Plaza Singapura

Can you imagine a mall that’s almost 50 years old? Plaza Singapura, right here on Orchard Road, is just that. This isn’t just any old shopping center. Plaza Singapura has witnessed Singapore’s transformation, growing and evolving alongside the nation. It first opened its doors in 1974. Imagine the excitement as Yaohan, a Japanese department store and supermarket, welcomed its first shoppers in October of that year. Then, in August 1975, Plaza Singapura officially launched, with then Minister for Finance, Hon Sui Sen, presiding over the ceremony. Over the years, Plaza Singapura has constantly reinvented itself. In the early 2000s, during the SARS period, the mall underwent renovations. These included a direct link to the Dhoby Ghaut MRT station and the installation of travelators, making it even easier for shoppers to navigate its many levels. Fast forward to 2012, Plaza Singapura embarked on a massive $150 million revamp. This included a new wing, increasing the retail space by a whopping 25 percent. They even added a colorful, wavy facade and eye-catching sculptures called the Jelly Baby Family, created by the Italian artist Mauro Peruchetti. This expansion brought in 80 new shops and restaurants. Today, Plaza Singapura stands as a testament to its enduring appeal. It boasts over 300 stores across its nine floors and two basements, offering everything from fashion and food to entertainment and hobbies. It’s even home to Southeast Asia’s largest Muji store. So, as you stroll through Plaza Singapura’s bright corridors, remember that you’re walking through a piece of Singapore’s retail history. A place that has continuously adapted and thrived, mirroring the dynamic spirit of Singapore itself.