Merlion Park attracts throngs of visitors, all eager to take a picture with the iconic half-fish half-lion that is an internationally recognised symbol of Singapore. With a viewing platform that extends into the Marina Bay Reservoir, Merlion Park offers plenty of vantage points for an encounter with the mythical beast.
The Merlion, a half-lion, half-fish creature is an icon of Singapore and while there are various locations with Merlions, the most famous one can be found at Merlion Park in town at the edge of the Marina Bay.
First imagined in 1964 as a logo for the then-Singapore Tourism Promotion Board, the Merlion’s head references Sang Nila Utama’s encounter with a lion while its body is a nod toward Singapore’s close ties with the sea.
Merlion Park at Marina Bay
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The Merlion Park that we know of today was created in 2002 when the Merlion statue was relocated there from its original location. The Merlion statue originally stood at the mouth of the Singapore at a little promontory that can still be visited just around the corner.
Located where the historic Singapore River meet the Marina Bay Reservoir, the Merlion statue with water spewing out of its mouth looks out towards Marina Bay Sands.
Standing 8.6 metres tall, it is the work of Singaporean sculptor Mr Lim Nang Seng. It was first unveiled on 15 September 1972 by then-Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew at the original Merlion Park, a location now hidden behind the nearby Esplanade Bridge.
In fact, there are two Merlions at the park. The most famous one is the 8.6m tall Merlion that spews out water from its mouth. Tourists flock to Merlion Park to take a photo that has become as obligatory as propping up the Leaning Tower when visiting Pisa – “drinking” from the Merlion fountain.
Just a short distance away from the main Merlion, there is a 2-metre-tall Merlion cub.
Other than this trickeye photo op, Merlion Park also makes a good starting point for exploring the surrounding district.
Things to Do at Merlion Park
Here are somethings that you can look out for while at Merlion Park at Marina Bay.
Merlion Poses
Popular poses at Merlion Park including positioning one’s self to “drink” from the Merlion.
Or letting its water fall into one’s hands.
Of course, there is nothing wrong with just taking a conventional photograph in front of the Merlion either.
Ulysses By The Merlion
If you head down to the pier that sticks out in front of the Merlion, you will find a board with the poem Ulysses By The Merlion. This poem was written by poet Edwin Thumboo in 1977. The poem describes the Greek hero Ulysses’ encounter with the Merlion and reflects on the people of Singapore.
View Marina Bay Landmarks
The viewing platform at Merlion Park is also an excellent place to soak in the view of the Marina Bay which includes Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer in the distance.
It also offers an alternative view point to catch a view of the nightly light shows that take place at the promenade of the Marina Bay Sands in the evening.
Jubilee Bridge
Just beside Merlion Park is the Jubilee Bridge. This bridge was opened as part of the celebrations of Singapore’s 50th birthday in 2015. If you are making your way to Merlion Park from Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, you will likely have walked across the Jubilee Bridge to get to the Singapore icon. You can look out for a signboard along the bridge commemorating its opening.
Merlion Park Sign at the Original Merlion Park
Make your away to the old pier that used to be where the Merlion stood to find this sign was installed in 1972. It is a slice of history that not many may know about.
Other Useful Things to Know About Merlion Park
If you are visiting Merlion Park, it may also be useful to know that there are restaurants and refreshment kiosks close by. These are easily accessible whether you are intending to just pick up something light or have a full meal.
There are also public restrooms close by.
There are also some interesting seating close at Merlion Park.
The best time to visit Merlion Park is early in the morning before it gets crowded with tourists. Visiting Merlion Park at this time also allows you to get that perfect shot of you drinking from the Merlion before the park gets overwhelmed with people.
From Merlion Park, it is possible to proceed to explore the Civic District, Esplanade Park and the Marina Bay area.
The Merlion Park is a must-visit-at-least-once location in Singapore. It poetically presents a historic link to the past while looking out to the future.
Have a wonderful time visiting Merlion Park. If you enjoyed this story, we think that you will also enjoy reading more about some interesting facts about the Merlion.
