In this post, we’re heading somewhere a little different. While my previous entries have focused on churches in Jakarta during the Jubilee Year 2025, the next few posts will take you along on my recent trip to Bangkok, Thailand, which also included a brief layover in Singapore. When I found out that my Scoot flight to Bangkok included a transit in Singapore, I deliberately chose a later connecting flight to allow more time to explore the world-famous Changi Airport. I even began planning my visit, listing all the attractions and installations I hoped to see. However, when my original 5-hour layover was unexpectedly extended to 10 hours, I decided to scrap my airport-only itinerary and venture into the city instead. Thankfully, as an Indonesian passport holder, I could take advantage of visa-free entry to Singapore, a perk of being an ASEAN citizen, making it easy to leave the airport and return in time for my next flight. Even so, I managed to visit one key attraction from my original list—the most iconic and breathtaking of them all, and arguably the most famous airport art installation in the world: The Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport.
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| Your Changi Airport experience wouldn't be complete without seeing this iconic wonder |
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| Touchdown at Changi! A bright welcome at Terminal 1 with Scoot from Jakarta |
When people mention Jewel Changi Airport, the first thing that often comes to mind is its breathtaking 7-storey waterfall — the Rain Vortex. Known as the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, the Rain Vortex is actually just one highlight of what Jewel has to offer. Cascading gracefully through the center of a stunning toroidal glass and steel roof, forming a 40-meter waterfall powered by recycled rainwater down to the basement level, the waterfall is a mesmerizing sight, especially at night when it's illuminated in a dazzling array of colors. Its doughnut-like shape not only enhances visual drama but also supports sustainable water circulation within the complex. I had the chance to see it in the evening after returning from the city, and while I couldn't stay long enough to catch the full Light & Sound Show (since I had a flight to catch), just seeing the illuminated waterfall was already a memorable experience. Located at the heart of Jewel, the Rain Vortex is surrounded by Forest Valley, one of the world’s largest indoor gardens. This lush tropical space features over 900 trees and palms and about 60,000 shrubs from various species, spread across five stories and covering 22,000 square meters. A series of stairs and walking trails wind through the garden, offering visitors a peaceful walk or a serene retreat. At the top level (Level 5), you’ll find Canopy Park, a recreational space with attractions like mazes, bouncing nets, and themed gardens — perfect for both children and the young at heart. Do note that Canopy Park requires a separate admission fee.
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| Changi Airport consistently ranks among the world’s best airports in various global rankings |
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| Surrounded by the lush Forest Valley, the Rain Vortex stands as centerpiece of Jewel Changi Airport |
Beyond its lush greenery and iconic Rain Vortex, Jewel Changi Airport is a world-class lifestyle destination that brings together nature, retail, dining, and hospitality — all under one stunning architectural masterpiece. Designed by acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie, Jewel is an award-winning building that has garnered global recognition for its futuristic glass-and-steel dome structure, seamlessly integrating natural beauty with modern infrastructure. Construction of Jewel began in December 2014 on the site of the former car park of Terminal 1. After nearly five years of development, it was officially completed in late 2018 and opened to the public in April 2019. The grand opening ceremony was officiated by Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on 18 October 2019, highlighting its national significance as a symbol of innovation and progress in urban-airport integration. Jewel is developed and managed by Jewel Changi Airport Devt. Pte. Ltd., a joint venture between Changi Airport Group (CAG), and CapitaLand, one of Asia’s largest real estate groups. The complex features over 280 retail and dining outlets, ranging from luxury fashion and lifestyle brands to beloved local eateries and global restaurants. For travelers in need of rest, YOTELAIR Singapore Changi Airport, located within Jewel, offers compact and stylish rooms with both overnight and hourly rates with flexible check-in and check-out time, ideal for long layovers.
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Moshe Safdie, who designed Jewel, is also the architect of Singapore’s iconic Marina Bay Sands
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The Bouncing Nets is one of the attractions in Canopy Park, located on the top level
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Jewel is directly connected to Terminals 1, 2, and 3 via sheltered pedestrian walkways. However, to fully explore the complex, visitors must go landside, meaning they must exit the transit (airside) zone and pass through immigration — suitable for those entering Singapore or with longer layovers. Note that depending on your nationality, a visa might be required to pass through immigration and enter Singapore. For those remaining airside, there's still a chance to admire Jewel’s beauty: the Changi Skytrain, which connects the terminals, passes right through the dome, offering a spectacular glimpse of the Rain Vortex and Forest Valley from the comfort of the train. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a frequent flyer, Jewel Changi Airport is not just a gateway — it's a destination in itself, blending architecture, nature, and experience in a way that few airports in the world can match. As my connecting flight to Bangkok was boarding, it’s time to say goodbye to Changi Airport — for now. With so much left to explore, I’m already looking forward to coming back and discovering more of what this world-class airport has to offer.
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| With over 60 million passengers served annually, Changi Airport isn’t just a transit hub, it’s a destination in itself |
Jewel Rain Vortex
Jewel Changi Airport
Location 78 Airport Boulevard, Singapore
Opening Hours
Daily, 10.00 AM - 10.00 PM
Light & Music Showcase:
Mon - Thu: 08.00 PM & 09.00 PM
Fri - Sun, Public Holiday & Eve of Public Holiday: 08.00 PM, 09.00 PM & 10.00PM
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