Top 27 Things To Do In Johor Bahru, Malaysia - Updated 2024

things to do in johor bharu
Diana
Diana 
Updated
| 4 min read

Johor Bahru is the capital of the southern state of Malaysia, Johor, which is near Singapore. Many Singaporeans flock to this place to do their weekly shopping, and some may have bought a holiday home here due to the very strong Singapore dollar (almost 3 times the currency exchange rate of Malaysia Ringgit). Due to the large arrival of tourists, there are many attractive things to do, as well as places to stay in Johor Bahru. The cost of living here is much lower compared to its neighbor, Singapore, which is touted to be the third richest country in the world, according to Forbes. So, a vacation at a 5-star hotel might not be as heavy on the wallet as you think. That’s why you should pick this destination for your next vacation and check out all it offers. Read on to see our list of some of the top things to do in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

1. Have a play date with your kids at The Parenthood (from USD 4.05)

Located within Toppen Shopping Centre, The Parenthood offers fun indoor activities in Johor Bahru for all the families with little ones. It is the very first London Street Park in Malaysia, complete with ball pits and slides to enjoy. Let your kid run around and play with various obstacles as you take a breather or indulge in the fun with them. And the best part? You only pay for the kids. With each child entry, one adult gets a free pass.

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The Parenthood Admission in Toppen Shopping Centre, Johor Bahru

14 reviews

2. Explore the vibrant street arts

Sutera Mall - Behind the Wall Art Street
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chongkian used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Street art has an underrated significance in visualizing the culture and history of any place. The same is true for Johor Bahru. You can find a painted picture or a doodle in almost every neighborhood here, but some of them are especially known for their vibrant art scene.

From the mural at Plaza Sentosa by the artists of Wallcraft Deco Art to the Rock Mural at Kafe Roost, you can walk through these streets while exploring the local eateries and shops and even click a few Instragarammable pictures.

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3. Scream with excitement at LEGOLAND Malaysia (from USD 31.0)

LEGOLAND Malaysia is perfect for children and adults of all ages who love exhilarating rides. It is perfect if you are looking for a fun thing to do in Johor Bahru with your friends. Come and bring them to this magical land where you will get to enjoy over 70 exciting rides and attractions. This world-class theme park is divided into eight zones with each having a unique theme for you to discover. These are Lego City, Land of Adventure, Lego Kingdom, Lego Technic, Imagination, MIniland, Lego Ninjago World, and The Beginning. The park opened its doors in September 2012 and is the first international theme park in Malaysia.

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Legoland Malaysia in Johor Bahru Admission Ticket

Duration: 8 hours

7 reviews

4. Take in the commanding views from Menara JLand (from USD 5.0)

Menara JLand is a popular tourist destination because of one thing–Skyscape Johor Bahru. So what makes it a popular destination you may ask? Skyscape is 149 meters (489 feet) above the ground, offering scenic views of Malaysia and Singapore. The real treat comes by way of Sky Bridge, an open deck and walkway with a glass floor that allows you to look down below. Aside from this, Skyscape has another popular attraction called the “Aerial Entertainment Space.” Here, you will find amazing features such as VR games, an LED tunnel, and more. This is an exciting place you should not miss.

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Skyscape Admission Ticket at Menara Jland in Johor Bahru Philippines

Duration: 2hrsDuration

244 reviews

5. Admire the beauty of Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque

Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Graystravels used under CC BY-SA 4.0

There is a lot to admire about the architectural design of Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque. All you have to do is to stand in front and marvel at the lovely whitewashed walls and the beautiful blue tiles on the roof. From here, you will realize that this church is an architectural masterpiece. Somewhere between 1892 and 1900, Architect Tuan Haji Mohamed Arif bin Punak was commissioned by Sultan Abu Bakar to design and construct the mosque using colonial English Victorian elements. That’s why the four minarets bear a resemblance to the clocktowers of Britain, making the edifice look brilliant and amazingly beautiful.

Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque

Address: Jalan Gertak Merah, Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

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One of the oldest temples in my hometown of Johor Bahru, Malaysia is Arulmigu Rajamariamman Devasthanam Temple. The iconic landmark in the city centre was built in 1911 and stands proud today as an extraordinary heritage site with more than 120 statues and 26 wall paintings within the temple compound.

I was fortunate enough to be invited by friends for a prayer blessing and was given a tour of the beautiful temple. The temple's unique albeit lengthy name has a symbolic meaning. “Arulmigu” in Tamil stands for “holy” or “glory”, “Devasthana” means temple and “Raja” means king.

Amazing in design, the Rajagopuram (tall structure at the temple's outermost gateway) is five-tiered with five gold-plated kalasams (decorative finials atop the temple tower). It was built according to the agamic tenets.

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6. Learn about the history of the royal family at Grand Palace of Johor

Grand Palace of Johor
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Wolfgang Holzem used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Grand Palace of Johor is another grandiose project of Sultan Abu Bakar. Today, it is in fact the royal residence of the Sultan of Johor. The palace is where state dinners and functions of the royal family are held. However, there is one particular area where the public is allowed. This is the Royal Abu Bakar Museum, a historical center located within the castle. The exhibits here are living testaments to the opulence of all the royal families that lived here. The artifacts include imperial treasures, ancient antiquities, and documents showing the historical background of each royal family.

Grand Palace of Johor

Address: 107, Jalan Tun Dr Ismail, Taman Istana, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

Website: Grand Palace of Johor

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun)

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7. Learn more about the life of Chinese immigrants at Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery

Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chongkian used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Wong Ah Fook is the man behind this beautiful and historic gallery. Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery opened its doors in 1878 with Wong, a Chinese immigrant, donating the land where it is now located. When you enter the gallery you will see treasured artifacts that showcase how Chinese immigrants adjusted to their new lives in Johor Bahru. On display are working tools, costumes worn in Chinese opera performances, pipes for smoking opium, heritage photos, jewelry, and personal articles of the Wong family. The gallery holds a special spot in the hearts of Teochew people because this is where their heritage lives in Malaysia.

Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery

Address: 24, Jalan Siu Nam, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

Website: Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

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8. Watch your children laugh at Angry Birds Activity Park

things to do in johor bharu | watch your children laugh at angry birds activity park
Source: www.klook.com

Angry Birds Activity Park is based on a popular video game of the same name. Presented by KOMTAR Johor Bahru City Centre (JBCC), it covers a huge 26000 square feet (2400 square meters) of indoor space. It has five different themed zones that you and your kids can explore while having so much fun, including the Classic, Red’s Jungle Run, South Beach, Utopia, and the Danger Zone. While your kids are having the times of their lives, you and other grown-ups can take a seat at the Parent’s Lounge. The Snack Bar café is the perfect place to have some snacks and drinks, while the Angry Birds Shop is where you can buy lovely souvenirs to take home.

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Must Visit

Kota Tinggi Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Johor, Malaysia. Just a short drive away from the city, this is the go-to place for waterfall picnics, hikes or just splashing around the cool pools. Cascading from a height of 34 meters, the falling waters are like nature’s spa. 

During a scorching day, take a dip in the shallow pools, soak in the sunshine and you’ll emerge refreshed. I have attempted climbing up the surrounding paths to reach the top of the waterfalls. Be careful as the rocks may be slippery. Sandals with a good grip are recommended. The view from the top is phenomenal for the brave-hearted.

Entrance fees apply. Parking and washroom facilities are available. Exercise caution on rainy days.

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Angry Birds Activity Park Ticket Johor Bahru, Malaysia Philippines

Duration: 1 Day(s) Duration

9. Let your children learn and play at Kidzoona

let your children learn and play at kidzoona
Source: www.klook.com

Your children can play to their heart’s content by spending time at Kidzoona. Here, they will have all the fun while learning a few things. Among the attraction that will keep your kids entertained all day are the ball pool, air bouncer, slider, and cyber wheel. Let their imagination and creativity run wild as they role-play by exploring Narikiri. The place itself is well kept and safety precautions are in place to prevent your children from getting hurt. This will give you the peace of mind you need while letting your children go around the place. The great thing about Kidzoona is it helps children develop their minds while having fun.

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kidzoona in Johor Bahru, Malaysia Philippines

Duration: 1 Day(s) Duration

10. Try authentic fish head curry at Johor Bahru Kam Long Curry Fish Head

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by on Saturday, January 23, 2021

For more than three decades, Kam Long Curry Fish Head has been providing foodies with the best-tasting fish head curry in the city. This is a very simple kopi tiam (coffee shop) that sells only one item on the menu – fish head curry. Once your order is complete, you will have your fill of this famous stew within 10 minutes because the service here is fast. The eatery uses fresh red snapper heads cooked with a curry sauce that is made daily. Several spices and vegetables are added to the dish while it is being cooked in a clay pot. Come early as the place is always packed.

Johor Bahru Kam Long Curry Fish Head

Address: 74, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

Opening hours: 8am - 4pm (daily)

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11. Admire the architecture of Church Of The Immaculate Conception

Church of the Immaculate Conception (Johor Bahru)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chongkian used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Church of the Immaculate Conception traces its origins to 1927 and is considered the oldest church in Johor Bahru. However, the original church was built in 1883. The second iteration was spearheaded by Reverend Father C. Saleilles who redesigned this Roman Catholic church based on Romanesque architecture, with white and light blue colors dominating its façade and exterior walls. This is the prevailing architectural design of old buildings in the city. The interior space has a minimalist concept that makes the place look larger and airier. Whatever religion you practice, this is a nice place to visit during your vacation in Johor Bahru.

Church Of The Immaculate Conception

Address: Jalan Abdul Rahman Andak, 80010, 9, Jalan Gereja, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

Website: Church Of The Immaculate Conception

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12. Satisfy your tastebuds at Medan Selera Meldrum Walk

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Every late afternoon, cooks manning the food stalls at Medan Selera Meldrum Walk start cranking up their stoves to start the big show—cooking authentic Malaysian street food. Every store here serves good food so you will not leave this place disappointed. The cheap prices are a huge plus to your culinary adventure. You will be transported to an exhilarating place where your tastebuds will be satisfied by rows of glorious food.

Medan Selera Meldrum Walk

Address: 23, Jalan Meldrum, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

Opening hours: 5pm – 12am (daily)

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13. Shop for cheap items at Pasar Karat

Karat Market
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chongkian used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Pasar Karat is the place to go if you want to score some affordable items. Most of the items sold here are pre-owned clothes, antiques, and more. The flea market is only open at night at around eight o’clock. Because of the cheap prices, a little cash will go a long way. The nice thing about this place is it makes for a perfect after-dinner spot for live entertainment. Pasar Karat is known to have plenty of buskers performing on the street and alleys.

Pasar Karat

Address: 26, 20, Jalan Segget, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000, JB

Opening hours: Mon: 5pm - 12am; Tue - Fri: 6pm - 12am; Sat - Sun: 7:30pm - 12am

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14. Pamper yourself at Clovell Beaute Parlour

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Clovell Beaute Parlour on Friday, August 7, 2020

Pampering at Clovell Beaute Parlour starts once you step through their doors. If you have children, know that they have a room specifically for them. The place is decorated beautifully both inside and out, which makes for an inviting place to relax. Customers come over to get their eyebrows groomed by highly trained professionals. However, what they are really known for are the various middle-body treatments they offer, including the chest, abdomen, and waist areas. They also offer massages that relax tissues, nerves, and muscles. At the end of the treatment, you will be served a refreshing ginger drink.

Clovell Beaute Parlour

Address: Persiaran Southkey 1 Lot H-02-09, Komersil Southkey Mozek, Johor Bahru 80150, Malaysia

Website: Clovell Beaute Parlour

Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 10am - 9pm; Fri - Sun: 10am - 9pm (closed on Thu)

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15. Spend a day with family at Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park

Austin Heights Water and Adventure Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chongkian used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park promises endless entertainment in Johor Bahru. It is the favorite summer destination of tourists and locals in Johor Bahru. The best way to enjoy this place is to bring your family and friends along and spend a whole day here. The park has several water attractions you and your companions will love and enjoy. Most of the attractions are designed with different levels of difficulty and most of them are suited for people of all ages. Water attractions include Rainbow Hood, G-Force Alley, Splash World, and Super Surf. Adventure Park has Jump Street, Tunnel Crossing, and Super Zip Line. This place will pump your adrenaline through your veins.

Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park

Address: 71, Jalan Austin Heights 8/1, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

Website: Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

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16. Test the best banana cake at Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Last call last call

Posted by Hiap Joo Bakery (Since 1919) on Thursday, January 23, 2020

Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory is a food institution rich in history. The heritage spot opened its doors to the public in 1919 and experienced some bumps along the way. The place powered through and has achieved success rarely gained by other bakeries. Its success rests on the delicious banana cake people line up for every day. The second reason for its success is as old as the bakery itself—its wood-burning oven. Never in its history did the owners thought of replacing the oven with a modern one, and even to this day, it still churns out delicious cakes.

Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory

Address: 13, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

Website: Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory

Opening hours: Mon: 11am - 5pm; Tue - Sat: 7:30am - 5pm; Sun: 8am – 10am

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17. Spend a day of fun at Blue Ice Skating Rink

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Whats the next best thing to ICE? Hint: Inside Scoop #blueice #kleast #insidescoop #comingsoon

Posted by Blue Ice Skating Rink on Monday, November 23, 2020

Blue Ice Skating Rink is Johor Bahru’s first and only ice skating rink. This is the place where everyone can have fun while working on their balance. If you want to spend time with your friends and family, wearing ice skates is the perfect activity to achieve this. You will be skating on real ice which makes the experience more memorable and fun. The rink measures 20000 square feet (1900 square meters) which you can enjoy fully with an all-day pass. This is the perfect activity to escape Malaysia’s hot weather, and you and your companions will have so much fun doing it.

Blue Ice Skating Rink

Address: 3F-30 Paradigm Mall Johor, Jalan Bertingkat Skudai, 81200 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia

Website: Blue Ice Skating Rink

Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)

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18. Visit Hello Kitty Theme Park with live shows


Located in Puteri Harbour, Nusajaya, Hello Kitty and friends have their permanent home here in Johor, Malaysia. Watch her live on-stage with live shows, have fun on rides, and get together with your friends and family for an unrivaled Hello Kitty interactive themed experience. The operating hours are from Mondays to Sundays, from 10:00am – 6:00pm. The theme color is naturally pink.

Hello Kitty Theme Park

Address: Persiaran Puteri Selatan, 79100 Nusajaya, Johor

Website: Hello Kitty Theme Park

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19. See a vibrant temple built in the 19th-century


Located at Jalan Trus, this temple is flanked by modern skyscrapers. It is one of the oldest structures in Johor Bahru. The temple is a place of worship and a symbol of unity among Five Chinese Dialect Groups which are “Hokkien”, “Teochew”, “Cantonese”, “Hakka” and “Hainan”. Penang, Singapore and Johor Chinese speak ‘Hokkien’ while KLites speak 'Cantonese’. The temple was built during the 19th-century by various Chinese community leaders.

Vibrant Chinese temple

Address: Jalan Trus, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

Facebook: Vibrant Chinese temple

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20. Embrace Danga Bay Amusement Park


Danga Bay Amusement Park has a lighted carousel for kids plus a host of other attractions. There are also battery powered kids car rides amongst others. You will not be disappointed should you bring your toddlers for a leisurely time, trying out the various amusement vehicles. It opens from 6:00am till 2:00am in the wee hours of the morning.

Danga Bay Amusement Park

Address: Danga Bay, 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor

Facebook: Danga Bay Amusement Park

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21. Experience Johor Zoo with camel feeding and pony riding


What is unique about this zoo is that is offers camel feeding and pony riding for the young ones. One can have first hand experience with these animals, that are housed in a safe enclosure. It is touted to be the oldest zoo in Malaysia which was opened in 1928 and has more than 100 species of animals plus fun activities. The Johor Zoo was also built for conservation and research.

Johor Zoo

Address: Jalan Gertak Merah, Taman Istana, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

Facebook: Johor Zoo

Traveler's tips

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Chasing waterfalls in Malaysia is a favorite pastime, and we're so lucky to have Mount Pulai Waterfall so close to the city of Johor Bahru. Near the town of Kulai, Johor, is Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest, boasting lush greenery and of course, the waterfall. Jungle trekking and exploring are popular activities among the locals, including me. To hike up Mount Pulai, and meet Mount Pulai Waterfall along the way, you can use any of two trails through the forest, including a 5-km road trail and a 3.2-km jungle trail. It's about a 2-hour hike uphill, but it will be shorter on the descent. Cascading cool waters and shallow pools at the bottom of the waterfall make Mount Pulai Waterfall a beautiful place to relax. Admission is free, however, note that there is a car park fee of RM3 per vehicle.

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22. See Sultan Ibrahim Building


This building was completed in 1940 as the British colonial government attempted to streamline the state’s administration. It was officially opened by the late Sultan Ibrahim of Johor. Sultan Ibrahim Building was also the tallest building in Malaya during the pre-Merdeka era. In Johor Bahru, it stood unchallenged as the tallest building in the town until the completion of the Merlin Tower in the 1970s. It is flanked by red palm trees in a manicured garden.

Sultan Ibrahim Building

Address: Jalan Abdullah Ibrahim, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

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23. Visit Taman Merdeka, an outdoor recreation area with jogging trails, a lake and a dancing fountain


Taman Merdeka comes to life at night with its dancing fountain on a lake that reflects the colorful lights and music. For the health enthusiasts, there are also jogging trails, away from the exhaust of moving vehicles. The outdoor recreation area provides a breath of fresh air with plants and trees purifying the oxygen. What’s more? There is also an English tea room.

Taman Merdeka

Address: Jln Datin Halimah, 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor

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24. Embrace Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum


The museum is housed in a four-story shop house building. Collections in the museum include porcelain, documents, music instruments, old money, photos, etc. It also documents the hardships and struggles of the early Chinese migrants, and how they became prosperous due to diligence and determination for their generations down the line.

Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum

Address: 42, Jalan Ibrahim, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

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25. Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman interior
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Georgia National ... used under CC BY 2.0

The Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple has intricate glass structures and designs as part of its interior decorations. There are also colorful Indian statues that reflect their culture and beliefs. Indians will love to visit this place for worship and to admire the decorations.

Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

Address: Wadi Hana, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor

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26. Shopping at City Square and Komtar JBCC Mall


Anyone who loves shopping will not want to miss Johor Bahru City Square with its large plush toys, clothes, and costume jewelry. As the Ringgit conversion is one-third of the Singapore Dollar, it makes purchasing goods here more appealing. This is why nearby Singaporeans come here to shop for groceries and other goods.

There is usually a seasonal mega carnival sale at Komtar JBCC Mall, plus a Zumba fitness party to attract the crowd. Other currencies also do well here, making it a great place for visitors to do some shopping!

City Square

Address: Jalan Wong Ah Fook, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

Facebook: City Square

Komtar JBCC Mall

Address: Johor Bahru City Centre, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

Facebook: Komtar JBCC Mall

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27. Have fun playing on a unique 9-hole mini golf course (from USD 11.0)

Johor Bahru has always something different to offer. One of these unique experiences is a distinctive indoor nine-hole minigolf course. You will be amazed by the way this course is designed. All holes are fitted with neon courses which makes it more attractive and colorful in every way possible. The overall vibe of the place makes it more enticing to play and puts fun to where the action is. While waiting for your turn, you can order a specialty cocktail from a long bar menu. If you are not into alcohol, they also have a non-alcoholic menu for you and your kids.

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Johor Bahru 9-Hole Mini Golf

Duration: 1 hour

2 reviews

The best things to enjoy right here in Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru City Square
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chongkian used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Due to its proximity to Singapore, Johor Bahru will not disappoint the seasoned traveler. There are many things to do here from jogging in the parks to shopping till you drop in Komtar JBCC Mall and Johor Bahru City Centre. There is something for everyone from all walks of life.

With so many activities and attractions in Johor Bahru, you will need a few days to explore it all. So, book a homestay for restful nights and embrace indulging in all the things to do in Johor Bahru.

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Frequently asked questions about the top things to do in Johor Bahru


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Diana is a formidable travel writer, a virtuoso in her pursuit of uncovering the world's most enchanting locales. With a discerning eye and a masterful command of narrative, she breathes life into...Read more

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