The Ultimate Guide to Singapore's Jewel Changi Airport
Visiting Singapore's spectacular airport can be surprisingly tricky to plan. Is Jewel worth it? What can you do on a layover? Stop overcomplicating it—this is the only guide you'll need.
TIME NEEDED | 2 - 5 hours
WHERE TO STAY | Crowne Plaza
TOP THINGS TO SEE | Rain Vortex, Shisheido Forest Valley, Canopy Park
HOW TO GET AROUND | Skytrain or walking
BEST TIME TO VISIT | in the evening for Rain Vortex light show
We'll be honest, the first time we planned a trip through Singapore, we were completely overwhelmed by all the options at Changi Airport. A waterfall? A forest? A rooftop park? It sounded incredible, but we had so many questions. Is it really that easy to visit on a layover? What's actually worth your time?
That's exactly why we wrote this guide. Whether you're trying to maximize a long layover or just want to make the most of your first few hours in Singapore, consider this your personal playbook. We're breaking down everything: from navigating Jewel's stunning Rain Vortex and Canopy Park, to uncovering the hidden gems in each terminal, and even helping you choose the perfect airport hotel. Consider the planning done and you can focus on the fun.
READ | 22 Unforgettable Things to Do in Singapore
What is the Jewel? The Heart of Changi Airport
So, you’ve probably seen the photos of that incredible indoor waterfall, the Rain Vortex, and wondered what this place really is. Well, Jewel Changi Airport isn't a terminal; it's a world-class lifestyle hub and nature-themed entertainment complex connected to Terminal 1.
Think of it as a breathtaking glass dome where you can find a sprawling indoor forest, a rooftop park with mazes and bridges, hundreds of shops and restaurants, and yes, that stunning waterfall as its centerpiece. But here's the most crucial thing to know: Jewel is located in the public, landside area. This means it's outside the secure transit zone, so visiting it on a short layover without a visa isn't possible.
This guide is perfect for anyone with a long connection they can exit from, or for those starting or ending their Singapore adventure. Let's dive into everything you need to know to explore it!
READ | Plan your perfect Singapore Trip: Our Itineraries for 3 to 5 Days!
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Location & Access
We struggled a little bit navigating the airport and getting to Jewel. Having a broad picture before you go will definitely make your visit easier, so we'll try to break it down here:
From other Changi Terminals: It's free and easy! From T2 and T3, just follow the signs to the direct, covered link bridges. You can also take the free skytrain to Terminal 1 and follow the indoor walkways that lead directly to Jewel. From T4, a free shuttle bus will take you to T2, from where you can walk over. See the official map below for estimated walking distances.
From Downtown Singapore: The MRT on the green East-West Line goes directly to Changi Airport Station (CG2). For a direct ride, you can also take a Grab or book a reliable airport transfer service in advance.
On a layover? To visit Jewel, you must be able to clear Singapore immigration. This means you need a valid passport (often from a country eligible for a visa-on-arrival) and enough time. The process is: deplane → clear immigration → visit Jewel → re-clear immigration → check security at the departure gate for your next flight. We recommend a layover of at least 5 hours to do this comfortably.
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Luggage Storage & Early Check-in
Don’t want to drag your suitcase around? No problem. There are Left Baggage facilities available at each terminal, where you can store your bags for a fee.
If you’ve arrived to the airport with more than enough time, you can even check in early. The official Early Check-in Lounge on Level 1 of Jewel allows you to check in and drop your bags up to 24 hours before your flight. We used it with Scoot and it was a quick process using the self-service kiosks, and the staff were lovely and ready to help. Just check online beforehand to see if your airline offers this service.
Once you’re checked in and baggage-free, you can truly relax. If you want to level up your wait, you can book access to a comfortable airport lounge that includes amenities like a food buffet, work corners, and refreshing showers.
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How Much Time Do You Need?
Plan for at least 2 to 3 hours for Jewel alone if you want to see the Rain Vortex, walk through the Forest Valley, and maybe do a bit of shopping or eating. If you plan to visit the paid Canopy Park attractions, add another 1-2 hours. But we wouldn’t judge anyone spending a whole day here! There is so much to see and do.
We arrived 4.5 hours before our flight, explored Jewel, and popped into Terminals 1 and 2 via the skytrain, but it was quite a hectic rush. Our biggest tip? Always plan around 2 hours to leave Jewel prior to your departure. You'll need to clear passport control and then a separate security screening right at your departure gate. While immigration clearance is typically quick and efficient for many passport holders (it took us just seconds). Remember, the walking distances are long and you don't want to be stressed, so plan enough time.
OPEN | Jewel complex: 24 hours
OPEN | Rain Vortex and Shops: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Exploring the Jewel: A Guide to Its Wonders
The Rain Vortex & Shiseido Forest Valley
This is the breathtaking heart of Jewel. The moment you step inside, your eyes will be drawn to the Rain Vortex: the world's tallest indoor waterfall, cascading down seven stories. It's surrounded by the Shiseido Forest Valley, a lush, multi-level tropical garden where you can wander winding paths, find a bench to relax on, and discover different photo opportunities from every level and all completely free. For the classic shot, head to the ground floor, but the higher walkways offer more unique perspectives. Be sure to stick around for the evening, when the waterfall transforms into a dazzling canvas for a spectacular light and sound show.
SHOW TIME | 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. daily, on the hour.
Skytrain: The Iconic Ride Through Jewel
You've probably seen the viral video: a train gliding in between the Rain Vortex. That's the free airport Skytrain, which connects Terminals 1, 2, and 3. To get that iconic, picture-perfect view of the waterfall from inside the train, you need to be on the route that travels directly through Jewel. Make sure you're on the line between Terminal 2 (at Transfer E) and Terminal 3 (at Transfer B) for that unforgettable moment.
Canopy Park & Its Paid Attractions
Head up to Level 5 for the Canopy Park, where the fun really kicks off. This is a separate paid area, but for around 8 SGD, we think it's well worth it for the unique experience and the stunning overhead views of the Rain Vortex below. We unfortunately didn't have enough time for it, but it's definitely high on our list for next time.
Your entry includes a whimsical collection of gardens and play areas, from the Discovery Slides and Foggy Bowls to the Petal Garden and Topiary Walk. A great feature is that re-entry is allowed, so you can visit once by day and then return for a spectacular, elevated view of the evening light show.
Beyond the main park, other major attractions require separate tickets. These include the Canopy Bridge, Hedge Maze, Mirror Maze, the Walking and Bouncing Nets, and the Changi Experience Studio, an interactive digital attraction. You can save by booking a bundled ticket that includes several of these.
BOOK | Save on admissions by booking through klook
OPEN | 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. or 10 p.m.
Other Things to Do: Shop, Eat & Relax
Beyond the stunning nature, Jewel is a fantastic place for some classic retail therapy and authentic local flavors. You can browse everything from high-street fashion to unique souvenirs across its 280 shops.
When hunger strikes, the options range from international cafes to a must-try Singaporean breakfast of Kaya Toast. And because this is Singapore, there obviously is a hawker centre-style food court in every terminal for a quick, delicious, and affordable taste of local dishes.
Beyond Jewel: Changi's Incredible Terminal Attractions
Here's a secret we wish we'd known earlier: Jewel is just the beginning. Changi Airport packs amazing attractions into every one of its terminals, both before and after security. If you're in transit and want to explore these landside spots, you'll need to clear immigration first. Just make sure you're eligible for a visa (check the official Immigration website) and have your Arrival Card ready to go.
Terminal 1
Transit:
Water Lily Garden: A peaceful rooftop garden.
Cactus Garden: An open-air garden with hundreds of cacti.
Discovery Garden: An interactive garden for kids.
Free Singapore Tour: A chance to explore the city on a layover (registration required).
Public:
Kinetic Rain: The famous sculpture of moving droplets in the departure hall.
Terminal 2
Transit:
Sunflower Garden: A bright and cheerful rooftop garden
Dreamscape: A cool, immersive LED light display on the ceiling
Enchanted Garden: A beautiful garden filled with orchids and motion sensors that trigger sounds and lights
Public:
The Wonderfall: A massive, digital screen waterfall
Bamboo Grove
Flap Pix
Griddy Grid: The floor is lava
Terminal 3
Transit:
Butterfly GardenA two-story, open-air enclosure with a waterfall and over 1,000 tropical butterflies
Movie Theatre: A free 24/7 cinema
Free Cocktail: A complimentary Singapore Sling at the Raffles Bar
Public:
Slide@T3: A giant, fun slide in the public area
Climb@T3:
Terminal 4
Transit:
Heritage Zone: A street of Peranakan shophouses with food and a gallery
The Chandelier: A beautiful art installation that doubles as a slide
Entertainment corner
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WHERE TO STAY IN SINGAPORE?
If you have an early morning flight, a very late arrival, or a long layover you want to maximize, then staying at an airport hotel is a game-changer for convenience and stress-free travel.
However, if you have a day or more for sightseeing and want to be in the heart of the action and steps away from hawker centers, Marina Bay, and vibrant neighborhoods then basing yourself in the city center is the way to go.
BUDGET | We loved our modern, spotless room at ST Signature Jalan Besar in vibrant Little India. With the MRT station right outside and endless affordable eateries, it's perfectly located for exploring Singapore.
COMFORT | For stylish rooms in a prime location, choose The Claude Hotel in Chinatown. You'll enjoy an outdoor pool and be steps away from great food and culture.
ESCAPE | For ultimate airport convenience, Crowne Plaza offers spacious rooms, a pool, and excellent service. It's directly connected to Terminal 3, making early flights stress-free.
Final Verdict & Conclusion
Is Jewel Changi the mind-blowing destination it's sometimes made out to be? While it's essentially a stunning mall with an amazing indoor garden, it's undoubtedly incredible for an airport.
If you have a long layover you can exit from, it's the perfect way to spend a few hours without the stress of going into the city. For those starting or ending their Singapore trip here, it makes for a fantastic and convenient first or last impression.
Ultimately, Jewel is the kind of place that makes you wish every long flight connection could be this pleasant and interesting. It might not be a standalone reason to fly to Singapore, but it's easily the world's best airport experience.
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
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Yes, but only if you can clear Singapore immigration. This typically requires a passport from a country eligible for a visa-on-arrival. We recommend doing this with a layover of at least 5 hours.
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We recommend 2-3 hours to see the Rain Vortex and Forest Valley. Add an extra 1-2 hours if you plan to visit the paid Canopy Park attractions.
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Yes! There are luggage facilities where you can store your bags for a few hours for a small fee, which is perfect for layovers. Or do an early check-in with no extra charge for your check-in baggage.
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Yes, entering Jewel and seeing the Rain Vortex and Forest Valley is completely free. You only need to pay for the Canopy Park attractions, like the hedge mazes, or the Sky Nets.
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Yes. Since Jewel is located landside (before immigration), you will need to go through clearance again after you leave Jewel and head to your departure gate for the security check. Be sure to allow enough time for this.
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