Jurong East Area Guide
With major development plans in the pipeline for Jurong East, it is slated to be the next business hub. With over 15 condominiums in the area including Westmere, Parc Oasis, The Mayfair and the new J Gateway residence slated to complete in 2016, families and friends can always drop by West Gate and Jurong East Mall (JEM) located right outside Jurong East station. More shopping options can be found at Big Box, an upcoming warehouse retail development. Right next-door is Singapore's newest medical facility, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital. Nearby, Chinese Garden is a landmark not to be missed as traditional Chinese festivals like Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival brings it to life. Parents can be spoilt for choices when it comes to choosing educational institutions, among which includes Seventh-Day Adventist Kindergarten, Fuhua Primary School, YuHua Primary School and Shuqun Secondary School. Meanwhile, the recently built Continuing Education and Training Campus provides a one-stop destination for skills training and career opportunities.
Active Listings in Jurong East
Public transport and amenities in Jurong East
Summary
The Jurong East Planning Area, located in the western part of Singapore, is a significant and well-developed region known for its blend of residential, commercial, and industrial activities. The area's well-developed transportation network, comparehensive amenities, and diverse housing options from HDB flats, Build-To-Order (BTO) flats, to private condominiums, make it a desirable place to live, work, and play.
The name Jurong itself is most probably derived from the Malay word for shark, Jerung. In the early 1900s, Jurong was uncharted territory, mainly occupied by swamps, shrubs and thick jungles. The modern development of Jurong started in 1959 when Finance Minister Dr. Goh Keng Swee set it up to be an industrial town equipped with modern facilities such as factories and shipyards to boost Singapore's economy. Today, with the development of Jurong Lake District, Jurong still holds its role as a significant hub in Singapore's western region.
Jurong East Subzones
Jurong East is divided into 10 subzones, with each area owning a different character and functionality. From bustling commercial hubs and industrial centres to scenic waterfronts and residential communities, Jurong East offers a well-rounded living and working environment. These subzones make Jurong East a key part of Singapore's western region, balancing business, industry, and quality of life.
Here are the 10 subzones of Jurong East:
- Jurong Port – A major industrial and port area located at the southwestern edge of Jurong East. It serves as a significant hub for maritime and logistics activities.
- Penjuru Crescent – An industrial area located to the southeast of Jurong East. It is known for its industrial and manufacturing activities.
- Jurong River – A scenic subzone that runs through Jurong East, offering a blend of industrial, commercial, and recreational spaces.
- Teban Gardens – A residential subzone with a strong community focus. It features a mix of public housing and local amenities with a neighbourhood-friendly environment.
- Lakeside – A prominent subzone situated near Jurong Lake, with a scenic and tranquil environment. The subzone includes residential estates, shopping malls, and recreational facilities like Jurong Lake Gardens.
- Jurong Gateway – The central business district of Jurong East, serving as a major commercial and business hub with notable developments such as Jem and Westgate.
- International Business Park (IBP) – A key industrial and business hub in Jurong East, housing numerous multinational corporations and business facilities.
- Toh Guan – A subzone situated to the north of Jurong East, featuring a mix of residential and industrial developments.
- Yuhua East – A residential subzone with a focus on community living and local amenities, featuring HDB flats and local facilities such as schools, parks, and community centres.
- Yuhua West – Adjacent to Yuhua East and shares similar residential and community-focused characteristics.
What’s it like to live in Jurong East?
Wonder how it feels like living in Jurong East? 99.co has got you covered! Living in Jurong East offers a well-balanced lifestyle with its blend of modern amenities, excellent connectivity, green spaces, and a vibrant community. The area’s ongoing development, such as the Jurong Lake District, promises an even more dynamic environment in the coming years, making it a highly desirable location for residents seeking convenience, comfort, and a sense of community.
Whether you’re a family, a working professional, or a retiree, Jurong East has something to offer everyone. Here are the things you need to know about living in Jurong East:
Diverse Housing Options in Jurong East
Jurong East features a variety of HDB flats, ranging from older, well-established estates to new BTO (Build-To-Order) projects. The June 2024 BTO in Jurong East, for instance, is highly popular due to its prime location within the Jurong Lake District — situated at the intersection of Jurong Town Hall Road and Teban Gardens Road.
In addition to public housing, Jurong East also offers a range of private residential options including condominiums and landed properties. These often come with added amenities like swimming pools, gyms, and landscaped gardens. Those interested in staying in private housing can check out the existing condominiums Parc Oasis, The Mayfair, Ivory Heights, J Gateway, and the new landmark mixed-use development in Jurong Gateway, J’den condo.
Jurong East’s Excellent Connectivity
Jurong East is a transportation hub, making it incredibly convenient for commuting. The Jurong East MRT Station is a key interchange connecting the North-South and East-West MRT lines, and the upcoming Jurong Region Line (JRL) will further enhance connectivity within the western region. The area is also well-served by a comprehensive bus network and major expressways like the Ayer Rajah Expressway (AYE) and Pan-Island Expressway (PIE), ensuring easy access to the rest of Singapore.
Bright Future of Jurong East
Jurong East is undergoing significant development, particularly with the transformation of the Jurong Lake District into Singapore’s second Central Business District (CBD). This will bring new commercial spaces, residential projects, and recreational areas, making Jurong East an even more attractive place to live. The ongoing expansion of Tuas Port and other infrastructure projects will also drive economic growth and create new job opportunities in the region.
Top-Notch Lifestyle Amenities in Jurong East
Jurong East is a shopping and entertainment paradise. It boasts several major shopping malls, including Jem, Westgate, and IMM, where residents can find everything from high-end retail stores to local eateries and entertainment options like cinemas and ice skating rinks. The area also has a variety of local markets and food centres, offering diverse dining experiences that cater to different tastes and budgets.
Abundance of Recreational and Green Spaces
Jurong East is not just about urban convenience; it also offers ample green spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities. The stunning Jurong Lake Gardens is a major highlight, offering scenic walking trails, cycling paths, and areas for picnics. Additionally, the Jurong East Sports Centre provides a range of sports facilities, including swimming pools and sports courts, catering to residents who lead active lifestyles.
5 Best Things to Do in Jurong East
You’ll never run out of things to do in Jurong East. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, shopping, entertainment, or learning, Jurong East has something for everyone. The diverse offerings of Jurong East make it a lively and engaging place to visit or live in. Here are top 5 things to do in Jurong East:
1. Explore the Jurong Lake Gardens
Jurong Lake Gardens is a stunning green space that offers a tranquil escape from the urban hustle. The park features beautiful landscapes, walking and cycling paths, and scenic views of Jurong Lake. Highlights include the Lakeside Garden, Chinese and Japanese Gardens, and the newly developed garden areas designed for families and nature lovers. It's the perfect spot for a morning jog, a family picnic, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings.
2. Shop and Dine at JEM and Westgate
JEM and Westgate are two of Jurong East’s premier shopping malls, offering a wide variety of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities. JEM is known for its mix of high-street fashion, electronics, and lifestyle brands, while Westgate offers a family-friendly shopping experience with numerous restaurants, cafes, and a rooftop playground for children. Both malls are conveniently located near the Jurong East MRT Station, making them easy to access.
3. Visit the Science Centre Singapore
For a fun and educational experience, visit the Science Centre Singapore, located in Jurong East. The centre offers a wide range of interactive exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations that cater to both children and adults. Popular exhibits include the Human Body Experience, Eco Garden, and the Omni-Theatre, which features immersive digital planetarium shows. The Science Centre is an excellent destination for families and anyone interested in exploring the wonders of science and technology.
4. Relax at the Jurong East Swimming Complex
The Jurong East Swimming Complex is one of the most popular public swimming facilities in Singapore, known for its variety of pools and water features. The complex includes a wave pool, a lazy river, water slides, and a jacuzzi, making it a great place for both relaxation and fun. It’s an ideal spot for families with children or anyone looking to cool off on a hot day. The complex also offers swimming lessons and fitness programs for those looking to stay active.
5. Explore the Jurong East Community Club
The Jurong East Community Club (CC) is a hub for various activities and events that cater to residents of all ages. It offers a wide range of recreational classes, from dance and martial arts to cooking and arts & crafts. The club also hosts community events and festivals, providing a great way to connect with fellow residents and experience the local culture.
Top 10 Foodies’ Hidden Gems in Jurong East
Jurong East is home to a plethora of delicious food options, including several hidden gems that offer mouth-watering dishes at affordable prices. These lesser-known spots are cherished by locals for their authentic flavours and unique offerings. Here are some food recommendations in Jurong East that you should check out:
1. Ah Chiang's Porridge
Ah Chiang's Porridge is renowned for its silky-smooth and flavorful porridge, cooked over a charcoal fire which imparts a distinct smoky aroma. They offer a wide range of toppings including sliced fish, pork, century egg, and chicken, allowing you to customise your bowl to your liking.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Century Egg with Lean Meat Porridge
- Sliced Fish Porridge
- Raw Fish Salad
2. Fei Fei Roasted Noodle
Known for their perfectly roasted char siew (barbecued pork) and crispy-skinned roast duck that are tender and flavorful. Generous portions at wallet-friendly prices make it a popular choice among locals.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Roasted Char Siew and Wanton Noodle
- Roasted Duck Rice
- Combination Platter of Roast Meats
3. Yuhua Village Hainanese Curry Rice
Offers a variety of dishes such as braised pork belly, crispy pork chops, and stewed cabbage to pair with the curry and rice. The curry is thick, aromatic, and packed with spices, complementing the steamed rice perfectly.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Curry Rice with Pork Chop and Braised Pork Belly
- Stewed Cabbage
- Braised Egg
4. Yuhua Market Fried Carrot Cake
They offer both white and black versions, fried to a crispy exterior while remaining soft inside, with generous amounts of egg and preserved radish (chai poh). The dish strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and savoriness, with a delightful smoky wok hei (charred) flavour.
Must-Try Dishes:
- White Fried Carrot Cake
- Black Fried Carrot Cake
5. Yuhua Village Traditional Handmade Yong Tau Foo
There’s a wide selection of stuffed vegetables, beancurd, and dumplings, cooked in a flavorful broth. The accompanying sweet and chilli sauces are homemade, enhancing the overall taste experience. All items are meticulously handmade daily, ensuring freshness and superior taste.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Dry Yong Tau Foo with Special Sauce
- Soup Yong Tau Foo with Assorted Stuffed Vegetables
6. Thow Yen Seafood
It’s a spot for delicious seafood dishes, including chilli crab, butter prawns, and steamed fish. Beyond seafood, they serve a wide range of traditional zi char dishes like hotplate tofu, sambal kangkong, and salted egg yolk chicken.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Chili Crab with Mantou (Fried Buns)
- Butter Prawns
- Hotplate Tofu
- Sambal Kangkong
7. Meng Kee Satay Bee Hoon
The satay bee hoon is drenched in a creamy and flavorful peanut sauce that's fragrant and packed with spices. The dish comes with a generous mix of ingredients like cuttlefish, pork slices, cockles, and vegetables atop silky rice vermicelli.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Satay Bee Hoon
- Cuttlefish Kang Kong
8. Joo Siah Bak Koot Teh
Known for its flavorful and peppery soup that is boiled for hours to achieve a rich taste. The pork ribs are cooked to perfection, tender and succulent, absorbing the essence of the broth. They also offer complimentary side dishes like braised peanuts, salted vegetables, and you tiao (fried dough sticks) to complete the meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Bak Kut Teh Soup
- Braised Pig’s Trotters
- You Tiao
9. Ji De Lai Hainanese Chicken Rice
The chicken is cooked to tender perfection, maintaining its juiciness and smooth texture. The rice is aromatic and flavorful, cooked with chicken broth and fragrant herbs. Accompanied by a spicy and tangy chilli sauce that complements the chicken and rice beautifully.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Steamed Chicken Rice
- Roasted Chicken Rice
- Chicken Gizzard and Liver Sides
10. Yuan Yuan Claypot Rice
The claypot rice is cooked over charcoal, giving it a distinctive smoky flavour and crispy rice crust. Topped with generous portions of marinated chicken, Chinese sausage, salted fish, and vegetables. The combination of ingredients and the cooking method results in a rich and hearty dish that's comforting and satisfying.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Traditional Claypot Chicken Rice
- Claypot Salted Fish Rice
These hidden gems in Jurong East showcase the rich and diverse culinary landscape of the area. From traditional local delicacies to hearty comfort foods, there's something to satisfy every craving. Exploring these eateries will not only delight your taste buds but also provide an authentic glimpse into Singapore's vibrant food culture. Enjoy your gastronomic adventure in Jurong East!
Shopping and Entertainment in Jurong East
Few other neighbourhoods can boast as many well-equipped shopping malls as Jurong East, the next up-and-coming Orchard Road of the West it seems. Here are the top malls in the area that we here at 99.co can vouch for.
For example, IMM is known to be rife with outlet stores, such that shoppers flock there for cheaper purchases as compared to buying the same goods from a normal store; people also go to IMM to shop for electronics, furniture and groceries, as there is a huge selection there. Alternatively, those shopping for furniture can head to The Furniture Mall, which is nearby and is exactly what it says on the tin.
Jem has many mainstream retail stores, such as fast fashion chains H&M and Topshop; there is also a supermarket there, as well as various other stores. This is one of the shopping malls where you can most likely find everything you need since it has stores from so many categories.
In addition to that, there are also small neighbourhood shops located near HDB residences that act as convenience stores for the residents, selling household items at affordable prices. In particular, there are various shops and even a supermarket and wet market in Jurong's Town Centre, near Jurong East MRT Station.
Jurong East has lots to offer in terms of entertainment – expand your knowledge while having fun at the Science Centre, escape the sweltering heat at Snow City and Singapore's only ice skating rink, or spend a relaxing evening among nature at the Chinese Garden. Other attractions include Jurong Bird Park and the Singapore Discovery Centre.
Educational Facilities in Jurong East
Families with children will find Jurong East an ideal place to live, thanks to its proximity to several reputable schools, including primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions. Notably, the area is close to Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS).
Jurong East Primary Schools
- Fuhua Primary School
- Jurong Primary School
- Yuhua Primary School
Jurong East Secondary Schools
- Commonwealth Secondary School
- Crest Secondary School
- Jurongville Secondary School
Jurong Regional Library
Residents of Jurong East can take satisfaction in knowing they have convenient access to a library service at Jurong Regional Library. It is located next to JCube and is within walking distance from Jurong East Bus Interchange and Jurong East MRT Station. Jurong Regional Library has an extensive collection of about 409,000 volumes with a total floor space of 12,202 square metres.
One of the unique features of the library is the Verging All Teens (VAT) program. It is a dedicated library for teenagers with a distinct collection of various genres of comics and graphic novels. Taking approximately 1,200 square metres of the fourth level, this part of the library also houses open-mic gigs and performances to showcase young talents to their peers. Not only the teenagers, but younger children will also be having their own place in the Early Literacy Library. Catering to children under 3 years old and 4 to 6 years old, the collection of Early Literacy focuses on key areas vital to children’s learning and development.
Nature Parks and Gardens in Jurong East
Jurong Lake Gardens is Singapore’s new national garden in the heartlands. The 90-hectare Gardens comprises Lakeside Gardens (formerly Jurong Lake Gardens West), Chinese and Japanese Gardens (formerly Jurong Lake Gardens Central), and Garden Promenade (formerly Jurong Lake Gardens East). It is one of the best places to go when it comes to lush greenery. As you explore the grounds of these beautiful gardens, you will find yourself surrounded by nature in all its verdant glory.
Jurong Lake Gardens is home to thriving plant life, fauna, and a whole host of memorable green spaces. There is the Rasau Walk that lets you have a quiet stroll along the water’s edge, the Alstonia Island which is a flooded island that shares traits with a freshwater swamp forest, and many other areas that offer you outstanding nature experiences.
As you stroll through the reserve, keep your eyes peeled for the squirrels, long-tail macaques, and smooth-coated otters that have made the gardens their home. The gardens are also home to a wide variety of butterfly species, from Plain Tiger butterflies to Chestnut Bobs. If you are looking for smaller parks in Jurong East to have a little picnic in, 99.co would love to recommend Taman Jurong Park and Teban Neighborhood Park. Both surely provide you and your family with endless hours of fun and quality time.
Sports Facilities in Jurong East
Being the first one-stop integrated centre, Jurong East Sports Centre, formerly known as Jurong East Sport and Recreation Centre, marks a milestone in Sport Singapore’s facilities development when it opened in 2000. It is fair to say that residents of Jurong East take the most advantage of this public sports facility. Jurong East Sports Centre prides itself as a favoured venue for community performances, competitions, and a vacation day out for all. Here, all the machines are new and well-maintained. There is an air-conditioned sports hall, fitness gymnasium, stadium, and of course a swimming complex.
Jurong East Swimming Complex is the first swimming facility to offer a lazy river, wave pool, and fun slides to the masses at an affordable rate. The complete facilities include a competition pool, a wave pool, a lazy river, a kiddy pool, a stream course, a mushroom water playground, a jacuzzi, and 3 exciting water slides. Meanwhile, Jurong East Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium that is currently used mostly for football matches. Having a capacity of 2,700 people, it is the home stadium of Albirex Niigata Singapore FC and Tanjong Pagar United.
Public Transport and Accessibility – Jurong East
Public transport in Jurong East is efficient and well-integrated, offering a range of options for commuting within the area and beyond. With its major MRT interchange, comprehensive bus services, and growing cycling infrastructure, Jurong East provides convenient and accessible transport solutions for residents and visitors. Future developments, including the Jurong Region Line, promise to further enhance the area’s connectivity and ease of travel.
Jurong East MRT Station
Jurong East MRT Station is a major transport hub in Singapore, serving as an interchange for two major MRT lines: the North-South Line (NSL) and the East-West Line (EWL). The new Jurong Region Line (JRL) will further enhance connectivity within the region and link to other MRT lines, providing easier access to the western parts of Singapore.
Jurong East Bus Interchange
The Jurong East Bus Interchange is located adjacent to the Jurong East MRT Station, facilitating seamless transfers between bus and MRT services. The interchange serves a comprehensive network of bus routes that connect various parts of Jurong East and neighbouring areas. Buses also connect Jurong East to other regions of Singapore, including the central business district, Changi Airport, and the eastern suburbs.
Major Expressways
- Ayer Rajah Expressway (AYE) –The AYE is a major expressway that runs from the west to the east of Singapore, connecting Jurong East to the Central Business District (CBD) and Changi Airport.
- Pan-Island Expressway (PIE) – The PIE is one of Singapore’s main expressways, extending from the eastern to the western parts of the island. It connects Jurong East to other key regions, including the northeastern and southeastern parts of Singapore, facilitating cross-island travel.
- Kranji Expressway (KJE) – The KJE runs from the Kranji area in the north to the AYE in the west. It provides access to the northern parts of Singapore and connects to major roads leading towards the northern industrial zones and residential areas.
