Coolies, Towkays and the Gig Economy

English
Private group
Meet with guide
3hr Duration
5.0 / 5
2 reviews
Fuk Tai Chi Museum Entrance
Save to wishlist
  • From its origins as a Free Port, follow the trails of Towkays and Coolies along the Quays and Market places of Singapore
  • Discover temples hidden in plain sight, visit the house of a Triad boss, touch an original Coolie coin and understand how their daily Gig-economy had similarities and parallels to today's economy
  • Explore the huge divides between the Agent recruiters and their indentured "Piglets", as the labourers were sometimes called, the role of Indian money-lenders, subsidised gambling trains, and how the Coolie-coin system effectively removed real cash rewards
  • This tour will upend many of your assumptions and show things in a new light
  • Explore historic UNESCO Temples which were used as a hang-out by coolies and also to boost love-luck with incense sticks!
  • Understand why coolies were sometimes called "Piglets", how they were paid by Gigs and how they could spend it
  • Find out about the original subsidised Gambling trains to Malaysia!
  • Enjoy a refreshing themed tea inspired drink as you explore the former house of a Triad Boss, and a Coolie-coin themed cookie!
  • Receive a Coolie-coin Cookie as a gift, while you explore
Offers for you
12 off

Package options

Select options Clear all

Package type

Coolies, Towkays & the Gig Economy

Quantity

You must select at least 5 for this package
₫ 1,426,156

Complete all required fields to continue

What to expect

Fuk Tai Chi Museum
Fuk Tak Chi Temple is one of the oldest former monasteries in Singapore and has now become a museum
Hsu Chung-mao
Explore the history of Hsu Chung-mao during the tour
Enjoy
Having your great time with your friends and family for your holiday
Understand how their daily Gig-economy had similarities and parallels to today's economy
Understand how their daily Gig-economy had similarities and parallels to today's economy
Coolie Currency
Explore the artistic value of the Coolie Currency
Discover temples hidden in plain sight during the tour
Riverhouse is the latest multi-concept space in Clarke Quay, offering a modern Chinese restaurant
Explore UNESCO’s historic temples that were once used as coolies’ meeting places

Reviews

5.0 / 5
Fantastic
2 reviews
Sort by:
Filter by:
All With photos English only
Review for: Coolies, Towkays & the Gig Economy

The tour was a marvellous and insightful experience into the lives of those who came before. It was wonderful with Patrick as our guide who explained information thoroughly and with great thought and respect. Will definitely bring more peers in the future when things allow for larger groups. Definitely eye opening and compelling for the heart to shift our perspectives.

Helpful
Review for: Coolies, Towkays & the Gig Economy

Didn't manage to go on this tour but want to give kudos to the tour operator who very kindly offered a complimentary +1 pax for a rescheduled date.

Helpful

Contact us

Got a question about this activity? Ask us on live chat!

You might also like...

Singapore Shopping tours

Heritage Tour at Raffles Singapore

Step back in time and explore the rich history and enduring legacy of Raffles Singapore, one of the world's most treasured hotels!
Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Up to 3 hrs
Instant confirmation
5.0 50+ booked
₫ 1,221,605
Singapore Playgrounds

Kiztopia Prestige Ticket in Singapore (River Valley)

Kiztopia Ticket in Singapore (River Valley)
Instant confirmation
4.6 (121) 10K+ booked
₫ 290,325 ₫ 305,605
Singapore Day trips

Singapore City Hall Half-Day Colonial History Tour

Indulge in a sumptuous riverside lunch, featuring local delicacies and international cuisine, while soaking in the scenic views of the Singapore River!
English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
5.0 50+ booked
₫ 1,201,027
Singapore Workshops

Clay & Culture: Exploring the Art of Clay Sculpture

Clay & Culture: Exploring the Art of Clay Sculpture
English guided
Up to 3 hrs
Instant confirmation
₫ 977,936
Singapore Food & dining

The Stamford Brasserie at Swissotel The Stamford, Singapore

The Stamford Brasserie is an all-in-one dining destination that brings to life the charm and exuberance of a classic French brasserie. Whether it's a quick business breakfast, a long overdue catch-up or a post-work sundowner, The Stamford Brasserie is your perfect place for the hour and occasion.
Book now for today
Instant confirmation
New Activity
₫ 865,881 ₫ 1,018,683
15 off
Sale
Singapore Wellness

Amore Fitness & Define

Book your slot now at Amore Fitness in Singapore and choose between group classes or personal training for your fitness journey!
English guided
Up to 3 hrs
Instant confirmation
4.1 100+ booked
₫ 977,936
Singapore Food & dining

Dating Fish Music Theme Restaurant in Chinatown

Book via Klook to enjoy a great Chinese cuisine experience at Dating Fish Music Theme Restaurant in Chinatown!
Book now for today
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.4 (20) 600+ booked
₫ 713,078 ₫ 1,018,683
Singapore Day trips

Singapore Half-Day Private Guided Tour

Enjoy amazing deals here when you book this Kopi & Cha: Bitter Brews with a Story!
Private tour
Private group
Instant confirmation
4.7 (73) 800+ booked
₫ 1,426,156
Singapore Workshops

Preserved Flower Garden Workshop in Singapore by J2 Terrarium

Unleash your creativity with J2 Terrarium on weekends once a month as you create your own preserved flower dome!
Up to 3 hrs
Instant confirmation
5.0 50+ booked
₫ 977,936

About the operator

Trending sights