What to Do in Mount Austin, Johor Bahru (JB): The Ultimate Checklist

Been to Mount Austin so many times it’s starting to feel stale? Scared you’ve already been to everywhere worth going to there?

If yes: let’s play a game to find out if there’s really nothing left for you to uncover.
If no: let’s still play a game and use this as your crash course to becoming a JB regular.

This isn’t just another travel guide; it’s the Ultimate Mount Austin Completion Checklist.
We’re talking aesthetic cafés, boutique shopping, ATVs, massages, KTV-hotpot combos, childbirth simulators (???) all in one place, waiting to be checked off.

How to play

Score yourself as you scroll. One point per activity you’ve done. At the end, check your score to see what rank you unlock:

1. 0–5: Tourist with Potential
2. 6–12: Weekend Warrior
3. 13–20: JB Power User
4. 21+: Mount Austin Elder

Ready? Scroll on. Let’s see how deep you’ve gone.

Also read: Johor Bahru (JB) Weekend Trip Itinerary for Singaporeans: Things to Do on a 2D1N Trip

Aesthetic Cafes & Brunch Spots

I mean, no itinerary is complete without a food place. Let’s start here.

1. Eden by Wizards

The “I need a reset” café. Lush greenery, wood-and-stone interiors, and a water feature make it feel more like a spa than a brunch spot. Try the Siamese Prawn Spaghettini (RM35, S$ 10.60) or Gochujang Beef Rice Bowl (RM30, S$9.08) if you’re hungry. If not, go for the aesthetic and order a coffee like everyone else.

Address: 19, Jln Tiong Emas, Kawasan Perindustrian Tiong Nam Tebrau 3, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: 10AM–10PM 
Tip: Gets crowded — book ahead if you’re going on a weekend.

2. Bloom by MokMok

Fairy lights, dried flowers, and food that looks like it belongs on Pinterest. The Baked Telur (RM32, S$9.69) is a protein-packed brunch option, and the tea blends like A Bloom for You (RM15, S$4.54) are surprisingly solid.

Address: 8 87, Jalan Mutiara Emas 2A, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 12PM–10PM daily
Tip: Request a window seat if you care about lighting.

3. Ukiyo Wellness

A blush-toned French-Japanese café that also functions as a yoga and pilates studio. The dessert cabinet is the main event. Try the Mount Nimba (raspberry crème brûlée mousse) or A Paris (vanilla mille-feuille).

Address: 17-02, Jalan Austin Heights 8/3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 12PM–7PM (Tue–Sun), closed Mon

4. The Blue Door Coffee House

Yes, there’s a literal queen-sized bed in the café. Yes, people take photos on it. The vibe is clean, minimalist, and slightly unhinged (in a good way). Try the Pistachio Mochi Croissant or Matchamisu if you want dessert with texture and drama.

Address: 36A, Jalan Austin Height 7/8, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 11:30AM–10PM (Mon–Wed), 11AM–12AM (Thu–Sun)

5. Knock Knock Cafe

Floral ceilings. Chandeliers. French toast with edible flowers. If your entire GC is the “garden girl aesthetic” embodied, you’re probably already here. Get the Brioche French Toast (RM28+) or Rose Latte (RM14+) and pretend you’re in a café-themed K-drama.

Address: 60, Jalan Mutiara Emas 5/9, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 10AM–7PM (Mon–Fri), 9AM–7PM (Sat–Sun)

Local Eats & Supper Spots

And the food place list continues. A Mount Austin rite of passage is to get way too full, then somehow still ordering dessert. Let’s begin your (re)initiation!

6. Dai Tao Lala Pot

You’ll know you’re close when you see the queue. Their signature lala hotpot (RM38, S$11.50) comes with wok-fried clams, a broth spiked with Shaoxing wine, and the option to DIY your own sauce with garlic, huadiao, and chilli. Not the best place if you’ve already had your mains lah, you should go hungry (and  early).

Address:  No.49, Jalan Austin Height 8/5 , Taman Mount Austin Johor Bahru, 81100 Johor, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 5PM–3AM daily
Tip: Free broth refills, but good luck finding parking.

7. Bro Lok Lok

Skewers grilled over charcoal, special house seasoning, and red plastic stools . Truly authentic lok lok experience. Tiger prawns, cheesy mantou, and century egg skewers are cult favourites. Starts cheap (RM1/stick, S$0.30) but don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Address: 41, Jalan Mutiara Emas 2A, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 7PM – 2AM (till 2:30AM on Fridays, 3AM on Saturdays)

8. Jiah Xiang Dim Sum

Don’t know about you but I love Dim Sum breakfasts! Char siu chee cheong fun, salted egg custard buns, mango-prawn kataifi all served till midnight. Isn’t that insane! Their Sentosa Plaza outlet is 24 hours, but the Mount Austin one is more chill (and arguably better stocked).

Address: N 113 N, 115, Jalan Mutiara Emas 2A, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia

Opening hours: 7AM–3pm daily

9. Restoran Uncle Pou Wok

The zi char joint every Singaporean uncle (e.g. my father) has bookmarked. Best known for their KL-style Hokkien mee (from RM13, S$3.94). It’s got that smoky proper wok hei. Very smoky, very delicious. Pair it with sweet and sour pork and overcome that voice at the back of your mind telling you that you’re already full! (That expression was for entertainment purposes only. This is not an endorsement of overeating. Please exercise discretion.)

Address: 103, Jalan Austin Heights 3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 12pm-12am daily

DIY & Craft Workshops

Okay yay now you ate, time to do some stuff!

10. Tufting Nuts

Make your own rug (or at least try to). Tufting Nuts offers 40x40cm rugs for RM199 (S$60.25)/pax (promo price for 2 pax), and friendly staff will walk you through it. You’ll need arm strength and patience, but the results are surprisingly legit.

Address: 40-01, Jln Austin Heights 3/2, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 11AM–7PM, Sun 10AM–6PM
Tip: Final pieces take a month to finish. Either return to collect or pay for delivery to SG.

11. Tutu Studio

A DIY wonderland. You can tuft mirrors and bags, make your own phone case, or try fluid bear art jamming. The vibes are bright and pastel, and they take appointments only so no walk-ins allowed (Type B people, please take note.)

Address: 122a, Jalan Gaya 1, Taman Gaya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 1pm–10PM, closed on Monday

12. Forever Twenty DIY Studio

Friendship bracelets, keychains, phone charms — you name it, you bead it. This is a very Gen Z-coded space and a great group activity if you’re tired of eating or pretending you like walking around malls. Walk-ins are allowed.

Address: 51-02, Jalan Jaya Putra 7/6, Bandar Jaya Putra, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 11AM–7PM
Tip: Also does custom mirror/frame decorating sessions.

Chaotic Activities

This section is for the people who try to beat insomnia through sheer physical exhaustion.

13. ATV Park Johor

Okay this is not in Mount Austin but it is a 13-min taxi ride from Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park, so close enough. Not for the faint of heart (or the clean of clothing). Go full jungle mode as you ride through plantations, swamps, and mud trails. Option B is the more intense route. Yes, there are boots provided. No, they won’t save you from getting dirty. It’s about RM120 (~S$34.50) per ATV

Address: 60, Jalan Ekoflora 6/6, Taman ekoflora, 81300 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia

Opening hours: 9AM–7PM (last ride at 6PM), Sat-Sun 9am-11.30pm

Tip: Wear clothes you don’t care about.

14. BangHistory Escape Amusement

Possibly Mount Austin’s most unhinged place. They’ve got horror escape rooms with live actors, a rage room where you can smash things for 30 minutes, and a childbirth simulator for RM25 (S$7.57). Nothing says gender equality like strapping on abdominal shock pads!

Address: 16, Persiaran Austin Heights 8/6
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 1:30PM–11PM, Sat–Sun 12:30PM–12AM
Tip: Book in advance!

15. LOST in JB: Eco Palladium

Escape rooms with theatrical flair. For ~RM108/pax (S$33) You might end up casting spells, opening treasure chests, or doubting your friend’s loyalty mid-plot twist.

Address: 01-33, Blk A, Pusat Perdagangan Ekoflora, Jln Ekoflora 7/3, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon–Thu 12PM–9PM, Fri–Sun 12PM–10.30pm
Tip: The Amazing School of Magic is a fan fave.

Also read: A Guide to 7 Heart-Racing Adventures for a Thrill-Seeker in Johor Bahru (JB)

Shopping & Boutiques

The Mount Austin experience isn’t complete without a retail fix! Boutique hopping in Mount Austin is pretty fun because of the wide selection, so there’s much to explore.

16. Threads Boutique

Soft, elegant Korean-style pieces starting from RM39 (S$11.81) and surprisingly decent quality. This one’s for the girls who want to look like a Pinterest board but don’t want to pay Orchard Road prices. Spacious fitting rooms, comfy sofa for boyfriends, and lots of pastel. For the full rundown of JB boutiques, check out our guide!

Address: 11-01, Jalan Austin Heights 8/5, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: Tue–Sun 12PM–8PM
Tip: Sizes can run small. Try before you buy.

Animal Cafes

Mount Austin has quite a few pet cafés. If you choose to visit, here are a few spots where the animals seem well cared for, the staff are attentive, and the vibes are less petting zoo and more quiet hangout.

17. Meow Me Cat House

 No entrance fee or time limit. Just order a drink and chill with the resident cats, who are free to roam. Visitors are asked not to carry or feed them, which helps keep things low-stress for the animals.

Address: 28-01, Jalan Austin Height 7/7, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 12PM–9PM, closed Wed
Tip: Try the lemon cheesecake or sparkling yuzu soda.

18. Chill ‘N Chow

Home to fluffy Chow Chows and a limited number of visitors at a time. Entry comes with a scoop of coconut ice cream and 1 hour of playtime. Staff are on hand to monitor the dogs, and there’s an option to order food from the bistro next door. Socks are required.

Address: 16-01, Jalan Austin Heights 8/4, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 11AM–8PM, closed Mon
Tip: You’ll need to book ahead on weekends

Karaoke Chaos

What’s a Mount Austin trip without a little off-key belting and unsolicited Adele impersonations? Better to let it all out here so you don’t end up disturbing your neighbours back home.

19. Superstar Family KTV

RM39 (S$12.53) nets you a whole year of karaoke access. Just make sure to WhatsApp them to reserve a room, since they claim limited availability. Also, they apparently serve 400 types of food! You won’t be starved for choice (haha get it).

Address: 2, Jalan Austin Heights 8/7, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 11AM–3AM daily

20. Loud Speaker Family Karaoke

An OG in the JB karaoke game. Loud Speaker’s got spacious rooms, free-flow drinks, and a song selection wide enough to please both the Mandopop loyalists and your one friend who insists on singing Bohemian Rhapsody every time

Address: 17, Jalan Austin Heights 8/3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 11AM-3AM

Relaxation & Self-Care

After all that chaos, food, and shouting into karaoke mics, it’s time to wind down. Mount Austin has no shortage of massage parlours, head spas, and even a private onsen for a great relaxation session.

21. 38°C Onsen

If your soul needs scrubbing, this is the place. It’s a private Japanese-style onsen experience for two, complete with a tea and dessert set, kimono dress-up, and a full-body massage — all for RM632 (~S$188). There’s only one onsen room, so book early.

Address: Akademik Suite, Block A #G, 05, Jalan Austin Heights Utama, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 10:30AM–9PM

22. Borneo Oasis

A personal go-to, can vouch for this one. It’s a relatively new outlet and one of the more well-reviewed massage spots in Mount Austin. Known for solid service and a peaceful atmosphere — no weird lighting or chaotic chatter. They often have happy hour promos, so check ahead.

Address: 49, Jalan Austin Heights 8/3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Jorhor bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 11AM–12AM
Tip: Order their essential oil add-ons if you’re feeling fancy.

23. Face Cat

Need a fast pick-me-up facial? This spot offers express facials from RM59 (~S$17.90). No long waits — just a clean, quick way to treat your skin after a day of outdoor dust and indoor fried chicken.

Address: 9-01, Jalan Austin Heights 2/7, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: 10AM–7PM
Tip: Good in-between stop if you’re hopping cafes and need a breather.

Final thoughts

So, how did you score?

1. 0–5: Tourist with Potential. You’ve dabbled. The Mount Austin gates remain open to you.
2. 6–12: Weekend Warrior.You know your way around. Just don’t start gatekeeping yet.
3. 13–20: JB Power User. You’re in the deep end. There’s no going back, only going again next weekend.
4. 21+: Mount Austin Elder. Knower of promo timings, whisperer of queue hacks, survivor of JB traffic. I hail you.

Okay but in all seriousness,Mount Austin really is one of JB’s most popular spots for a reason. As you’ve probably guessed by now, it’s packed with something for every kind of traveller, from chaotic adventurers to aesthetic cafe hoppers.

So whether you’re returning for the tenth time or just planning your first visit, I hope this checklist gives you a little inspo, or at least makes the place feel fresh again. Happy travels!