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Hong Lim Park - Speakers' Corner in Singapore
Hong Lim Park - Speakers' Corner in Singapore
Taking a good break from the stuff I’m doing right now to write this quick one. This is one of the most awesome parks I always wanted to see, ever since I heard the news about it. The Hong Lim Park is where all the real Singapore action happens. On an ordinary day it may look like any other typical Singapore park, but on any given extraordinary moment, it turns into a venue of voice and viewpoint. This is where they hold rallies and political or societal speeches, and for a small country deemed as “emotionless”, this place serves as a big stepping stone for them to express their emotions.
Take the Exit A of the Clarke Quay Station and you’re there. The most uncomplicated park to go to, I’d say. The place is like a whole block intended for this purpose. Once you cross the street or reach the other end of the park, it’s a different story once again – city life: buildings, establishments, and more buildings.
The great thing about the Hong Lim Park is that it’s not too immense in space and not too crowded with people. It ideally fits this small dot, complete with areas for recreation, fitness, and socialization. Most of the Singapore parks are either too crowded, or too empty. The Hong Lim Park hits the sweet spot, similar to those you see in movies, but a completely compact version.
Also known as the Speakers' Corner, the architectures surrounding this diminutive park makes the open space even more real and unique. Real in the sense that you know that the life of this city is just there – look up and people will be able to see that more than the greens they see around the area, the structures towering above are also there to listen. Unique in the sense that it is there not just to hear people’s solitude and siesta, but also there to support the creativity and conviction of the Singapore culture.
Address: The park is bounded by North Canal Road, South Bridge Road, Upper Pickering Street and New Bridge Rd
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
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