A Singaporean’s love affair with Johor Bahru is a tale as old as time. Be it grocery shopping in supermarkets in JB, catching the sea breeze at Puteri Harbour or enjoying outdoor activities in JB, it’s safe to say that she holds a special place in our hearts.
But if your same old haunts are starting to feel a little stale, fret not, we’ve got you covered. Here are the new things to do in Johor in 2024.
The current exchange rate is RM1 = ~S$0.30 as of 26th August 2024.
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Knowing what to do in JB is one thing, but knowing the best timings and mode of transportation is another. Based on the daily commutes, it’s best to travel to JB before 6pm on weekdays, ideally between 12pm-3pm. Do keep in mind to avoid evenings on weekdays as Malaysians will be travelling back home and most Singaporeans will be coming in after office hours.
For those planning half-day trips on the weekends, we suggest you go after 3pm to avoid the morning crowd especially on Saturdays. The rest of the time generally has smoother traffic, if you’re planning to drive or even take a bus in.
For transportation, the fastest way to get to JB is by KTM train from Woodlands Train Checkpoint to JB Sentral. A one-way trip would cost you S$5, and it only takes 5 minutes. Taking a bus is another affordable option, such as the Causeway Link bus. This bus service has bus stops situated at Bugis and Rochor MRT stations and the journey takes about 20-30 minutes to reach Woodlands Checkpoint from there.
If you’re looking for late night things to do in JB, consider heading over to GT Karting. With prices starting at RM40 for 10 minutes, it’s an affordable option if you’re feeling the need for speed. There’s even a competition mode, where racers accumulate points and can win attractive prizes.
Those who prefer getting down and dirty will be glad to know that you can race ATVs and dirt buggies here as well. These start from RM80 for a 40 minute jaunt around their dirt track. Alternatively, PS4s are also available, for those who prefer racing virtually in the comfort of an air-conditioned room. 1 hour of play will set you back RM60.
If you’re feeling hungry after crossing the finish line, you’ll be glad to know that Toppen Shopping Centre is conveniently located across the street. Besides the many F&B outlets available, Ikea Tebrau is also handily located here, should you decide to snag some furniture on the way home.
Image credit: @mstgolfarena via Instagram
If swinging irons is more your deal, you’ll be glad to know that MST Golf Arena has just opened in Toppen Shopping Centre.
It boasts more than 20 golf simulators, and you can practise your swings here in air-conditioned comfort, with 30 minute sessions starting at RM40. Private suites are available as well, with 1-hour sessions available from RM120.
Alternatively, you can try out their football simulators, if a game of footy is more up your alley. Otherwise, you can sit back and watch your friends have a go, all while slurping up dishes such as Oxtail Asam Pedas RM60 or Tom Yum Risotto RM50.
Boasting 2 outlets conveniently located in Paradigm Mall and Permas Jaya Mall, SingCube is one of the newest karaoke studios in Johor Bahru. Rather than featuring standard rooms just like any other KTV studio, theirs are shaped like cute little beach huts, and finished in very Instagrammable pastel colours.
Depending on the size of the room, these can fit anywhere from 2-7 pax, and are available from RM12 for 30 minutes.
If you’re looking to pick up some clothes for Junior on the cheap, you can head over to The Little Loop Playground. It’s much like a thrift store for children’s clothes, but it features a ball pit and a carousel where the young ‘uns can play while you browse the racks.
In addition, they even offer seasonal workshops and activities for both parents and children, so you can rest assured that clothes won’t be the only thing you’ll be bringing home. Past runs have included keychain-making and cookie baking workshops. Moreover, the venue’s also available for private bookings, making it a viable option for hosting birthday parties.
Image credit: hizree fahmee zainal abiddin (Hyzry Famey) via Google Maps
20 minutes away from Woodlands Checkpoint, Tunku Mahkota Ismail Youth Centre boasts a variety of activities for all.
Mountain bikers can look forward to trailbashing at the mountain bike trail, while those who prefer doing tricks can consider heading over to the BMX pump track or the skate park. There’s even a parkour arena and a rock wall, if freerunning or bouldering are more your kinda thing.
If you’re looking to just watch skaters in action, there’re chill pods available for you to hang out at. Otherwise, you can head over to the Canopy Walk to enjoy a view of the lush greenery surrounding the park.
Stocking a whopping 40,000 products on its shelves, Jaya Grocer Eco Galleria is the supermarket chain’s biggest outlet yet. It’s only a 20-minute drive away from Tuas Checkpoint, so Westies can consider making this a regular stop for cross-border grocery shopping.
On top of the regular groceries that you can expect to find in other supermarkets in JB, it also stocks a large selection of imports. These range from Australian honey RM29.90 to a wide range of Japanese and Korean snacks, some of which are unavailable in Singapore.
Image credit: @myy_622 via Instagram
Conveniently located in Eco Palladium mall, Roller Coast eschews conventional white overhead lighting for bright neon signs, perfect for taking aesthetic shots for the ‘Gram.
Unlike other roller skating rinks, Roller Coast uses 4-wheel roller skates instead of the more commonly found inline skates. If they’re not your cup of tea, fret not, you can bring your own skates here too. 2 hours here will set you back RM45, while those wishing to stay longer can rent their skates at RM65 for a day.
Image credit: @plsc_johor via Instagram
Located in Aeon Mall Bandar Dato Onn, the track at PLSC Drift features many twists and turns, which is no surprise given space constraints. But before you assume that this is just another cramped indoor go-karting experience, think again.
Rather like Hyperdrive, this circuit is illuminated by Tron-esque neon lights. But that’s where the similarities end. Unlike go-karts used at other circuits, the ones here feature special wheels that enable them to drift around the many tight corners.
Prices start at RM18 for a 5-minute session, so consider heading over to live out your Initial D fantasies without having to book a flight to Japan.
Situated in Komtar JBCC, a mere stone’s throw away from Woodlands Checkpoint, Kidz Republic JBCC is JB’s largest children’s playground.
Featuring a prehistoric jungle theme, you can be sure that Junior will be entertained as they explore the many tubes, ball pits and slides here. Entry to the playground starts at RM25 for kids aged 2-12, while tickets for adults 18 and up cost RM10.
Image credit: @desmondpangchingder via Instagram
The latest addition to the many canine cafes in JB, Chill ‘N Chow features 4 adorable chow chows. It’s conveniently located on top of Bon Appetit restaurant, and ticket prices start from RM20 and entitles you to an hour’s play with the dogs. Do note that socks are a necessity if you’d like to play with the canines. If you need a pair, they’re available at RM3.
When you’ve had your fill of doggy fun, you can chill out over a nice Cheesecake Latte RM12. Alternatively, if you’re looking to beat the sweltering heat, cold drinks such as Lemon & Lime Soda Espresso RM12 or Mango Yoghurt Ice Blended RM13 are available too.
Image credit: J Mr via Google Maps
Located in Austin Crest, Cat Times Cafe is a 30-minute drive away from Woodlands Checkpoint. Even if you’re not a fan of felines, the 20 purebred cats like siamese and ragdolls will change your mind with their sweet and chill demeanour.
You’ll find them hanging out at a large artificial sakura tree that doubles as their sleeping area. Apart from the cat playground, the cats also wander around the dining area where guests can enjoy dishes like cheesecakes and rice bowls served with tamago and eel.
Image credit: Kaven Tan via Google Maps
The entry fee here costs RM10, and walk-ins are accepted. While cats are the main attraction, there are also books and board games available if you want a change in activity. With pastel pink cherry blossoms and adorable kitties, this IG-worthy cafe is not to be missed.
Image credit: KEEBS PROJECT via Google Maps
If you’re on #KeyboardTok and wondered how people get those satisfying creamy sounds on their keyboard, then you’ll want to make your way to Keebs Project. It’s a mechanical keyboard shop in Eco Palladium that sells parts like switches, keycaps, and boards to DIY your own.
There are 23 reputable brands to choose from, such as Keychron and Gatreon, which are known for their high durability and features like low latency for gamers to type at super fast speeds.
But if you’re starting from scratch, feel free to ask the staff here to make recommendations. They’ll be able to point you in the right direction to build the keyboard of your dreams.
Image credit: KEEBS PROJECT Eco Palladium JB via Google Maps
Switches start from RM0.60 each and keycap sets range from RM37.90-RM119. You can also get a base kit, that is a keyboard without switches or keycaps, from RM50 here. They’ve got a wide range of keycaps with Pokemon characters (RM35) and cute macaron-shaped ones (RM9). Anime fans can also customise their keyboards with a Demon Slayer keycap set (RM139).
After building your keyboard, you can chill at Keebs Cafe where they serve hot drinks and their signature Floss Mayo Croffle (RM13.90).
Image credit: Impulse Gaming Johor Bahru HQ via Facebook
Whether you’re a console gamer or a hardcore figurine collector, Impulse Gaming is the place to go to.
This is a gamer heaven offering headsets, monitors, and laptops from Razer and Logitech, for PC gamers looking to build their gaming setups from scratch. There is also an entire section dedicated to Playstation, where you will find the latest PS5 titles and consoles alongside custom-designed controllers.
Image credit: Impulse Gaming Johor Bahru HQ via Facebook
For toy collectors, you will spot Gundam model kits and LEGO sets being sold at prices much cheaper than in Singapore.
If you count yourself as one lucky fellow, try your luck at the Ichiban Kuji, a Japanese lottery where you stand a chance to win premium figurines from Jujutsu Kaisen and One Piece. If not, there’s always the thrill of getting a trinket from the many gachapon machines they have here as well. They’ve also got POP MART blind boxes, featuring collections from Sanrio and Dimoo – who knows, you could be walking home with a ‘secret’.
The store is huge and will take at least a couple of hours of browsing to comb through the place. If you need a break, you can even head over to the resting area to try out the latest game titles on their tester consoles.
Whether it’s freerunning across concrete blocks, drifting go-karts under neon lights or simply shopping for groceries, there are plenty of new things to do in JB for your upcoming 2024 trips across the border.
Other things you can head north for:
Keep up to date with the latest openings and events in JB through our Telegram channel, JB Weekend Plans.
Cover image adapted from: @yumikoleng via Instagram, @impulse.gaming via Instagram, @plsc_johor via Instagram
Last updated by Brandon Chia on 26th August 2024.
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