
• Yio Chu Kang
• Yio Chu Kang East
• Yio Chu Kang West

Living in Ang Mo Kio: The Ultimate Neighbourhood Guide

Ang Mo Kio is arguably one of the most sought-after areas in Singapore's Northeast Region. It offers a wide range of activities and diverse housing options, making it a popular choice for many people looking to live in this vibrant community.

What's it like to live in Ang Mo Kio?

If you’re wondering how it’s like living in Ang Mo Kio, we’ve got you covered! It is essential to do your research before moving into a new town. Especially if you’re an expat stepping your foot in the country for the first time. Here are the things you should expect about living in Ang Mo Kio:

Efficient Public Transport System

Ang Mo Kio is well-connected by Singapore's efficient public transport system, making commuting a breeze for its residents. The area is served by multiple MRT stations, including Ang Mo Kio, Mayflower, Lentor, and Yio Chu Kang, providing easy access to the North-South Line and Thomson-East Coast Line. Additionally, the Ang Mo Kio Bus Interchange offers numerous bus routes that connect the town to various parts of the island, ensuring seamless travel for work, school, and leisure.

Walkable Neighbourhood

One of the standout features of Ang Mo Kio is its walkability. The town is designed with pedestrian-friendly pathways, allowing residents to easily navigate between amenities such as shopping malls, parks, schools, and eateries. The well-planned layout ensures that essential services and recreational spots are within a short walking distance, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.

Tranquil Neighbourhood

Despite its bustling activity, Ang Mo Kio maintains a tranquil atmosphere that appeals to those seeking a peaceful living environment. The area is dotted with numerous parks and green spaces, such as Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park and Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West, offering serene spots for relaxation and nature appreciation. The quiet residential areas, combined with well-maintained public spaces, create a harmonious balance between urban living and natural tranquillity.

Excellent School Options

Ang Mo Kio is home to a variety of reputable schools, making it an ideal location for families with children. The area boasts numerous educational institutions, including primary and secondary schools like Mayflower Primary School and Ang Mo Kio Secondary School, as well as tertiary institutions such as Nanyang Polytechnic and Anderson Serangoon Junior College. The presence of these schools ensures that children have access to quality education within close proximity to their homes.

Loads of Fun Things to Do

Residents of Ang Mo Kio have no shortage of recreational activities and entertainment options. The town features several shopping malls, including AMK Hub, Jubilee Square, Broadway Plaza, and Djitsun Mall, offering a plethora of retail, dining, and entertainment choices. Additionally, the Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail and parks like Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park provide opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration. Whether you're looking for a shopping spree, a delicious meal, or a leisurely walk in the park, Ang Mo Kio has something to offer everyone.

5 Best Things To Do in Ang Mo Kio

1. Yoga at Landspace Pond

Find your serenity and channel your inner yogi at the Landscape Pond within Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park – meditate in stillnessFamous for their aromatherapy massages and detoxing treatments, you will leave this place feeling refreshed and recharged! in the middle of the circular platform or stretch your hamstrings with an extended triangle pose. That, or you can join a session with the members of the Outdoor Family Yoga every 2nd Sunday of the month.

2. Stargaze with Sidewalk Astronomy for Free!

Sidewalk Astronomy is a non-profit organisation which usually holds stargazing sessions at Bishan-AMK Park. You can enjoy the magnificent view with the provided telescope and find warmth in the company of like-minded people.

3. Pamper yourself at Aramsa Garden Spa

Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park has all kinds of recreational activities to offer. Within the park, you can also find Aramsa Garden Spa which is famous for its unique design – Aramsa Spa has 17 uniquely designed treatment rooms with spacious garden courtyards and outdoor showers. With a wide range of treatments, including a few specialised ones like the Huna Huna Massage, silicone cupping therapy and Elemis body and face treatments, Aramsa has your wellness needs covered. Remember to make a reservation first because it’s usually fully booked! 

4. Explore the Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail 

These self-guided trails offer an enriching journey through one of Singapore's most historically significant towns. This trail invites explorers to discover the rich cultural tapestry and evolving landscape of Ang Mo Kio. Along the way, participants will encounter landmarks and sites that tell the story of the town's development from a rural area to a bustling residential hub. Highlights include traditional HDB estates, iconic public art installations, and local landmarks like the Cheng San Market and the Ang Mo Kio Town Garden. The trail provides a unique opportunity to delve into the town's history, heritage, and the vibrant community spirit that defines Ang Mo Kio. Perfect for history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike, the Ang Mo Kio Heritage Trail is a captivating way to experience the heart and soul of this beloved neighbourhood.

5. Walk down memory lane at Kampong Mural

Discover the nostalgic charm of Singapore's past at the Kampong Mural in Ang Mo Kio, located at Block 316B, Ang Mo Kio Street 31. Created by local artist Yip Yew Chong, this vibrant mural beautifully captures scenes of traditional kampong (village) life, depicting children playing, families sharing meals, and neighbours chatting. The mural fosters community connection by bridging generations, allowing residents to reminisce and share stories. It serves as a colourful and detailed historical narrative, celebrating Singapore’s cultural heritage. The Kampong Mural is also a popular spot for photography, offering a picturesque backdrop that invites visitors to capture and share a piece of history.

Housing Options in Ang Mo Kio

There is a mix of old and new HDB flats in Ang Mo Kio; the older flats are constructed in the more traditional style of 12-storey long blocks with units accessible through a common corridor, or 25-storey point blocks, which have 4 units per floor. On the other hand, newer flats tend to be taller, towering over the older flats.

There are many private residential developments in Ang Mo Kio as well. The Panorama, Centro Residences, and Clover by The Park are among the relatively new developments in the area. If you’re looking for some recent condo launches in Ang Mo Kio, AMO Residence and Lentor Hill Residences both were launched in 2023. There are also several landed properties in the district, including semi-detached houses, bungalows, and shophouses.

Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) - Ang Mo Kio

Ang Mo Kio is well-connected by Singapore's efficient Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system, making it convenient for residents and visitors to travel to and from the area. Here are the key MRT stations in Ang Mo Kio:

Ang Mo Kio MRT Station (NS16)

Line: North-South Line (NSL)

Situated in the heart of Ang Mo Kio, this station serves as a major transportation hub for the town. It is integrated with AMK Hub, a popular shopping mall, and provides easy access to various bus services at the adjacent Ang Mo Kio Bus Interchange. The station is well-used by residents for commuting to work, school, and other parts of Singapore.

Mayflower MRT Station (TE6)

Line: Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL)

Located near the Mayflower Estate, this station enhances connectivity for residents living in the eastern part of Ang Mo Kio. It provides direct access to key areas along the Thomson-East Coast Line, including the city centre and the future Thomson-East Coast region. The station is close to Mayflower Primary School and various residential developments.

Lentor MRT Station (TE5)

Line: Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL)

Positioned in the northern part of Ang Mo Kio, Lentor MRT Station serves the Lentor residential area. This station connects commuters to the TEL, offering convenient travel options to Woodlands in the north and Marina Bay in the south. The station is situated near several new residential developments and green spaces.

Yio Chu Kang MRT Station (NS15)

Line: North-South Line (NSL)

Located at the northern edge of Ang Mo Kio, Yio Chu Kang MRT Station serves the Yio Chu Kang residential estate and its surroundings. The station is near educational institutions such as Anderson Junior College and Nanyang Polytechnic, making it a vital transit point for students. It is also close to various sports facilities and community amenities, providing convenient access to both residential and recreational areas.

These MRT stations provide excellent connectivity to Ang Mo Kio, making it easy to travel to other parts of Singapore for work, school, shopping, and leisure. The presence of both the North-South Line and Thomson-East Coast Line ensures that residents have multiple options for efficient and convenient transportation.

Dine and Drink in Ang Mo Kio

There has been significant hype around the recent opening of a vending machine cafe at Ang Mo Kio MRT Station, Chef-in-Box VendCafe, which serves you your meal in seconds. It is said to be a prime option for commuters on the go and is worth a try at least for the experience.

As for hawker fare, one of the dishes that comes highly recommended is Eng Ho Hokkien Mee, at 409A Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10; there are countless food blogs that rave about it! Another hawker favourite is Hong Heng Beef Noodle Soup & Laksa, at Kebun Baru Market and Food Centre. 99.co recommends these two stalls as a must-try in the area!

Bak Kut Teh lovers should definitely head to Hong Ji Bak Kut Teh, whose Bak Kut Teh (Pork Bone Broth) is peppery, thick, and served in a claypot.

Try out some Western food at Murphy's, a food chain which originates from the United Kingdom and is predictably well-known for its fish & chips. Alternatively, have a satisfyingly authentic and affordable Italian meal at PocoLoco.

For a sweet treat, head to Pine Garden to enjoy their buttercream cakes, which bring back the nostalgic taste of neighbourhood bakeries, or try Twenty Grammes' artisan waffles and ice cream.

Ang Mo Kio Central Market & Food Centre is also a great Makan place to visit. Several must-try stalls here include Xi Xiang Feng, Fried Hokkien Prawn Noodle, and Seng Bee Hainanese Chicken Rice, among others. Other hawker centres in Ang Mo Kio where you will find a wide variety of foods include Cheng San Market & Cooked Food Centre and Ang Mo Kio 628 Market.

With quite a number of good cafes that offer quality food and desserts, the cafe scene at Ang Mo Kio is up and coming. However, finding a cafe that actually serves good coffee is a significantly harder challenge. Hence, coffee lovers would definitely rejoice when visiting Yahava KoffeeWorks, or Prodigal Roasters, which are both specialty coffee shops.

On the other hand, those looking to unwind with a couple of drinks after work can head to Club48 inside the Grassroots Club, which is open to the public, has a pool table and even a live band on some nights; the prices there are said to be very affordable as well.

Shopping in Ang Mo Kio

There are a total of four shopping malls in Ang Mo Kio: AMK Hub, Jubilee Square, Broadway Plaza, and Djitsun Mall. The four shopping malls together aim to meet every daily need of the residents of Ang Mo Kio and have tenants such as tuition centres, gyms, restaurants, as well as various other services.

AMK Hub

AMK Hub is the largest of these four malls with a cineplex, supermarkets, and a variety of food and fashion outlets. Located in the heart of Ang Mo Kio, it offers a diverse array of retail stores, ranging from fashion boutiques to electronics shops, ensuring there's something for everyone. Anchor tenants include NTUC FairPrice Xtra, which provides a wide range of groceries and household items, and Cathay Cineplex, offering the latest movies for entertainment. In addition to shopping, the mall boasts a wide selection of dining options, from local delights to international cuisines, making it a perfect destination for a day out.

Jubilee Square

Jubilee Square is a cosy and community-centric shopping mall located in Ang Mo Kio. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, this mall features a mix of retail outlets, casual dining spots, and essential services. Anchor tenants include Anytime Fitness, which offers 24/7 gym facilities, and popular dining spots like Sakae Sushi. It's an excellent place to enjoy a leisurely meal, run errands, or simply unwind with friends and family. Jubilee Square's convenient location and welcoming vibe make it a favourite spot for locals.

Djitsun Mall

Djitsun Mall is a dynamic and modern shopping centre in Ang Mo Kio, offering a comprehensive shopping experience. Anchor tenants include Harvey Norman, known for its extensive range of electronics, furniture, and home appliances, and a Golden Village cinema for movie lovers. Additionally, the mall houses Yamaha Music School, which offers music lessons for all ages. With its blend of lifestyle, entertainment, and dining facilities, Djitsun Mall is an ideal place to spend quality time with family and friends while enjoying the vibrant community atmosphere.

Broadway Plaza

Broadway Plaza hosts a variety of retail stores, from everyday essentials to trendy fashion. Anchor tenants include the supermarket Sheng Siong, which provides a wide selection of groceries at affordable prices, and other popular establishments like McDonald's. Its array of eateries offers something for every palate, while its services cater to both practical and lifestyle needs. Broadway Plaza's lively environment makes it a great spot for both quick visits and leisurely outings.

Educational Facilities in Ang Mo Kio

There are many schools that cater to all ages and levels of education, from preschools to tertiary institutions such as Anderson Junior College, ITE College Central, and Nanyang Polytechnic. There are seven primary schools and seven secondary schools, as well as schools catering to children with special needs.

Primary schools:

• Anderson Primary School
• Ang Mo Kio Primary School
• CHIJ St Nicholas Girls’ School (Primary)
• Jing Shan Primary School
• Mayflower Primary School
• Teck Ghee Primary School
• Townsville Primary School

Secondary schools:

• Anderson Secondary School
• Ang Mo Kio Secondary School
• CHIJ St Nicholas Girls’ School (Secondary)
• Deyi Secondary School
• Mayflower Secondary School
• Presbyterian High School
• Yio Chu Kang Secondary School

For special education, there are Chaoyang School which specialises in children aged 7 to 12 with mild intellectual disability, and Pathlight School has both a primary and secondary school campus that caters to children with special needs.

Ang Mo Kio Public Library

Aside from the wide variety of books and magazines in all four of Singapore’s official languages, visitors can expect a lot more at Ang Mo Kio Public Library. It carries one of the most comprehensive and varied collections of printed and non-printed materials in Tamil, compared to other public libraries across Singapore. One of the highlights of Ang Mo Kio Public Library is the Vaasagar Vattam club which aims to create awareness of the recent changes happening in the Tamil literary world. The club’s discussion is also centred on understanding the latest trends and technology involving Tamil writing and connecting people worldwide with similar tastes. 

Another club you might be interested in is the Taxi Sifu & Friends Reading Club. Over the years, participation in the club’s sessions has been growing. Not only are the members of the group made up of drivers but also people from all walks of life such as teens, working adults, to senior citizens who share a common interest. On top of this, the Ang Mo Kio Public Library provides residents with a variety of reading materials on a wide range of topics that have been used during the book discussions, including Chinese classics, history, and biography.

Parks and Gardens in Ang Mo Kio

Ang Mo Kio is home to several beautiful parks that offer a mix of recreational activities, nature experiences, and tranquil retreats. These parks provide a variety of recreational options, from active sports and fitness to peaceful nature walks, making Ang Mo Kio a delightful place to enjoy the outdoors. Here are some notable parks in Ang Mo Kio:

Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park

Among the favourite destinations is Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park which is one of the largest urban parks in central Singapore. With open lawns and grassy banks along the river, it is an excellent place for families to have a fun day out where they can have picnics and gatherings while enjoying the beauty and tranquillity of the waterway. The 62-hectare park is also home to a wide array of interesting fauna and flora, making it ideal for nature lovers. 

Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West

Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West is also a great place for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts alike. Built on a small hill with lush and spreading greenery, the park offers joggers many footpaths meandering through the forest and flowing over the hilly terrain. The secondary forest in this park has plants such as Dillenia and Vitex growing plentiful and in their most beautiful forms.There’s a large pond within the park, making it an excellent spot for exercise and relaxation. The park is also known for its birdwatching opportunities.

Ang Mo Kio Town Garden East

A quieter counterpart to the West Garden, Ang Mo Kio Town Garden East has terraced landscaping, dense foliage, and winding paths. It is ideal for a peaceful walk or a moment of solitude amidst nature. The park also includes a playground and fitness facilities. Ang Mo Kio Town Garden East is home to Rubber trees as well as other economically important trees such as Nutmeg and Cinnamon. 

Ang Mo Kio Linear Park

Ang Mo Kio Linear Park is a serene and picturesque green space that stretches through the heart of Ang Mo Kio, offering residents and visitors a peaceful retreat from urban life. This park features beautifully landscaped gardens, meandering pathways, and vibrant greenery, making it an ideal spot for leisurely walks, jogging, and cycling. With its lush environment and tranquil ambiance, the park provides a refreshing escape for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts alike. Additionally, Ang Mo Kio Linear Park is equipped with various amenities, including fitness stations and children's playgrounds, ensuring fun and relaxation for people of all ages. 

Cheng San Park

A small neighbourhood park, Cheng San Park is perfect for families with young children. It has a playground, fitness stations, and open spaces for casual sports and recreation. The park's quiet environment makes it a great spot for a leisurely afternoon.

Kebun Baru Bird Singing Club

Located near Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West, this unique park area is dedicated to bird enthusiasts. The club is known for its bird singing competitions, where bird owners bring their songbirds to showcase their melodic talents. It’s a fascinating spot for cultural and nature lovers.

Sports Facilities in Ang Mo Kio

Located on Ang Mo Kio Ave 9, Yio Chu Kang Sports Centre offers a spacious layout which best resembles a clubhouse. Facilities housed in this sports centre include a gym, a sports hall, a squash centre, a stadium, a swimming complex, and a tennis centre. Its location beside the Yio Chu Kang MRT station and bus interchange makes it extremely accessible for residents of Ang Mo Kio and the surrounding neighbourhoods. 

Aside from this sports centre, residents can expect another public gym managed by Sport Singapore at the Ang Mo Kio Community Centre. What is unique about this gym is that it features exercise equipment suitable for elderly people. Although the machines are commonly found in gyms, these ones are pneumatic or adjusted using air pressure which means it has a low impact on the joints. 

Additionally, the gym also has health screening equipment for users to keep track of their fitness levels. For instance, there is a gait motion sensor that measures a user's walking speed and posture to analyse the risk of falls.

Places of Worship in Ang Mo Kio

Other than churches, you can find several temples in Ang Mo Kio. Leng San Giam, Kim Eang Tong, and Gao Lin Gong Temples are all located along Ang Mo Kio Ave 1. As for Muslims, one of the mosques available in the area is Masjid Al-Muttaqin which has over 3,500 worshippers and also offers religious classes and structured Al-Quran learning programmes.

Hospitals in Ang Mo Kio

Ang Mo Kio - Thye Hua Kwan Hospital

Ang Mo Kio - Thye Hua Kwan Hospital is a community hospital located in Ang Mo Kio that provides rehabilitative and intermediate care services. The hospital focuses on helping patients recover and regain independence after acute illnesses or surgeries. It offers various services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, tailored to meet the needs of elderly patients and those requiring rehabilitative care.

Tan Tock Seng Hospital

While not located directly in Ang Mo Kio, Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) is a major healthcare institution nearby in Novena. It is one of Singapore's largest multidisciplinary hospitals, providing a comprehensive range of medical services, including emergency care, specialist outpatient services, and inpatient care. Its proximity to Ang Mo Kio makes it a convenient option for residents seeking advanced medical treatment.

Khoo Teck Puat Hospital

Located in Yishun, just north of Ang Mo Kio, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital (KTPH) is another major healthcare facility accessible to Ang Mo Kio residents. KTPH offers a wide array of services, including general and specialist medical care, surgery, and emergency services. It is known for its patient-centric approach and state-of-the-art facilities.