Pinang Peranakan Mansion

The basics

There isn’t a great deal of written information to accompany the exhibits inside the house, so it's best to explore Pinang Peranakan Mansion as part of a tour. The mansion is a common feature of itineraries that focus on the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Georgetown—walking, cycling, and bus tours typically combine the enclave with other top Penang attractions such as Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si Temple, and Fort Cornwallis.

Things to know before you go

• There’s a small admission fee to enter the mansion; this fee is usually included on Penang tours.
• Within Pinang Peranakan Mansion, photography is prohibited.
• The mansion is not accessible to travelers using wheelchairs and strollers.

How to get there

If you’re taking public transport, jump aboard the 10 or 101 bus and disembark at the Hiap Tatt stop, from which the mansion is a 5–minute walk. The museum is also a 10-minute walk from the Clan Jetties.

When to get there

Pinang Peranakan Mansion is open daily, including public holidays, from morning until late afternoon. If you wish to take a guided tour of the building, advance booking is essential.

The Heritage Houses of Penang

The historic center of Penang has numerous heritage houses, all of which boast a distinctive design and history. If you’re a history buff, be sure to visit the electric-blue Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, where you can stay overnight; wander down Love Lane to see the facades of traditional shop fronts, and head inside the Penang State Museum for insight into the colonial center.

Where was *The Little Nyonya* filmed?

The Pinang Peranakan Mansion served as a major filming location for the The Little Nyonya series, which was set in the 1930s and followed several generations of a wealthy Chinese family in Malacca. Before entering the museum, you'll see photos from the filming of one of Singapore's most-watched drama series.

How old is Pinang Peranakan Mansion?

The museum—housed in a distinctive green-hued mansion that was built in 1874 as a residence for 19th-century Chinese tycoon Chung Keng Quee—is about 150 years old. Its straits-eclectic style incorporates both European and Chinese designs. A property developer opened it as a museum of Penang's Peranakan culture in 2004.

How long does it take to tour Pinang Peranakan Mansion?

Tours of George Town usually include a stop at the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, allowing about an hour to explore the site. Guided on-site tours last about 45 minutes. If visiting independently, you can spend two hours to half a day wandering around the museum, depending on your interest level.

Is visiting Pinang Peranakan Mansion worth it?

Yes. The Pinang Peranakan Mansion provides insight into the lifestyle of a wealthy Chinese family in Penang, making it a must-visit for those interested in Peranakan culture and history, as well as for those who simply want to marvel at the ornate artifacts and the grand architecture.

How much does it cost to visit Pinang Peranakan Mansion?

The entrance fee to Pinang Peranakan Mansion is about US$5, children ages 6-12 are roughly US$2.50, and those under 6 are free. On-site guided tours are included in the fee; tips are optional. Some multi-stop guided tours feature the mansion and include admission in the tour price.

Can you go to Pinang Peranakan Mansion on your own?

Yes. You can explore the Pinang Peranakan Mansion independently or as part of a guided tour of Penang. It’s centrally located in the capital city of George Town, making it easy to find. On-site guides are available to provide information, but tours need to be booked in advance. The museum’s brochure offers a brief explanation of each room with a floor plan.