Things To Do
in Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru, the capital of Johor state in Malaysia, is a vibrant city located just across the causeway from Singapore. Known for its rich cultural heritage, it boasts a mix of modern attractions and historical sites. The city is a melting pot of various cultures, offering a unique culinary scene and bustling marketplaces.

With its friendly locals and diverse activities, Johor Bahru is an exciting destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful views of the Straits of Johor.

afternoon
:

Head to the Johor Bahru City Square for shopping and lunch, then visit the nearby Angry Birds Activity Park for some family-friendly fun.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant, followed by a stroll along the Waterfront City, where you can enjoy the evening breeze and view the city lights.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple, one of the oldest temples in the city, to learn about the local Chinese community's history.

afternoon
:

Explore the bustling Pasar Karat (JB Antique Street Market) for unique finds and local crafts, followed by lunch at a nearby hawker center.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Legoland Malaysia Resort for an evening of entertainment and fun.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3 - $10
Coffee$1 - $3
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50 - $1
🛍️Souvenir$5 - $20
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20 - $50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and culinary diversity
  • Proximity to Singapore for easy access
  • Affordable cost of living and travel
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours
  • Humidity can be uncomfortable
  • Limited English proficiency in some areas
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
  • "Tandas di mana?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Saya tidak faham" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Johor Bahru

Visit one of these nice places.

Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque

A stunning mosque overlooking the strait, perfect for architectural photography.

Woodlands Checkpoint

Capture the iconic bridge and the border crossing between Malaysia and Singapore.

Danga Bay

A picturesque waterfront area ideal for sunset photography, with views of the skyline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide array of delicious local dishes that reflect its multicultural heritage.

Johor Bahru Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Lemak

A fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, served with sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, and boiled egg.

Must-Try!

Laksa Johor

A unique version of laksa made with a rich fish gravy served with rice vermicelli and fresh vegetables.

Mee Rebus

A noodle dish served in a thick, flavorful gravy made from sweet potatoes and spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pasar Karat

An antique market that also features a variety of local street food stalls offering snacks and meals.

Taman Sentosa Night Market

A vibrant night market famous for its array of street food options, from local delicacies to international snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Johor Bahru has a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high humidity and temperatures averaging between 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) year-round. There are two main seasons: the dry season (March to October) and the wet season (November to February). During the wet season, rainfall can be heavy, with the heaviest downpours typically occurring in December and January. Regardless of the season, expect warm weather, so dress accordingly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders, especially in cultural settings.

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively and appropriately.

Remove Shoes

It's customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain places of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Johor Bahru is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, certain precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. It's advisable to use reputable transportation options and remain vigilant against petty crime such as pickpocketing. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 999.

Tipping in Johor Bahru

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not compulsory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (March - October)

Expect minimal rain and plenty of sunshine, ideal for outdoor activities.

Wet Season (November - February)

Prepare for heavy rainfall and humidity, with occasional flooding in low-lying areas.

Chinese New Year (January/February)

Experience vibrant celebrations with lion dances and festive decorations.

Hari Raya Puasa (date varies)

Join the locals in celebrating the end of Ramadan with festive food and cultural activities.

Nightlife Guide

Johor Bahru at Night

Johor Bahru's nightlife offers a diverse range of options, from vibrant night markets to bars and clubs. The city has a mix of local and international venues, including lounges with live music, karaoke bars, and dance clubs. Popular areas for nightlife include Taman Mount Austin and Bukit Indah, where you can find a variety of entertainment options to suit different tastes. The scene is generally safe and welcoming, making it enjoyable for both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Johor Bahru

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gunung Pulai

Located about 30 km from Johor Bahru, this mountain offers several trails leading to its summit, providing beautiful views and a chance to experience local flora and fauna.

Kota Tinggi Waterfalls

A popular spot for hiking, this area features trails leading to picturesque waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing dip after a hike.

Airports

How to reach Johor Bahru by plane.

Senai International Airport

Located approximately 30 minutes from the city center, Senai International Airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Johor Bahru is somewhat walkable, particularly in the city center and areas with tourist attractions. However, the overall infrastructure for pedestrians can be inconsistent, with some sidewalks being narrow or poorly maintained. It's advisable to plan your routes and consider public transportation or ridesharing for longer distances. The city is developing more pedestrian-friendly zones, but caution is still advised when navigating busy streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Malay Community

The majority demographic, the Malay community plays a significant role in the cultural and social landscape of Johor Bahru.

Chinese Community

The Chinese community contributes to the diverse cultural fabric of the city, especially in terms of cuisine and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Johor Bahru, with local teams and events drawing significant crowds and support.

Badminton

Badminton enjoys widespread popularity among locals, with many playing in parks and dedicated facilities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Johor Bahru can be congested, especially during rush hours when commuters travel to and from Singapore. The city has a bus network and taxis, but ridesharing services like Grab are also widely used and convenient. Be prepared for potential delays during peak times and consider using public transport or traveling outside of rush hours to avoid traffic jams.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Johor Bahru.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Halal Food

Most local restaurants offer halal options, but it's recommended to ask if unsure.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

While traditional Malaysian cuisine features a lot of meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Johor Bahru are accessible, with several public and private hospitals offering a range of services. The most prominent hospitals include KPJ Johor Specialist Medical Centre and Hospital Sultanah Aminah. Emergency services are available, but it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. For minor ailments, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.

Discover Malaysia

Read more in our Malaysia 2025 Travel Guide.

Malaysia Travel Guide