Jewel Changi Airport: Singapore’s new centerpiece
Six years ago, a project was proposed to increase parking spaces at Changi Airport Terminal 1, the oldest commercial flight terminal in Singapore. Fast forward to today, and now we have an innovative structure that brings together the best of sustainable design: Jewel Changi Airport. Jewel has only been open for less than three weeks, but it’s already touted as the best airport mall in the world.
Are you coming to Singapore soon or are you already here and excited to explore this glass-encased paradise? BudgetAir gives you a rundown of the latest addition to Changi Airport and how to get there from the variety of airports.
What exactly is Jewel Changi Airport?
Jewel Changi Airport was initially commissioned in 2013 as a solution to Terminal 1’s vehicle parking problems. Terminal 1 used to be flanked by an open-air airport, which was quaint but unfortunately limited in size, a problem. that the people behind the airport wanted to creatively rectify. After much deliberation, the idea for Jewel was born, and construction began in 2014 under the tutelage of Chief Architect Moshe Safdie, the man behind Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands.
Safdie sought to create a structure that would serve as both an eclectic marketplace and an immersive urban park for locals and travelers alike. Moshe had the goal of “providing an uplifting experience…attracting both visitors and local residents (and aiming) to create a place where the people of Singapore interact with the people of the world”, and the end result has been just as immensely popular as he had hoped it would be, mainly due to the amazing attractions on display inside the building.
What can I expect to see at Jewel Changi Airport?
The highlight of Jewel Changi Airport has to be the HSBC Rain Vortex, the world’s largest indoor waterfall at 40 meters high. A spectacle in its own right, the waterfall functions as a canvas after sunset for an indoor sound and light show that will captivate people of all ages. Surrounding this masterpiece is another engineering marvel: the Shiseido Forest Valley, featuring more than 900 trees and palm trees bathed in natural light from glass ceilings. The retreat makes for a quiet walking path, and there are luggage stores for you to leave your belongings and fully enjoy the gardens.
More attractions that revolve around exploring nature with urbanism are in the works, but will only open in the month of June. These include Canopy Park and Bridge, Manulife Sky Nets and Hedge Maze, all pre-booked activities for the best outdoor theme parks. With Jewel, an indoor funhouse in the midst of nature is now a reality.
Are there things to eat and do at Jewel Changi Airport?
The Changi Airport planners have left no stone unturned in their dream of making Jewel “Singapore’s gateway to the world”, and the available amenities deliver on that promise. Boasting more than 160 retailers running the gamut from beauty and wellness to jewelry and accessories, Jewel is also home to Asia’s first Pokémon Center outside of Japan – die-hard Pokémon fans can see their favorite creatures in action and enjoy! bring your furry friends home!
There’s an array of dining options at Jewel, too: authentic Southeast Asian flavors from Dian Xiao Er and Song Fa Bak Kut Teh, local favorites like Tanuki Raw and Nine Fresh, as well as big-name entrants like Singapore’s first Shake Shack outlet. . . The buzz generated by the opening of Shake Shack, along with A&W’s return to Singapore after 16 years, has been immense: the queues have been endless since Jewel opened, and the wait times for one of Shake’s signature burgers Shack now have an average of three hours. Hungry travelers need not worry as there are plenty of food options available to satisfy any craving!
What if I’m here due to a layover?
Whether your layover here is hours or days, Jewel is more than ready to accommodate your travel needs – and then some! Changi Airport’s renowned service has been enhanced with the introduction of the first YOTELAIR branch in Asia, offering accommodation for any traveler with any need. With the needs of every layover traveler in mind, the folks at YOTELAIR have designed a highly adaptable minimalist shelter that allows any layover traveler to work or relax while traveling. The flexibility of booking they offer also saves you time and money – no more settling for full-day hotel charges you don’t need!
Please note that Jewel is on the ground: if you have just landed in Singapore, you will need to leave the transit area to get here, and we recommend that you have a few hours to spare before your next flight. If you’re flying in from Singapore, don’t hesitate to make Jewel your first stop on your trip – all 3 terminals are just a short walk from the airport mall!
I’m intrigued: how do I get to Jewel Changi Airport?
The best way to get to Singapore is via the vast network of airlines that link this global business hub to the world. If you need a ticket, we’re here to help – the cheapest flight to Singapore is just a click away!
Once you’re here, Singapore’s gateway to the world is naturally built to be accessible. Jewel is directly connected to the arrivals hall of Terminal 1. If you land there, you’re all set! Travelers checking in at Terminals 2 and 3 also have a direct path to the gateway: the gateways can be found near Row 1 of Terminal 2, Level 2, as well as near Row 11 of Terminal 3, Level 2. If you land at Terminal 4, there is a free shuttle bus to Terminal 2, and Jewel can then be accessed via the shuttle bridge.