Johor Bahru is just across the border in Malaysia. Popular for shopping and as a gateway to Malaysia. Journey involves immigration clearance.

About Johor Bahru (Malaysia)

Johor Bahru (commonly called JB) is the capital of Johor state and Malaysia's second-largest city by population. Situated at the southern tip of Peninsular Malaysia, it has long been a popular destination for Singaporeans seeking cheaper shopping, dining, and entertainment. The city has undergone major development with projects like the Johor Bahru City Centre waterfront development, LEGOLAND Malaysia, and multiple mega-malls.

The city center retains considerable character, with heritage areas around Jalan Tan Hiok Nee featuring pre-war shophouses converted into cafés and art galleries. The Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, perched on a cliff overlooking the Straits of Johor, is one of Malaysia's most beautiful mosques. JB is also the starting point for road trips to Desaru Beach, Mersing (gateway to Tioman Island), and the Cameron Highlands. The local food scene is exceptional, with Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisines available at a fraction of Singapore prices.

Nearby Landmarks

LEGOLAND Malaysia Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque Johor Premium Outlets Jalan Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Row Danga Bay Waterfront

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost S$80-120 (not recommended)
Time 1.5-3 hours

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost N/A - use bus
Time 1.5-3 hours

Direct buses available from T1 and T2

Train (Causeway Link CW2)

Cost S$4
Time 1.5-3 hours
Frequency Every 30-60 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Take Causeway Link bus CW2 from T1 or T2 arrivals
2. Bus goes directly to JB Sentral
3. Clear Singapore and Malaysia immigration (can take 30 min - 2 hours)
4. Journey time varies greatly by border queue

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi S$80-120 (not recommended) 1.5-3 hours Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare N/A - use bus 1.5-3 hours Budget-conscious, app users
Train S$4 1.5-3 hours Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The last Causeway Link bus from Singapore to JB departs around 11:30 PM from various pick-up points. After midnight, some private bus operators run services, but schedules vary. From Changi Airport specifically, you would need to taxi to Woodlands or Queen Street terminal first. Late-night taxis across the Causeway are available but negotiate the fare beforehand (expect SGD 80–120 including tolls).

Luggage Tips

When crossing the Causeway by bus, you must carry all luggage with you through immigration — there is no luggage storage on the bus. Everyone disembarks at Singapore Checkpoint, clears exit immigration, re-boards, then disembarks again at Malaysia Checkpoint. Travel light if possible. For heavy luggage, a private car or taxi service avoids the bus-and-walk immigration process.

Accessibility

Cross-border buses have limited wheelchair accessibility. The CIQ (Customs, Immigration, Quarantine) buildings on both sides have wheelchair access and priority lanes. For wheelchair users, a private car through the Causeway vehicle lanes is more practical. JB's newer malls are fully accessible, but older areas of the city center may have uneven sidewalks.