JB neighbourhood guide
If you’ve been to Johor Bahru for a day trip, chances are you’ve found yourself driving from neighbourhood to neighbourhood multiple times in a day, completing all the things to do in JB.
But because every neighbourhood is packed with fun in its own way, we’ve compiled a guide to JB neighbourhoods so you know what to look out for in each area.
Table of Contents
- JB neighbourhood guide
- 1. CIQ – The 1st stop on your JB getaway
- 2. Old Town Heritage District – Get a taste of the past
- 3. Danga Bay – Resort vibes with seaviews
- 4. Mount Austin – Cafe hopping & boutique stores
- 5. Tebrau – Shop & play, all in one place
- 6. Eco Spring – Aesthetic neighbourhood for IG-worthy pics
- 7. Skudai – Mall-hopping & grocery shopping
- 8. Iskandar Puteri – Family-friendly fun
- 9. Gelang Patah – Explore the outdoors
- 10. Bukit Indah – Unexpected adventures in a quieter neighbourhood
- 11. Taman Abad – Beauty salons & hands-on activities
- 12. Southkey – Modern & high-end township in JB
1. CIQ – The 1st stop on your JB getaway
Image credit: Hanks Lai via Google Maps
While this is not a neighbourhood per se, it’s only right to start your JB outing straight from the CIQ gates. There are tons of places to visit near the checkpoint, so no need to worry about wasting time waiting for a Grab.
Johor Bahru City Square Mall
Just cross the link bridge, and you’ll reach Johor Bahru City Square Mall. Grab a bite here at convenience stores like Avery-Day and FamilyMart, or pop into restaurants like AK Noodles and Oriental Kopi if the long wait at immigration got you feeling peckish.
Once you’ve eaten your fill, satisfy your shopping needs at shops like Uniqlo and Big Pharmacy. If you haven’t visited the mall in a while, stop by new stores like Ticco, known for their Swiss rolls.
JB City Square Mall is currently undergoing upgrades in phases, but the mall will still be operational, so there’s no need to wait until renovations are complete in Q4 2027 to visit.
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KOMTAR JBCC
Image credit: KOMTAR JBCC via LinkedIn
For more shopping options, visit KOMTAR JBCC right next to JB City Square Mall. Check out shops like Kiehl’s and PLAY Gadget Store, or hop onto a VR ride at VR Chroma. There are also tons of food options, from fast food like Richeese Factory to restaurants like Poulet. Pop by for a quick makeover at one of their many beauty and hair salons too.
Pro tip: Show your passport at the concierge desk to collect a Tourist Privilege Card, which lets you enjoy discounts and free perks at selected stores, including Famous Amos and Kskin.
R&F Mall
Jaya Grocer.
Image credit: Selese Tay via Google Maps
Over on the other side of the checkpoint sits R&F Mall, just an 8-minute walk away through the link bridge.
For a convenient JB grocery run, you can find Jaya Grocer here. There’s also Laser Battle, where you can compete against your friends to see who’s the best shooter. Beyond these, there’s a wide range of shops and restaurants for a regular shopping trip.
Johor Zoo
Image credit: RUHAIDAH BINTI ROSLI via Google Maps
Visit Johor Zoo for a feel of the wild side. JB’s oldest zoo is about a 10-minute drive away from the checkpoint, and Singaporeans can get tickets at just RM30 (~S$9.75).
Get up close and personal with the animals across 4 zones – feed the elephants during their feeding sessions or snap a quick picture with the birds. Say hi to unique animals like tapirs, camels, and capybaras too.
Pasar Karat
Make one last stop at Pasar Karat before you head back to Singapore. This night market is just a 10-minute walk from the checkpoint, and it’s open until 2am.
Cop a new fit from the rows of fashion stalls – options include casual gym fits to stylish OOTDs. There are even stalls selling accessories like shades and handbags to add to your collection.
Of course, it’s not a night market without some food. Grab a late-night snack or drink from one of the many F&B stalls here.
2. Old Town Heritage District – Get a taste of the past
About a 15-minute walk away from CIQ lies the Old Town Heritage District, where nostalgia will hit as you walk down Jalan Tan Hiok Nee and Jalan Dhoby. Snap a picture for your Instagram feed with the aesthetic row of shophouses as your backdrop.
Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum
Image credit: Audrey Wong via Google Maps
Learn a bit about Johor Bahru’s history at the Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum. For just RM6 (~S$1.95), you’ll get a glimpse of how the Chinese diaspora settled in the province across the museum’s 3 storeys. Artefacts such as rubber tapping tools and old official documents are also on display to help you understand the lives of the Chinese community and their impact on the region.
Thrift stores on Jalan Dhoby
Kedai Dhoby Shanghai.
Image credit: Ivan Michael Pung via Google Maps
Thrifters probably already know that this neighbourhood is the place to be for all things vintage. Pop into one of the many thrift stores in JB, like Kedai Dhoby Shanghai and Label33store, to cop new finds.
Senso Art Gallery Cafe
Image credit: Prudence Loh via Google Maps
Beyond cafe hopping and thrifting, you can also get crafty over at Senso Art Gallery Cafe. This cafe holds various DIY workshops for you to bring home a cute souvenir. If you don’t have much time to spare, go for their pressed flower workshop (from RM30, ~S$9.78), which will take about 20 to 30 minutes. Their longest workshop is the painting workshop (RM150, ~S$48.89), which can take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours.
Doña Bakehouse
Image credit: Cheng Yang Kng via Google Maps
Doña Bakehouse is another cafe option in the neighbourhood for hungry stomachs. Try out some of their delicious mains, like the Louisiana Chicken Chop (RM30, ~S$9.75) or their Beef Rendang Pappardelle (RM34, ~S$11.05). There are also vegetarian options here, including the Truffled Mushroom Fettuccine (RM30, ~S$9.75).
3. Danga Bay – Resort vibes with seaviews
Singaporeans looking for a beach getaway can head down to Danga Bay. This seaside neighbourhood is just 10 minutes away from the checkpoint by car.
Lido Beach
Image credit: Alrian Naafi Izdahar via Google Maps
Take in the sea breeze at Lido Beach. This beach may be on the smaller side at just 400m long, but it gets the job done. There’s enough space to roll out a mat and catch some sun rays. It’s privately owned by the Country Garden Danga Bay apartment complex, but the public can also enjoy the ocean view here for free.
Serene Hill Palace Garden
Image credit: Aimanabdulharis via Wikipedia
Take a stroll on the royal grounds at Serene Hill Palace Garden. In case you didn’t know, Serene Hill Palace is actually the royal palace of the Sultan of Johor. While you can’t actually enter the palace itself, the garden around it is open to the public for free. Take in the sculptures that represent Johor as you walk around here.
Grand Bayview Seafood Restaurant
Image credit: Michael Long via Google Maps
Enjoy seaviews while you dine at Grand Bayview Seafood Restaurant. The eatery serves fresh seafood straight out of the tank, from clams to crabs. Adventurous eaters can even try venison or ostrich meat here.
Pro tip: If your sense of direction is questionable at best, just keep your eyes peeled for the giant lobster at the entrance.
4. Mount Austin – Cafe hopping & boutique stores
Image credit: EdgeProp
Mount Austin is a must-visit neighbourhood for cafe-hoppers – there are tons of cafes with unique themes and delicious treats.
Dog cafes
Image credit: @dachshund_and_friends via Instagram
Hang out with adorable puppies at Dachshund & Friends, the newest pet cafe in the Mount Austin area. There are 6 friendly long boys here, all named after Japanese ingredients, and you can play with them from RM28 (~S$9.10).
Check out their store too, where dachshund-themed merchandise and pet accessories are sold.
Image credit: @shibalove.journey via Instagram
For a different breed of canine goodness, head over to Chill ‘N Chow Cafe. These Chow Chows are fluffy and huggable, and you can visit them from RM27 (~S$8.77). Every visit also includes a free coconut ice cream to help you beat the heat.
Meow Me Cat House
Image credit: Eatbook
If you’re more of a cat person, check out Meow Me Cat House. You’ll need to spend at least RM8 (~S$2.60) on the cafe’s food or drinks to sit and play with these feline friends, but that’s not an issue with the wide range of treats available.
Try out their Tiramisu Latte (RM17, ~S$5.52) or their Matcha-Niko Neko Ajisai (RM21, ~S$6.82), but make sure the kitties don’t yoink them.
Slow Day Cafe
Image credit: Eatbook
Matcha lovers can make their way down to Slow Day Cafe, which specialises in matcha treats – get a cuppa Matcha Espresso (RM17.90, ~S$5.82) or chow down on a Matcha Nama Cake (RM28, ~S$9.10).
Slow Day Cafe is also an art jamming studio for anyone who wants to get hands-on. They’re currently running Acrylic & Quartz Painting workshops that you can book on Klook, but they’ve also previously run other workshops like Edible Toast Painting.
Book the Acrylic & Quartz Painting workshop.
Trendy Toy Box
Image credit: YANN KHOW via Google Maps
Hold on to your wallets at Trendy Toy Box, especially if you’re a POP MART lover. This 3-storey store is a blind box heaven, with a collection featuring more than 600 IPs.
Try your luck on limited-edition blind boxes like the DIMOO Disney series (from RM69, ~S$22.42), or complete your collection of Smiskis (from RM49, ~S$15.92) here.
FDK Gaming Homestay
Image credit: FDK Gaming Homestay
If you want to stay in Mount Austin for an overnight party with your friends, consider FDK Gaming Homestay. Each room comes with 5 gaming PC sets to 5-queue on Valorant or League of Legends. Or if you want to rage at your friends while playing a different game, move over to the mahjong table in the room.
5. Tebrau – Shop & play, all in one place
Right next to Mount Austin is Tebrau, a neighbourhood full of exciting offerings, from massive shopping havens to adrenaline-pumping theme parks.
Toppen Shopping Centre
Image credit: Toppen
Chances are, you’ll spend the most time over at Toppen Shopping Centre. This mega mall is packed to the brim with entertainment for the whole family.
Image credit: Forum Group
Squeeze a quick round of sports into your itinerary at Forum Tebrau. This massive facility within Toppen Shopping Centre has many courts for popular sports like pickleball, badminton, basketball, and table tennis.
Book courts for as cheap as RM10 (~S$3.26) and rent equipment from just RM2 (~S$0.65).
Reserve a court at Forum Tebrau on Courtsite.
Or sweat it out at Game On Theme Park. Made for the young and the young-at-heart, this indoor theme park has all kinds of activities to enjoy.
Embrace your inner ninja warrior with their obstacle courses, or have a Tarzan moment on the flying fox. For less tiring fun, sing your hearts out with a karaoke session or game at the e-sports section – do note that you need to book your slots beforehand.
Tickets are priced from RM34/adult (~S$11.07) and RM30/child (~S$9.78).
Get tickets via the Game On Theme Park website.
Image credit: Wiplus Group
If your cosmetics haul from your last Japan trip is running out, head over to Matsumoto Kiyoshi. This iconic Japanese drugstore has just opened its doors in JB for the first time at Toppen Shopping Centre, and is stocked with J- and K-beauty products.
Don’t miss out on the Matsukiyo Malaysia Exclusive Products, with sachets of various products going for RM10.90 (~S$3.55).
Anyone craving Swedish meatballs needs to pop by IKEA Tebrau – it’s the biggest outlet in all of Malaysia, and it’s connected right to Toppen Shopping Centre.
Check out their 54 showrooms and get inspiration for your next room makeover, before chomping on their iconic meatballs at the restaurant to recharge after all that walking.
AEON Mall Tebrau City
Image credit: BEN KOH via Google Maps
Toppen isn’t the only mall in Tebrau; AEON Mall Tebrau City is yet another haunt for shoppers in the area.
Image credit: @rockybasecamptc via Instagram
If you’re a bouldering enthusiast, head to Rocky Basecamp and challenge yourself to their rock walls from just RM28/session (~S$9.12). There’s also an obstacle course here that you can attempt from RM25/session (~S$8.14).
Image credit: AEON Mall
Visit Tsutaya Bookstore to find the latest bestselling books. This outlet is the Japanese bookstore chain’s 1st outlet in JB, and is stocked with books in English, Malay, Chinese, and Japanese. Readers who want a quick bite along with their book can also sit down and relax at the in-house cafe.
Niko Niko Onigiri
Image credit: @charrine0628 via Instagram
Take a break from the Tebrau malls at Niko Niko Onigiri. This adorable aquarium-themed cafe is just 10 minutes away from Toppen Shopping Centre by car.
Gobble up their onigiris (from RM3.90, ~S$1.27) and other Japanese dishes, including the Salmon Flakes Ochazuke (RM19.90, ~S$6.48) and Cold Soba (RM13.90, ~S$4.53). Round up your meal with refreshing drinks, like the Berry Blush (RM15.90, ~S$5.18) or Yuzu Fizz (RM10.90, ~S$3.55) sodas.
6. Eco Spring – Aesthetic neighbourhood for IG-worthy pics
Eco Spring Labs
Image credit: @hazie.d.aisy via Instagram
If you need more pictures to glam up your Instagram feed, make your way down to Eco Spring. This neighbourhood is also just a stone’s throw away from Mount Austin.
Eco Spring Labs
Image credit: Han Lee via Google Maps
Eco Spring Labs is a small retail park full of colourful photospots and aesthetic cafes. Come visit if you’re looking for a little whimsy in your trip.
Image credit: 橘子蜜 via Google Maps
Get a dose of sweetness at Morihana Pastry, known for its delicious cakes and drinks.
Must-tries include the Tiramisu Bear (RM27, ~S$8.79) and Rose Watermelon (RM20, ~S$6.51) cakes, then sit back and relax as you sip on a cup of Uji Matcha Latte (RM14, ~S$4.56) or handcrafted Jasmine Grape Infusion (RM14, ~S$4.56). Don’t miss out on their adorable Strawberry Mochi Frasier (RM32, ~S$10.42), only available on weekends.
Eco Palladium
Image credit: Eco Palladium via Google Maps
Just a short walk away is Eco Palladium, a popular shopping destination with a design reminiscent of our own black-and-white bungalows.
Image credit: @defs.77 via Instagram
Snap some pics and DIY a souvenir at Kacha Kacha Studio. Choose from 3 different rooms, pose for the camera, and take unlimited pictures at RM90/session (~S$29.30). Then carry around your favourite shots with a DIY keychain that you can make on the spot for just RM25 (~S$8.14).
Reserve a photoshoot session via the Kacha Kacha Studio website.
Image credit: Final Mission Escape
Prove your teamwork with your friends at Final Mission Escape, where you’ll get to work your brains together to solve puzzles and escape 1 of 12 themed rooms. Run away from a prison of your own making in Caged Bird (RM108, ~S$35.16) or find a way out of a fantasy game in Earth Warrior (RM48, ~S$15.63).
Book an escape room slot via the Final Mission Escape website.
7. Skudai – Mall-hopping & grocery shopping
Somewhere a bit further into JB lies Skudai, a little neighbourhood where you can shop till you drop.
Paradigm Mall
Image credit: Klook
The biggest mall Skudai has to offer is Paradigm Mall, with tons of shopping, food and entertainment options for you to choose from.
Channel your inner figure skater at Blue Ice Skating Rink. Whether it’s your first time skating or you’re a seasoned skater, this rink is open to everyone. And don’t worry about needing your own skates, because rentals are free.
Tickets usually go from RM45 (~S$14.65) for a solo skating session, but there are discounted tickets on Klook at S$12.99.
Get admission tickets to Blue Ice Skating Rink.
Image credit: Benedict Correya via Google Maps
Spruce up your home with some home decor from Kaison. Browse their collection of charming home goods, from table runners to storage baskets. Everyday essentials are also in stock here, including stuff like coin pouches, water bottles, and tote bags.
Sutera Mall
There’s also Sutera Mall nearby to continue your mall-hopping adventure. While it’s not as big as Paradigm Mall, there are still many offerings to keep you well-entertained.
Image credit: Racing Underdog
Make your way to RUD Karting to satiate your need for speed. Race around the 400m circuit for RM35/session (~S$11.39) in their Basic E go-karts – even kids above 60cm can have a whirl with these karts. More confident drivers can also try going top speed in the Stage Two go-karts for RM75/session (~S$24.42).
Joyful Dreamland
Image credit: Megal Gadox via Google Maps
Step outside of Sutera Mall and walk right over to Sutera Square, where you’ll find Joyful Dreamland, open till December 2026. This colourful theme park focuses on an interactive experience – get your workout in by pedalling to power the mini rollercoaster or carousel. Tickets are affordable too, going from RM38/pax (~S$12.37).
KIPMall Tampoi
Image credit: @youngbloodcreation via Instagram
Head a little further out in the neighbourhood, and you’ll find the newly revamped KIPMall Tampoi. Get your hands on some Japanese vintage goods at Jalan Jalan Japan, or munch on some snacks at the food street. Stock up on groceries for the week at the wet market-style street too.
NSK Trade City Skudai
Image adapted from: Mr Foodie via Google Maps
If KIPMall isn’t enough to meet all your grocery needs, continue your shopping at NSK Trade City Skudai. This supermarket is known for its wholesale-style shopping and low prices. Expect a wide spread of offerings similar to Sheng Siong, with products ranging from fresh produce to household essentials.
8. Iskandar Puteri – Family-friendly fun
Image credit: UEM Sunrise
Closer to Tuas Checkpoint lies Iskandar Puteri, a neighbourhood full of fun activities for all ages.
LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort
Image credit: @vinabudiman via Instagram
When it comes to family trips at Iskandar Puteri, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort is a must-visit. LEGOLAND Park is the main attraction here, with rollercoaster rides for the little daredevils and MINILAND for building block enthusiasts.
Image credit: Han Lee via Google Maps
Don’t miss the other attractions at the LEGOLAND resort. Beat the heat at LEGOLAND Water Park when it gets too hot, where you’ll get to DIY LEGO rafts at Build-A-Raft River or go down one of the many water slides.
Image credit: FIFA-UEFA Family via Google Maps
If you want some underwater fun without getting wet, visit the SEA LIFE Aquarium. Learn more about the 120 species of aquatic life in this aquarium, from sharks to stingrays and starfish. You can even find out how the aquarium manages the animals with the Behind-the-Scenes Tour Experience.
Image credit: Anastasia Anisa via Google Maps
After a whole day of LEGO adventures, stay the night at LEGOLAND Hotel. Check into one of the many themed rooms – sail the seven seas in a Pirate Themed Room, or train your Spinjitzu in the Ninjago Themed Rooms.
Mall of Medini
Image credit: Hc Tan via Google Maps
Mall of Medini sits right in front of LEGOLAND, so stop by while you’re visiting the resort. Eat a hearty meal at eateries like Lemora and Burger King, or even play a round of screen golf at Diamond Golf Zone.
Image adapted from: @snowland.jb via Instagram
No money for that trip to Hokkaido, but still want to frolic in the snow? Just visit SnowLand JB within the Mall of Medini to experience winter close to home. Speed down one of their ice slides or admire the ice sculptures, then challenge your friends to a snowball fight using artificial snowfall.
Adult tickets for foreigners start from RM54.90 (~S$17.87), while children can enter from RM44.90 (~S$14.61).
Sunway Big Box
Step away from the LEGOLAND area and head down to Sunway Big Box, a massive retail park with plenty of shopping options.
Bookworms looking for their next read can check out BookXcess. Browse through their catalogue of books in the Big Box of Knowledge as your kids read and enjoy their stories in the children’s nook.
Shoppers with energy to spare can enjoy some thrills at EnerG X Park. Swing around on their high-element obstacle course, and run up walls like Peter Parker at the parkour zone.
Admission starts from RM48 (~S$15.66) with no time limit, so go as many rounds as you want around the playground.
Puteri Harbour
Image credit: 빛나는골프 via Google Maps
Go on a stroll by the water over at Puteri Harbour – think of this as JB’s answer to Quayside Isle in Sentosa Cove. Expect waterfront restaurants, pretty views of the marina, and a chill vibe. If you feel like extending your trip beyond JB, there’s even an option to hop on a ferry to Indonesia from the International Ferry Harbour here.
Pro tip: This spot is especially beautiful during the sunset, so visit in the evening to snap some golden hour pics.
9. Gelang Patah – Explore the outdoors
Image credit: Azrien Sidek via Google Maps
A little distance away from Iskandar Puteri is the neighbourhood of Gelang Patah, with a myriad of outdoor activities for you to get down and dirty.
Trail Bukit Kucing
Image credit: @anwar.odefski via Instagram
Ride off the beaten path at Trail Bukit Kucing and immerse yourself in nature as you go down a mountain biking trail created by seasoned bikers. The trail is free to access and suitable for bikers of all levels – just make sure to bring your own gear and call ahead before you go.
Gunung Pulai
Image credit: Dhania Ellsha bt Abdullah via Google Maps
If you’re more of a hiker than a biker, trek up Gunung Pulai instead. There are 2 hiking trails here, both of which will take you about 4 hours to complete. Those newer to hiking can rest easy, as the main road trail is beginner-friendly. Do stop by Pulai Waterfall while you’re on the way up; you should reach it in about 20 minutes from the main gate.
Forest City Golf Resort
Image credit: Forest City Golf Resort
Beyond the mountains and the forests, there’s also a huge, flat area of green at Forest City Golf Resort. Practise your putting at the resort’s 2 golf courses from RM400/pax (~S$130.20). After a long day of golfing, stay the night at the Forest City Golf Hotel right across the golf courses.
Eco Galleria
Image credit: Anne Hui Ni via Google Maps
Take a break from all the greenery at Eco Galleria, not to be confused with Eco Palladium. But if you’re getting déjà vu from the mall’s aesthetic, it’s because it’s built by the same developer as Eco Palladium.
Image credit: @juzpingme via Instagram
Bring home a new plushie friend from RM48 (~S$15.62) at Fun Factory. Just like Build-A-Bear, you’ll get to create your own plushie however you want, from choosing the base animal to dressing it up. Once your baby is ready, you’ll even get a birth certificate for it.
Off Day Cafe
Image credit: Eatbook
Walk a short distance from Eco Galleria, and you’ll find yourself at Off Day Cafe. Treat yourself to a hearty brunch with their Classic French Toast (RM23, ~S$7.49) or Shakshuka with Egg (RM21, ~S$6.84). Sip on a glass of Espresso (RM9, ~S$2.93) or Houjicha (RM14, ~S$4.56) to go with your mains.
10. Bukit Indah – Unexpected adventures in a quieter neighbourhood
Image credit: Niranjan J via Google Maps
Bukit Indah may seem like just a quiet residential neighbourhood, but you’ll be surprised to find that it’s far more than a boring town.
Bukit Indah Recreation Park
Image credit: Slowly via Google Maps
Right in the heart of the neighbourhood, you’ll come across Bukit Indah Recreation Park. Breathe in the fresh air as you take a stroll through the greenery, or enjoy a game of disc golf for free at their public disc golf course.
AEON Mall Bukit Indah
Image credit: Sponge via Google Maps
Chill in the air conditioning at AEON Mall Bukit Indah after your walk. It’s just less than 10 minutes away from the park on foot.
Image credit: Evolt Karting
Get the adrenaline pumping at Evolt Karting, an indoor electric karting circuit in the mall that lets you speed around to your heart’s content. Start off with a novice race (from RM70/session, ~S$22.79), and if you’re fast enough, you can upgrade to the advanced race (from RM85/session, ~S$27.67) or even pro karts (from RM100/session, ~S$32.55).
Sireh Park
Image credit: Sireh Park
Towards the edge of Bukit Indah is a much bigger park. You’ll find lots of unique and exciting experiences at Sireh Park, like ATV adventures (from RM85/ATV, ~S$27.71) and archery (RM20/pax, ~S$6.52). There are even camping and glamping grounds here for visitors who want to live in nature.
Inuyama Cat Cafe
Image credit: Guifen Choy via Google Maps
Meet some feline friends at Inuyama Cat Cafe. There are over 30 cats here, with unique breeds like British Shorthairs and Sphynxes for you to play with. The cafe is also covered in an adorably pink, floral design, perfect for your next Instagram pic. Visit these cuties for just S$15.49/hour, and get a free in-house brewed beverage too.
Book a session at Inuyama Cat Cafe.
11. Taman Abad – Beauty salons & hands-on activities
Many Singaporeans flock to JB for its beauty shops and services, and Taman Abad is where you’ll find malls packed with options.
Holiday Plaza
Beat the crowds by visiting Holiday Plaza. It might be a little rundown, but with really affordable services, this mall is a must-visit to be pampered.
Leave it to the folks at Fairy Nail to give you a beautiful set of nails. The Lemon8 girlies have been raving about this nail salon for good reason – you can get anything from basic manicures to complex nail art here. It’s also much more affordable than the nail salons in Singapore, with prices for a classic gel manicure starting from RM60 (~S$19.53).
Loosen up your body with a massage at Java Java Refleksi, one of the most affordable massage parlours in JB. Give your legs a break after a day of walking with a foot massage from RM35/hour (~S$11.39), or work out all the knots in your body with a full body massage (RM50/hour, ~S$16.28).
KSL City Mall
Image credit: Deleon Chan via Google Maps
If you prefer to stick to something mainstream, there’s always KSL City Mall right around the corner.
Continue your beauty trip and refresh your looks with a new hairdo at Studio M. Reviews for this salon have been consistently high, so there’s no need to worry about any makeover mishaps. A haircut and wash here cost just RM80 (~S$26.04) for men and RM90 (~S$29.30) for women for all hair lengths. You can even dye your hair from just RM180 (~S$58.59).
Avery-Day
Image credit: Avery-Day via Google Maps
Grab a snack at Avery-Day, just a short walk away from KSL City Mall. Pretend you’re on a European getaway here, as the convenience store is decked out in white and blue, making it look like something straight out of Santorini.
Hey Découpage
Image credit: Hey Découpage
Drive 10 minutes from KSL City Mall to find Hey Découpage. Try a new kind of craft with one of their workshops – make a DIY mahjong tile out of Jesmonite, or give leathercraft a shot.
Other than craft workshops, Hey Découpage also doubles as a board game cafe. Workshop participants can play for free as they wait for their creations to complete, or choose to just play without signing up for a workshop at RM35/session (~S$11.40).
Book a workshop via the Hey Découpage website.
12. Southkey – Modern & high-end township in JB
Drive 20 minutes from the CIQ, and you’ll find yourself at Southkey, one of the go-to spots when you’re in the mood to shop, eat, and hide from the heat all at once.
The Mall, Mid Valley Southkey
Image credit: Rian A. Sagara via Google Maps
Most Singaporeans visit Southkey for one reason: to shop at The Mall, Mid Valley Southkey, also known as the largest mall in JB.
Image adapted from: @matcha_bread via Lemon8
Liven up your home with homeware and stationery from Objet. You’ll be able to find all sorts of home decor here, with products for every room in your house. For instance, get a chic rug made in Turkey for less than RM500 (~S$162.90) for your living room, and add a pop of kawaii to your kitchen with cute mugs from RM15 (~S$4.89).
Speaking of cute, Objet has also been gaining a reputation for its collection of adorable stationery. Sticky notes, washi tape, notebooks, and more can be found in their own section away from the homeware.
Image credit: Ryan YTH via Google Maps
Nieces and nephews must visit FUIYOH! It’s Uncle Roger. In case you’re out of the loop, Uncle Roger is a famous Malaysian character on YouTube, known for his iconic orange polo tee and one-sided rivalry with Jamie Oliver. Have a taste of his fried rice, and check for yourself if it’s really better than what Jamie Oliver whips up.
Bee Hive Honey Cafe
Image credit: Celeste Watson via Google Maps
For something else in Southkey that isn’t in Mid Valley, make a beeline for Bee Hive Honey Cafe, just a 5-minute drive away from the mall. As the name suggests, this cafe specialises in honey-flavoured treats, making it a must-visit if you’re anything like Winnie the Pooh.
Honey usually goes with tea, but with their Honey Latte (RM15.90, ~S$5.18), you can try for yourself what it tastes like with coffee instead. Don’t miss out on their Signature Honey Layer Cake (RM17.90, ~S$5.83) while you’re here too.
Explore JB one neighbourhood at a time
Save time on your next day trip by sticking to a neighbourhood. With so many things to see and do, a day might not even be enough to check out everything in each area.
Check out our other JB guides:
Cover image adapted from: Alrian Naafi Izdahar & Megal Gadox via Google Maps, @hazie.d.aisy via Instagram, Sireh Park
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