Warning – graphic content
(nudity, depictions of violence and really weird creepy statues).
If you ever wanted to visit Hell, in all its representations it just so happens to be in Haw Par Villa, Singapore. Have you looked at a Hieronymus Bosch recently? It’s like stepping into one of his paintings.
When to visit Hell?
I don’t know if its better visit hell at night, because its dark and nobody is around, making a genuine creepy experience. Or if you should go during the day when there are tours available. A tour would have been useful to explain the back story behind some of the displays that don’t have English signs. Don’t stress about not going though, there is still plenty to absorb and it is mostly well signed for the average Aussie traveller.
I don’t remember paying for entry, so it’s not going to stretch your wallet. The train station is a short walk making Hell easy to get to.
Where Sidewalks End have written an excellent article about all the different levels depicted in this loosely described ‘theme park’. I recommend reading it, if you want a better description of all the levels. When I visited, some areas of the park were being renovated and weren’t available to explore.
After Hell
When the creep factor gets too high to visit hell anymore, its time to feed the turtles. That’s if you haven’t already run back to Sentosa Island by now! The turtles are in ponds all over the place, often near semi-nude lady statues or animals that make me think of Alice in Wonderland. You can buy turtle food cheaply to throw in. Watching the turtles and fish race to get the food is an entertaining reprieve from the crazy all around.
One of the things I enjoyed about the museum, is reading about the aspects of hell that are consistent between all the different faiths. I found most major faiths explored and the information interesting, thoughtful and respectful.
Is is worth the visit? hell yes.