Shaanholidays - Johor Bharu

Johor Bharu

Johor Bharu can be easily divided into four parts - North, South, East and West.
South - Its main city centre is located on the southern part of the city which has a link to Singapore via the causeway. It is an area with housing estates which has been around for more than three decades.

Abu Bakar Mosque. This mosque, said to be one of the most beautiful in Malaysia, was completed in 1900, a few years after the death of the Sultan it is named after. The mosque, which took eight years to build, can accommodate 2000 worshippers. It is located on spacious grounds not far from the Istana Besar overlooking the Tebrau Straits.
Bukit Serene Palace.This palace completed in 1933, is the current residence of the Sultan of Johor. Beautiful gardens surround the building and a spectacular 32 metre tower is the city landmark. Visitors are however not permitted into palace grounds.
Dataran Bandaraya, or city square, was officially opened on 31 December 1993 by the sultan of Johor. A much sought after venue for public events like parades and stage shows, this popular tourist attraction comprises a large stage, a minaret, a fountain and a clock tower reputed to be the biggest in the region. it also boasts of the tallest flag staff in the state. A mega video screen has been installed for visitors to view live transmissions.
Johor Bharu Art GalleryThe Johor Art Gallery was built in 1910 and houses all discovered and historical item such as documents and cultural artefacts traditionally used by Malays, particularly from the State of Johor. Among the exhibits are clothing, weapons, currency, manuscripts and examples of calligraphy, ceramic objects and fine art.
The Causeway. Entering Johor Bharu from Singapore involves travelling across The Causeway which links the two cities. Completed in 1924 after four years' work, The Causeway is 1,056 metres long and extends to a depth of 23 metres below the water level. In January 1942, the British army demolished part of it as invading Japanese forces prepare to attack Singapore from the north. The Japanese soon affected repairs and The Causeway resumed its role as an important road, railway and general communications link. The crossing includes a pedestrian walkway for the energetic. Singapore gets a good deal of water supply from large water pipes which have been laid across The Causeway from Johor.
The Royal Mausoleum. This Mausoleum in Johor Bharu has been the final resting place of members of the Johor Royal family since the capital was moved from Teluk Belanga in Singapore. Its Muslim architecture blends well with that of the Abu Bakar mosque. The Mausoleum is not open to the public, but there are some impressive Muslim tombs in the grounds surrounding it. The mausoleum is located along Jalan Mahmoodiah.
Lien Hoe Complex is approximately 5km north of Johor Bharu just off Jalan Tebrau, this well-known budget shopping centre houses department store, retail outlets, furniture showrooms and restaurant aplenty. a regular 'bazaar' at the ground floor concourse offers a wide range of apparel, shoes, handbags, handicrafts and household items at bargain prices. The food court on the first floor offers 50 food stalls with a wide verity of local cuisine.
Plaza Pelangi is one of Johor Bharu's most exciting shopping mall, has a multitude of stores which offer a wide array of value-for-money quality merchandise from handicraft items and souvenir to a large selection of fashion apparel, accessories and trendy footwear. If hunger gnaws, head for the local eateries, patisseries or fast food outlets. The mall is a mere 10 minutes drive away from the causeway and is well-served by taxis and regular bus services.
Danga Bay or Teluk Danga is the largest recreational park in the city of Johor Bharu. It is located near Istana Bukit Serene. Many interesting events are held there especially during festive seasons. Danga Bay is also sometimes referred to as the Vision City of the South.