1 minute read
KEY BUILDINGS
Jinrikisha Station
The Jinricksha (rickshaw) was introduced to Singapore in 1880. Affordable and easily available, it quickly became a ubiquitous mode of transport. By the early 1900s, numerous rickshaws were plying Singapore’s street. As a result, the Jinricksha Station was set up as a main depot around 1903-04. Featuring long pilasters and a square tower with an octagonal cupola, the building became a distinctive landmark in the area.
Advertisement
Following the 1947 ban on rickshaws in Singapore, the building was used for several other purposes, such as a family-planning clinic, before it was gazetted in 1987 as part of the Tanjong Pagar conservation area.
As a conserved building with architectural heritage, the Jinrikisha Station also serves as a reminder to Singaporeans of the sacrifices made by early immigrants such as the rickshaw pullers.
