1. Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

Before its renovation in 2011, Bishan-Ang Mo Kio park was made up of two parks: Bishan park 1 and 2. It was visualised as a recreational and leisure spot for the residents of Bishan and Ang Mo Kio. Focusing on redeveloping the concrete canal into a river, this was the first time Singapore had a project like this. The project was a collaboration between national water agency, “Public Utilities Board (PUB)” and the “National Parks Board”. It aimed to make the waterway more accessible to the residents of Bishan and Ang Mo Kio so that they will be able to have a deeper appreciation for water.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PARK

At 62 hectares and a river stretching over 3km, Bishan-Ang Mo Kio park is one of the largest and most popular urban parks in Singapore. With a winding river stretching across the park, interesting flora and fauna and open lawns, this park is definitely a place you do not want to miss. The first thing you hear when you step into the park is the running water course across the river. The lush greenery around you will make you forget about busy city life and immediately put your mind at ease as you walk around the park. Don’t be surprised if you happen to come across frogs, squirrels or even a Grey Heron as spotting these animals are considered a norm in the park. There are a number of bridges and even stepping stones for you to walk across the river. Every man has a best friend and that’s usually his dog, so why not take him to the “Dog Run” where canines are free to run and play in the 2100 square metre space. With trees shading the area, you and your dog will be able to have a ball of a time with each other.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR OR CAPTURE

With the river as the park’s main attraction, you should not miss the opportunity of taking a few good shots there. The coursing river will definitely add a unique touch to your “Outfit of the Day” shot. With dragonflies zooming across the pond and White-breasted Waterhens walking among the shrubs, a picture of the lotus pond will be a perfect addition to your Instagram feed. If you prefer taking pictures of the flora and fauna, look out for the interesting plants across the river such as the Sessile Joyweed, the Townsville Stylo and also the Frog Fruit located at the Bioswales area.

HOW TO GET THERE:

From Ang Mo Kio Garden West, take bus number 852, 851 or 13 from Courts Ang Mo Kio (54049), Ang Mo Kio Avenue 6 bus stop and alight at block 254, Marymount Road, 3 stops later.