Johor Bahru Travel Guide

Lying at the very end of the Malay peninsula, just before you reach Singapore, Johor Bahru is the state capital of Johor and a city better known for commerce and trade than it is for tourism. Although it receives many visitors, most stop here on their way either to or from Singapore. Nevertheless, there are still sights to see here for travelers that plan to stay a few days and the shopping is particularly worthwhile.

The tourist highlight of Johor Bahru, or JB as it is more commonly known, is Sultan Abu Bakar Royal Palace Museum. Formerly the residence of the Sultan of Johor, this ostentatious palace dates back 150 years and features artifacts and luxuries from across the globe, not to mention the late sultan’s prized motorbike. The Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque is worth a visit given its strange part British colonial, part Islamic style. The city also features two zoos, the best of which is Saleng Zoo, which is much better maintained than Johor Zoo.

Activities-wise, Johor Bahru has excellent golf and water sports facilities. There are many good courses to choose from and new ones being built all the time, but the best is still the first, Royal Johor Country Club. Water sports on offer include scuba diving, boating, windsurfing and kayaking.

Johor Bahru Attractions

Sultan Abu Bakar Royal Palace Museum: JB’s most opulent attraction provides a very tangible insight into the life of a sultan.

Saleng Zoo: the best of the city’s animal parks with lots of wildlife and birds on display.

Royal Johor Country Club: among an overwhelming number of golf courses in the country, this is undoubtedly top of the pile.

AEON Tebrau City: the largest mall in the city and the perfect place for last-minute shopping before heading to the more expensive Singapore.