It’s cheaper and has more variety than Singapore’s tourist spots.
This place is recommended for those who love Peranakan culture. The Dragon Kiln, built about 85 years ago, is Singapore’s oldest and only operational kiln. Its interior reaches temperatures of 1300°C.
【The Transformation of Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle】 ・Established in 1940. Its primary purpose was mass production of household and industrial goods (cups, flower pots, etc.). ・It has now evolved into a community space.
The owners speak Hokkien and Singlish. Conversation difficulty level: high.
However, other staff members usually handle store duties or are present for artwork creation, so English conversation should be possible.
I visited twice in 2024, in February and September.
When I went in September, it was super run-down.
KODAKARAJIMA
Which one is the real one?
Nearly 100 exhibits from the back were all piled up in a separate room (it has a roof but is exposed to the wind. There are no windows), and the large displays were hidden behind other merchandise. The stylish, spacious layout I saw in February was nowhere to be found.
A male craftsman approached me with a “Welcome!” vibe, so I asked, “Is this place closing down?”
Male craftsman: “We’re not closing. We’re gathering the goods under the roof for exporting them to China.”
I see.
I noticed quite a few items besides those packed for shipping have been gathered. I wonder if they’ll be shipping multiple times.
Traditional wood-fired kiln (Dragon kiln)
Here stands a traditional wood-fired kiln (dragon kiln). The temperature inside the dragon kiln reaches 1,300°C.
In June 2020, the Tou Kuan Dragon Kiln was honored with the “Stewards of Singapore’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Award” by the Singapore National Heritage Board.
Workshops require advance reservations. They are held only 2-3 times a year. You’ll have to check with the staff.
All the pottery on display is for sale.
Pottery Jungle：Basic Information
Access to Pottery Jungle
It is located in the WEST area of Singapore. Changi International Airport is in the EAST area. From Changi Airport, it takes about two and a half hours by public transportation.
Example: Starting from Orchard Station. Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.
【Personality】 Born in the island nation of Japan. living in Singapore.
【Master's Degree】 Intellectual Property
【Qualifications】 Intellectual Property Analyst (Contents), Intellectual Property Management Skills Test Level 2, etc.
【Research interests】 Student conducting fieldwork in folklore in Japan and abroad.
KODAKARAJIMA
