Visiting a war memorial is not exactly the first thing people would think of doing in Singapore, in fact it probably didn't occur to too many that there are memorials outside of Europe and the Middle East! Here is a slice of Singapore’s history. Take some time out of your day in Singapore and wander through the memorial, there you find peace from the traffic and skyscrapers. It is a bit out of the main area and there’s not much around, so I’d recommend you head out there if you’re keen on spending 2-3 hours travelling and visiting the site.

Being a fan and student of history, I got the chance to go here during a group cohesion where we laid a wreath and had a minute of silence to pay respect to those who died in the defence of Singapore.

You should take at least an hour to look at the various graves of the fallen from many countries. Of particular interest to me was the graves of LTC Ivan Lyon and the other members of Z Special Unit who took part during Operation Rimau in September 1943 and were subsequently killed or excuted during Operation Rimau in October 1944.

The cemetery is very well kept and maintained so if you have time to spare or need a breather from the hustle of the city, it's definitely worth a visit.

We didn't plan on visiting this memorial but so pleased we did.
It was such an emotional and moving experience - I do not have relations/ friends remembered at this memorial but my grandfather did visit Singapore during the war and I am sure he had fallen comrades there. He often told us stories of Singapore and then Celon (Sri lanka) when we were children - it was nice to visit on his behalf as he is no longer alive, and pay respects for him.
The grounds are so well looked after it is a credit to Singapore.

Kranji is a fair distance from the hustle of the city. As young Australian's we were determined to visit this important memorial. The North South MRT line takes you straight to the area. Then, if your up for it, it's a 20/30min walk along Woodlands Ave. There is a local bus running also and taxis will take you right there to the memorial. We just chose the cheapest option.
We were pleased with the upkeep, although not sure if the extra attention to detail was just for the Royal visit the next day. The site has been treated with respect, which was comforting after the Bidadari etc incidents.
The number of headstones and names was overwhelming. The layout is well thought out. The placement of the differing countries and ranks is touching, especially to see malay volunteers and the unnamed. If your not familar with Singapore's war history, read up at the entrance so you can appreciate the bravery and sacrifice. I personally went to pay my respect to the people who kept my own famiy safe during this time. A must visit for members of the Commonwealth.