Found at the fringe of Nanyang Technological University along Jalan Tawas, off Jalan Bahar, Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle is a unique place to visit in Singapore. Stepping inside, you will feel as if you have been transported back in time and to a different place – and you will also need to step carefully as you venture about this interesting spot.
The business dates back to 1965. Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle was started by Tan Kim Seh and it is now being run by the third generation of the family.
Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle: Visiting the Dragon Kiln
One of the most significant pieces of heritage that can be found at Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle is the Dragon Kiln, one of two remaining in Singapore. This is a traditional wood-fired pottery kiln that was built in 1940. It has been owned by the Tan family since 1965.
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In 2020, the Thow Kwang Dragon Kiln received National Heritage Board’s “The Stewards of Singapore’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Award” which recognises those who promote and help to keep traditional practices alive.
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The Thow Kwang Dragon Kiln only fires occasionally. You can check their Facebook page for updates on the firing of the dragon kiln.
However, there is much more to explore at Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle.
Shopping for Pottery
Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle is filled with pottery pieces.
When you step onto its premises, after passing the dragon kiln on the right, you will come to two buildings, one on the left and one on the right, with a road running inbetween them.
Step into the building on the left and you will find yourself surrounded by large scale pottery pieces.
In addition, the building in which all the pottery is stored is fascinating too. Made from wood, it feels like it has stood there for decades – which it probably has.
There is a lot to take in as you wander around Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle. You can find vases, flower pots, tableware and much more. It is a fascinating spot to visit and there is a lot to take in.
We even came across a section that featured statues and figurines of Mao Zedong.
The second building on the other side of the road has more to see.
You can also stop by a small aviary where birds are kept.
Tread Lightly and Supervise Kids
It is best to tread very carefully as there are many fragile pottery pieces all around.
Take note that the many of the floors in the building are made from wood. The pottery pieces are placed on these wooden floors and the floors may move up and down if you walk too heavily on the floors.
Families with children will want to keep an eagle-eye on them.
Smaller Items to Buy
If you are not in the market for a 1.5 metre tall vase or a bust of Chairman Mao, there are still other smaller items that you can purchase to take home as a souvenir of your visit.
These smaller pottery items can be found around the linkway between the two buildings. You can pick up some plates, tea pots or small figurines that would otherwise be hard to find else where.
Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle also sells some lovely nyonyaware. You can browse and purchase these brightly coloured tableware if you wish to add a pop of vibrancy to your home.
This central area is also where you can purchase some drinks too.
Pottery Workshops & Classes
Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle also conducts pottery workshops, including both one-time and long-term courses.
It has a large section with pottery wheels that can accommodate large groups. They also do have experiences for individuals and kids as well.
Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle
To learn more about Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle, visit the Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle website.
Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle is located at 85 Lorong Tawas, Singapore 639823. It can be paired with a visit to Jurong Eco-Garden.
