19 New Things To Do In Singapore In January 2022 For Dates With Bae & 5 Pax Outings With Your Squad
New year, new beginnings. That’s what we’re hoping this year will be for all of us. With that, we’re kicking things off with 18 new things to do in Singapore this January 2022, which will hopefully set the tone for a better time ahead. At least, one that’s less of a mess than the previous 2 years were, no thanks to the plague that must not be named.
Here to add cheer to your first outings and dates of 2022 are activities and events like the annual Light To Night Festival, Singapore’s first pug cafe, and a spooky staycay at Haw Par Villa!
Read on for things to do in January 2022 in Singapore!
#1: Use a special dipping technique to personalise your own sneakers with Joy & Imagination
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
After the mess that was 2021, you deserve to walk into the new year with some new kicks - hopefully that will help start things off on the right foot. Shoe puns aside, what’s better than a store-bought pair is a fully customised one, with your own personal touches. At Joy & Imagination, you get to use a special dipping technique to decorate your own sneakers, down to the character-themed clip-on embellishments, 3D KAWS eyes, and even ribbon laces!
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Select from a variety of patterns including florals, graffiti, and tropical prints. Even if someone else picks the same print as you, everything is one-of-a-kind, as the prints will never land on the shoes in the same way twice.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
If you’re more of a bag lady than a sneakerhead, you can opt to dip a handbag instead.
Read our full article on Joy & Imagination’s shoe customisation workshops here.
#2: Play VR escape games, including official Ubisoft titles, at virtual reality arcade VR World
Photo from VR World
Hidden amongst the traditional dessert stalls and souvenir kiosks at Chinatown is a lesser-known gem that’ll get your adrenaline pumping. Located on the second floor of a refurbished heritage shopshous, VR World is a virtual reality arcade that offers multiple gameplay options - from arcade games, to laser tag, and even escape games by video game giant Ubisoft.
Photo from VR World
Some particularly exciting ones include the Prince of Persia: The Dagger of Time and Beyond Medusa’s Gate, which was re-created from Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. Too intense? Pick the more lighthearted ones like Jungle Quest, where you’ll have to make your way home from a jungle sanctuary, as well as Trails of Gold, a pirate treasure hunt game.
Photo from VR World
Fans of Overcooked will revel in the chaos of Cook-Out: A Sandwich Tale. There’s also good ol’ Fruit Ninja and Angry Birds, all in hyperrealistic form. Check out VR World’s full list of games here. Do note that prior reservations are required for now.
#3: Try tattoo art jamming on fake skin with State of Shiok
Photo from State of Shiok
Ever been curious about tattoo art, and wished you could try your hand at it? Well, now you can, do so without any regrets, for State of Shiok at Chinatown offers tattoo art jamming on faux skin that mimics that of real human skin.
Photo from State of Shiok
Photo from State of Shiok
It’s as real as it gets, with a handheld machine used to imbue your desired design onto the “skin” with a mix of coloured inks. Don’t worry if you’re not artistically inclined, as there are visual guides for you to follow if you’d rather not go freehand.
Photo from State of Shiok
State of Shiok happens to be running a special New Year promotion where sessions booked between 1 to 8 January 2022 will be priced at a discounted rate $53/person (U.P. $68). Each workshop will last 3 hours long and comes with a free drink.
Address: 95 Pearl's Hill Terrace, #03-69, Singapore 168976
Opening hours: 12pm - 9pm daily (by appointment only)
Telephone: 9030 7284 / 9646 1157
Website
#4: Visit Le Le, the adorable new giant baby panda at River Wonders
Photo from Mandai Wildlife Group
After years of trying, everyone’s favourite giant panda duo Kai Kai and Jia Jia have finally welcomed their firstborn into the world, and baby Le Le is just too cute for words! The little cub is finally ready to welcome visitors at his new nursery at the Giant Panda Forest in River Wonders (formerly known as River Safari) - make a trip down before he grows out of this precious infant stage.
Photo from Mandai Wildlife Group
While there, you’ll get a peek into Le Le’s daily routine, including learning how to walk on his own fuzzy feet, playing with enrichment toys, and of course, taking naps. Viewing times are usually 20 to 30 minutes long, but do note that this can vary depending on Le Le’s needs as he’s still adjusting to being without his mother for extended periods.
#5: Go old-school with Japanese-inspired purikura at Bugis, only $10 for 2 prints
Photo from Emarin-emarin via Ameblo
As smartphones with solid front cameras wormed their way into our lives, neoprint machines in Singapore started disappearing one by one. Even the last-surviving ones at *SCAPE called it a day some years back. But maybe, just maybe, purikura is going to be a comeback trend in time to come, for we’ve just found a couple of new neoprint machines at Bugis that look very much like the ones in Japan.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
There’s Japanese music playing from the speakers and based on what’s displayed on the screen, it appears that you’ll get to decorate your photos with cutesy stickers and frames. Time for a blast to the past!
Read our full article on the Meipaiki neoprints at Bugis here.
#6: Staycay at a new luxury resort with Bali vibes and 3 swimming pools
Photo from Dusit Thani
Not often does one manage to fully get away from the buzz of daily life in Singapore; Even staycations are often located in town, where all the activity is, but that’s not the case with Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore. Packing serious Bali vibes, this secluded luxury resort is surrounded by nothing but greenery - which gives you a better chance to fully utilise its facilities sans distractions.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
These include not one but three swimming pools complete with in-water deck chairs, and two 18-hole golf courses.
Photo from Dusit Thani
Photo from Dusit Thani
Not a golf fan? Head over to their forest-themed glasshouse restaurant that looks like a mini Gardens by the Bay. Take your pick from 6 types of cuisine including Thai, Western, and Indian, all prepared by separate kitchens, or have a round of afternoon tea as you bask in the greenery indoors.
Read our full article on Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore here.
#7 Visit Zenyum's "The World's First Smile Gym" pop-up for TikTok ops & get up to 40% off Zenyum bundles
Happening from now till 23 Jan, the Zenyum pop-up at Design Orchard Level 3 is an interactive retail zone where you can create loads of content for TikTok and Instagram. There are loads of "exercise stations" (spin, boxing, weights) where you can pose for an OOTD, and if you upload your best shots on socials with the hashtag #ZenyumSmileGym, you might just win a ZenyumSonic™️ and ZenyumFresh™️ bundle worth $157!
While you're there, do check out Zenyum's offerings such as the ZenyumSonic™ Toothbrush, ZenyumFresh range of oral care products and of course, Zenyum Invisible Braces. You can also expect up to 40% off Zenyum bundles, available exclusively at the pop-up only.
Don't forget to have a go on the claw machine - there are limited edition Zenyum prizes to be won, as well as three 313 Somerset vouchers worth $500!
Address: Design Orchard Level 3, Singapore 238905
Opening hours: 11am - 8pm daily (closed on PHs).
#8: Appreciate art at new contemporary gallery, Void deck
Photo from @debbwie via Instagram
Looking for another artsy spot to hit up other than the large museums in town? Void Deck is here to satisfy your thirst for quirky, contemporary pieces. Founded by a pair of art enthusiasts together with a local artist, the independent gallery is one that strives to make art inclusive and accessible.
Photo from @chrisinelcs via Instagram
Currently on display are a couple of prints by co-founder Jahan Loh, along with super huat God of Wealth BE@RBRICK figurines. Most, if not all of what you see is for sale.
Photo from @chrisinelcs via Instagram
Void Deck will be open to the public from 2 January 2022, 12pm onwards. Do note that they may not be able to accommodate walk-ins between 3pm to 8pm, as this window is usually reserved for private appointments.
Photo from @xiaxue via Instagram
Address: 425 Race Course Road, Singapore 218671
Opening hours: Thursdays to Mondays, including Public Holidays. From 2 January 2022 onwards.
Website
#9: Soak in panoramic views at the newly-reopened MacRitchie TreeTop Walk
Photo from @nutril1ter87 via Instagram
After a year-long closure for maintenance work, the TreeTop Walk at MacRitchie Reservoir has finally re-opened for nature seekers and hiking enthusiasts to traverse once more. If keeping active is part of your New Year’s resolutions for 2022, take this chance to attempt the trail that’ll take you to the iconic 250-metre suspension bridge, stretching across the forest canopy at 25 metres high.
Photo from @lifeis.travelling via Instagram
Best get prepped with sufficient water and comfortable shoes, for the distance to the TreeTop Walk is 4.5km from MacRitchie Reservoir Park, and 2.5km from Windsor Nature Park, with a round trip ranging from 7km to 10km depending on where you start and end. This can take you up to 3 to 5 hours depending on your fitness level and walking speed, but the sense of satisfaction at the end will be unparalleled!
Photo from @stranger_in_the_mirror via Instagram
Address: MacRitchie Reservoir
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday: 9am - 5pm | Saturday, Sunday, & Public Holidays: 8.30apm - 5pm (Closed on Monday, except PHs)
Telephone: 1800 471 7300
Website
#10: Admire dazzling light installations and AR art at Light To Night Festival 2022
Photo from @youngbin1130 via Instagram
It’s no secret that anything that’s colourful and glowing instantly attracts Singaporeans like bees to honey - especially those who love showing up for the ‘gram - so you’ll be glad to know that the Light To Night Festival will be back once more for a 3-week run this 2022.
Photo from LiteWerkz
As usual, there will be a series of light installations spread across the Civic District in town, incorporated into everyday spaces. One of the highlights we’re most anticipating is Flight by local art collective, LiteWerkz, a structure that appears to be a single entity from afar but is actually made of repeated motifs. Inspired by the “complex movement of people”, this piece glows in neon hues when in its full glory at night.
Photo from @syahidhalfhalf via Instagram
There will also be an outdoor augmented reality (AR) exhibition, featuring artwork by local and international artists including KAWS.
Photo from Light To Night
Dazzling installations aside, we’re happy to share that the event’s Festival Village is finally making a comeback! Going by the name of Art x Social 2.0 with the central theme of exploring perspectives, it will feature booths with quirky merchandise, wares by local artists, as well as craft making activities for you to get hands on with. More details will follow in time to come.
Date: 14 January 2022 to 3 February 2022
Location: Civic District
Price: FREE
Website
#11: Get UNLIMITED Korean-style photo prints from just $10/pax at Selfiebox Studio
Photo from Selfiebox Studio
Looks like the other self photo studios in Singapore have some serious competition. While most of them offer just a small handful of print-outs, requiring top-ups for additional copies, Selfiebox Studio gives you unlimited photo strips from just $10/person, allowing you to snap away with reckless abandon during your 15-minute window!
Photo from Selfiebox Studio
On top of that, you can also opt to incorporate your favourite photo onto a wooden block with their Woodcraft Workshop, to create a sentimental decor piece for your home.
Photo from Selfiebox Studio
Read our full article on Selfiebox Studio here.
#12: Customise cool kicks at the massive 3-storey adidas Homeground at Orchard
Photo from adidas
Once home to A&F, the brooding Knightsbridge building is now occupied by adidas Homeground - the very first adidas Brand Centre in Singapore. Spanning across 3 storeys, the sleek outlet is clearly a paradise for both Hypebeasts and sporty folk.
Photo from adidas
But it’s not just about the swaggy sneakers or comfortable apparel; This experiential outlet is full of funky wall art, including a colourful mural inspired by local snacks, a kinetic “living sculpture” of steel panels that move in rhythmic patterns, and 3D installations that are lit with neon lights. There’s also a calming blue Sustainability Wall inspired by the Singapore River, made from layers of reclaimed wood.
Photo from adidas
Photo from adidas
Another major highlight here is the MakerLab, where you can customise your shoes in 5 different ways including patches, pins, and prints.
Photo from adidas
Address: 270 Orchard Road, Knightsbridge, Singapore 238857
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm daily
Website
#13: Have one helluva staycation at Haw Par Villa’s container hotel, from $50/pax per night
Photo from Shipping Container Hotel
Not easily spooked by ghost stories and grisly myths and legends? Then you’ll be in for one hell of an exciting experience with Haw Paw Villa’s new container hotel. It’s not a typical place for a staycation, that’s for sure, but it’s certainly one that’ll provide a fresh breath of air, quite literally.
Photo from Shipping Container Hotel
Aside from being located within the horror theme park, this container hotel is surrounded by forestry, giving that “cabin in the woods” sort of vibe. In fact, the outer walls of the container are designed to mimic the natural scenery, so it easily blends into the surroundings!
Photo from Shipping Container Hotel
Fret not, for this isn’t an OBS-ish stay where you’ll have to rough it out. Instead, you’ll be enjoying the comfort of a fully air-conditioned space with a dining area, a TV corner, and - thank goodness - a proper toilet. The space-saving bed folds out from the wall and when not in use, it doubles up as a desk.
Photo from Shipping Container Hotel
The outdoor patio is a lovely touch - we see this area being suitable for slow breakfasts in the morning or stargazing at night.
Photo from Shipping Container Hotel
Prices are affordable, starting from $200/night for a party of up to 4 pax. That works out to just $50 per person per night. On top of that, staying guests get a 50% discount on entry to the Hell’s Museum, Haw Par Villa’s latest attraction with a heaven and hell trick eye photo wall, a Día de los Muertos corner, and a section dedicated to exploring funeral rites.
Address: 262 Pasir Panjang Road, Carpark C Haw Par Villa,Singapore 118628
Telephone: 6665 7500
Price: From $200/night for up to 4 people (from $50/night per pax)
Website
#14: Take dreamy photos at I WAN, a new selfie studio with 11 themes
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Selfie studios are all the rage among photo enthusiasts these days, and hot on the heels of 123 ChiCha comes I WAN. Operating in a similar way, this themed selfie studio comes with 11 gorgeous themed zones, and over 200 costumes that customers can doll up in at no extra cost.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Some of the backdrops you can look forward to include a whimsical Alice In Wonderland setup, a dreamy nightscape, and a romantic garden complete with faux grass and a cluster of pretty blooms.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Prices per hour start from a reasonable $29.90, and you can also sign up for a year-long membership at $198 for unlimited access, which is pretty value for money considering that the themes are refreshed every couple of months.
Read our full article on I WAN selfie studio here.
#15: Make your own cute tiger-shaped pineapple tarts with an easy DIY kit
Photo from Gobblin Club
Remember the cute bunny snowskin mooncake DIY kit that we featured a while back? Gobblin Club, the company behind that, has since launched a new Pineapple Tarts DIY Kit that’ll allow you to craft your own tiger-shaped pineapple tarts! Designed to be beginner-friendly, child-friendly even, the baking kit is super easy to use. All you need on your end is an oven or air fryer - check out the video demonstration below:
All ingredients and tools will be provided, and you’ll get 2 surprise colours, with each colour allowing you to make up to 4 tarts. Each DIY kit costs $22 and is good for 8 large pineapple tarts in total. Get yours here.
#16: Play with dogs at What The Pug, Singapore’s first pug petting cafe
Photo from @saphixpang via Instagram
Who would’ve thought that Singapore would ever have her own pug cafe, just like the famous one in Kyoto? With at least 10 dogs, What The Pug sure is a haven for animal-lovers, especially fans of the flat-faced canine breed.
Photo from @terribletristan via Instagram
The dogs vary in ages and sizes, including those that are still puppies, and they’re all said to be super friendly! According to past visitors, they’ll climb onto your lap for cuddles even without having to be bribed for food.
Photo from @cnht_ via Instagram
Each ticket entitles you to a free drink and free polaroid photo keepsake.
Read our full article on What The Pug here.
#17: Get into the CNY mood with Dahlia Dreams at Gardens by the Bay
Photo from Gardens by the Bay
After celebrating the yuletide season with Christmas Wonderland and Poinsettia Wishes comes Chinese New Year, and the whole cycle of another year begins again. With that also comes a change of “seasons” at Gardens by the Bay, with Dahlia Dreams at the Flower Dome making yet another appearance.
While images of the new set-up have yet to be released, we do have a vague idea of what’s in store. It is said that there will be three Chinese moon gates flanked by rabbits and flowers, along with cute tiger cub statues to usher in this auspicious year. Of course, dahlias in warm shades of red, yellow, and orange will be on display, along with chrysanthemums, azaleas, and more. Stay tuned for more information and photos!
Date: 14 January 2022 to 20 February 2022
Time: 9am - 9pm daily
Location: Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay
Price: From $12 for Singaporean Adults
Website
#18: Play with dancing robots and marvel at AI tech at the Science Centre’s Smart Nation PlayScape
Photo from Science Centre Singapore
Technology is getting more and more advance as the years go by, and with Singapore well on its way to becoming a Smart Nation, there are many tech trends and changes we’ll have to embrace in time to come. At the new Smart Nation PlayScape at the Science Centre Singapore, these tech advancements are broken down in an easy-to-understand manner through the usage of fun, interactive stations that’ll leave you wowed.
Photo from Science Centre Singapore
Through this permanent exhibit, you’ll learn about biometrics, robotics, artificial intelligence and the like. Especially endearing are the dancing robots, along with one that will expertly solve a Rubik’s Cube after you’ve messed it up!
Photo from Science Centre Singapore
Address: 15 Science Centre Road, Singapore 609081
Opening hours: Friday to Sunday: 10am - 1pm, 2pm - 5pm (Closed on Monday to Thursday)
Telephone: 6425 2500
Price: Complimentary with admission to Science Centre ($12 for Singaporean Adults)
Website
#19: Attempt a scenic Clock Tower Climb at the grand Victoria Theatre & Concert Hall
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Once sealed off from the public, Victoria Theatre & Concert Hall’s majestic clock tower is now open for tours, where you can actually scale its steps and marvel at the inner workings of what makes the clock - excuse the pun - tick.
Photo from Victoria Theatre & Concert Hall
After trudging up 199 steps which include 2 steep cat ladders, you’ll reach the top where 5 bells ring every 15 minutes, with a full melody played each hour. This is also where you can gaze out at the river view below surrounding the stately neo-classical building.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Read our full article on the Clock Tower Climb at Victoria Theatre here.
Share this with a friend who needs outing and activity ideas!
Text by: GirlStyle SG
❣️ Follow us on Instagram girlstyle.sg❣️
