Saturday Walk around Istana Park, a visit to Plaza Singapura, and toy hunting at Pop Mart

This morning, I was very excited to see the fantastic weather and decided to explore another part of Fort Canning. There are still areas I haven’t explored, so today seemed like a great opportunity. However, by afternoon, the rain started just as I reached the city. Not wanting to waste the trip, I waited for the rain to lighten up. Once it did, I set off to visit a nearby place and decided to take a walk around the Dhoby Ghaut area instead.

It’s been a while since I last wandered around this area, so I decided to check it out again. There are a few interesting spots to visit here, including Istana Park, which is located across from Plaza Singapura, where the MRT station is also situated.

Istana Park

Istana Park is located directly across from the Istana, the official residence and office of the President of Singapore. The park serves as a green oasis within the busy commercial district, offering a peaceful space where office workers and tourists can take a relaxing walk.

Though it’s not a large park, it has well-designed amenities where visitors can sit and enjoy the scenery, including views of trees and fish ponds throughout the park.

The most prominent landmark of this park is the Festival Arch, which marks the entrance to Singapore's civic district.

My Art Space Studio

Another reason I decided to visit this area was to check out the studio at My Art Space. It’s an establishment that offers art classes and exhibitions, and I was interested in learning more about their programs. I stopped by to explore the studio and get details on the classes they offer.

The building hosts art exhibitions and hands-on art classes.

When I arrived, an art class was in progress, and I was lucky enough to observe it in action. I think it’s an excellent location, given its proximity to the MRT station and shopping mall, and its setting within Istana Park, which is ideal for learning art, as you're literally surrounded by nature.

Plaza Singapura

I had planned to visit the Istana Heritage Gallery, but it was closed today, so I decided to take a walk around Plaza Singapura instead.

This shopping mall has a captivating architectural design that can be admired both from afar and up close. The wavy facade and the undulating covered walkway give it a timeless quality that seems likely to remain relevant well into the future.

I also appreciate that a large portion of the grounds is dedicated to an open space where people can meet friends and hang out while waiting for the sun to go down.

While roaming around the open space at Plaza Singapura, I noticed a platform with several statues that look like giant gummy bears. It was so cool to see them appear like gummies but on such a large scale!

Pop Mart

From there, I decided to head home, so I entered the mall to go to the MRT station. However, when I passed by the Pop Mart store, I decided to check it out and see what makes it one of the most popular collectible stores right now.

On another level above, there is a store called Co Play, which is dedicated to a variety of toys and figures from popular anime shows.

Just looking at these displays, the inner child in me was awakened, and I found myself wandering through the store, checking out each rack of items. I was particularly drawn to the collectibles featuring one of my favorite anime shows, One Piece. Now I understand why so many people of all ages visit this store—they have something for every generation that loves collectible toys like these.

Visiting these spots was a delightful escape, offering a perfect blend of art, culture, and nostalgia. It’s always refreshing to discover hidden gems within the city, from peaceful parks to unique shops. I’m already looking forward to my next adventure and the new discoveries it will bring.