Introduction
Johor is the third largest (19,984 sq km) and one of the most developed states in Peninsular Malaysia. It was named after the Sungei Johor, which is the longest river in the state. Situated at the southern tip of the peninsula, just across the Straits of Johor from Singapore (with which it is connected by a road and rail causeway). Its capital is Johor Bahru.
Getting there
By Air
Regular flights from Johor Bahru's Senai Airport connect the state capital with Kuala Terengganu, Kuantan, Kuching, and Kuala Lumpur.
By Rail
Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) offers numerous train services connecting Singapore and other states through the Johor Bahru Railway Station.
By Sea
A ferry link provides a new way to travel between Singapore and Malaysia. It operates daily between Changi Point near the Singapore International Airport and Tanjung Belungkor in Johor.
By Road
Taxis are a popular and cheap mode of transportation. All urban taxis are fitted with meters. It is also possible to hire an outstation taxi on a shared or individual basis to travel to Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Kuantan, and Kota Bahru. Johor Bahru is also well served by express buses offering comfortable rides at reasonable fares from all major cities and towns in Peninsular Malaysia.
Getting there
By Air
Regular flights from Johor Bahru's Senai Airport connect the state capital with Kuala Terengganu, Kuantan, Kuching, and Kuala Lumpur.
By Rail
Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) offers numerous train services connecting Singapore and other states through the Johor Bahru Railway Station.
By Sea
A ferry link provides a new way to travel between Singapore and Malaysia. It operates daily between Changi Point near the Singapore International Airport and Tanjung Belungkor in Johor.
By Road
Taxis are a popular and cheap mode of transportation. All urban taxis are fitted with meters. It is also possible to hire an outstation taxi on a shared or individual basis to travel to Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Kuantan, and Kota Bahru. Johor Bahru is also well served by express buses offering comfortable rides at reasonable fares from all major cities and towns in Peninsular Malaysia.
Culture
Zapin Dance
A dance form, believed to have been brought in by the Muslim missionaries from the Middle East in the 14th century.
Kuda Kepang
A dance or game usually performed by Javanese descended Johoreans. Performers straddle on Kuda Kepang, a legless horse puppet, during performance.
Zapin DanceA dance form, believed to have been brought in by the Muslim missionaries from the Middle East in the 14th century.
Kuda Kepang
A dance or game usually performed by Javanese descended Johoreans. Performers straddle on Kuda Kepang, a legless horse puppet, during performance.
Gambus
A musical instrument of the string family, originated from Arab.
A musical instrument of the string family, originated from Arab.
Attractions
Royal Abu Bakar Museum
It is said to be one of the finest museums in the world in terms of the ambience. The Royal Abu Bakar Museum occupies the Istana Besar, or Grand Palace, built by Sultan Abu Bakar in 1866. The museum was founded in 1990 by Johor's present ruler, His Majesty Sultan Iskandar, and its collection consists of the treasures of the Royal Family. In addition to an extensive art collection, the museum displays the ceremonial regalia, personal memorabilia, furniture, objets d'arts, and cultural artifacts accumulated by the Royal Family over the course of its reign.
Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque
Perched atop the hill overlooking the Straits of Johor, not far from the Grand Palace, the Sultan Abu Bakar mosque is regarded as one of the most beautiful mosques in Malaysia. Its architectural design and setting atop a hill with sweeping view of the Straits of Johor makes this mosque a famed landmark.
Sultan Ibrahim Building
This massive building on Bukit Timbalan dominates the skyline of Johor Bahru. The Saracenic character and fine mosaic detail particularly of the Grand Hall make it one of the most interesting buildings in Johor Bahru.
Istana Bukit Serene
This palace was completed in 1933 and is the current residence of the Sultan of Johor. Perched on high ground with a 350 m tower, the palace is a landmark to travelers coming from the north. It contains one of the most beautiful gardens in Johor and a private zoo.
Johor Art Gallery
Located at Jalan Petri, the Johor Art Gallery holds and interesting collection of historical costumes, weapons, currency, manuscripts, ceramics and paintings. The gallery, built in 1910, offers an interesting journey through Johor's history.
It is said to be one of the finest museums in the world in terms of the ambience. The Royal Abu Bakar Museum occupies the Istana Besar, or Grand Palace, built by Sultan Abu Bakar in 1866. The museum was founded in 1990 by Johor's present ruler, His Majesty Sultan Iskandar, and its collection consists of the treasures of the Royal Family. In addition to an extensive art collection, the museum displays the ceremonial regalia, personal memorabilia, furniture, objets d'arts, and cultural artifacts accumulated by the Royal Family over the course of its reign.
Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque
Perched atop the hill overlooking the Straits of Johor, not far from the Grand Palace, the Sultan Abu Bakar mosque is regarded as one of the most beautiful mosques in Malaysia. Its architectural design and setting atop a hill with sweeping view of the Straits of Johor makes this mosque a famed landmark.
Sultan Ibrahim Building
This massive building on Bukit Timbalan dominates the skyline of Johor Bahru. The Saracenic character and fine mosaic detail particularly of the Grand Hall make it one of the most interesting buildings in Johor Bahru.
Istana Bukit Serene
This palace was completed in 1933 and is the current residence of the Sultan of Johor. Perched on high ground with a 350 m tower, the palace is a landmark to travelers coming from the north. It contains one of the most beautiful gardens in Johor and a private zoo.
Johor Art GalleryLocated at Jalan Petri, the Johor Art Gallery holds and interesting collection of historical costumes, weapons, currency, manuscripts, ceramics and paintings. The gallery, built in 1910, offers an interesting journey through Johor's history.
Johor Area Rehabilitation Organization
The Johor Area Rehabilitation Organization (JARO) offers handicrafts made by inmates in the form of cane furniture, stuffed toys, quilted bedspreads and woven products. Situated on Jalan Chat, it is open daily except Sundays and Public holidays.
Johor Lama
Once the royal seat of the Johor Empire, Johor Lama is a little village 30 kilometers from Johor Bahru. However, after the fall of Melaka it became the royal capital of the Sultans of Johor until the final destruction of the town fort by the Portuguese in 1587. History buffs will be able to see its restored earth mound fort.
Tanjung Piai
Tanjung Piai is situated in the midst of an extensive area of mangrove forest, provides visitors with a glimpse of the richness of Malaysia's coastal fauna as well as an experience of traditional kampung life. Another attraction here is to see how gula melaka (brown sugar) is processed the traditional way and the collection of honey at the honey bee farm.
The Johor Area Rehabilitation Organization (JARO) offers handicrafts made by inmates in the form of cane furniture, stuffed toys, quilted bedspreads and woven products. Situated on Jalan Chat, it is open daily except Sundays and Public holidays.
Johor Lama
Once the royal seat of the Johor Empire, Johor Lama is a little village 30 kilometers from Johor Bahru. However, after the fall of Melaka it became the royal capital of the Sultans of Johor until the final destruction of the town fort by the Portuguese in 1587. History buffs will be able to see its restored earth mound fort.
Tanjung PiaiTanjung Piai is situated in the midst of an extensive area of mangrove forest, provides visitors with a glimpse of the richness of Malaysia's coastal fauna as well as an experience of traditional kampung life. Another attraction here is to see how gula melaka (brown sugar) is processed the traditional way and the collection of honey at the honey bee farm.
Ayer Hitam 
Ayer Itam is a small town famous for its ceramic. A wide arrange of ceramic is available including vases and jars, home ornamental pieces, flower pots and other attractive gift items. It is also a good place to sample local tidbit such as prawn crackers, tapioca chips, steamed corn and 'otak otak'.
Orchid Valley
The Valley spans a massive 100 acres of land at the foothills of Gunung Pulai. Visitors to this floral paradise will be able to view over 80 species of exotic tropical orchids. Visitors can also purchase cut-orchids and plants as well as pretty orchid motif souvenirs.
Ayer Itam is a small town famous for its ceramic. A wide arrange of ceramic is available including vases and jars, home ornamental pieces, flower pots and other attractive gift items. It is also a good place to sample local tidbit such as prawn crackers, tapioca chips, steamed corn and 'otak otak'.
Orchid ValleyThe Valley spans a massive 100 acres of land at the foothills of Gunung Pulai. Visitors to this floral paradise will be able to view over 80 species of exotic tropical orchids. Visitors can also purchase cut-orchids and plants as well as pretty orchid motif souvenirs.
Gunung Pulai Recreation Forest
Gunung Pulai is a flora and fauna sanctuary and a recreational haven for nature lovers. Its waterfalls with their natural polls provide a refreshing ambiance and make it an ideal spot for picnickers. The park is also a venue of seminars, work camps, and jungle trekking to the summit of Gunung Pulai.
Muar
Muar also known as Bandar Maharani or ‘Town of the Princess’ is popular for its delicious and inexpensive foods served by food stalls and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a drive or stroll along tree-lined Jalan Tanjung, which follows the river mouth on the south side. Along this road, you will see mosques, old colonial houses, government buildings and a beautiful park.
Danga Bay
Danga Bay stretches for about 3km, and is actually the waterfront of Johor Bahru. To view the causeway that links Johor to Singapore, try out a dinner cruise that is available here.
Gunung Ledang
Home of the legendary Princess 'Puteri Gunung Ledang' once wooed by the Sultan of Melaka. The Sultan had heard of her beauty and wanted to marry her but she set seven impossible conditions for him. The Sultan was not able to fulfill all of her request. A popular spot for jungle trekking and mountain climbing. There are trails for those attempting the climb to the summit of this 1276 meter mountain. The Sagil waterfall at the base of the mountain is a popular spot for picnicking. There is a resort for visitors who wish to extend their stay to enjoy the cool and refreshing natural environment.
Kota Tinggi Waterfalls
Located 56 kilometers northeast of Johor Bahru, these waterfalls have been a traditionally favorite spot for picnicking among both local and foreign visitors. The highest waterfall cascades 32 meters into a pool. There are chalets for overnight accommodation as well as a camping site. On the way t Kota Tinggi, stop by Ulu Tiram Estate to see how oil palm is cultivated and processed.
Endau-Rompin National Park
Endau-Rompin National Park spans the borders of Johor and Pahang, covering a vast area of 488 square kilometers. This ancient tropical rainforest is home to variety of large and small mammals, insects, fish and birds. It is said to be one of the last remaining sanctuary of tropical flora and fauna in this region. Mostly hilly, the park is watershed of several rivers including the Sungai Endau, Sungai Selai and Sungai Jasin.
Desaru
Johor's premier beach resort is at Desaru, a magnificent 25 kilometers stretch of sandy beach flanking the South China Sea. Desaru, offering visitors all kinds of activities such as swimming, boating, canoeing fishing, snorkeling, golfing and jungle tracking.
Pasir Gudang
The Federation International Motorcycle (FIM) has given the honor to his circuit to host one of the legs of the World Motorcycle Championship in 1998.It is one of the only two legs to be held in Asia. Despite its international status, this circuit is open to any motorsport enthusiasts to sample the thrill and spill of the speed adventure.
Gunung Pulai is a flora and fauna sanctuary and a recreational haven for nature lovers. Its waterfalls with their natural polls provide a refreshing ambiance and make it an ideal spot for picnickers. The park is also a venue of seminars, work camps, and jungle trekking to the summit of Gunung Pulai.
Muar
Muar also known as Bandar Maharani or ‘Town of the Princess’ is popular for its delicious and inexpensive foods served by food stalls and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a drive or stroll along tree-lined Jalan Tanjung, which follows the river mouth on the south side. Along this road, you will see mosques, old colonial houses, government buildings and a beautiful park.
Danga Bay
Danga Bay stretches for about 3km, and is actually the waterfront of Johor Bahru. To view the causeway that links Johor to Singapore, try out a dinner cruise that is available here.
Gunung Ledang
Home of the legendary Princess 'Puteri Gunung Ledang' once wooed by the Sultan of Melaka. The Sultan had heard of her beauty and wanted to marry her but she set seven impossible conditions for him. The Sultan was not able to fulfill all of her request. A popular spot for jungle trekking and mountain climbing. There are trails for those attempting the climb to the summit of this 1276 meter mountain. The Sagil waterfall at the base of the mountain is a popular spot for picnicking. There is a resort for visitors who wish to extend their stay to enjoy the cool and refreshing natural environment.
Kota Tinggi Waterfalls
Located 56 kilometers northeast of Johor Bahru, these waterfalls have been a traditionally favorite spot for picnicking among both local and foreign visitors. The highest waterfall cascades 32 meters into a pool. There are chalets for overnight accommodation as well as a camping site. On the way t Kota Tinggi, stop by Ulu Tiram Estate to see how oil palm is cultivated and processed.
Endau-Rompin National Park
Endau-Rompin National Park spans the borders of Johor and Pahang, covering a vast area of 488 square kilometers. This ancient tropical rainforest is home to variety of large and small mammals, insects, fish and birds. It is said to be one of the last remaining sanctuary of tropical flora and fauna in this region. Mostly hilly, the park is watershed of several rivers including the Sungai Endau, Sungai Selai and Sungai Jasin.
Desaru
Johor's premier beach resort is at Desaru, a magnificent 25 kilometers stretch of sandy beach flanking the South China Sea. Desaru, offering visitors all kinds of activities such as swimming, boating, canoeing fishing, snorkeling, golfing and jungle tracking.
Pasir Gudang
The Federation International Motorcycle (FIM) has given the honor to his circuit to host one of the legs of the World Motorcycle Championship in 1998.It is one of the only two legs to be held in Asia. Despite its international status, this circuit is open to any motorsport enthusiasts to sample the thrill and spill of the speed adventure.
Contact:
Majlis Tindakan Pelancongan Negeri Johor,
Aras 5-4, Pusat Penerangan Pelancongan Negeri Johor (Jotic),
No. 2, Jalan Air Molek,
80000 Johor Bahru,Malaysia.
Tel: 607-223 4935, 607-224 9960, 607-224 1432
Faks: 607-223 7554
3 comments:
Johor offers great getaways like Gunung Ledang and Endau Rompin ... two fantastic nature sites. For more nature adventure check out www.nature-escapes-kuala-lumpur.com to see what else Peninsula Malaysia offers.
Hey,
Thanks for the lovely post.After reading your post.I feel like visiting Malaysia.
hi
Really I was not knowing this many things about Malaysia Thanks for updating me and making me to know more about Malaysia. Thank you
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