A Guide to Johor’s Cities: Things to Do in Johor Bahru, Kulai, Kota Tinggi, and More

Johor is often thought of as just Johor Bahru, the bustling city nearest to Singapore. Yet, Johor is actually home to diverse cities that each offer unique history, nature, culture and culinary delights.

Here’s a detailed guide to what makes each city special, with things to do and must-try food, plus travel times from Johor Bahru for easy planning.

Also read: 12 Best Things to Do Near Johor Bahru (JB) for Nature Lovers

Johor Bahru (City Centre)

Known for: A lively city known for heritage sites, sprawling shopping malls and café scene.

Things to do

Recreational activities

Johor Bahru has become a favourite weekend getaway for Singaporeans looking for fun without the hefty price tag. Enjoy indoor attractions like escape rooms, laser tag arenas, and drift kart racing at places such as RUD Karting and Lost in JB Escape Room.

Café hopping & dining

JB’s café scene is booming with Instagram-worthy spots serving quality brews and creative menus at wallet-friendly prices. Popular areas include Jalan Dhoby and Jalan Trus, where you can relax over specialty coffee and artisanal pastries.

Don’t miss Hiap Joo Bakery’s famous banana cake baked in a traditional wood-fired oven, a beloved local treat.

Also read: 6 Viral Johor Bahru (JB) Food Spots: Worth the Hype or Overrated?

Heritage & culture

Visit the Royal Abu Bakar Museum, housed in a grand palace once home to Johor’s royal family, which offers fascinating insights into the state’s history and regalia.

Nearby, the Old Chinese Temple stands as a testament to the longstanding Chinese community, with intricate decorations and vibrant festivals. For a deeper cultural dive, explore Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, a heritage street dotted with old shophouses, artisan workshops and galleries.

Shopping & family fun

JB’s shopping scene is vast. Explore mega malls like Paradigm Mall, Mid Valley Southkey, and City Square, where you’ll find international brands, local designers and entertainment complexes.

After a busy day, unwind with a leisurely stroll along Danga Bay’s waterfront promenade, enjoying sea breezes and street performances.

Kota Tinggi (~45 minutes from JB)

Known for: Magical firefly river cruises, coastal beaches and immersive farm experiences.

Things to do

Firefly river cruise

The firefly cruise remains a highlight of Kota Tinggi. At night, hop on a boat along the river fringed by mangroves and watch thousands of fireflies flicker in unison, creating an enchanting natural light show that feels almost surreal.

Desaru beach & resorts

Nearby, Desaru’s 17-kilometre stretch of golden sand and clear waters is ideal for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. The area has developed into a resort destination, featuring hotels like Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast and The Westin Desaru Coast Resort.

For adventure seekers, the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark delivers thrilling rides and fun for all ages.

Desaru Fruit Farm

Visit this extensive tropical fruit farm to wander orchards of durian, rambutan, mango and more. The farm offers guided tours, fresh fruit tastings, and other activities like ATV rides.

Local cuisine

Kota Tinggi is famous for its hearty and flavourful dishes. Don’t miss Kiang Kee Bak Kut Teh, considered one of the best Bak Kut Teh spots in Johor. Another must-try dish is asam pedas, a tangy and spicy fish stew that perfectly captures the region’s bold flavours.

Muar (~2 hours from JB)

Known for: A picturesque riverside town steeped in royal history and famed for its food culture.

Things to do

River cruise

Take a boat tour along the Muar River to see the town’s historic architecture and watch daily life unfold along the waterfront, a refreshing way to experience the town from a different perspective.

Riverfront & street art

Muar’s serene riverside esplanade offers scenic walking paths flanked by colonial-era shophouses, cafes and vibrant street art murals depicting local life and legends. The atmosphere here is laid-back, perfect for an afternoon stroll or a sunset photo session.

Historical sites

Visit the Bukit Kepong Emergency Gallery to learn about a pivotal event during Malaysia’s struggle against communist insurgents. The grand Sultan Ibrahim Jamek Mosque is an architectural landmark worth exploring for its beautiful Moorish-inspired design.

Nature spots

A short drive out leads to Gersik Hot Springs, where natural mineral-rich pools offer a relaxing soak. For hiking enthusiasts, Mount Ophir (Gunung Ledang) presents challenging trails with rewarding panoramic views at the summit.

Local specialties

Muar is famed for its Mee Bandung, a rich, spicy noodle soup bursting with flavours and topped with ingredients like prawns, eggs and beef. Don’t miss Otak-Otak Cheng Bo, a local favourite known for its deliciously smoky and fragrant flavour that’s become synonymous with Muar’s culinary identity.

Pontian (~1 hour from JB)

Known for: Mangrove explorations, pineapple plantations and fresh seafood villages.

Things to do

Pulau Kukup National Park

Step onto the boardwalks of Pulau Kukup, one of the world’s largest uninhabited mangrove islands. This protected park is rich in biodiversity; spot mudskippers, monkeys and shorebirds while enjoying the tranquil mangrove forests.

Pekan Nanas

Known as “Pineapple Town,” Pekan Nanas boasts sprawling pineapple plantations. Visit the Pineapple Museum to learn about pineapple cultivation and sample fresh pineapple treats.

Kukup fishing village

The traditional fishing village of Kukup is built on stilts over the water, offering authentic seafood dining with stunning sea views. Enjoy freshly caught fish, prawns and crabs prepared in local styles at waterfront restaurants.

Batu Pahat (~2 hours from JB)

Known for: Distinctive cultural landmarks, lush greenery and hearty local cuisine.

Things to do

Fortune Dragon Tunnel

Marvel at the Fortune Dragon Tunnel, a spectacular 115-metre-long dragon-shaped walkway decorated with intricate carvings and vibrant colours, providing a unique photo opportunity.

Si Hai Long Wang Temple

This seaside temple draws both devotees and tourists with its striking architecture and spiritual atmosphere. It’s a peaceful spot for reflection and photography.

Soga Perdana Amenity Forest

Escape to this amenity forest for nature walks, birdwatching and picnicking. The forest trails are well-maintained and suitable for casual hikers.

Local food

Batu Pahat is known for its nasi briyani, especially from popular spots like Mohd Shah Nasi Baryani and BP Baryani Power, both beloved for their fragrant rice and tender meats. Pair your meal with a cup of traditional Hainanese coffee from one of the town’s atmospheric old kopitiams.

Kluang (~2 hours from JB)

Known for: Coffee culture, vibrant street art and family-friendly farm experiences.

Things to do

Kopitiams & white coffee

Kluang’s heritage kopitiams around the railway station are famous for their locally roasted “white coffee.” Don’t miss Kluang Rail Coffee, the town’s most iconic stop, where you can enjoy a traditional breakfast of charcoal-grilled toast and soft-boiled eggs alongside a strong cup of coffee.

UK Farm Agro Resort

Set against rolling green fields dotted with grazing sheep and goats, UK Farm has an unexpectedly “New Zealand” feel in rural Johor. Families can take farm tours by tractor, feed animals, watch sheep-shearing demos and even stay overnight in chalet-style accommodation.

Hiking Gunung Lambak or Belumut

Outdoor enthusiasts can tackle moderate hikes up Gunung Lambak or Belumut for panoramic views over Kluang and the surrounding countryside.

Mersing (~2.5 hours from JB)

Known for: The gateway to idyllic islands and serene coastal beaches.

Things to do

Island escapes

From Mersing, hop on a ferry to Pulau Besar, where white sands and clear waters invite lazy swims and snorkelling, or head to Pulau Pemanggil, popular for diving, fishing and its peaceful atmosphere. Back on the mainland, relax at Pantai Air Papan, a laid-back beach lined with shady trees, perfect for picnics and sunset views.

Endau-Rompin National Park

Adventure seekers can explore parts of this ancient rainforest park near Mersing, home to waterfalls, diverse flora and fauna, and indigenous culture.

Stargazing at Heaven’s Gate

End your day gazing up at a brilliant night sky from Heaven’s Gate, a local spot near Mersing known for minimal light pollution and sweeping views of countless stars.

Kulai (~45 minutes from JB)

Known for: Nature escapes, spiritual temples and outlet shopping.

Things to do

Mount Pulai & Rainforest Treehouse

Hike through Mount Pulai’s forest trails to discover waterfalls and remnants of World War II history. For a unique stay, book a night at the Rainforest Treehouse nestled at the mountain’s base, surrounded by lush greenery and birdlife.

Spiritual experiences

Visit Putuo Village, a tranquil Buddhist complex surrounded by bamboo groves and home to Southeast Asia’s tallest indoor Cundi Bodhisattva statue.

For sweeping views, head up to Hwa Guo Shan Temple, where you’ll find decorative zodiac statues and often spot playful monkeys wandering around.

Culture & activities

Take a stroll along Jalan Kelapa Sawit, where vibrant street art murals celebrate Hakka heritage and culture. Just nearby, Star Fish Leisure Farm offers kampung-style family fun, including fishing, cycling and rustic farm stays.

Shopping

Hunt for bargains at Johor Premium Outlets, where international brands are sold at discounted prices, making it a popular weekend stop for shoppers from Singapore.

Local food

Taste Kulai’s Hakka roots through dishes like thunder tea rice (lei cha) or try the famously spicy Nasi Lemak Wak Kentut, beloved by locals for its punchy sambal.

You’re all set for the next few weekend getaways

Whether chasing fireflies in Kota Tinggi, indulging in otak otak in Muar, or hiking the hills of Kulai, there’s a surprising variety of experiences waiting just beyond Johor Bahru’s city limits. Next time you visit, take the road less travelled and discover the many faces of Johor.