Katong Antique House
Located in the Joo Chiat-Katong neighbourhood, this unassuming shophouse is actually a private museum, home to a treasure trove of Peranakan antiques. Although the Katong Antique House may be lesser-known, it’s just as rich in history and culture as other heritage spots.
Almost bursting at the seams, this shophouse offers a peek into the rich Peranakan culture, which you can come and see first-hand.
All you need to know about the Katong Antique House
Image credit: Pelago
The Katong Antique House was owned by the late Peter Wee, a 4th generation Peranakan and former president of The Peranakan Association Singapore. The shophouse is a generational heirloom and houses a massive Peranakan antique collection amassed by Wee over the years. He aimed to preserve his culture and heritage, opening his doors to the public and inviting visitors to not only admire the beautiful artefacts but also to learn about the Peranakan culture.
Is the Katong Antique House open to the public?
Yes, but visits are by appointment only, at $15/person.
Image credit: @eureca1 via Instagram
How to get to the Katong Antique House?
The quickest way to get to the Katong Antique House is by bus. Drop off at the Opposite Holy Family Church bus stop, and you’ll spot the museum right across the road.
If you have time to spare, opt for a more scenic route by taking the train to Marine Parade Station (TE26). The Katong Antique House is a mere 8-minute walk from the station, so you can stroll while taking in the sights of the neighbourhood and colourful shophouses. Take plenty of pictures while you’re at it, too.
How is the Katong Antique House different from the Peranakan Museum?
The experience at the Katong Antique House is more personal than at the Peranakan Museum, and that’s all thanks to the guided tours led by the museum’s curators. With artefacts and antiques displayed throughout the house, you’ll have the chance to get up close and explore the items, making the tour feel more like a hands-on journey through history.
What to expect during a guided tour of the Katong Antique House
Learn about Peranakan History from a Peranakan
Image credit: Pelago
The museum is currently led by Angeline Kong and Eric Ang, both close partners of the late Peter Wee, who shared his passion for preserving Peranakan culture. You’ll be in good hands – they know their stuff when it comes to Peranakan history.
Plus, Angeline Kong is a true-blue Nyonya, so you’re getting the information straight from the source.
Image credit: Pelago
Since this tour is by appointment, feel free to ask as many questions as you’d like without worrying about holding up the group. Pick out items that pique your interest and enjoy a personalised history lesson, tailored to your curiosities.
Watch a beadwork & embroidery demonstration
Image credit: Katong Antique House
A big part of Peranakan culture is how colourful it is, both literally and figuratively. Nyonyas are known for their craftsmanship and artistry, so you’ll be glad to know you might even catch a beadwork or embroidery demonstration during the tour, carried out by Kong herself.
Get up close with Peranakan artefacts
Image credit: mali886 via Trip Advisor
This 2-storey shophouse is filled to the brim with Peranakan artefacts, some even dating back to the early 1800s. In every nook and cranny, you’ll find something Peranakan, whether it’s something to wear, a decoration, or everyday items.
Image credit: mali886 via Trip Advisor
The house is split into different rooms, each one dedicated to showcasing aspects of life as a Peranakan, with artefacts carefully chosen to match. Don’t just look around while you’re there – be sure to look up too.
The kitchen’s ceiling is lined with plates, featuring intricate designs and colourful patterns Peranakan tableware is famous for. It’s definitely a photo-op you won’t want to miss.
Image credit: Pelago
You’ll also come across antique cookware, like traditional kueh moulds, stone mortar and pestles, and even colourful tingkats used to store home-cooked meals.
Image credit: YacchanAmarone via Trip Advisor
In the living room, you’ll find decorative vases and furniture that capture the essence of the era.
Image credit: @alvinmarkstudio via Instagram
Once you’re done exploring indoors, head out the back door and take pictures by the well – just kidding, it’s actually a painting. It’s meant to give you a glimpse into the past, when water wasn’t so easily accessible from taps, and people had to draw it from the well themselves.
Experience a day in the life of a Peranakan
Image credit: @figmentlive via Instagram
Live like a Peranakan for the day as you munch on a variety of kueh that are to die for. If you’re up for it, request to try on traditional Peranakan attire like a kebaya and step into the role of a Nyonya running her own household. This is complimentary as part of the tour.
Plan a visit to the Katong Antique Museum
Preserving history doesn’t have to be a big production. Sometimes, all it takes is sharing stories and culture, which is exactly why the Katong Antique Museum stays open – ready to share with anyone willing to learn, or just to have a peek.
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Cover image adapted from: @eureca1 via Instagram, mali886 via Trip Advisor