Changi Airport is the gateway to Singapore and a hub airport in Southeast Asia. It consistently ranks in the top 3 of the world’s best airports and is one of the most renowned airports globally. In this article, we recommend spots for passing time at Changi Airport.
Singapore is an inspiring destination for travel and professionals eager to advance their careers while enjoying a vibrant lifestyle. The country boasts a dynamic economy, bolstered by numerous Japanese firms and multinational corporations, creating many exciting job opportunities. Its business-friendly policies and advantageous tax rates, combined with its strategic location as a Southeast Asian hub, cultivate an ideal atmosphere for professional development.
Beyond professional pursuits, Singapore provides an exceptional quality of life, featuring outstanding healthcare, world-class education, a safe and pristine environment, and an efficient public transportation system. While the cost of living may be higher, the supportive and thriving expatriate community offers invaluable social networks and enriching cultural connections.
Step into the vibrant landscape that Singapore offers and embrace the remarkable blend of career advancement and personal enrichment that lies ahead for Japanese professionals!
Recommended Ways to Pass Time at Changi Airport
hangi Airport is a large facility that boasts approximately 58.9 million users in 2023. It is divided into three operational terminals.
These three terminals are categorised based on the airlines that operate there. To move between Terminals 1 to 3, you can use the “Skytrain,” and there are buses available to reach Terminal 4. The Skytrain functions like a dedicated train, so you can feel secure even if you accidentally get off at the wrong terminal. Additionally, each area features various amusement spots, making it recommended to explore during your layover!
Now, let’s dive into the top five recommended spots you should definitely visit once you arrive at Changi Airport! These activities and locations are perfect for those looking to make the most of their layover or fully enjoy this world-class airport.
Jewel Changi Airport
Opened in 2019, this 10-story complex features a stylish exterior that encompasses a space resembling a small town. The highlight is a stunning 40-metre waterfall surrounded by tropical plants and over 2,000 trees. It is the longest indoor waterfall in the world, providing an impressive view from the fifth floor down to the second basement level.
In the evenings, there are also shows featuring light and music, so be sure to check it out if the timing is right! Additionally, Jewel houses a large indoor garden on the fifth floor, along with over 100 restaurants and shopping spots.
Jewel can be accessed by foot via walkways from Terminals 1 to 3, and it is recommended to take a shuttle bus from Terminal 4 to Terminal 2 before walking over.
Free Movie Theater at the Terminal Movie Theaters
When you think of airports, long wait times often come to mind. Even if you try to sleep, the bright lighting can make it difficult to rest comfortably.
In such circumstances, a movie theatre is a great option! Changi Airport features a movie theatre that operates 24 hours daily and screens movies for free. The best part is that you can actually watch them!
They showcase the latest hit movies, making the time fly by. There’s no need for check-in procedures, allowing you to stop by whenever you like.
Butterfly Garden
Singapore has abundant greenery and nature-themed tourist attractions, such as Gardens by the Bay and the Botanic Gardens. Interestingly, a unique attraction is also located within the airport: the Butterfly Garden in Terminal 3.
The Butterfly Garden is designed like a greenhouse filled with tropical rainforest plants and over 1,000 butterflies. This garden is open 24 hours a day, making it an excellent option for families with children.
Comprehensive Rest Facilities
When travelling or on a business trip, having a lot of luggage is common, and just walking around the airport can be tiring. In such situations, you can take advantage of the massage chairs located throughout the airport.
Changi Airport offers massage chairs that are available for free at various locations.
There are many spacious chairs for stretching out your whole body. In airports in other countries, relaxation areas can often be crowded, making it difficult to find a place to sit. However, at Changi Airport, you can unwind without any worries.
Free Game Corner (Currently Closed as of September 2024)
The Game Zone in the Entertainment Deck is one of the most popular spots, especially among young people! Here, you can enjoy PC games, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and more, all for free!
There are retro arcade games and sports games that allow you to move your body while playing, offering a variety of experiences. Of course, this is also free! Plus, it’s open 24 hours, so feel free to stop by and take advantage of it during your spare time!
City Sightseeing Tour
This is a recommended way for those who come to Singapore during a layover to spend their time! Changi Airport serves as a hub, so it’s frequently used for transiting to various countries.
You can even see the Merlion! Let’s say your layover is 5.5 hours or longer, and then you can join a free city tour held daily. Yes, you can sign up for a free city tour!
You will need to enter the country, but if you complete a simple registration at least one hour before the tour starts, you can quickly return in time for your next flight.
The guided tour lasts 2.5 hours and includes several different tour options.
How to Spend Your Time in Terminal 4
While it is smaller and more distant compared to the other terminals, if you are going to spend your time here, here are some aspects you may want to consider!
At Terminal 4, the duty-free shops are designed with many areas where shoppers can try out products. While duty-free shopping often comes with the appeal of lower prices, it’s clear that many customers still want to make well-informed purchases.
This is especially true for those looking to make the most of their waiting time. On the other hand, businesses use these spaces to reach a broad range of customers, especially when launching new products. As a result, various interactive and enjoyable spaces are scattered throughout the terminal.
There are also many stylish duty-free shops. Just browsing around can be enjoyable! If you’re looking to buy souvenirs at the airport,
Enjoy Tiger Beer!
There is a Tiger Beer bar in Terminal 4, where you can enjoy a selection of beers produced by the Tiger Beer company – a local company, including their highly recommended Radler.
Regarding draft beer, it’s easy to be tempted by different brands.
But since it’s a special opportunity, why not take the chance to savour Tiger’s draft beer? It could be the perfect way to enjoy a drink before your flight!
For Those Interested in Living in Singapore
As mentioned at the beginning, Singapore is a popular destination for relocation, attracting many people from around the world. More people are finding jobs and relocating here due to high wages and the fact that it is an English-speaking country.
Among those visiting Singapore for travel, some may think, “I would like to live here.” If you want to work in Singapore, please utilise the local recruitment agency, Good Job Creations.
We assist with job information and interview preparation in English, resume writing, relocation advice, and visa applications. We also offer free career consultation, so feel free to contact us!
Enjoy Changi Airport and Singapore!
Changi Airport is one of the world’s leading airports, but Singapore’s wonders extend beyond the airport. The city’s beauty, comfortable climate, and safety make it an excellent destination for overseas travel.
Singapore is a country that sees international people and job seekers from all over the world. Life in Singapore is exciting and offers high wages and a favourable work-life balance.
If you’re interested in finding a job in Singapore, please contact Good Job Creations for a free consultation or job opportunities.
For those interested in relocating to Singapore, I also recommend the following article:
“Advantages and Precautions of Moving and Working in Singapore! An Explanation of Visas and Conditions.”
About the Writer
Yuka Kobayashi / Good Job Creations
After advancing to a university in Tokyo, I spent about 3.5 years in consulting sales at a Japanese IT company. My study abroad experience during my student days sparked my path to overseas employment. I came to Singapore in the winter of 2015, and I am currently providing job support for job seekers at a recruitment agency! I always maintain a positive mindset! I am working hard every day to support everyone’s career advancement!
