Opening Hours
- Monday-Sunday from 11.00 am to 7.00 pm
Parking Tips
- During busy hours especially on weekends and public holidays, parking may be difficult to find. Purchasing a coupon may be needed to park at the parking slots nearby Concubine Lane Ipoh.
Location
- Concubine Ln, 30000 Ipoh, Perak
About Concubine Lane Ipoh
Concubine Lane Ipoh, is an iconic and historic street located in the heart of Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia. As you step into Concubine Lane, you will be transported back in time to the days of the tin mining boom in Ipoh. The narrow alleyways, traditional shophouses, and colorful murals tell the story of the past, creating a nostalgic ambiance that is hard to resist. This hidden gem has gained popularity among locals and tourists alike, making it one of the must-visit destinations in Malaysia.
In this ultimate guide, we will take you on a journey through the history, attractions, best things to do, and handy tips on visiting Concubine Lane in Ipoh. This article will provide you with all the informations you need to make the most of your visit to this amazing destination. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Concubine Lane Ipoh!
The History of Concubine Lane Ipoh
Concubine Lane Ipoh, dating back to 1908, is also widely known as “The Second Wife Lane” or “Yee Lai Hong” in Chinese. This area, known for its row of shophouses, was historically a hub for opium dens, gambling, and prostitution. These establishments were primarily owned by wealthy miners and tycoons in the Ipoh region.
Over time, the lanes in this area were renamed, with names such as Err Nai Xiang which means Concubine Lane, Da Nai Xiang meaning Wife Lane, and San Nai Xiang meaning Market Lane, reflecting the unique history and character of each lane. Concubine Lane is historically significant, as it is believed to have been the dwelling place for the concubines and mistresses of wealthy Chinese tycoons. Today, it has transformed into a lively spot filled with variety of food stalls, gift, and souvenir shops, showcasing its transformation into a popular tourist destination.
Best Things To Do in Concubine Lane Ipoh
Adore the Unique Architectures
One of the best things to do in Concubine Lane Ipoh is adoring the unique architectures. As you stroll along the narrow alleyways, you will be captivated by the well-preserved pre-war buildings that showcase a blend of Chinese and European influences. These buildings serve as a testament to the rich history of the area and provide a picturesque backdrop for your exploration.
Take Photos with Ipoh Street Art and Murals
Another must-see attraction in Concubine Lane is the street art and murals. The walls of the buildings are adorned with vibrant and eye-catching artworks that depict the local culture and heritage. Take your time to admire these beautiful creations and snap some Instagram-worthy photos.
Visit Ipoh World @ Han Chin Pet Soo Museum
Ipoh World @ Han Chin Pet Soo is located nearby the Concubine Lane. For those interested in history, a visit to this museum is highly recommended. This museum offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the early Chinese immigrants in Ipoh and their contributions to the development of the city. Explore the exhibits and learn about the opium trade, tin mining, and the secret society activities that once thrived in this area.
Visit Harry Potter Inspired Cafe : Ipoh Platform 9 1/2 Coffee
No visit to Ipoh is complete without stopping by the Platform 9 1/2 Coffee Cafe in Concubine Lane, which are designed specifically for Harry Potter fans. The cool thing about Platform 9 1/2 Coffee Cafe is that every corner is adorned with Harry Potter-themed interior decorations. It’s like stepping right into the wizarding world! A such, the cafe provide robes and hats for dress-up, thus offering numerous creative photo opportunities for the visitors. These photogenic interior of the cafe makes it a favorite spot for those looking to capture memorable, Instagram-worthy moments.
When speaking about the menu, one of the highlights in this cafe is their signature Butterbeer, a non-alcoholic treat for fans of the Harry Potter series. Besides that, the cafe serves a range of drinks and food, including coffee, tea, cakes, and sandwiches.
Tasting the Famous Street Foods Along Concubine Lane Ipoh
If you are a food lover, Concubine Lane Ipoh will not disappoint. The lane is lined with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and street food stalls where you can indulge in delicious local delicacies. Some of the popular foods must tried here is tanghulu, raindrop cake (kuih titisan hujan), egg waffle ice cream, long fries (kentang goreng panjang), rainbow ice ball, mochi, smoky ice cream and many more. Don’t forget to try the refreshing watermelon juice, a unique beverage that will quench your thirst and leave you feeling refreshed.
Wondering where to stay in Ipoh, Perak during your trip to this amazing city? Check these lists for the Top 10 Best Hotels in Ipoh, Perak!
Buying Souvenirs for Your Family, Friends and Lovers
Souvenirs Recommendation That You Should Buy
Concubine Lane Ipoh features plenty local shops that sells variety of interesting items that catch the eyes of the tourists. This lane is perfect place to find unique gifts and keepsakes for your family, friends and lovers. Some of the gift ideas to your loved ones are as follow :
- Parents : Cactus flowers, handcrafted bags and hats, keychains, or books.
- Girlfriend : handcrafted bags and hats, jewelleries, fridge magnet or keychains.
- Children (nephews or nieces) : dolls or toys.
These are just some ideas to give you insights on souvenirs you should buy for your loved ones. There are a lot more souvenirs you can find alongside the alley of Concubine Lane Ipoh.
Photos of Souvenirs in Concubine Lane Ipoh
Exploring Concubine Lane Ipoh at Night
Concubine Lane is one best free places to visit In Ipoh, Perak for couples at night. As the sun sets, Concubine Lane becomes a serene and tranquil haven, offering a romantic atmosphere that is perfect for a peaceful evening stroll. Exploring this historical site at night offers the perfect opportunity for couples to take stunning photos, as the heritage buildings and murals are beautifully illuminated by red lanterns, crafting a distinctive ambiance.
However, most shops and cafes around Concubine Lane may close early around 7.00 to 8.00 pm, hence the lane shifts from its lively daytime persona to a more subdued, dimly lit environment in the evening. With most businesses closed, there will be limited options for usual tourist activities like browsing for souvenirs or trying out local delicacies.
One handy tips while visiting the lane at night is while the area is generally safe, it is good to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Another tips is getting to and from Concubine Lane at night might be trickier, as public transportation options might be reduced. Hence, tourists are encouraged to use e-hailing services such as Grab for a more convenient and easy travel.
Getting to Concubine Lane Ipoh : Directions and Transportation
Concubine Lane Ipoh is located in the heart of Ipoh, Perak and easily accessible by various modes of transportation.
By Bus or Grab Taxi
If you are arriving by public transportation, the nearest bus stop to Concubine Lane Ipoh is Bank Islam Ipoh. From there, it is just a 3-minute walk to the lane. You can check the bus schedules and routes to plan your journey. For those arriving at the Ipoh Terminal Amanjaya bus station, it is recommended to take a Grab taxi to Concubine Lane. The fare for the Grab taxi ride is usually between RM12 to RM15.
By Driving
If you prefer to drive, you can use GPS or navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to get real-time driving directions to Concubine Lane. These apps will provide you with the best route based on live traffic updates and road conditions.
By Train
Another option is to take the ETS train from Ipoh Main Station to Concubine Lane. Once you arrive at the station, you can easily reach the lane by walking.
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, getting to Concubine Lane Ipoh is convenient and hassle-free.
Parking Informations Before Visiting Concubine Lane
Finding parking in Ipoh, especially in the Old Town area, can be quite challenging, and Concubine Lane is no exception. There are several but limited parking spots along the street, but you need to get a daily coupon to park your car. It is recommended to find parking early in the day to secure a spot. Once you find a parking spot, make sure to display the coupon on your dashboard to avoid any fines or penalties.
If the parking spots along Concubine Lane Ipoh are full, there are a few alternatives you can consider. Firstly, you can park in the alley beside the hotel for free. This option is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Another option is to park in the carpark at Ipoh Old Town, a major tourist attraction in the Perak capital. However, do note that parking in this carpark may require a fee.
It is important to note that parking can be particularly challenging during weekends when the area tends to be more crowded. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your visit on weekdays or arrive early in the day to secure a parking spot.
In summary, a visit to Concubine Lane in Ipoh is highly recommended as it is one of the best historical destinations in Malaysia. Here, tourists not only can enjoy savoring popular local street foods, but they also can learn more on the rich history and vibrant culture of this charming street. It is an opportunity should not be missed by any travel enthusiasts. Hence, if you’re planning a trip to Perak, make sure to include Concubine Lane Ipoh in your Perak travel itinerary.
