[This blog post contains some photos not suitable for children as they include violent torture scenes. However, nipples of merpeople have been censored. You are welcomed]
I visited Haw Par Villa some Sundays ago with D and M. It was my third visit to the “historical theme park”. I left with the same feeling I had the two other times I went: “What on earth did I just see?”
What is Haw Par Villa? Travel site Your Singapore has a nice description:
Haw Par Villa is like no other place in the world, with over 1,000 statues and 150 dioramas that dramatise Chinese legends and folklore. Founded on Chinese legends and values, this historical theme park has large, imposing statues from famous legends of old – featuring characters like Fu Lu Shou, Confucius and the Laughing Buddha.
If you have been to Singapore multiple times and have seen almost all of the tourist attractions, you should visit Haw Par Villa.
Previously, Haw Par Villa was in the middle of nowhere. Now has its own MRT stop, aptly named Haw Par Villa Station, so it’s very easy to get there.
You will definitely know if you’ve arrived at Haw Par Villa if you see concrete statues around. Yes, get yourself in there. Entrance is free!
After passing the gates, you will be guided by a bearded old man who points with two fingers. Further inside, a dancing Thai/Burmese person teaches a stance of Taichi.
Ten Courts of Hell
If you only have 10 minutes at Haw Par Villa, you must check out the Ten Courts of Hell so you know which court your worst enemy will go. (I now know which courts are reserved for me.)
It’s kind of funny how the crimes get repetitive but the torture scenes are always…fresh and creative.
Myths and legend
Besides the courts of hell, there are a lot of the statues in the villa is about Chinese folklore.
There is the usual Journey to the West (lower right) statues and also Legend of the White Snake (not in photo).
The place has a few signs around explaining the scenes so don’t worry about not understanding them. Heck, even I don’t understand much of it.
For example, I have no idea where these topless mermaids, clammaids and crabmaids come from.
Considering how conservative we are, it’s surprising how these sea creatures have nipples. I mean, male manga characters do not have nipples but these merfolks do? That is just crazy weird. Oh, I’ve censored the nipples in case anyone gets offended by bare-breasted women sculptures with weird grins.
Modern family
Besides folklore, there are also strange statues of good-and-evil. Here are a few photos of sins and what happens to bad people (or something like that).
(Click to enlarge)
The park/villa is quite big so be sure to have at least 45 minutes to look at everything. It’s also best to bring a few friends who can help you take photos.
PS You are not supposed to do what I did. Hat tip to J for the giraffe pose.
To end the post, I should like to teach you the dance of my people and a bonus video!
Photo credit: Mel
[Video music credit: Also Sprach Zarathustra by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0]
Things to know about Haw Par Villa
Nitty gritty: Haw Par Villa
How to get there: Haw Par Villa MRT station
Opening time: 9 am to 7 pm (Ten courts of hell officially closes at 6 pm but caretaker wanted to be off at 5.40 pm)
Who to go with: Friends, family.
Free entrance!!!
YQtravelling 
I like it when you put stars on the mermaid statue photos lol
I went there last year and was completely shocked plus amazed. Would love to go again this year if I have time :)
Haw Par Villa is my favorite place in Singapore. Quirky, interesting and superb outsider art! A must-see when in Singapore.