Fort Canning Park: Where History Meets the Selfie-Worthy Tree Tunnel

There is a place in the city where the underpass leading to the park is more popular than the park itself. The one I’m referring to is Fort Canning Park. It features a "Tree Tunnel," which has become a trending spot for photography, especially among the younger generation posting photos on mainstream social media platforms. Naturally, I decided to check it out today because I was curious about why people queue at this part of the park just to take photos or selfies in this particular spot. I wanted to see for myself what made this place so famous that it’s now a trending location for both locals and tourists.

To start, there are two main entrances to access the park. The Fort Canning MRT station is the most common and accessible entrance, while the other is near the Dhoby Ghaut MRT station, which leads directly to the famous underpass. I chose the latter.

From Dhoby Ghaut MRT station, I crossed the street to the UBS building, then turned left toward the underpass, where the Tree Tunnel is located. I realized I was heading in the right direction when I noticed other visitors walking the same way, which assured me that this was indeed a popular spot.

When I finally reached the tunnel, I was surprised to see a long queue forming halfway along it. At first, I thought there might be an event taking place, but I soon realized that people were actually lining up to take turns with other visitors for photos and selfies in the tunnel.

What amazed me most was how organized these visitors were—without any official management. They had seemingly created their own system to ensure everything ran smoothly and respectfully. It was impressive to see this kind of mutual understanding among strangers, who were all there to create content and capture memorable photos. Despite the crowd, the atmosphere in the Tree Tunnel was orderly and calm. This level of respect and consideration really stood out to me.

I didn’t take a selfie in the tunnel because I felt awkward being watched by others while doing so. Instead, I chose to photograph the tunnel itself and document the scene, observing how other content creators busied themselves taking selfies and videos, particularly on the staircase of the tunnel.

One thing that struck me about this spot is the incredible lighting. Natural light filters through the opening and is complemented by the shadows cast by the trees above. This interplay of light and shadow is likely why the area is called the Tree Tunnel. It was also cool to see a couple queuing up for what appeared to be their wedding photo shoot.

Once I was satisfied with my photos of the tunnel, I continued exploring the rest of the park. While the Tree Tunnel is the park’s most popular spot, I realized that the real charm of Fort Canning Park lies in its rich history. As I walked around, I was amazed by how well-preserved the park’s walls are, showcasing the structural integrity designed to protect people during wartime.

The park itself is a collection of bunkers, protective walls, and a massive gate that serves as the entrance to the main fort. At one point, I walked through a particular tunnel that transported me back in time. It was an eerie experience, as I imagined the emotions people must have felt during the war. The tunnel was dark, grungy, and narrow, and walking through it evoked a heavy, almost oppressive feeling.

Emerging from the tunnel, however, felt liberating. The bright surroundings of the park were a stark contrast to the darkness I had just experienced.

At that moment, I gained a new appreciation for the peace and freedom we enjoy in modern times. It was a poignant reminder of the chaos and fear that previous generations endured, and it made me feel grateful for the sacrifices they made to create the world we live in today.

This is why I think places like Fort Canning Park are so important. They preserve the rich history and struggles of the past, allowing us to reflect on how far we’ve come and to better appreciate the beauty of the present.

Fort Canning Park is more than just a picturesque destination; it’s a place where history and beauty intertwine to offer a unique experience for visitors. The Tree Tunnel may draw the crowds, but the park’s deeper value lies in its ability to connect us to the past while offering moments of peace and reflection in the present. Whether you're there for photos or history, Fort Canning Park is a must-visit spot that leaves you with a deeper appreciation for both nature and heritage.