Things To Do
The Ultimate Guide: 30 Fun Things To Do With Your Buddies In Johor (2019 Edition)
Hello, friends! Every now and then, it is so important to break out from your usual routine and discover something new. It doesn’t matter if you’re staying in Johor, or planning for a visit! The Ultimate Guide: 30 Fun Things To Do With Your Buddies In Johor uncovers the best activities to do. With so many different activities, we are sure that you will find something that’s worth noting in your itinerary!
30 Fun Things To Do In Johor
1. Check out Legoland Malaysia
It’s tough to write about things to do in Johor without mentioning Legoland Malaysia. Believe it or not, but Legoland is a rarity. There are only eight in the whole world! It is definitely worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. After all, where else are you going to find a spot that is completely Lego-themed? Find Star Wars Miniland, and even the world’s very first Lego VR Coaster!
Address: No 7, Jalan Legoland, Bandar Medini, 79250 Nusajaya, Johor
Operating Hours: Opens daily, Monday to Thursday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Friday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Link(s): Website
2. Capture the beauty of Istana Bukit Serene
Unless you are part of the royal family, or you are working in the palace, going to the palace is definitely not part of your usual routine. Traveling from the Skudai freeway, it is hard to miss the iconic Istana Bukit Serene. Being one of the most famous tourist attractions in Johor, the historical building presented by the Johor government to the late Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Abu Bakar features a crown archway. Snap away!
Address: Jalan Kolam Air, Bukit Serene, 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor
Operating Hours: 24 hours
3. Weekend trips to the islands
Believe it or not, but there are more than ten islands that are near to Mersing, Johor. These islands offer pristine beaches, clear waters, and untouched sceneries. If you are looking for a place to relax and unplug from technology, Pulau Rawa is your dream spot. The small island has no televisions or even telephone lines. This is the ultimate relaxation!
Check out Rawa Island Resort here.
4. Feast on the best food Johor has to offer
If we didn’t mention Johor’s local food scene in our top five, then you are not reading Johor Foodie. The local food scene in Johor is unbelievably great with hidden gems tucked in every corner. Try out fluffy yet crispy roti canai from Bukit Chagar Roti Canai, or even laksa with the most wholesome broth at W.W. Laksa House. We have a big appetite for food adventure!
Check out 10 Local Delights You Can’t Miss In Johor (2019 Guide)
5. Visiting the only glass temple in Malaysia
Here’s a little fun fact; Johor is the state that houses the first and only glass temple. It’s so remarkable that Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple has been listed on Malaysian Book of Records since 12th May 2010. Johor Bahru’s oldest Hindu temple was inspired by Guru Bhagawan Sittar’s trip to Bangkok. The colourful temple is embellished with 300,000 of glasses!
Address: Jalan Tun Abdul Razak 1/1, Wadi Hana, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor
Operating Hours: Opens daily, 6:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
6. Explore the state mosque with Victorian architecture
Constructed between 1892 to 1900, Johor’s state mosque, Sultan Abu Bakar features an English-Victorian architecture. It has influences from Moorish architecture. Located on top of a prominent hill, the mosque boasts beautiful greenery all around. If you’re one of the many people who are fascinated by architecture, this is surely a must-visit!
Address: Jalan Gertak Merah, Masjid Sultan Abu Bakar, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
Operating Hours: Hours unknown.
7. Find trinkets at Bazaar Karat
Say it after us, shopping time is the best time! Bazaar Karat, also known as Pasar Karat, is one of the many famous places in Johor to find affordable clothing, trinkets, and household items. The underrated night market has a wide range of food and beverages at a reasonable price. Join the crowd and be part of the hustle and bustle of the city at night!
Address: 26, 20, Jalan Segget, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
Operating Hours: Opens daily, Monday to Friday, 6:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m., Saturday and Sunday, 7:30 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
8. Learn about the animal kingdom at Johor Zoo
Animals are beautiful creatures! Johor Zoo is a great spot to learn all about them. You will find all types of animals at the zoo including tigers, lions, bears, camels, elephants, and so many more! Indeed, it is a bang for your bucks considering that the entrance fee is only RM2 for an adult ticket. A good way to spend the day. What’s not to love about Johor Zoo?
Address: Jalan Gertak Merah, Taman Istana, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
Operating Hours: Opens daily, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
9. Go shopping at Johor Premium Outlets
A wise lady once said, “whoever said that money can’t buy happiness simply didn’t know where to go shopping”. That wise lady is none other than Bo Derek. Johor Premium Outlets is one of the shopping heavens in Malaysia. It offers branded goods that are normally half the price. Find brands including Armani Exchange, Calvin Klein, Coach, Furla, and even Jimmy Choo!
Address: Jalan Premium Outlets Indahpura, 81000 Kulai, Johor
Operating Hours: Opens daily, 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Link(s): Website
10. Cheap thrills at Danga Bay
If you are looking for some cheap thrills, you will need to drop by Danga Bay! It is nothing flashy in comparison with other amusement parks in Johor, but it will do the trick. As it caters to the community more than tourists, it is affordably priced from RM4 to RM8 per ride. While you are visiting here, remember to check out the iconic carousel that lights up beautifully at night time.
Address: Jalan Bertingkat Skudai, Danga Bay, 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor
Operating Hours: Opens daily, Monday to Saturday, 7:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., Sunday, 7:30 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
11. Relax on the pristine Desaru Beach
Sure, weekend trips to the islands will always be an excellent choice. However, what if you are looking for something less costly, Desaru Beach is the spot that you are looking for. Known for its pristine beach overseeing the South China Sea, it is a must-visit during sunset. Make some sandwiches, and some sweet teas, and go to Desaru Beach to relax!
Address: 82200 Bandar Penawar, Johor.
12. See the night sky light up with stars and fireflies
This is probably a surprise for you! We bet that you didn’t this type of activity to be listed on things to do in Johor. Located in Firefly Valley Leisure Park, there is a ferry that takes you to a mangrove swamp during the night. You will see fireflies and a sky full of stars. However, the numbers of fireflies have been decreasing over the years. It’s approximately RM20 per passenger.
Address: Firefly Valley Leisure Park, Jalan Jemaluang, Kota Tinggi, Johor.
Operating Hours: Opens daily, 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
13. Sleep in Hello Kitty themed hotel bedrooms
You might have heard about Sanrio Hello Kitty Town, a famous theme park after Legoland Malaysia. But, did you know that there are Hello Kitty themed hotel bedrooms as well? If you’re a big fan of Hello Kitty, you will need to check these hotel bedrooms out. There are several series including Hello Kitty Pink Series, Hello Kitty in Oz Series, and Hello Kitty Sailor Series.
Links(s): Website
14. Take a stroll at Puteri Harbour
Puteri Harbour is definitely a good place to escape the bustling city. Count all the different shapes and sizes of yachts, or simply take a calming stroll and relax. Apart from this, you can also check out Marina Walk’s retails and dining! Of course, it is also the same spot that houses Sanrio Hello Kitty Town, Thomas Town, and Bob the Builder. Can we visit Puteri Harbour? Yes, we can!
Address: Persiaran Puteri Selatan, Kota Iskandar, 79100 Nusajaya, Johor
Operating Hours: Opens daily, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Link(s): Website
15. Go cafe hopping in town
Here is another treat for true Foodies! When you are in Johor, you must check out the cafe scene. Without a doubt, Johor houses some marvelous cafes that are worth visiting. From cafes with a variety of cakes to the best spots for a coffee fix, we got you covered. Are you ready to start your cafe adventure? All you need to do is click here to start exploring!
16. Battle it out on a paintball field
There are not many states in Malaysia with paintball activities. Lucky for all of us, there’s one located in Johor Bahru. If you have never heard about paintballing before, it’s a game in which participants simulate military combat using airguns to shoot capsules containing paint. Exciting, isn’t it? You can check out Dynamic Paintball Johor for more information!
Address: UTM Skudai, Johor Bahru
Operating Hours: Opens daily, 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Link(s): Facebook
17. Catch the latest movies luxuriously
In Johor, you can feel like royalty while catching the latest movies. Step into Emperor Cinema, and you will notice that it is a little different than regular cinemas. The luxe cinema comes with comfortable seats, friendly services, and also delectable Hong Kong treats. If you are looking to kick back, relax, and watch the latest movies, this is where you can do it in style.
Address: Emperor Cinemas Malaysia Sdn Bhd 1-C &2-C R&F Mall, Mercu 1, Jalan Tanjung Puteri, 1, R&F, Tanjung Puteri, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor.
Operating Hours: Unknown
18. Get wet and wild at Desaru Coast Adventure Park
One thing for sure, there are many theme parks located in Johor. Here’s another spot for you to check off your list, Desaru Coast Adventure Park. It is time to get wet and wild with several thrilling rides. Kraken’s Revenge is a must-ride for adrenaline junkies. It starts from 30 meters above ground and then swoops down two full 360-degree loops before diving 27 meters! Thrilling.
You can view this deal at Klook.
Address: Persiaran Pantai, Desaru Coast, 81930 Bandar Penawar, Johor
Operating Hours: Opens daily, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
19. Check out Johor’s only sky bridge
A trip to Johor wouldn’t be complete without seeing the entire state from a bird’s-eye view. One of the best spots to see everything is at Menara JLand. On the highest floor of the tower, there’s an observation deck complete with a sky bridge. If you are afraid of heights, don’t look down! For RM28, the price includes the entrance to the observation deck, mini theatre, LED tunnel, and VR room!
You can view this deal on Klook.
Address: MENARA JLAND, 8000, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
Operating Hours: Unknown
20. Conquer the legendary Gunung Ledang
If you are a Malaysian, we are sure that you have heard the story about the legendary Puteri Gunung Ledang. The story is about a Sultan wanting to marry a princess, and she listed seven impossible tasks for him to accomplish. Gunung Ledang is possible to climb, but not easy. Standing at 1,267 meters, the mountain promises a breathtaking view of Puteri Waterfall.
Address: Gunung Ledang National Park
21. Have a fun time go-karting
Adrenaline junkies, let’s unite for another round of fun! Believe it or not, there are many thrilling activities in Johor including go-karting. Permas Go-Kart circuit is the longest go-karting circuit you will find in Malaysia. The adventurous track gives allow you to overtake with a high speed of 160 kilometers per hour. It is time to grab your ride or die partner!
Address: Jalan Bunga Matahari, Taman Plentong Baru, 81750 Johor Bahru, Johor
Operating Hours: Opens daily, Monday to Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Link(s): Facebook
22. Snap away at the Instagram-worthy Spring Labs
Fun trips are never complete without a fun photo session at an Instagram-worthy spot. Shutterbugs will be impressed with Spring Labs. You will beautiful stripped buildings in every corner. Even the common 7-Eleven deserves a second glance. Come here for afternoon tea as it houses different cafes including Tropique Cafe that serves delightful treats!
Address: Jalan Ekoflora Utama, Taman Eko Flora, Johor
Operating Hours: Opens daily, 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
23. See the world’s longest and largest dragon tunnel
Did you know that there’s a yellow dragon residing in Johor? It is not just any dragon. It is the world’s longest, and largest dragon. If you are brave enough, you can enter it. Kidding! However, Dragon Tunnel is a fascinating sight. Upon entering, you will find stories, paintings, and even zodiac readings. It is a fun way to find out more about your zodiac. Not every day you can read it from a dragon’s stomach!
Address: 83700 Yong Peng, Johor
Operating Hours: Opens daily, 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
24. Ride bikes without a license
The fun doesn’t stop at go-karting. We are going to continue the thrilling list with dirt biking. If your parents never approve of a motorcycle license, but you want to try it anyway, this is it! At Tristan Park, you will get to ride dirt bikes without a need for a motorcycle license. No worries, there will be instructors teaching you to ride it properly. Listen carefully, though.
Address: 11, 21, Jalan Kekabu 7, Taman Desa Cemerlang, 81800 Ulu Tiram, Johor
Operating Hours: Unknown
Link(s): Website
25. Feast your eyes on Larkin Stadium
Visiting football stadium is an activity that most people do when they visit a European country. We bet that you didn’t know you can visit a football stadium right here. Named as Tan Sri Dato’ Haji Hassan Yunos Stadium, it is popularly known as Home of the Southern Tigers. The super big stadium holds up to 30,000 people, and it has striking colours of dark blue and dark red.
Address: Jalan Dato Jaafar, Larkin, 80350 Johor Bahru, Johor
Link(s): Website
26. Drop by Chinese Old Temple
Have you ever watched the film Up by Walt Disney Pictures? Right before Carl and his house took off with a bunch of balloons, his house was surrounded by skyscrapers. Well, Chinese Old Temple isn’t any different than that scene. Being one of the oldest building in Johor, the symbol of five Chinese ethnic groups is surrounded by skyscrapers all around.
Address: Lot 653, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
Operating Hours: Opens daily, 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
27. Stay on a treehouse
“Would you spend a month without an Internet connection in this cabin?” is a frequent Facebook post you will see while scrolling. Well, there’s no one million dollars to be given out. But, Koref Desaru Leisure Farm looks super fun and relaxing. It is equipped with tree houses, igloo houses, and farm animals. It is time to ditch the city life for a weekend!
Address: 213, 81930 Kota Tinggi, Johor
Operating Hours: Unknown
Link(s): Website
28. Close up and personal with 15 feet long crocodiles
It is not everyday you will have the chance to see a real-life crocodile! Crocodile farms are pretty rare in Malaysia, and most of them are located in East Malaysia. Tucked in Kota Tinggi, Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm is one hour drive away from Johor Bahru. You will get to see crocodiles in different shapes and sizes, and learn about them too! Entrance fee is less than RM 10 per person.
Address: Teluk Sengat, Kota Tinggi, Johor, 81920, Ayer Tawar 2, Johor
Operating Hours: Opens daily, 9:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
29. Plan a trip to (Little) Paris
While you are in Johor, you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars to visit Paris, France. Instead of the conventional Chinatowns and Little Indias that are scattered across Malaysia, Johor has Little Paris. You will find shophouses that are similar to the stores in Paris, comprising of nail salons and cutest cafes. Be mesmerised as the little city lights up at night.
Address: Jalan Jaya Putra 1/1, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
Operating Hours: Hours unknown.
30. Visit Johor Bahru’s old town
After all the fun thing on the list, we are going to end with something vanilla, but it is a must-do. Strolling along the famous Jalan Tan Hiok Nee and the neighbouring street, Jalan Dhoby. You will find many historic buildings with influences from Chinese and Indian heritages. Of course, bring out your camera and strike your best pose. After all, you’re in one of the best spots in Johor!
What are you going to do in Johor?
With so many fun activities from staying on at treehouse to seeing fireflies at night; what are you most excited to do when you are in Johor? Don’t forget to start planning your foodie trip as well. As usual, you can check out our Facebook page for food videos, or linger around here to find the best places to eat! Hopefully, this list has helped you to plan your trip better!
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