Published on April 4, 2025
Discover Brunei Darussalam’s (Brunei) rich heritage, where history, art, and tradition come to life. Culture is deeply woven into daily life, reflecting the nation’s Islamic values, royal heritage, and strong community traditions. Locals express their culture through elaborate ceremonies, traditional crafts, and vibrant markets, preserving customs passed down for generations.
Beyond landmarks, Brunei’s living culture thrives in Kampong Ayer’s stilt houses, bustling markets, and centuries-old traditions. This area is a must visit when in Brunei. Whether admiring its architectural beauty or engaging with its vibrant heritage, Brunei offers a profound and authentic cultural experience.
Keep reading to learn more about the recommended places to enrich your cultural curiosity.
Balai Khazanah Islam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah
Reopened on December 12, 2022, Balai Khazanah Islam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah is home to nine captivating galleries, showcasing the splendours of Islamic heritage and historical treasures. The museum offers a rich and immersive journey through sacred artefacts, rare manuscripts, and timeless traditions that highlight the depth and diversity of Islamic culture.
Here’s what visitors can experience:
- Among the most revered exhibits is the blessed hair of the Prophet, along with replicas of objects associated with his life, offering a deeply spiritual experience for visitors.
- The Mushaf Collection features intricately crafted Qurans from various regions, reflecting the artistic evolution of Islamic calligraphy. History enthusiasts will marvel at ancient Islamic manuscripts and astronomical instruments, which provide insights into the scientific advancements of the Islamic Golden Age.
- Unique displays, such as an impressive variety of walking sticks and prayer beads, along with ancient fossils, add a fascinating dimension to the museum’s diverse collection. Each gallery is thoughtfully curated to offer a deeper understanding of Islamic history, culture, and innovation.
The museum is open to the public daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, except on Fridays. Balai Khazanah Islam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah promises an enlightening and inspiring experience. Entry tickets can be purchased at the museum’s counters, and further details about pricing are available on their official website. Whether you seek a spiritual connection, historical insight, or a glimpse into Brunei’s rich Islamic legacy, this museum is a must-visit destination for all.
Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque
As one of Brunei’s most iconic landmarks, Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque is a testament to the country’s rich Islamic heritage and architectural brilliance. Named after its builder, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III, this grand mosque embodies Brunei’s deep-rooted tradition of Islamic faith, artistry, and craftsmanship, making it one of the region’s most significant religious and cultural establishments.
Completed over four years, the mosque is a masterpiece of design, set upon an artificial lagoon that serves as a reflecting pool, enhancing its breathtaking presence. While the architecture is heavily inspired by Mughal influences from India, it also incorporates local Bruneian elements, celebrating the nation’s unique identity. This can be seen in the mosque’s rope-like pillars, reminiscent of the traditional Brunei “kalat”, a thick woven rope. Adding to its historical significance, a replica of a 16th-century Bruneian mahaligai (royal barge) floats beside the mosque, evoking the grandeur of Brunei’s past.
What Visitors Can Experience
- Admire the Architectural Grandeur – The mosque’s meticulous craftsmanship and stunning reflections in the lagoon create a picture-perfect setting for visitors.
- Explore the Cultural and Spiritual Significance – As a symbol of Brunei’s Islamic traditions, the mosque offers a profound insight into the nation’s religious and architectural heritage.
- Experience the Interior (For Muslim Visitors) – Muslims can enter the prayer hall, experiencing the serene atmosphere and intricate detailing within the sacred space.
- Visit the Surrounding Grounds – The serene gardens and walkways provide a peaceful setting for reflection and photography.
While non-Muslims are welcome to visit, they must adhere to Islamic protocols, including modest dress and restricted access to the prayer hall.
Malay Technology Museum
A visit to the Malay Technology Museum offers a fascinating insight into Brunei’s cultural heritage, showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the nation’s past. As part of a larger museum complex—including the Brunei Museum and the Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum—this institution is dedicated to preserving and educating visitors about the traditional lifestyles, skills, and technologies that have shaped Brunei’s history.
The museum features three distinct galleries, each providing an immersive experience into the daily lives of Brunei’s indigenous communities, artisans, and tradespeople. Through meticulously recreated villages and interactive displays, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s cultural identity and craftsmanship.
What Visitors Can Experience
- Hall One: Traditional Houses Of The Water Village
Step into a faithful recreation of Kampong Ayer, Brunei’s historic water village community, featuring six traditionally built houses that showcase architectural styles from the late 19th to mid 20th centuries. This exhibit highlights how Bruneians adapted to life above water while maintaining a strong communal spirit. - Hall Two: Traditional Technology Of The Water Village
Explore the skills and trades that sustained generations of Bruneians, including textile weaving, fishing, boat building, and metalwork. This gallery also highlights local artistry, demonstrating the techniques used in goldsmithing, traditional crafts, and woodwork. - Hall Three: Local Traditional Technology Of The Land Settlers
Discover the daily life and survival skills of Brunei’s inland communities. This gallery features traditional homes, agricultural tools, musical instruments, and sugar cane processing equipment, illustrating how Bruneians once lived off the land and developed innovative ways to sustain their communities.
Whether you are interested in Brunei’s architectural heritage, artisanal traditions, or the ingenuity of its people, the Malay Technology Museum offers a rich and immersive cultural experience, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.
Royal Regalia Museum
The Royal Regalia Museum stands as a testament to Brunei’s royal heritage, celebrating the life and reign of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, the current ruler of Brunei. This grand institution offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Brunei’s monarchy’s legacy, traditions, and milestones through an extensive collection of ceremonial artefacts, personal memorabilia, and state treasures.
The museum traces the Sultan’s journey from childhood to today, providing a rare glimpse into his education, travels, marriages, and leadership. Visitors can immerse themselves in the splendour of Brunei’s royal traditions and governance through carefully curated exhibits
The Royal Regalia Museum is a cultural and historical landmark, offering deep insight into Brunei’s monarchy and governance. Visitors should be aware of the following:
- Admission is BND5 for adults and BND2 for children, making it an accessible cultural experience for all visitors.
- No photography is allowed inside, ensuring the preservation of delicate artefacts.
- All personal belongings must be stored at the entrance before entering the exhibition halls.
For those interested in Brunei’s royal heritage, statecraft, and ceremonial traditions, the Royal Regalia Museum offers an unparalleled glimpse into the nation’s monarchy, making it an essential stop for history and culture enthusiasts.
Kampong Ayer: The Timeless Water Village of Brunei
Kampong Ayer, the world’s largest stilt village, where centuries-old traditions meet everyday life on the Brunei River, should be added to your itinerary. Often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” this historic settlement has been a centre of Bruneian culture for over a thousand years, offering visitors a glimpse into a way of life that remains deeply rooted in tradition yet adapted to modern comforts.
Comprising over 40 interconnected villages, Kampong Ayer is home to approximately 12,000 residents, who live in stilt houses elevated above the water, connected by a vast network of wooden walkways and footbridges. The village is a testament to Brunei’s heritage and resilience, showcasing how its people have thrived along the river for generations.
Explore the Cultural Wonders of Brunei
The cultural wonders of Brunei offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of this remarkable nation. From its grand mosques to its carefully preserved traditions, each landmark tells a story that resonates with history, spirituality, and artistry. Whether exploring the Brunei Museum, admiring the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, or uncovering traditional lifestyles at the Malay Technology Museum, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this nation’s vibrant heritage.
Plan your journey today and experience the cultural treasures that make Brunei truly unforgettable.
