Amanda LimIt’s often said that Singapore punches above its weight on the world stage, and it turns out that our iconic landmark has travelled far beyond the island’s shores too!
Over the years, our half-lion, half-fish symbol has popped up in some rather unexpected corners of the globe, sometimes as a gesture of friendship, sometimes as a playful tribute. Here’s where you can still spot Merlion statues overseas today.
Also read: New Ideas for Things to Do in Singapore 2025: Where to Hang Out, Chill and Explore
Merlions around the world
Chuzhou, China
Image credit (L-R): kevinmcgill | Wikimedia; 钉钉 | Wikimedia
Chuzhou, a city in eastern China, has gone all out with its Merlion tribute. The entire park was built as a symbol of friendship between Singapore and China, celebrating their cultural ties.
It features a large Merlion statue, boardwalks, and fountains inspired by Marina Bay. It’s like a mini Singapore by the river, and a surprisingly impressive homage thousands of kilometres away.
Medan, Indonesia: CitraLand Gama City
Image credit: citralandgamacityofficial Official Instagram
Medan’s CitraLand Gama City proudly calls itself the “Singapore of Medan,” and it shows. Right in the centre of the township stands a Merlion statue, surrounded by replicas of other famous Singapore landmarks like the Fountain of Wealth.
They even have ERP gantries and precincts named Orchard Road and Raffles Place, bringing a bit of Singapore’s city vibe to Indonesia.
Hakodate, Japan
Image credit: Hokkaido Government Representative Office Official Facebook
If you’re ever in Hokkaido, Japan, keep an eye out in Hakodate. Since 1989, the city has hosted three Merlion statues. They were originally set up as part of a cultural friendship project with Singapore. One even features as a stop in the Pokémon GO game. It’s a quirky, unexpected sight in northern Japan.
Bangkok, Thailand
Image credit: Singapore Club of Thailand
Right in the middle of bustling Bangkok is Benjakitti Park, where you’ll find a Merlion statue nestled among the greenery. It was put there to celebrate the friendship between Singapore and Thailand. While it’s much smaller than the original, it’s a favourite photo spot for joggers and visitors who stumble upon it.
Nami Island, South Korea
Image credit: VDCM image via Canva Pro
Nami Island is famous for its stunning autumn colours and romantic tree-lined paths. But it also has a little-known Merlion statue. It’s not as grand as Singapore’s, but it adds a surprising Singaporean touch to this popular Korean getaway. A nice reminder of how far Singapore’s influence has spread.
Bonus: A Taste of Singapore Overseas
Urban Hawker Market, New York City
Image credit: Urban Hawker Market Official Website
If you find yourself in New York City, make a beeline for the Urban Hawker Market. This food hall brings authentic Singapore hawker stalls to Manhattan. Many vendors come directly from Singapore, serving up chicken rice, laksa, satay and other local favourites. It’s a great place to get a taste of Singapore while in the US.
“Singapore noodles”
Here’s a funny one: “Singapore noodles” are pretty much unheard of in Singapore. But in places like London, Sydney and New York, you’ll find this curry-flavoured stir-fried rice vermicelli everywhere on Chinese restaurant menus.
It’s a classic case of a dish borrowing Singapore’s name but having little to do with the city itself. Still, it’s become part of how people abroad imagine Singapore’s food scene.
Singapore’s influence beyond borders
Image credit: Elnur via Canva Pro
It’s pretty cool to see how far Singapore’s most famous icon has travelled, from riverside parks in China to peaceful islands in Korea. These Merlion statues aren’t just tourist spots; they’re little symbols of friendship and cultural exchange.
And beyond statues, Singapore’s food culture continues to make waves overseas. Whether it’s enjoying real hawker fare in New York or spotting “Singapore noodles” on a menu in London, these flavours and symbols are fun to spot when you’re on your overseas getaway.
Next time you’re travelling, keep an eye out, you might be surprised where a Merlion pops up. And if you come across any other Singapore-inspired sights or dishes overseas, do share!
