For many Singaporeans, Johor Bahru is a shopping paradise, a go-to for pocket-friendly activities like cafe hopping, tufting, go-karting, amazing massages, or late-night lok-lok cravings. As we wanted to do something different from the usual JB itinerary, we curated a list of uncommon activities and places to explore. So if you are looking to do something unique in Johor Bahru for a 3D2N trip, this article is for you!
Day 1:
Early morning transport from Singapore to Johor Bahru
We took the Causeway Link bus from Queens Street Terminal at Jalan Besar around 10:30 a.m. While other buses were also available, the trusty bright yellow bus (CW1 / CW2) waiting for passengers was impossible to miss.
For someone who doesn't frequent Johor often, I can count the number of times I took the bus with one hand. With the Causeway Link’s Manja Link card, we simply joined the queue to board the bus, whipped out our Manja Link card (topped up with value), and tapped on the card reader. It was an easy-peasy process.
The Causeway Link bus was only about half full at that time. The driver was friendly, greeted the passengers, and guided and ensured that every onboarding passenger boarded the bus with ease. The ride was smooth, and the seats were comfortable enough for us to settle in and relax.
Tip: If you ever need to purchase or top up your Manja Link card, simply proceed to the self-help Manja Link kiosk at the Queen Street Bus Terminal entrance.
Address: 707 Ban San St, Queen St, Bus Terminal, 884001, Singapore
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Immigration Check-point
Upon arrival at the Singapore ICA immigration checkpoint, we were pleasantly surprised to find no long queues. Apart from the usual over-counter check-in, Singapore has rolled out fuss-free Automated Lanes that simply require a passport scan for quick access.
Settling down in JB
After getting used to the atmosphere in JB, exchanging our currency, purchasing a SIM card, and grabbing a quick bite at Roti Boy, it was nearly lunchtime. However, that didn't deter us from ordering breakfast food.
Kopiloco by 1993
Kopiloco is a popular breakfast spot in JB for Singaporeans. It's a 15-minute walk from JB Sentral and directly opposite the famous Hiap Joo Bakery. They offer local breakfast delicacies like Mee Siam, Mee Rebus, Nasi Lemak, Hokkien Mee, and more.
So, what did we order at Kopiloco?
This was so good. The soup was not the spiciest, which is good for a morning stomach, but it was so flavourful. Unlike other yellow noodles, the Signature Laksa noodles were bouncy in texture with little to no alkali taste, and the prawns were big and crunchy. There are also options to choose between vermicelli or yellow noodles.
When one mentions French Toast, the thought of soft, milky, sweet, and salty with a bit of crisp, thick toast comes to mind. At Kopiloco, this thought was turned into reality. Do we need to say more?
To wrap up breakfast, we also ordered four cups of the Signature Kopiloco Ice Coffee RM 3.80 and two egg tarts at RM 8.90 This was our first meal in JB, yet we already gave it a 10/10 rating.
Address: 64 & 65, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm (Monday - Sunday)
Facebook: Kopiloco Facebook
Instagram:
Explore Jalan Tan Hiok Nee
After breakfast, we explored the street further and found a row of shophouses. There were craft boutiques, independent brands, and thrift shops selling pre-loved clothes, accessories, and lifestyle items and even more choices of cafes and eateries at every corner.
Kedai Dobi Shanghai
We discovered Kedai Dobi Shanghai, a shop with tinted doors. Upon entering, we were amazed to find a huge assortment of fashionable items. From funky printed buttoned shirts to vintage faux leather bags, sneakers, hand-made trinket trays, and a stairway that leads to a second floor with many more clothing options.
Address: 53, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 11 am - 6 pm (Monday & Tuesday) 11 am - 7 pm (Wednesday - Sunday)
Senso Art Gallery Cafe
We also came across this quaint little shop, filled with handmade crafts, trinkets, greeting cards, and coffee! They also have a corner where they organise art and craft workshops. So, if you are a hands-on craft person or simply looking for some adorable souvenir to bring home, you know where to go.
After our little treasure hunt, it was time to check-in to our hotel. We booked Grab Car throughout the trip with each trip costing about RM 6-8 for nearby areas and RM10-12 for further locations.
2. Check-in at Ramada Suite by Wyndham The Straits, Johor.
We checked into the Two-Bedroom Superior Twin Suite, which had two bedrooms with double beds, a living room, a sufficiently furnished kitchen pantry, and a dining area. The suite was clean and spacious and had a fantastic city view.
There is also a pool section, outdoor jacuzzi, fitness centre, and cafe in the lobby where you can perk yourself up with a cup of joe.
Address: Jalan Abdul Samad, Kampung Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ramadathestraitsjb
3. Nimmies Pastry Cafe
While we knew there was not much need to introduce cafes in JB to Singaporeans, Nimmies Pastry Cafe was widely recommended by many, so we couldn’t miss this opportunity to visit!
Upon stepping out of the Grab Car, we were greeted by a black metal driveway gate that opened up to a beige two-storey building with brown accents and a huge “n” logo holstered on a red brick wall, visible to all.
We ordered the Truffle Field Mushroom Tagliatelle a decent plate of cream pasta with toppings of Shimeji mushrooms, the Hoe Lemak Croissant a bold fusion of Malaysia’s local delicacy and French pastry, the Jumbo Chocolate Bun Croissant for a sweet flaky treat and their Ice Latte for a quick pick-me-up.
Address: 171, Jln Beringin, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 8 am - 11 pm (Monday - Sunday)
ZZ Sup Tulang
After our (late) coffee break, we went to ZZ Sup Tulang. The whole place was a perfect representation of nostalgia with its village-like setup. Guests were seated at low tables under pavilions surrounded by large trees. We arrived around 7:30 p.m. Despite the restaurant being isolated from the main city area, we felt at ease. The place was brightly lit, the atmosphere was relaxing, and other diners were around.
Their menu had a huge selection of Sup Tulang, Satays, main dishes with a choice between rice and noodles, and even Western food options. We ordered the Sup Gearbox Kambing and Ayam (Mutton & Chicken) RM23.50 and Ayam Goreng RM4.50 to share.
The kambing soup was incredibly flavorful, so we savoured every bit. Even though the meat serving wasn't very large (since it's a bone dish), the tender, delicious chunks clinging to the bone made up for it. They also gave us slices of white bread to dip in the soup. The ayam goreng skin was crispy and well-seasoned.
Even though we did not order much, the food and ambience made the experience fulfilling. Not only was the atmosphere serene, but it also made our evening in Johor memorable.
Address: 20, Jalan Petri 5/1, Kampung Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 6:30 am - 12:30 am (Saturday - Thursday, closed on Fridays)
Day 2
5. Breakfast at Dapo Khaleeda
Our breakfast was at a streetside stop that offered nothing short of a hearty breakfast, including the locals’ Nasi Padang, Nasi Lemak, Satay (freshly barbequed on the spot), and their famous Sarang Burung Roti Canai.
It is named Roti Canai Sarang Burung (“Sarang Burung” means “Bird Nest” in Malay) because the two sunny side-ups sit in the middle of the dough. In case you didn’t know, Malaysia calls it Roti Canai, whereas in Singapore, we call it Roti Prata.
We ordered two different types, one with mutton rendang and the other with chicken satay (around RM 13 for two) Both meats were fantastic in flavour and equally tender. The rendang was savoury with prominent hints of spice whereas the chicken satay was fresh and deliciously smoky.
Address: 102, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 7 am - 12 am (Monday - Sunday)
Eco Tourism Kampung Sungai Melayu
From Dapo Khaleeda, we took a Grab to Eco-Tourism Kampung Sungai Melayu, a small jetty that offered mangrove swamp motor boat rides for RM35 per pax, a stop at the mussel farm, and seafood feasting at the Asam Pedas restaurant.
Constantly being in the city surrounded by tall buildings in Singapore, this view from our motor boat was a rejuvenating experience.
Our boatman stopped by the mussel farm, gave us a little show-and-tell session, and taught us to differentiate between male and female mussels.
After the boat ride, we headed over to Asam Pedas to try the fresh mussels. We ordered the black pepper mussels and Asam Pedas. The mussels were so fresh and soft and the black pepper had a good amount of kick.
The price for the Black Pepper Mussels were dependent on the size (two options: small or big) whereas for the Asam Pedas, it was dependent on the type of fish. We ordered the Red Snapper, 100 grams for RM 10.
After filling our stomachs, we headed to Jalan Jalan Japan at KIP Mall Tampoi. Note that there were no grab services as the jetty was pretty far out. We were unaware of this, but thankfully, the people working there were so kind to assist us and told us about an app called “In-Drive” allowing you to order a car at your own cost. Of course, the higher the price, the higher the chance that you get a drive. We paid about RM38 for this drive to our next destination.
Address: Beside Asam pedas (berdekatan klinik desa, Jalan Kampung Sungai Melayu, Kampung Sungai Melayu, 79503 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 9 am - 4 pm (Saturday - Thursday) 9 am - 12 pm, 2pm - 4pm (Friday)
Jalan Jalan Japan at KIP Mall Tampoi
I’m sure by now the name “Jalan Jalan Japan” has spread across to us Singaporeans due to the recent trend of thrifting gaining highs. This gigantic cash-converter-esque outlet had us going dizzy with the wide range of items readily available in front of our eyes for us to grab and go. From tableware, home decor, men's and women’s apparel, fashion accessories, stationeries, plushies, collectables and even furniture!
Bear in mind that the items are primarily second-hand and not in brand-new condition but functional, pocket-friendly, and a great place to kick off your planet-friendly habits which is what thrifting is about, isn’t it?
Address: Lot No. S001-S002 KIP Mall Tampoi, Jalan Titiwangsa 2, Taman Tampoi Indah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 10 am - 10 pm (Monday - Sunday)
Angsana Go Kart Johor Bahru
If you’re looking for an adrenaline fix, Go Kart is the activity for you! The place was quiet, most likely because it was a weekday, which meant we had the lane to ourselves! We tried the one-seater and the double-seater. Items like the balaclava and glove were sold over the counter, and helmets were provided. Take note that Go Karting involves a lot of swerving and speed, and if you are not up for this rollercoaster-like ride, then it is best to be a spectator instead.
Address: Car Park C Angsana Johor Angsana Johor Bahru Mall, Jalan Tampoi, Pusat Bandar Tampoi, 81200 Tampoi, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 12 pm - 12 am (Tuesday to Sunday)
Meldrum Walk Street Food
After having our rounds at Go Karting, we headed back to the central area to Meldrum Walk Street Food. This was where all the mouth-watering local street foods were parked along back alleys. Nasi Padang, Satays, Barbeque Chicken Wings, Soup Tulang, Oyster Omelette, and refreshing sugar cane and fruit juices—you name it. Most notable was the Oyster Omelette, featured on blog articles and YouTube channels over the years. This stall is so popular that we had to reserve our servings over WhatsApp before heading to Johor. They also actively update the days they are open for business on their Facebook page. Do note that the Meldrum Walk Street Food is closed on Mondays.
Upon arriving, the stall owner simply asked for the last four digits of our mobile number used to make the reservation for verification and handed us our freshly cooked Oyster Omelette.
Check out those plump oysters!!! And the satay was AMAZING. Smoky, tender and full of flavours.The oyster omelette was RM13 each with a choice of with chilli or without. The satay was about RM22 for about 12 sticks.
Address: Jalan Meldrum, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 1 pm - 11:30 pm (Tuesday - Sunday, closed on Monday.)
Pasar Karat JB Bazar
After such an exciting afternoon, we decided to slow down and end the day by taking a stroll through the streets to Pasar Karat or also known as JB Bazar. It is similar to the Pasar Malam in Singapore but much more widely spread with expansive walking spaces.
The walking was endless, and so did the range of items. We were offered a variety of snacks, desserts, clothes, shoes, perfumes, tech accessories, and cosmetics, so we were simply spoilt for choices!
Address: 26, 20, Jalan Segget, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 6 pm - 2 am (Wednesday - Sunday), 12 am–2 pm, 6 pm–2 am (Tuesday), closed on Monday.
Day 3
Replacement Lodge & Kitchen cafe
It was our last day in JB, and after hunting for cheap and good eats, we finally decided to try the Replacement Lodge & Kitchen cafe for brunch. The interior was cosy, and the menu was so extensive that we each had to order at least one main dish to try more food instead of sharing like we had been the past two days.
The Chef Salad with Avocado was a good combination of crunchy lettuces and croutons, creamy sous vide egg and avocado and juicy button mushrooms full of umami.
Not only was the Laksa flavour authentic, the standard for the texture of a well cooked pasta was upheld. The prawns were also huge and crunchy. Needless to say, the Pesto Cream Pasta served its purpose with its creaminess and also the notes of basil were refreshingly prominent!
The Chicken Confit and Prawn Paste Chicken Wings were crispy on the outside, tender and well seasoned on the inside with the latter served with fragrant prawn paste aroma.
Address: 33, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 9 am - 4:30 pm (Saturday - Thursday) 9 am - 5 pm (Friday)
After our fulfilling meal, we headed over to City Square Mall, just across Johor Bahru Sentral, for some light shopping before our bus ride home to Singapore. As our short but sweet 3D2N adventure in JB ends, it was time to return to the little red dot. With bellies satisfied with the fantastic local delights, and hearts warmed by the getaway vibes, we definitely can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for this quick escape. Till next time, Johor Bahru!
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