Johor Bahru’s rich mix of cultures has resulted in plenty of interesting sites for visitors to see.

Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque
Jalan Abu Bakar

This 18th century mosque is located in the old colonial and royal district, the most beautiful part of Johor Bahru. Built by the Sultan Abu Bakar, the “Father of Modern Johor,” the mosque took eight years to complete. The primarily Victorian style of the building also incorporates Corinthian columns, Moorish domes and minarets that remind you of British clock towers.

The marble used in the structure is imported from Italy, the main pulpit comes from Turkey and the receptacle for ashes is of Chinese origin. The mosque is considered the most beautiful in Malaysia.

Johor Old Chinese Temple
Jalan Trus

One of the oldest buildings in Johor Bahru, the Old Chinese Temple still has its original relics, such as the ancient bronze bell and joss stick pot. It was constructed by Chinese community leaders in the 19th century. The temple is dedicated to the five primary gods of the five Chinese dialect groups: the Cantonese, Hainanese, Teochew, Hakka and the Hokkien.

On the 20th of the first month of the lunar calendar, the temple holds a popular procession in which the gods are put on parade.

Sultan Abu Bakar Royal Palace Museum
Jalan Skudai                                

This grand palace of the Sultan of Johor, built in 1866, is resplendent with dining chairs made of crystal, French rococo, exquisite Chinese pottery, silver-plated ceramics and much more. Also on display are gold coins, Johor’s first postal stamps and antique furniture. The architectural style is Anglo-Malay. While the Malay touch can be seen in the steep roofs, the dining hall is Victorian and the façade neoclassical. The museum is still used for the ceremonies of the Johor Sultanate.

State Secretariat Building
Bukit Timbalan

Built in 1940, this impressive 11-story example of Saracenic architecture stands on the Bukit Timbalan hill, overlooking the Straits of Johor. The Japanese used the building as a fortress during World War II.

Orchid Valley
Kangkar Pulai Village

Located in the Kangkar Pulai village, 30 km northwest of Johor Bahru, this 40-hectare tropical orchid farm is the world’s largest. The exotic gardens at the foot of Mount Pulai display more than 80 varieties of orchids. Some of the hybrids here are registered with the World Orchid Society in London. The scenery is breathtaking – sparkling lakes, waterfalls and hills and the air is cool and refreshing after the heat of Johor.