The Merlion: Singapore’s Iconic Landmark and Must-See Attraction
Merlion Park is a must-visit for any traveller to Singapore, home to the iconic Merlion statue, which spouts water from its mouth. As one of the city’s most famous landmarks, it is the ideal starting point for exploring Singapore
This guide explores the story behind the Merlion, directions to Merlion Park, and nearby attractions.
Additionally, it highlights five other “official” Merlion statues approved by STB, making it an ideal guide for discovering Merlion statues across Singapore.
- Visitor Information
- The Merlion: Singapore’s Icon
- Around Merlion Park
- Six “Official” Merlions in Singapore
Visitor Information
The Story Behind the Merlion
The “Merlion,” named after a combination of “Mer” (sea) and “Lion,” is a mythical creature rooted in Singapore’s founding myth. Its lion’s head symbolises Singapore, often called the Lion City. This name comes from the legend of Prince Sang Nila Utama, who once drifted ashore in Singapore, encountered a lion, and named the land “Singapura,” meaning “Lion City” in Sanskrit.
The fish tail represents Singapore’s maritime roots, reflecting its transformation from a small fishing village, originally called Temasek, into a prosperous trading port.
The Merlion was created by Singaporean sculptor Mr. Lim Nang Seng at a cost of approximately S$165,000. It was officially unveiled by Prime Minister Mr. Lee Kuan Yew at a ceremony in 1972.
How to Get to Merlion Park
The Merlion is located in Merlion Park, at the mouth of the Singapore River where it meets Marina Bay.
It’s a 7-minute walk from Raffles Place MRT station. Or, it’s about 10 minutes on foot from Downtown station.
Merlion Park
Open 24/7, Free Admission
Merlion Park is open 24/7, and admission is free. However, the Merlion statue may occasionally be covered up for maintenance or cleaning. Maintenance schedules are posted on the official Singapore Tourism Board website, so it’s best to check there before your visit.
Singapore Tourism Board
Websitehttps://www.stb.gov.sg/
The Merlion: Singapore’s Icon
Majestic Merlion
The majestic Merlion statue stands 8.6 metres tall and weighs 70 tonnes. As it proudly spouts water from its mouth, with Marina Bay Sands in the background, it creates a stunning spectacle.
A visit to Singapore wouldn’t be complete without experiencing this iconic sight.
Merlion Cub Statue
Don’t miss the “Merlion Cub Statue,” standing back-to-back with the main statue! At around 2 metres tall, it’s roughly a quarter of the size of the main Merlion.
This charming statue will capture your heart with its innocent black eyes and the gentle stream of water it spouts.
Merlion After Dark
The Merlion looks stunning during the day, but its lit-up form at night is truly impressive. Its gleaming white statue stands out beautifully against Singapore’s sparkling skyline.
The glowing synergy between the Merlion’s lighting and the Marina Bay Sands’ laser show, “Spectra,” creates a breathtaking sight. “Spectra” runs twice a night, with an extra show on Fridays and Saturdays.
Spectra
TimesSun – Thu: 8pm & 9pm, Fri & Sat: 8pm, 9pm & 10pm
Websitewww.marinabaysands.com/
Special Light-Up for Major Events
In addition to the daily illuminations, special light-ups take place for a limited time to coincide with major events such as National Day, the F1 Grand Prix, and the New Year’s Eve countdown.
Using projection mapping, the Merlion is brought to life in a dazzling array of colours and patterns.
From sparkling gold to the red and white of Singapore’s national flag, it takes on an entirely new look, offering a spectacular sight like no other.
Around Merlion Park
Must-See Attractions in Marina Bay
The Marina Bay area, which houses the Merlion Park, is brimming with attractions beyond the Merlion itself.
Nearby is the landing site of Sir Stamford Raffles, the father of modern Singapore, and further along is Padang, famous for its historic colonial buildings.
Across the bay, you’ll find must-see attractions, including Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay.
Nearby Dining Options
One Fullerton, a dining hub located within Merlion Park, is a great spot for a meal or a coffee break. It boasts over ten diverse restaurants, cafés, and bars, including the stylish café PS.Cafe, the popular American diner OverEasy, known for its gourmet burgers, and the renowned seafood restaurant Palm Beach, best known for its signature Chilli Crab. You’ll also find familiar chains like Starbucks.
Additionally, Fullerton Hotel and Fullerton Bay Hotel, just a short walk from Merlion Park, offer excellent options for afternoon tea or dim sum in a luxurious setting.
Six “Official” Merlions in Singapore
Did you know there are several official Merlion statues in Singapore? In addition to the iconic one at Merlion Park, there are a total of six government-approved Merlions scattered across the island.
Why not set off on a journey to discover them all?
❶ The Original Merlion at Merlion Park
The original Merlion statue, created in 1972, stands on the waterfront of Marina Bay.
It’s arguably the most famous Merlion in Singapore.
❷ The Merlion Cub at Merlion Park
The second statue is the Merlion Cub, located in the same park.
Despite its smaller size, it spouts water just like the original.
Merlion Cub
❸ The Merlion at Mount Faber
Situated in the southwest of Singapore, Mount Faber Park sits atop a hill about 100 metres above sea level. This park is known for its cable car station that connects Sentosa Island to the mainland.
In the park, you’ll find a Merlion statue, about 3 metres tall.
Mount Faber Park
❹ The Merlion at the Singapore Tourism Board
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is the government agency responsible for overseeing tourism in Singapore, including the management of the Merlion.
At the entrance to the STB office along Grange Road, near the western end of Orchard Road, stands a Merlion statue with a slightly longer face.
Singapore Tourism Board
❺・❻ The Twin Merlions at Ang Mo Kio
Located in Ang Mo Kio, a suburban town in northeastern Singapore, the Twin Merlions were built by the local town council.
A pair of Merlions stands guard like gatekeepers, one on each side of the HDB car park entrance.
Initially, these statues were nearly removed as they had been built without prior approval from the Singapore Tourism Board. However, they have since been officially recognised and are now part of the six government-approved Merlion statues in Singapore.
Ang Mo Kio Merlion Twins Statue
The Merlion Tower: Demolished in 2019
The Merlion Tower, once recognised as one of the official Merlion statues, stood as a beloved landmark in the heart of Sentosa Island for many years.
However, it was closed and dismantled in 2019 as part of a redevelopment project in the area.
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