Places of Interest

State Secretariat Building
The building was built in 1940 and is located on a hill called Bukit Timbalan. Its columns and pillars are designs of Saracenic architecture. The building, which is a symbol of progressive and modern Johor, commands a magnificent view of the Straits of Johor. Visitors may find the Grand Hall particularly interesting. The whole building covers 11 floors above the ground and it houses 46 government offices and departments. During World War II, the Japanese occupied the building as a fortress and a store dump when planning attacks on neighbouring Singapore.

To get there: Make your way up to Jalan Duke and you will not miss the building on the top of the hill.

Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque
A famed landmark, this century-old mosque is said to be one of the most beautiful in Malaysia. It was completed in 1900, a few years after the death of the Sultan it is named after. It look eight years to build and can accommodate 2,000 worshippers. It is located on spacious grounds overlooking the Straits of Johor and Singapore. Locals put up stalls selling souvenirs and handicrafts.

To get there: Make your way to Jalan Abu Bakar/Jalan Dato Ismail along the Straits of Johor, you'll not miss it.

The Grand Palace and Royal Abu Bakar Museum
The beautiful palace was commissioned by Sultan Abu Bakar, who laid the foundation stone in 1864. One of the oldest buildings in Johor, it has a cosmopolitan architecture with clear Anglo-Malay influence. Today the palace assumes an additional role as the Royal Abu Bakar Museum, displaying treasures of the royal collection.

Dataran Bandaraya
Dataran Bandaraya or City Square, was officially opened on 31 December 1993 by the Sultan of Johor. A much sought after venue for public events like parades and stage shows, this popular tourist attraction comprises a large stage, a minaret, a fountain and a clock tower reputed to be the biggest in the region. It also boasts of the tallest flag staff in the state. A mega video screen has been installed for visitors to view live transmissions.

The Causeway
Entering Johor Bahru from Singapore involves travelling across the Causeway which links the two cities. Completed in 1924 after four years work, the Causeway is 1,056 metres long and extends to a depth of 23 metres below the water level. In January 1924, The British Army demolished part of it as invading Japanese forces prepared to attack Singapore from the north. The Japanese soon effected repairs and the Causeway resumed its role as an important road, railway and general communication link. The good deal of water supply from large water pipes which have been laid across the Causeway from Johor.

Johor Art Gallery
Founded in 1910, the Johor Art Gallery houses all the discovered and historical items such as documents and cultural artifacts traditionally used by Malays, particularly from the State of Johor. Among the exhibits are clothings, weapons, currency, manuscripts and examples of calligraphy, ceramic objects and fine art.

Yayasan Wawasan Johor
JKR 304, Jalan Maryammah, 80100 Johor Bahru.
Tel: 07-224 5488

The Royal Mausoleum
The Royal Mausoleum has been the final place for Royalty of Johor. The mausoleum is situated along Jalan Mahmoodiah. An area where one can¹t help but appreciate the serene and tranquil atmosphere befitting a resting place for eternity. The mausoleum¹s architecture is one of a fine, unique and aesthetic design of yesterday.

Lido Beach
This sundrenched beach of Johor Bahru, stretching over 7 km provides city tourists a variety of water adventures from canoeing, sailing to cruising.