Visiting Brunei Darussalam was a dream come true—not just because it was my first out-of-country trip, but because of its rich history and serene charm. People often ask, “Why Brunei?” as if there’s nothing to see. But I say, if you’re someone who appreciates history over shopping, quiet over chaos, and culture over clubs, then Brunei is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
I only had 3 days during my visit—definitely not enough. Just the museums and galleries alone can take at least two days to truly appreciate. Here’s a list of the best museums and cultural spots in Brunei that you shouldn’t miss:
🛶 Kampong Ayer Cultural
& Tourism Gallery
📍 Located at the heart
of the Water Village
Opened in 2009, this gallery is a perfect introduction to Brunei’s water
village heritage. It features five mini galleries showcasing the
culture, history, arts, and crafts of the iconic Kampong Ayer.
👉
[Read more »]
🎨 Brunei Arts &
Handicrafts Training Centre
📍 Jalan Residency,
Bandar Seri Begawan
Originally built to preserve Brunei's dying arts, this center displays
intricate Kain Tenunan (Cloth of Gold), silverworks, brassware, and
more. It’s a museum and artisan market in one!
👉
[Read more »]
👑 Royal Regalia Museum
📍 Jalan Sultan, Bandar
Seri Begawan
A majestic museum dedicated to the Sultan’s Silver Jubilee in 1992.
You’ll find regalia, carriages, and dazzling ceremonial items. One of the most
beautiful and well-curated places in Brunei.
👉
[Read full post »]
⚓ Brunei Maritime Museum
📍 Jalan Kota Batu
Discover the story of the Brunei Shipwreck and centuries-old maritime
trade with China. The exhibits on shipbuilding and maritime tech are a treat
for history lovers.
👉
On my return list!
💡 Malay Technological
Museum
📍 Next to Brunei
Museum
Despite its name, this museum focuses on traditional technologies used
by Brunei’s indigenous people—like fishing, boatmaking, and metalwork.
👉
[See more »]
📖 Brunei History Centre
📍 Bandar Seri Begawan
Established in 1982 to document and research Brunei’s 600-year-old history.
It focuses on the country’s royal lineage and major historical events.
👉
[Read more »]
🕌 Sultan Haji Hassanal
Bolkiah Islamic Exhibition Gallery
📍 Spg 26, Jalan Babu
Raja, Darul ‘Ifta Building
Opened in 2001, this gallery showcases Islamic manuscripts, Qurans, and royal prayer beads. A must-visit for those interested in Islamic culture and art.
🏡 House of Twelve Roofs
(Bubongan Duabelas)
📍 Jalan Residency
Once the residence of British Residents and High Commissioners, now a museum
celebrating Brunei-UK ties. Also has a dark WWII story linked to its old
swimming pool.
👉
[Planned for next visit]
🎭 Brunei Art Gallery
📍 Near Royal Wharf,
facing Kampong Ayer
Converted from a former customs building, this gallery holds rotating art
exhibitions and modern Bruneian artworks.
👉
Reason to come back!
📬 Brunei Stamp Gallery
📍 Inside the Post
Office, Jalan Sultan
A tiny but charming gallery for stamp collectors and postal history enthusiasts. Recently opened and easy to include in your town walk.
🪦 Mausoleum of Sultan
Bolkiah
📍 Kota Batu,
overlooking the Brunei River
Resting place of Brunei’s most legendary Sultan, who ruled from 1485–1524. The hilltop view is worth the visit alone.
📍 Brunei Museum (Temporarily Closed)
This is the National Museum and was the largest in
the country. It housed Islamic art, oil and gas exhibits, and archaeology.
Still under renovation during my visit.
👉
Will return when reopened!
💬 Brunei may not be your typical tourist hotspot, but it’s a cultural treasure if you know where to look. I’m glad I made it my first international destination—it opened my eyes to the quiet beauty of heritage and tradition.
✈️ Planning your trip to Brunei? Bookmark this list and explore beyond the surface! Don't forget to share this post with fellow travelers who prefer museums over malls. 😉
Would you like a Brunei Museum Map or a downloadable 2-day culture itinerary next? Let me know, I’d love to help!
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