Myanmar’s former capital and largest city, Yangon, is the country’s most important commercial centre. It is also fast becoming a popular tourist destination for Singaporeans. If you’re heading to Yangon, be sure to check out these top attractions.
1. Shwedagon Pagoda
Don’t leave Yangon without making a trip to the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda. Its sheer grandeur is one to marvel at and will definitely leave you awestruck – especially if you visit just before sunset. At 110 metres tall, the Shwedagon Pagoda towers above Yangon’s skyline. But more than being known for its height, the Shwedagon Pagoda is widely regarded as the most sacred pagoda in Myanmar.
This majestic pagoda features a gilded exterior and a diamond-encrusted stupa. Here, one can also get a closer look at relics from the past four Buddhas, such as the staff of Kakusanha and eight strands of Gautama’s hair.
2. Junction City
Located in the heart of Yangon’s Central Business District is Junction City, a world-class integrated development comprising Grade A office space – Junction City Tower, jointly developed by Keppel Land, a 5-star luxury hotel and a state-of-the-art retail mall and vibrant living spaces.
Opened in March 2017, Junction City Shopping Centre, a gleaming new retail destination is home to some of the world’s top brands such as Versace, Coach and Hugo Boss, among others.
The mall also boasts an array of state-of-the-art entertainment options, including the biggest Cineplex in Myanmar and largest indoor enrichment playground Kidzon. To satisfy your taste buds, head to the mall’s food court, which is also the country’s largest.
3. Yangon’s Circular Train Tour
To enjoy an authentically Yangon experience in a leisurely fashion, hop on a local train for just 200 kyat (S$0.20).
For the next three hours, you’ll be taken on a no-frills tour of Yangon. Watch the locals go about their daily errands, observe the sights, sounds and colours of the local markets, and relax as you comb the city’s tranquil outskirts. Don’t worry about getting lost – the train travels on a circular route around Yangon and will bring you back to your starting point.
4. Thiri Mingalar Market
This sprawling market boasts an impressive array of local fresh produce and local food of every kind. When you step into the Thiri Mingalar Market, you’ll be greeted by sights, sounds and smells unique to Myanmar, providing a glimpse of how the locals live.
When at the market, be sure to try Myanmar’s national dish, Mohinga, which is a bowl of steaming hot rice noodles in fish gravy. To top it off, end your meal on a sweet note with a refreshing dessert of fresh sugar cane, just like the locals do.
5. Chinatown
Located between 18th through 24th street, west of the Sule Pagoda in downtown Yangon, is the city’s Chinatown district, known for being a bustling hub of activity. Particularly in the evenings, the streets are lined with food vendors serving an array of local and regional delights.
20th street is well-known for its Chinese fare like grilled skewers and rice congee, while eateries along 19th street offer a dizzying array of delicacies including fresh skewers with chicken, asparagus, tofu, seafood and more. Whatever suits your fancy, it’ll be barbecued on the spot for you.
5. D’Cuisine (Sedona Hotel Yangon)
Cap off a long day of city exploration with a relaxing dinner at D’Cuisine, Sedona Hotel Yangon’s all-day dining restaurant. Serving a variety of Southeast Asian, East Asian and Western cuisine, this spacious modern restaurant offers both buffet and a la carte options. While you dine, watch the skilled chefs prepare their signature dishes in the show kitchens and ‘live’ stations. Or, shift your gaze towards the calming water features and swimming pool located just outside the restaurant.
Where to stay?
If you’re heading to Yangon, check out Sedona Hotel Yangon's Inya Wing – an elegant tower with 431 luxurious guest rooms and suites. The Inya Wing features a state-of-the-art fitness centre, restaurant, spa and executive club lounge.
The Inya Wing has also received the following awards:
- Winner of Best Hotel Architectural Design at 2016 Myanmar Property Awards
- Winner of Best Hotel Interior Design at 2016 Myanmar Property Awards
- Winner of Best Hotel Development at 2016 Myanmar Property Awards
- Winner of Best Commercial Development (Myanmar) at 2016 Myanmar Property Awards
What are you waiting for? Plan your stay at Sedona Hotel Yangon here!