Amanda LimTo most Singaporeans, taking a weekend trip often just means going to JB. But there are many other places in Malaysia worth visiting and still very accessible from Singapore!
Kluang is one such town. It may be just a 2-hour drive or 3-hour train ride away, but parts of Kluang can even make you feel like you’ve been transported to New Zealand! If you’re craving a fresh change of scenery from your usual JB adventures, here’s what to do when you get there.
Also read: What to Do in Bukit Indah, Johor Bahru: A Guide to This Underrated JB Spot
Enjoy delicious cheap eats
Food is at the heart of Kluang’s appeal, especially for travellers looking for good value without compromising on quality. This town is a haven for budget-conscious foodies, with most dishes costing less than what you’d pay in JB or KL!
Image credit: Tangkak Beef Noodle Official Facebook
For quality beef noodles, head to Restoran Tangkak or Yean Kee Beef Noodles. Both are renowned for their rich, flavourful broths and tender meat, delivering excellent taste without breaking the bank.
Image credit (L-R): Barney’s Official Facebook
If you’re craving something different, Barney’s, an old-school Western diner, surprises with its wagyu beef dishes. The cosy, vintage atmosphere pairs perfectly with hearty meals that provide a satisfying meal. Fun fact: it was founded by the grandson of Kluang Rail Coffee’s original owner!
Image credit: Choo Yut Shing | Flickr
Another iconic spot is Tong Huat Confectionery, famous for its Tau Sar Pneah, traditional bean paste biscuits that are a must-buy. These crumbly treats are so famous that they are often sold out here, so be sure to queue up early!
Also read: What to Do in Tebrau Johor Bahru (JB): 1-Day Itinerary for Food & Fun
Soak in Kluang’s deep coffee culture
Image credit (L-R): Coffee Goodee Official Facebook; Kluang RailCoffee Official Facebook
No visit to Kluang is complete without a stop at the legendary Kluang Rail Coffee. Established in 1938 and still operating out of the original railway station, this is where you can experience kopi the traditional way.
The coffee here is strong, smoky, and brewed to perfection using the classic charcoal roasting method. Pair it with kaya toast and soft-boiled eggs, and you have a perfect breakfast.
But Kluang’s coffee scene doesn’t just stop there. There’s also Ritch Cafe, which serves expertly crafted espresso drinks in a cosy setting. It is also famous for its serving of Western cuisine!
Unique farm activities
Image credit (L-R): UK Farm Agro Resort Official Instagram
With its sprawling green pastures and wide-open landscapes, UK Farm Agro Resort feels like a slice of New Zealand in Johor. Visitors can enjoy tractor rides, goat feeding, and guided farm tours, making it a favourite for both children and adults!
Not far away, Zenxin Organic Park focuses on sustainable farming practices. Here, you can join guided tours of the vegetable gardens, sample fresh organic produce, and participate in simple farming activities.
Also read: 5 More Unique Things to Do in Johor Bahru (JB) for Singaporeans
Explore nature’s quiet retreats
For those who want a break from urban bustle, Kluang’s natural surroundings offer plenty of opportunities to unwind and reconnect with the outdoors.
Image credit: Dominic Nelson | Wikipedia
The standout spot is Gunung Lambak, a forested hill just outside town that attracts both locals and visitors. It’s perfect for a morning hike, with several trails ranging from paved paths to more rugged routes.
If you prefer something more leisurely, Taman Merdeka offers a peaceful town park complete with paddle boats, a small petting zoo, and plenty of shaded picnic spots. Similarly, Kluang Lake Garden is ideal for jogging, cycling, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge.
Also read: A Guide To Johor’s Hiking Trails for Every Kind of Adventurer
Discover the art and culture of Kluang
Image credit: Dominic Nelson | Wikimedia
Kluang’s small size belies its surprisingly vibrant art scene. If you take time to wander its street art alley, you’ll come across colourful murals celebrating everyday life and local heritage.
Image credit: Chongkian | Wikimedia
Kluang is also home to some beautiful heritage buildings, including the striking Masjid Jamek Kluang, with its elegant blue domes, and the serene Guan Yin Temple, which offers a glimpse into the spiritual traditions of the town’s Chinese community. These sites provide quiet moments of reflection and insight into the diverse cultural fabric of the area.
A town perfect for stress-free exploration
Image credit: Dominic Nelson | Wikimedia
One of Kluang’s greatest charms is how easy it is to explore. The town’s compact size means that most attractions, eateries, and parks are within a short drive or even walking distance.
In a time when current JB trends only lead us to the same few places, Kluang is a reminder that some of the best experiences come from less obvious choices. So next time you plan a Malaysian getaway, consider this charming town!
