In the state capital of Johor Bahru, known
as the southern gateway to Peninsular Malaysia, are attractions suck as
the beautiful Istana Besar (Grand Palace); the Royal Abu Bakar Living
Royal Museum; and the ornate 100-year old Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque with
its sweeping view of the Straits of Johor; City Square; and the Orchid
Valley. Visitors often flock to Johor Bahru for its food and varied
shopping in the malls and the duty-free outlet.
Johor is home to the famous Endau Rompin
Park, an ancient rainforest rich in flora and fauna. Beautiful beaches
can be found in Desaru, Teluk Ramunia, Tanjung Balau, and near th
fishing town of Mersing, and at the Kota Tinggi waterfalls is a
protected marine park, attract keen scuba divers, smokeless and natures
lovers. Island hopping is fun among the islands, some of which are still
untouched. Accommodation on the islands of Sibu, Rawa, Besar, Tengah and
Tinggi range from resort to basic chalets.
Near the border with Malacca lies the
picturesque river town of Muar, known for beautiful sunsets and fresh
seafood, and the legendary Gunung Ledang (Mt.Ophir), a centre for
nature-based activities. |
Johor
Buhru
 Johor
Bahru is the State Capital, built in 1855 by the late sultanate after
the tall of Malacca till the final destruction of the fort in 1587. The
earth mount fort has since been restored.
Royal Abu Bakar
Museum
(The Grand Palace Johor) This
beautiful palace was commissioned by Sultan Abu Bakar who laid the
foundation stone in 1864. One of the oldest buildings in Johor Bahru,
The Grand Place has a cosmopolitan architecture with clear Anglo-Malay
influence. Today the palace assumes an additional role as the Royal Abu
Baker Museum, displaying treasures of the royal collection.
MAWAR (Majlis Wanita Johor-Johor Ladies Council)
 The
existing Mawar house was stored at a great cost to preserve the rich
architectural design cum heritage of Johor. The completed building is a
stunning yet functional structure blending well with the new majectic
Mawar Building.
The Royal Mausoleum
The Royal Mausoleum has been the final
resting place for Royalty of Johor. The Mausoleum is situated along
Jalan Mahmoodiah. An area where one can't help but appreciate the serene
and tranquil atmosphere befitting a resting place for eternity. The
Mausoleum's architecture is one of a fine, unique and aesthetic design
of yesteryears.
Sultan Abu Bakar Monument
This
Monument, created in the seafront opposite
the
courthouse
commemorates Sultan Abu
Bakar, as the modern architect of Johor.
Kota Tinggi Waterfalls
 The
waterfalls are a favorite spot for picnics and relaxation. The water
cascades 34 m down into a pool deep enough for swimming. Fully furnished
chalets complete with cooking facilities are available for booking.
Johor Lama
Johor Lama
(Old Johor) is a quiet village 19 kilometers from Kota Tinggi on the
banks of the Johor River. However, after the fall of Melaka it became
the royal capital of the Sultans of Johor until the final destruction of
the town fort by the Portuguese in 1587.
Mersing
 Mersing
is a pleasant town known for its large bustling fishing fleet. It is
also the setting-off point for a large number of islands in the South
China Sea, including the well-known Pulau Tioman in the state of Pahang.
The Mersing Boat Hire Association provides boats for inter-island travel
or fishing.
Pontian
 The
Johor countryside is well cultivated with pineapples. Just an hour's
drive from Johor Bahru city, the fishing village has a settlement of
fisherman living on stilts by shore. The town is also the staging point
for visitors going to Gunung Pulai for waterfall picnics, jungle
trekking or mountain climbing.
Muar
 This
picturesque town is well-known for its delicious and inexpensive
footstalls and restaurants. the tree-lined Tanjung is ideal for evening
strolls. The waterfalls at the foot of Mount Ophir (Gunung Ledang) is
accessible from Muar. |
JOTIC (Johor Tourist Information Center)
JOTIC is a one-stop center for
visitors to get a better understanding of Johor. Besides, the
availability of informative print materials like brochures on Johor,
there are shops selling various types of handicrafts, which are mostly
Johor's very own. Occasionally, visitors are entertained with live
cultural performances. Traditional food can also be savoured at the
center's food court.
Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque
Officially opened by
the late Sultan Ibrahim in 1890, this mosque is considered one of the
finest in Malaysia. It took 8 years to complete at a cost of RM400,000.
Its architectural design and setting atop a hill with sweeping view of
the Straits of Johor makes this mosque a famed landmark.
Sultan Ibrahim Building
 The
massive building on Bukit Timbalan dominates the skyline of Johor Bahru.
The Saracenic character and fine mosaic detail particularly of the Grand
Hall make this one of the most interesting buildings in Johor Bahru.
Istana Bukit Serene
His Majesty The Sultan of Johor resides in this palace. Perched on high
ground with a 350 m tower, the palace is a landmark to travelers coming
from the north. It contains one of the most beautiful gardens in Johor
and a private zoo.
Lido Beach
This sun-drenched beach of Johor Bahru, stretching over 7 km provides
city tourists a variety of water adventures from canoeing, sailing to
cruising.
Pasir Gudang
The Federation International
Motorcycle (FIM) has given the honor to his circuit to host one of the
legs of the World Motorcycle
Championship in 1998.It is one of the only two legs to be held in Asia.
Despite its international status, this circuit is open to any motorsport
enthusiasts to sample the thrill and spill of the speed adventure.
Desaru
Desaru is
Johor's most famous beach with its white sands and clear blue waters.
Located near Singapore (About 1hr 15 min drive from Johor Bahru).
Imagine fabulous resort filled with exhilarating experiences 365 days a
year ! It's all here at Desaru Impian Resort. The first all-suite
beachfront theme resort in Malaysia. A fully integrated lifestyle
destination of international standards. 25 acres of fun, excitement and
adventure; lush landscaping and recreational facilities
Air Papan
The beach
is a popular picnic area. The annual "Pesta Air Papan" celebrated on 1st
May draws thousands of people. There are chalets for rental. Located
about 15 minutes from Mersing town, you may spend your night here and
laze the beach before proceeding to the islands off the coast.
Air Hitam
Lover of ceramic art will find Ayer
Hitam a Haven for potteries, earthenware, porcelain ,stoneware. The town
is a popular transit point for visitor stopping for lunch or dinner on
their way to Johore Bahru and Kuala Lumpur.
Kukup
Kukup is a
fishing village with houses on stilts at the water's edge. There are
numerous restaurants on stilts serving delicious seafood. Handicraft and
delicacies such as keropok, belacan and cencaluk are available at Kukup. |
