KoHo TAR Hotel in Johor Bahru
Another weekend, another JB getaway. But if you’re getting bored of your usual JB hotels, KoHo TAR Hotel might just make your next staycay across the Causeway a little more interesting. It’s a new budget-friendly boutique hotel with a retro-inspired aesthetic that gives off old-school American diner vibes, a refreshing change from the minimalist, sleek hotel rooms we’re all familiar with.
The best part is that rooms are priced from S$39/night, so it’s an option for anyone looking for a fun and quirky place to spend the night without burning a hole in their wallet.
The current exchange rate is S$1 = ~RM3.20 as of 20th October 2026.
What is KoHo TAR Hotel?
Image credit: KoHo TAR Hotel
Newly opened in September 2026, this boutique hotel stands out from the other hotels in the area with its colourful facade.
Look out for playful murals splashed across the building, from a retro orange car and cartoon windows to a milkshake bar design on the 1st floor. Together, they give the hotel a nostalgic vibe reminiscent of 20th-century America, just with a lot more colour.
Image credit: KoHo TAR Hotel
The team behind KoHo TAR Hotel has also shared with us that their goal was to create the 1st themed hotel in JB. Rather than focusing solely on providing an affordable place to sleep, they’re hoping to turn the accommodation itself into something different from your straightforward budget hotel stay.
The reception area is decked out in a wide array of colours and patterns that surprisingly match so well together.
Image credit: KoHo TAR Hotel
It’s a relatively small property, so you won’t find big-hotel amenities like a pool or room service here. Still, the cosy, aesthetic, and affordable rooms make it worth considering for your next JB trip.
What can I expect at KoHo TAR Hotel?
Colourful, fun rooms with basic amenities
Image credit: KoHo TAR Hotel
The retro-inspired interiors don’t stop at the hotel’s reception area. The guest rooms follow the same playful aesthetics, so you can take a step back in time when you retire to your room after a day of exploring JB.
For instance, there’s a blue-and-pink themed room, featuring checkered wallpaper and a bright, bold colour palette for a modern spin on vintage nostalgia.
Image credit: KoHo TAR Hotel
Despite the hotel’s retro aesthetic, you won’t have to worry when it comes to amenities. Rooms come equipped with modern essentials such as air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms.
There’s also an electric kettle, toiletries, and a hairdryer listed among the in-room amenities, so you can pack lighter for a quick overnight trip.
Image credit: KoHo TAR Hotel
Previous guests’ reviews have also highlighted the hotel’s spacious rooms and practical features. A guest who stayed in September 2026 mentioned conveniently placed charging sockets, alongside comfortable bedding and powerful air-conditioning.
Many room types for couples, friends & families
Deluxe Single room.
Image credit: Agoda
For those planning to spend the night, KoHo TAR Hotel offers a plethora of room types catering to couples, friends, and families.
Here’s the breakdown of the room types and group sizes they’re suitable for:
| Room type | Bed configuration | Max. occupancy |
| Deluxe Family/Deluxe Quadruple Room | 2 double beds | 4 adults |
| Standard Double Without Window | 1 double bed | 2 adults |
| Deluxe Double | 1 double bed | 2 adults |
| Deluxe Single | 2 single beds | 2 adults |
| Family Room | 1 single + 1 double bed | 3 adults |
| Double Room | 1 double bed | 2 adults |
| Family Triple | 1 single + 1 queen bed | 3 adults |
| Twin Room | 2 single beds | 2 adults |
Get cheaper rates when you book online
Image credit: KoHo TAR Hotel
Here’s the part that might convince you to make that spontaneous JB staycay trip: staying at KoHo TAR Hotel doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
According to the hotel, walk-in rates start from RM140/night (~S$43.70), but booking through online platforms such as Agoda or Booking.com may get you a cheaper rate. At the time of writing, listings on Agoda have advertised stays from S$39 to S$56 per night depending on room type and booking date.
Convenient for a quick overnight getaway
Image credit: Agoda
Another perk of choosing KoHo TAR Hotel for your next trip is its convenient location. The property is approximately 3.5km away from JB Sentral, which means you won’t have to venture far from the Causeway after crossing the border.
But getting to major shopping malls may require a short drive or Grab ride, so factor that into your itinerary.
How to get to KoHo TAR Hotel from Singapore
From Singapore, take cross-border bus 160, 170X, or 950 to JB Sentral via Woodlands Checkpoint. After clearing immigration at JB CIQ, book a Grab to KoHo TAR Hotel, which typically takes 5-10 minutes depending on traffic.
Those driving up can also head directly to the hotel via the Causeway, but take note that parking spaces may be limited.
Experience a retro-themed stay at KoHo TAR Hotel
Image credit: Agoda
There are plenty of budget hotels in JB, but KoHo TAR Hotel offers an alternative for people who want their accommodation to have a little more quirk and fun.
And with its affordable room rates, you’ll have more of your budget left to spend on good food, shopping, and cafe-hopping in JB.
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Cover image adapted from: KoHo TAR Hotel