The air buzzes with the chatter of crowds bustling through the narrow alley. Rays of sun beam through the vibrant canopies hanging in the small gap between buildings, turning life technicolour. The surrounding high-rise buildings suddenly seem small, going unnoticed amongst the bright colours shining from the strip. The muggy air and hot sun are a memory as people drink cocktails, and jazz music hums in the background. As night grows the people become louder, and buildings become canvases, murals glowing in the moonlight. 

Haji Lane is known globally for its effervescent strip of boutiques, cafes and restaurants. However, some locals worry the seemingly lively location may be fading away.

This story was produced as part of a federal government New Colombo Plan-funded Curtin Journalism Singapore Study Tour.