It has been quite a while since I last visited Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park. This afternoon I suddenly found myself with a bit of free time, and instead of staying home I had the thought to go back to one of my favourite parks in the city. It’s so close to the urban area, yet the moment you step inside it feels like a different world, peaceful, calming, and filled with good vibes.
The sky was slightly overcast when I arrived, which actually made the walk more comfortable. I followed the familiar paths until the park slowly opened up in front of me, wide lawns, gentle slopes, families sitting on the grass, joggers passing by. Right in the middle, the long creek across the park, dividing the greenery into two sides. Even though there were people around, the whole place felt relaxed and chill :D
One of the first things that caught my eye again was the large architectural structure near the creek, the one that looks like a modern sculpture made of curved metal strips. I’ve always liked this piece. It rises from the rocks like a wave frozen in time, with the city’s high-rise buildings in the distance as a backdrop. You can sit inside the curves or lean against it, and it instantly becomes a fun photography spot. I spent a while there taking photos from different angles, trying to capture both the artwork and the surrounding landscape.
From there I wandered towards one of the ponds. The water surface was almost still, decorated with round lily pads that looked like coins scattered across the pond. Some buds were just about to bloom above the water. As I watched, little ripples formed around them whenever a fish swam past underneath. It’s such a simple scene, but very soothing to look at.
Then I spotted today’s “stars” of the park, turtles. A few of them were swimming lazily near the rock edge. Every now and then one would stick its head out of the water to peek at me, then quickly dive back in, as if suddenly shy. They seemed scared, but at the same time curious, like they were wondering if I brought food for them. I just stood there quietly for a few minutes, watching them paddle around. It’s funny how something so small can be so entertaining.
Back at the main creek, schools of fish gathered near the banks, obviously used to visitors. They hovered close to the surface, mouths opening and closing, waiting for snacks from anyone passing by. Children were excitedly tossing bits of fish food into the water, and the whole area burst into tiny splashes as the fish competed for each piece. Their friendliness added a playful energy to the calm surroundings.
What I love about Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park is the mix of elements, sculptural art, water features, open fields, and the soft silhouette of trees everywhere you look. Some trees stand tall and slender, while others hang their branches low over the water like green curtains. Walking under them, you feel gently sheltered from the rest of the city. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, breathe a little deeper, and let your mind take a break.
I didn’t manage to explore every corner today, but that’s perfectly fine. Parks like this are meant to be revisited. I’ll definitely come back again to discover new spots, try different walking routes, and maybe catch other small moments, more turtles, birds, or simply another peaceful sunset by the creek.
Thanks for joining me on this little afternoon escape. See you in my next wanderings around the city! 🌿