Tourist Attractions to Visit and Top Things to Do in Johor Bahru

June 16, 2020 Mustafa Natalwala 4080 Views

Johor Bahru, popularly known as “JB”, is located on the southern most part of Malaysian mainland facing Singapore towards its south, separated by the Johor Strait. Johor Bahru is arguably the most popular tourist destination in Johor state. It’s proximity to Singapore is an added advantage to pull tourists who are visiting Singapore for things to do in Johor Bahru. There are plenty of fun places to visit in Johor Bahru, making it a worth the while of people coming in from Singapore & Kuala Lumpur as well. The testament to it’s popularity among tourist as well as development is the Senai International Airport. Not every city gets an international airport willy nilly. So if you fly in for Johor Bahru attractions, you won’t be disappointed.

In terms of size, Johor Bahru is not the largest among Johor districts, yet there are more things to do in Johor Bahru compared to any other district of Johor state. You will also get to visit some of the most unique buildings and have some unique experience while exploring the places to visit in Johor Bahru.

The biggest among Johor Bahru attractions is the Sultan Abu Baker Mosque. This Mosque is built in victorian style architecture with elements of Persian & Indian Mughal architecture as well. Masjid India is yet another popular place to visit in JB for tourists, especially for its large blue dome. Then you can head to the Sultan Abu Bakar Royal Museum. This place has the most plush interiors among all Johor Bahru attraction places. It basically tells you how kings used to live.

Another strikingly different architecture you can visit among places to go in JB is the hindu temple of Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman. While it looks like a traditional hindu temple from the outside, and by traditional I mean intricately carved, decorated, and colored. The real magic of this JB attraction is within the temple. It is one of the most glittering places you will ever visit, because the entire interior is made of small and large reflective glasses. More on that in the temple’s article. There are also churches you can visit in Johor Bahru. Like the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru is also a melting pot of cultures, traditions and religions.

If you are coming in from America or Europe or other developed countries this Johor Bahru tourist spot might not attract you that much, but the Lego Land is one of the biggest hotspots for tourists and locals alike. There are also Zoos and Recreational Parks among places to go in Johor Bahru with children. If you are traveling without children and looking for adventure on land or in water, then there are a great many Johor Bahru tourist attractions you can explore for hiking, boating, and diving.

When it comes to food, especially the sheer variety of food you can explore, Johor Bahru is paradise. It is one of the few places in Johor state with a huge variety of vegetarian restaurants and cuisines as well. One of the dishes popular for breakfast on Johor Bahru travel is Roti Canai served with a gravy. It is a flat bread you can have with an accompaniment or have a stuffed variant of the bread. People also seek out places to go in JB for authentic Malaysian Kopitiam dish as well, and fret not, we got you covered in the section below. While there is a certain limit to vegetarian food on Johor Bahru, the variety of non-vegetarian food, sea food especially is abundant and bountiful. You might not be able to try it all in one trip, unless you trip lasts several days. Bakery items are also among Johor Bahru attractions to delve upon. The banana cakes & pineapple cakes are something you can take home with you. You should also try wine made from Coconut water, also one of major JB attractions. There is no end nor limit to the things to do in Johor Bahru in terms of exploring flavours.

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Table of Contents

Top 16 Tourist Places to Visit in Johor Bahru

1. Jalan Tan Hiok Nee

This neighbourhood is one of the best places to visit in Johor Bahru. It is one of the oldest areas of the city and is known for its Chinese architecture. You will need about an hour to explore this area.

2. Johor Zoo

One of the top things to do in Johor Bahru for families is the local zoo. You will get to see numerous types of animals local to Malaysia and some brought from abroad. Among animals to be seen here are tigers, gorillas, lion, elephants, crocodiles and birds. You would need about 2 hours for this zoo.

3. Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple

This 19th century Chinese temple and honors 5 deities revered by Chinese community. It is one of the oldest religious buildings in the region. It is one of the biggest Johor Bahru attractions. You will need 30 to 45 minutes for this temple.

4. Istana Besar

This palace used to be the residence of the Sultan of Johor Bahru. It was built in 1866. The building shows a blend of Malay and European architecture. It is one of the finest looking places to go in jb. You will need an hour or so for this palace.

5. Legoland

One of the most fun things to do in JB is the amusement park. There are several rides and activities to enjoy. You can easily spend a couple of hours here.

6. Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery

This museum is dedicated to the culture and heritage of Kwong Siew Clan. You can will see many items of daily usage like kitchen items, home equipment, jewellery, clothes and so on. You will need about an hour for this gallery.

7. Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque

This mosque was built in 1892. It is one of the best places to visit in JB for its architecture. The exterior feature a mix of British colonial architecture mix with islamic motifs. The interior on the other hand showcase victorian design elements blended with moorish motifs. You will needs about 30 to 45 minutes to explore this mosque.

8. Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

This temple is definitely one of the most beautiful JB attractions. This Hindu temple honors several Indian deities and also has statues of Jesus Christ and Lord Buddha. The most magnificent feature of this temple is its glass interiors. You will need an hour for this temple.

9. Danga Bay

This waterfront promenade is a popular Johor Bahru tourist spot for strolls and sightseeing. The promenade has docks, shops, restaurants, theme park and also a zoo. You will need about 2 hours for this bay.

10. Roman Catholic Church of Immaculate Conception

This church was built in 1833. It is the oldest modern building still standing in Johor Baharu. It is built with British colonial architecture and is especially known for hosting harvest festival. You will need 20 to 30 minutes for this church during Johor Bahru travel.

11. War Memorial

This war memorial is dedicated to the soldiers who served during the first and second world wars. This monument is also visited as Johor Baharu sightseeing spot as it overlooks the strait of Johor. You will need 20 to 30 minutes at this monument when you visit JB.

12. Taman Merdeka

This is the largest public park in the city. The park hosts several events at its open air theatre. You will also see several rock sculptures in this park. It one of the places to go in Johor Bahru to take a slight break from sightseeing. You can spend an hour or so for this park.

13. Desaru Beach

This beach is one of the top Johor Bahru tourist attractions. The beach has several relaxation spots, clubs, bars, restaurants, and shops. You can easily spend a couple of hours enjoying leisure at this beach.

14. Pasar Karat

This flea market is one of the best places to visit in Johor Bahru for shopping and street food. You will find a variety of local produce items as well as handicrafts. You would need an hour or so to explore this market.

15. Pasir Gudang Kite Museum (Muzium Layang-Layang)

This museum is one of the most interesting Johor Bahru attractions. You get to see the history of kite making and kite flying in the region. You also get to see a variety of kites of all shapes, sizes and designs. You would need about an hour to explore this museum.

16. Chinese Heritage Museum (Muzium Warisan Tionghua)

This museum outlines the history of Chinese immigrants in the region. The museum features artifacts going as far back as 14th century. You will need about an hour for this museum.

If you are looking for more things to do in Johor Bahru, check out the sections below.

Administrative Divisions to visit on Johor Bahru Travel

Bandar Johor Bahru
Jelutong
Plentong
Pulai
Sungai Tiram
Tanjung Kupang
Tebrau

Things to do in Johor Bahru

Monuments, Museums & Historical Places to Visit in Johor Bahru

Sultan Abu Bakr Mosque – Jalan Gertak Merah
Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple – Wadi Hana
The Old Temple Of Johor Bahru – Jalan Trus, Bandar
Grand Palace of Johor – Taman Istana
Bukit Serene Palace – Jalan Straits View
Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim – Bandar Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum – Jalan Ibrahim
Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus – Jalan Keris, Taman Sri Tebrau
Malay Cultural Village-My Kampung Heritage – Jalan Mohd Amin, Kampung Mohd Amin
VOA Monument – Bandar Johor Bahru
Museum of 24 festive drum Cafe – Jalan Tan Hiok Nee
Masjid India Johor Bahru – Jalan Duke
Masjid Jamek Pasir Pelangi – Jalan Pasir Pelangi
Masjid Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Senai – Jalan Jumbo Senai
Full Gospel Church – Johor Jaya
Sultan Iskandar Mosque – Bandar Dato Onn
Church Of The Immaculate Conception – Jalan Abdul Rahman Andak
Masjid Jamek Bandar Baru Uda – Jalan Padi Ria
Masjid An-Nur Kotaraya – Bandar Johor Bahru
Gurdwara Sahib – Jalan Trus

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Johor Bahru

Johor Zoo – Taman Istana
Merdeka Park – Jln Datin Halimah
SEA LIFE Malaysia – Legoland Malaysia Resort
Recreational Park – Jalan Selatan Utama
Tasik Biru – Kangkar Pulai
NICTAR Farm (Honey Bee & Pineapple) – Pekan Nanas
Sireh Park – Iskandar Puteri
Noah’s Ark Natural Animal Sanctuary – Pekan Nanas
Ulu Choh Dirt Park – Jalan Pontian Lama
Gunung Pulai Waterfall – Recreational Forest
Zaharah Botanic Gardens – Kebun Merah
Kangkar Pulai Lagoon – Bandar Baru Kangkar Pulai
Tasik Biru bandar Baru Seri Alam – Bandar Baru Seri Alam
Bukit Indah Recreation Park – Taman Bukit Indah

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Johor Bahru

Legoland Malaysia – Jalan Legoland, Bandar
Sanrio Hello Kitty Town – Nusajaya, Johor
Angry Birds Activity Park – Komtar, Johore
Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park – Taman Mount Austin
Danga Bay Park – Danga Bay
The Little Big Club – Iskandar Puteri
Hutan Bandar MBJB – Kolam Ayer
Waterpark LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort – Iskandar Puteri
Legoland Hotel – Jalan Legoland
Kuso Trick Art – Taman Mount Austin
Tiram Indoor Water Park – Ulu Tiram
Dinosaurs Alive Water Theme Park – KSL Hotel & Resort – Taman Abad
Horizon Hills Golf And Country Club – Bandar Nusajaya
La Stella Water Theme Park – Kempas Lama Skudai
Villa Nabila – Jalan Bertingkat Skudai
KSL Water Park – Jalan Seladang
Danga Bay – Danga Bay

Shopping in Johor Bahru

Bazaar Karat (Rusty Market) – Jalan Segget, Bandar Johra Bahru
Mall of Medini – Johor Bahru
Perling Mall – Jalan Persisiran Perling
Ioi Mall – Lebuh Bandar Utama
IKEA

Beaches in Johor Bahru

Stulang Beach – Jalan Ibrahim Sultan, Stulang Darat
Pantai Lido – Danga Bay

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventure in Johor Bahru

Eco Tourism Kampung Sungai Melayu – Nusajaya
Johor River Boat Ride

Sightseeing in Johor Bahru

Jalan Wong Ah Fook Street
Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Walk – Bandar Johor Bahru
Puteri Harbour – Kota Iskandar
Thomas Town – Puteri Harbour
Skyscape – Jalan Tun Abdul Razak
Plaza Sentosa – Jalan Sutra
Laman Mahkota Istana Bukit Serene – Jalan Kolam Air
Istana Pasir Pelangi – Jalan Pasir Pelang
The Malay Cultural Village Sdn Bhd – Kawasan Perindustrian Larkin
MENARA JLAND – Jalan Wong Ah Fook
Sireh Park Iskandar Puteri – Nusajaya, Johor
Pelabuhan Stulang Laut – Taman Stulang Laut
Puteri Harbour Theme Park – Nusajaya
Little Paris – Taman Mount Austin
Kilang Bateri – Kampung Usaha Jaya
Edible Park – Iskandar Puteri
Taman Merdeka Musical Fountain – Bandar Johor Bahru

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Johor Bahru

Hiap Joo Bakery
Salahuddin Bakery
Hua Mui Kopitiam
Wah Cai
Jalan Tan Hiok Nee – Bandar Johor Bahru
Rosmarino Italian Restaurant
Bukit Cagar
Loving Hut
Image Cooker
Toddy’s Wine Shop
Desert Library
Tosca Italian Trattoria
Kam Long Restaurant
Restoran Tua Show
24 Festive Drums Cafe
Restoran Ya Wang
Restaurant Teck Sing
Cafe BLD at Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel
Vege Coffee
Grill Bar Steakhouse
Zaituna Restaurant
Sweetwater Mediterranean Bar & Grill
Amaya Food Gallery
Flowers in the Window
I Vege
Chez Papa French Bistro And Wine Bar
Warakuya Japanese Restaurant
Ong Shun Seafood Restaurant
Ho Seng Kee Wanton Mee
Xiang Man Ju
Gianni’s Trattoria
Makan Kitchen
Tosca Italian Trattoria
7 Spice
Restoran Ya Wang
Restaurant Teck Sing
Cafe BLD at Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel
Grill Bar Steakhouse
Zaituna Restaurant

Where to Stay in Johor Bahru?

Here we have listed Top Rated Hotels in Johor Bahru. We have categorise top rated hotels in luxurious, mid-range and budget category. Below you can check hotels for your stay in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

Luxurious Hotels

Mid-Range Hotels

Budget Hotels

Custom Tours Package in Johor Bahru

How to Reach Johor Bahru?

By Air

If you wish to begin Johor Bahru travel form the moment you land, then pick the Senai International Airport. Though there are only a limited countries from where you can get a direct flight to Senai International Airport. Otherwise the Singapore’s International Airport is not too far away either for places to visit in Johor Bahru. You will then have to take a bus or a ferry to get to Johor Bahru attractions. You may also choose to land in Kuala Lumpur and continue your journey for places to go in jb from the capital city. Choose whichever airport you want for Johor Bahru travel, but don’t miss out on fun things to do in Johor Bahru.

By Road

All of places to visit in jb are conveniently accessible by road. You can get a bus or a train from all parts of Malaysia for Johor Bahru travel. Most of jb attractions are located in the district capital. You will also be able to reach Johor Bahru by road from Singapore. There are buses running between the two everyday and multiple times a day. One of the most popular roads for Johor Bahru travel is the coastal highway. There are actually two highways running one either coasts of Johor and converging at JB, encompassing several Johor Bahru tourist spots. The road trip would be bristle with beautiful sights and you will be able to cover many popular places to go in Johor Bahru while riding parallel to the ocean.

By Water

There are ferries running between Johor Bahru & Singapore as well as Johor Bahru & Indonesia. So, there are 2 countries you can access on Johor Bahru travel. There are several wonderful Johor Bahru attraction places to view from the sea, so even if you are not taking a ferry to go somewhere, you should take a boat ride among things to do in Johor Bahru. You can also take longer rides is more luxurious boats if you wish to spend more time cruising the ocean. Being a coastal district, the ocean too can be included among Johor Bahru tourist attractions.

Image Reference

Jalan Tan Hiok Nee – Chongkian / Wikimedia Commons
Johor Zoo – Mohd Fazlin Mohd Effendy Ooi / Flickr
Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple – Terence Ong / Wikimedia Commons
Istana Besar – Caitriana Nicholson / Flickr
Legoland – Mohd Fazlin Mohd Effendy Ooi / Flickr
Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery – Chongkian / Wikimedia Commons
Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque – Waqar Hassan / PixaBay
Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple – mike / Flickr
Danga Bay – Fizal’s Photography / Flickr
Roman Catholic Church of Immaculate Conception – Chongkian / Wikimedia Commons
War Memorial –
Taman Merdeka – Chongkian / Wikimedia Commons
Desaru Beach – ckhee94 / Flickr
Pasar Karat – Chongkian / Wikimedia Commons
Pasir Gudang Kite Museum (Muzium Layang-Layang) – Chongkian / Wikimedia Commons
Chinese Heritage Museum (Muzium Warisan Tionghua) – Chongkian / Wikimedia Commons