So You Think You Know Singapore? 30 Fun Facts

Bet You Didn't Know Singapore Has 64 Islands (We Didn’t Either)

Singapore is a dazzling city-state known for its futuristic skyline, cultural diversity, and impressive cleanliness. But beyond the well-known attractions like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay, there are plenty of hidden and quirky facts about this island nation that even some locals may not know! Let’s dive into 30 unique, lesser-known facts about Singapore that will make you see this incredible city in a whole new light.

1. Singapore Is One of the 20 Smallest Countries in the World

Despite being a major financial hub, Singapore is one of the smallest sovereign nations on Earth. It covers only 728 square kilometers (about 281 square miles), which is roughly the same size as New York City! Despite its small land area, Singapore is home to over 5.6 million people, making it one of the most densely populated places in the world. Due to this limited space, Singapore has had to expand through land reclamation, increasing its total land area by over 25% since its independence in 1965. Even though it’s small, its influence on the world stage is enormous!

2. It's Made Up of 64 Islands

Many people think of Singapore as just one island, but in reality, it consists of 64 different islands! While the mainland is the most developed and populated, there are dozens of smaller surrounding islands, each with its own unique charm. Sentosa is the most famous, home to beaches, theme parks, and luxury resorts. Other islands like Pulau Ubin remain largely untouched, offering a glimpse of Singapore’s past with rustic kampong (village) life. Some islands, like Jurong Island, are restricted as they house oil refineries and industrial zones. Exploring Singapore’s lesser-known islands is a hidden adventure waiting to be discovered!

3. The World's First Night Zoo Is in Singapore

Singapore is home to the world’s first and only nocturnal wildlife park, the Night Safari. Opened in 1994, this unique zoo spans 35 hectares and is home to over 900 animals from 100 species, many of which are endangered. Unlike traditional zoos, the Night Safari is designed to mimic natural nighttime habitats, allowing visitors to see animals such as Malayan tigers, fishing cats, and Asian elephants in their active nighttime behaviors. Guests can explore the park via tram rides or walking trails, making it a one-of-a-kind experience for animal lovers and night owls alike!

4. Singaporeans Are the Fastest Walkers in the World

If you’ve ever felt like you’re being left behind while strolling through Singapore, you’re not alone! A study by the British Council found that Singaporeans walk at an average speed of 6.15 km/h (3.8 mph), making them the fastest walkers in the world. This is likely due to the fast-paced lifestyle in the city, where efficiency and productivity are highly valued. The study observed pedestrians in 32 cities and found that Singaporeans outpaced those in major global hubs like London and New York. So, if you ever visit, be prepared to pick up your pace or risk being overtaken!

5. The National Anthem Is on the $1,000 Note

Singapore’s national anthem, “Majulah Singapura”, is such an important part of the country’s identity that it is printed in microtext on the Singapore $1,000 bill. The anthem, which means “Onward Singapore,” was composed in 1958 by Zubir Said and was officially adopted when Singapore gained self-governance in 1959. The song is sung in Malay, the country’s national language, and reflects Singapore’s spirit of progress and unity. Although the $1,000 note is rarely seen in daily transactions, those lucky enough to have one can spot the tiny lyrics on the reverse side of the bill.

6. There's an Indoor Waterfall in an Airport

Singapore’s Changi Airport is frequently ranked as the best airport in the world, and one of its biggest attractions is the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Located in Jewel Changi Airport, the Rain Vortex stands at an impressive 40 meters (131 feet) high, cascading from an oculus in the ceiling. It is surrounded by the Shiseido Forest Valley, a lush indoor garden featuring over 2,000 trees and plants. The waterfall also transforms into a stunning light and sound show at night, making it a must-visit attraction—even if you're not catching a flight!

7. The Merlion Is Not Singapore's Official Symbol

The Merlion, a mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish, is often associated with Singapore, but it’s not actually the country’s official national symbol. The Lion Head Symbol, introduced in 1986, is Singapore’s official emblem, chosen to represent strength, courage, and resilience. The Merlion, on the other hand, was originally designed in 1964 as a tourism logo by the Singapore Tourism Board. While the Merlion remains an iconic attraction, with a famous statue at Marina Bay, the true national emblem is the simple and elegant Lion Head Symbol.

8. Singapore Is One of the Least Corrupt Countries in the World

Singapore consistently ranks as one of the least corrupt nations globally, thanks to its strict laws and governance. The country has a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, with harsh penalties for those caught engaging in bribery or fraud. The Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), established in 1952, ensures that public officials and private businesses adhere to high ethical standards. As a result, Singapore has consistently ranked in the top 5 least corrupt countries in the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index. This clean and efficient governance has played a key role in Singapore’s economic success.

9. The World's Longest Underground Pedestrian System Is Here

Singapore has one of the world’s most extensive underground pedestrian networks, making it easy to navigate the city without stepping outside. Spanning over 60 kilometers, this network connects major shopping malls, MRT stations, and office buildings in the central business district. Popular areas like Orchard Road, Marina Bay, and City Hall are all linked via these underground walkways, providing a cool and sheltered escape from the tropical heat and occasional rain. This innovative system helps pedestrians move around efficiently, making Singapore one of the most walkable cities in the world.

10. The Country Has an Annual Dragon Boat Festival

Every year, Singapore celebrates the Dragon Boat Festival, a vibrant and energetic event that dates back over 2,000 years. The festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is held on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month, typically in June. Dragon boat races take place at Marina Reservoir, Kallang River, and Bedok Reservoir, where teams paddle in sync to the rhythmic beating of drums. The festival is rooted in Chinese history and honors Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet. Alongside the races, Singaporeans also enjoy zongzi, traditional rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves.

11. Singapore Used to Be a Fishing Village

Before becoming the global financial hub it is today, Singapore was a small Malay fishing village known as Temasek, meaning "Sea Town." In the 14th century, it was part of the Srivijaya and Majapahit empires, serving as a trading outpost. The island got its modern name from a Sumatran prince, Sang Nila Utama, who, according to legend, saw a lion upon arriving and named the land Singapura, meaning "Lion City." While modern Singapore has transformed into a high-tech metropolis, remnants of its humble beginnings can still be seen in areas like Pulau Ubin, where kampong (village) life remains.

12. No Chewing Gum Allowed (With Exceptions!)

Singapore’s famous chewing gum ban was introduced in 1992 as part of the country’s effort to maintain cleanliness. Prior to the ban, used gum was frequently found stuck on public transport doors, pavements, and elevator buttons, causing maintenance issues. While bringing chewing gum into Singapore is still illegal, an exception was made in 2004 for therapeutic gum, such as nicotine gum, which can be purchased with a prescription. Despite its strict rules, Singaporeans have adapted to gum-free life, and the country continues to be one of the cleanest cities in the world.

13. The City Has a Free-Flowing River of Beer Once a Year

Beer lovers, rejoice! Singapore hosts Beerfest Asia, one of the largest beer festivals in the region. Every year, this lively event brings together breweries from all over the world, offering thousands of different beers, including craft, mainstream, and experimental brews. The festival is more than just drinking—it features live music, stand-up comedy, beer pong tournaments, and even beer yoga! Whether you’re a casual drinker or a beer connoisseur, Beerfest Asia is the ultimate place to sample unique brews and enjoy a festive atmosphere in Singapore.

14. The World's First Self-Sustaining Vertical Farm Is in Singapore

Due to its limited land, Singapore has pioneered urban farming solutions. One of the most impressive is Sky Greens, the world’s first commercial vertical farm, launched in 2012. The farm uses rotating towers that harness rainwater and natural sunlight to grow vegetables in stacked layers, saving space and energy. This innovation allows Singapore to produce fresh, locally-grown vegetables while reducing its reliance on imported food. As Singapore continues its push for sustainability, vertical farming is expected to play a larger role in ensuring the country’s food security.

15. The National Language Is Malay, but English Dominates

Despite its multicultural population, Malay is officially recognized as Singapore’s national language due to its historical ties to the region. However, English is the most widely spoken language and serves as the country's main language for government, business, and education. Singapore also has three other official languages: Mandarin, Tamil, and Malay, reflecting its diverse ethnic makeup. The country’s unique blend of languages has also led to the development of Singlish, a colloquial English-based creole infused with words from Chinese, Malay, and Tamil, which many Singaporeans use in casual conversations.

16. The Country Has No Natural Lakes

Unlike many other countries, Singapore has no natural lakes due to its small landmass. To ensure a steady supply of freshwater, Singapore has created man-made reservoirs to collect rainwater. The country’s most famous reservoir, Marina Reservoir, was formed by damming the Marina Channel, turning a part of the sea into a freshwater body. Singapore’s innovative Four National Taps strategy ensures water security by using a combination of reservoirs, desalination, recycled water (NEWater), and imported water from Malaysia.

17. The Guinness World Record for the Largest Cupcake Mosaic Was Set Here

In 2015, Singapore celebrated its 50th year of independence (SG50) with a sweet surprise—the world's largest cupcake mosaic! Over 20,000 cupcakes were arranged in the shape of Singapore’s skyline, breaking the Guinness World Record. The cupcakes were later distributed to charity, making the event not just a visual spectacle but also a meaningful contribution to the community. Singapore frequently breaks Guinness World Records for unique and creative feats, further proving its reputation as a country that excels in innovation and ambition.

18. It's Illegal to Not Flush Public Toilets

Singapore takes cleanliness very seriously—even when it comes to public restrooms! If you're caught not flushing a public toilet, you could face a fine of up to SGD 500 (USD 370). The rule is part of Singapore’s broader efforts to maintain hygiene and sanitation in public spaces. Enforcement officers even conduct random checks in restrooms to ensure compliance. This law has contributed to making Singapore one of the cleanest cities in the world, and you’ll rarely encounter dirty or poorly maintained toilets in public areas.

19. Singapore Has the World's Tallest Public Housing Building

Singapore is famous for its Housing Development Board (HDB) flats, where over 80% of the population lives. The Pinnacle@Duxton, a 50-story residential complex, holds the record as the tallest public housing project in the world. This iconic building features sky gardens on the 26th and 50th floors, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Pinnacle@Duxton is a perfect example of Singapore’s innovative approach to public housing, combining affordability, sustainability, and architectural excellence.

20. The First Ever F1 Night Race Was in Singapore

In 2008, Singapore made history by hosting the first-ever Formula 1 night race, a spectacular event held on the Marina Bay Street Circuit. The race takes place under thousands of floodlights, creating an electrifying atmosphere and stunning city views. The Singapore Grand Prix has since become one of the most anticipated events on the F1 calendar, attracting racing fans and celebrities from around the world. The race is not just about speed—it also brings concerts, parties, and festivals, turning the city into a massive celebration every race weekend.

21. Singapore's Air Force Is Trained in the U.S. and France

Due to its limited airspace, Singapore’s air force trains overseas in countries like the United States, France, Australia, and India. The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has established agreements with these nations to conduct large-scale training exercises in vast airspaces. Singapore also maintains high-tech fighter jets, including F-15SG and F-16 fighters, ensuring that its small yet powerful military remains one of the most advanced in Southeast Asia.

22. The "Supertrees" at Gardens by the Bay Generate Solar Power

The stunning Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay are not just futuristic sculptures—they are eco-friendly vertical gardens that generate solar power! Ranging between 25 to 50 meters (82 to 164 feet) in height, these Supertrees are equipped with photovoltaic cells that harness solar energy to light up at night. They also help with rainwater collection and temperature regulation, making them a key part of Singapore’s sustainability efforts. Every evening, these trees dazzle visitors with the Garden Rhapsody light and music show, proving that Singapore seamlessly blends technology, nature, and art.

23. The Country Once Had the World's Tallest Ferris Wheel

When the Singapore Flyer opened in 2008, it was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world, standing at an impressive 165 meters (541 feet). The observation wheel offered breathtaking 360-degree views of Singapore’s skyline, stretching as far as Malaysia and Indonesia on clear days. However, it lost its title in 2014 when the High Roller in Las Vegas (167.6 meters) took the top spot. Despite this, the Singapore Flyer remains one of the city’s most iconic attractions, offering luxury sky dining experiences and VIP capsules for private events.

24. There Are More Than 300 McDonald's Outlets in Singapore

Singaporeans love their fast food, and McDonald’s is no exception. The country has over 300 McDonald’s outlets, making it one of the highest densities of McDonald's locations per capita. Singapore is also known for its unique McDonald’s menu items that cater to local tastes, such as the McSpicy burger, Samurai Burger, and Nasi Lemak Burger. During festive seasons, McDonald’s Singapore releases limited-time specials like pandan soft-serve ice cream and coconut pies, showing how the brand adapts to the country’s love for bold and local flavors.

25. You Can Find a Traditional Village on Pulau Ubin

While Singapore is known for its modern skyline, Pulau Ubin, a small island off the northeastern coast, remains frozen in time. It is one of the last places in Singapore where you can experience kampong (village) life, with wooden houses, bicycle trails, and untouched nature. The island is home to Chek Jawa Wetlands, a diverse ecosystem featuring mangroves, seagrass lagoons, and coastal forests. Pulau Ubin is a favorite spot for hiking, kayaking, and camping, offering a rare glimpse into Singapore’s rural past before urbanization transformed the mainland.

26. Singapore Has the World's Best Airport—Repeatedly

Changi Airport has consistently been ranked as the world’s best airport, winning the Skytrax World’s Best Airport Award multiple times. Beyond being a transport hub, Changi Airport is an entertainment destination on its own. The airport features free movie theaters, a butterfly garden, rooftop pools, themed play areas, and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall (Rain Vortex). Travelers can even take free city tours during long layovers. With automated check-in, facial recognition technology, and futuristic lounges, Changi Airport redefines the airport experience, making layovers something to look forward to!

27. The Country Is a Global Hub for Hawker Food

Singapore is famous for its hawker centers, which are vibrant open-air food courts serving affordable and delicious street food. In 2016, two hawker stalls—Hawker Chan’s Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodles—became the first street food vendors to receive Michelin stars. Singapore’s hawker culture is so unique that it was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Some must-try hawker dishes include Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, chili crab, and char kway teow. The best part? You can enjoy world-class food for just a few Singapore dollars!

28. A Former Prison Is Now a Popular Shopping Spot

One of Singapore’s most bustling nightlife and shopping areas, Clarke Quay, was once home to Changi Prison, which was used during World War II to hold prisoners of war. While the original Changi Prison is still in use as a maximum-security facility elsewhere, the site of the former prison was redeveloped into a vibrant entertainment hub. Today, Clarke Quay is known for its riverside dining, bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. It’s a striking transformation from a somber past to one of Singapore’s most exciting places to visit at night.

29. Singapore's National Sport Is Sepak Takraw

While Singaporeans enjoy sports like badminton, football, and swimming, the country’s official national sport is Sepak Takraw—a fast-paced game similar to volleyball, but played with a rattan (woven bamboo) ball. Players use their feet, head, knees, chest, and shoulders to hit the ball over the net, making it a spectacular display of agility and acrobatics. This traditional Southeast Asian sport is hugely popular in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, and Singapore often competes in regional tournaments. If you ever visit a local sports complex, you might catch a thrilling game of Sepak Takraw in action!

30. The Entire City Can Be Covered in Just an Hour

Singapore has one of the most efficient public transportation systems in the world, making it incredibly easy to travel across the entire country. With the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system, you can get from the far west (Jurong) to the east coast (Changi) in about an hour. The entire city is well-connected by buses, taxis, cycling paths, and pedestrian-friendly streets, ensuring a seamless travel experience. Despite its small size, Singapore has been ranked as one of the best cities for public transport, proving that a compact urban environment can be both convenient and world-class.

Singapore is so much more than just skyscrapers and shopping malls—it’s a treasure trove of fascinating history, futuristic innovation, and quirky traditions! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, these fun facts will give you a new appreciation for the Lion City.