Tucked amid downtown Singapore's skyscrapers and hipster cafes, you'll find a small workshop filled from floor to ceiling with hundreds of wooden Daoist and Buddhist sculptures, some as large as a chair, some as small as an iPhone.

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Say Tian Hng Buddha Shop, a 6th-generation family business and "SG Heritage Business" designated by the National Heritage Board, has been hand-crafting sculptures of Daoist and Buddhist deities since 1840. ​

In this experience, you will explore the hundreds of sculptures in the conservation shophouse, examining them close-up and holding them if you like, as they are deconsecrated sculptures unlike those found in temples.

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You will find fearsome warlords next to fair maidens, drunk monks next to serious magistrates, old sages with long beards and mischievous children wielding spears, as well as serpents, tortoises, parrots, tigers and more. Each character embodies an ancient story symbolising a human value, cherished and passed down over generations.

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You will meet Ah Yeow, the master craftsman, and see him at work on damaged sculptures from temples or homes in Singapore and Southeast Asia, using tools ranging from vintage paintbrushes, recycled mineral water bottles, and secret paints.

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The programme is non-religious in nature and suitable for guests of all religions and races. 

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Please note:

* Due to limited slots, bookings are non-refundable.

* Minimum age of 7.

* There are no hands-on activities.

* Tour is conducted in English.

* Photos of the workshop may be taken and used for publicity purposes.  * Group size is capped at 10 pax. 

* Wet weather plan: None (Tour is indoors)