Introduction
Johor Bahru (JB), a vibrant city in Southern Malaysia, is a popular destination for Singaporeans seeking shopping, dining, and entertainment. Getting to JB from Woodlands, Singapore’s northernmost causeway, is a quick and convenient process. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip across the border:
Step 1: Choose a Mode of Transportation
1. Causeway Link Bus (CW2): This express bus service connects Woodlands Bus Interchange with JB’s Larkin Sentral bus terminal. It operates 24 hours a day, with buses departing every 15-30 minutes. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes and costs SGD$3.30 for a single trip.
2. Singapore Shuttle Bus (SBS Transits Service 160): This bus service runs from Woodlands Regional Bus Interchange to JB’s CIQ bus terminal. It operates during peak hours (7am-9am and 5pm-8pm) on weekdays only. The journey takes around 30 minutes and costs SGD$2 for a single trip.
3. Private Taxi: Taxis are readily available at Woodlands Checkpoint. A taxi to JB’s city center typically costs between SGD$30-SGD$50.
Step 2: Purchase Your Tickets
Purchase Causeway Link Bus tickets at the Causeway Link counter at Woodlands Bus Interchange. SBS Transit bus tickets can be bought at the SBS Transit ticket booth at Woodlands Regional Bus Interchange. Taxi fares should be negotiated with the taxi driver.
Step 3: Arrive at Woodlands Checkpoint
The Woodlands Checkpoint is located at the northern tip of Singapore. It is accessible by car, taxi, or public bus.
Step 4: Clear Singapore Immigration
Present your passport and any relevant travel documents at the Singapore Immigration counters.
Step 5: Cross the Causeway
The Causeway is a 1.05-kilometer-long bridge that connects Singapore with JB. Vehicles and pedestrians can cross the Causeway in either direction.
Step 6: Clear Malaysian Immigration
Once you reach the Malaysian side of the Causeway, you will need to present your passport and any relevant travel documents at the Malaysian Immigration counters.
Step 7: Arrive at JB Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine Complex (CIQ)
The CIQ is the main immigration and customs checkpoint in JB. Here, you will need to retrieve your passport and any other documents that were collected at the Malaysian Immigration counters.
Step 8: Take Public Transportation to Your Destination
JB has a well-developed public transportation system. You can take the JB Bus (Rapid Transit Bus) or the Causeway Link Bus to reach your desired destination in JB.
Step 9: Return to Singapore
To return to Singapore, simply follow the same steps in reverse order:
1. Check out of your hotel or guesthouse in JB.
2. Take public transportation or a taxi to the JB CIQ.
3. Clear Malaysian Immigration and Customs.
4. Cross the Causeway.
5. Clear Singapore Immigration.
6. Collect your passport and luggage.
Step 10: Enjoy Your Trip!
JB offers a wide range of attractions for tourists, including shopping malls, restaurants, and historical landmarks. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a longer vacation, JB has something to offer everyone.
Additional Tips
- Check the Causeway Link website for the latest bus schedules and fares.
- Consider purchasing a Causeway Link Passport if you plan on traveling frequently between Singapore and JB.
- Malaysian Immigration requires visitors to carry a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date.
- The Causeway can be congested during peak hours, so allow for extra time when crossing.
- Taxis in JB are not metered, so be sure to negotiate a fare before getting in the car.
- JB is a safe city, but it is always advisable to be aware of your surroundings.
