On Sunday I went with some friends to Kusu Island in Singapore. The island is very small, and is just a short ferry ride off the south of Singapore.
Ferry to Kusu Island
The tiny island has a beautiful beach, but we were unable to enjoy it due to a thunderstorm. We sat in the pouring rain for a couple of hours, ran around like idiots for a bit, and then finally got on the ferry heading back to Singapore.
Legend has it that the island was formed by a giant sea turtle to save a Malay man and a Chinese man. To give thanks, the Malay built a kramat (Muslim shrine), and the Chinese built a Taoist shrine. Both Muslims and Chinese continue to make annual pilgrimages to the island during the ninth lunar month.
Other features from Wikipedia:
lived in the 19th century. Many devotees will climb the 152 steps leading to the kramats to pray for wealth, good marriage, good health and harmony. The shrines are also popular with childless couples who would pray for children. Despite misconceptions, they do not pray to the kramats.
It is popular for its lagoons, pristine beaches and tranquil settings. Visits are often made by ferry from the nearby Marina South Pier to see the wishing well and Tortoise Sanctuary. Afternoon picnics are also very popular. Overnight stay is not permitted on the island. However, most ferries to Kusu Island also take in Saint John’s Island which does have overnight lodging.
