Henderson Waves | Southern Region

Henderson Waves is a striking pedestrian bridge and one of Singapore’s most iconic architectural landmarks, known for its unique wave-like design and its location within the lush greenery of the Southern Ridges. It is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore, standing 36 meters (118 feet) above ground, and spans Henderson Road. The bridge connects Mount Faber Park and Telok Blangah Hill Park, two key areas in the Southern Ridges trail.

Here’s a detailed look at Henderson Waves:

1. Design and Architecture

Henderson Waves is renowned for its innovative and futuristic design. The bridge features a wave-like structure, created using wooden ribs that form a series of undulating curves, resembling the shape of ocean waves. This distinctive design was conceived by the architectural firm IJP Corporation and structural engineers Rider Levett Bucknall, with the goal of integrating the bridge harmoniously into the natural environment.

• Material: The bridge is constructed using steel for the framework and hardwood for the undulating slats that make up its distinctive "waves." The use of wood adds a natural aesthetic, which blends well with the surrounding greenery of the Southern Ridges.
• Wave Form: The bridge has a total length of 274 meters (899 feet), and its wave-like structure arches gently in a series of seven undulating sections. The waves are not just decorative but serve to provide sheltered seating areas beneath the bridge, allowing visitors to rest while enjoying the scenic views.

2. Key Features

• Height and View: The bridge stands at a height of 36 meters, making it the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore. Its elevated position offers panoramic views of the Telok Blangah neighborhood, Harbourfront, and Sentosa, as well as the nearby Mount Faber. Visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of the city, the harbor, and the Southern Islands from various points on the bridge.
• Lighting: Henderson Waves is also an impressive sight at night when the bridge is illuminated with warm, soft lighting that highlights its curves and wooden ribs. The lighting enhances the bridge’s aesthetic appeal and creates a magical atmosphere, making it a popular spot for evening strolls.
• Seating Areas: Beneath the wooden ribs of the bridge, there are built-in seating areas, which provide a sheltered space for pedestrians to relax, enjoy the views, and take photos. These areas make the bridge not only a functional crossing but also a recreational space.

3. Walking and Connectivity

Henderson Waves is part of the Southern Ridges, a 10-kilometer (6-mile) hiking trail that links several parks and nature reserves in southern Singapore, including Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, Labrador Nature Reserve, and Kent Ridge Park. It serves as a key connection point in the Southern Ridges, allowing visitors to easily transition from one park to another while enjoying the surrounding greenery.

• Trail Access: Henderson Waves is accessible to pedestrians via several walking paths that lead to Mount Faber Park and Telok Blangah Hill Park. It provides a seamless transition between these two parks, both of which are renowned for their scenic views and lush landscapes.
• Accessibility: While the bridge itself is designed for pedestrians, it is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors with mobility challenges. The surrounding parklands also offer smooth, accessible paths for those who may need them.

4. Environment and Surroundings

Henderson Waves is located within the Southern Ridges, a green corridor of interconnected parks and nature reserves that runs along the southern ridges of Singapore. The bridge is set amidst lush tropical foliage, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers to enjoy both the views and the surrounding environment.

• Telok Blangah Hill Park: On one side of the bridge is Telok Blangah Hill Park, a hilltop park that offers scenic walking trails, a canopy walk, and views of the city and coastline. The park is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it a peaceful and green retreat.
• Mount Faber Park: On the other side of Henderson Waves is Mount Faber Park, which offers more elevated views of Singapore and its harbor, along with other amenities like the Singapore Cable Car station. The park is also part of the Southern Ridges, providing an integrated green experience for visitors.
• Wildlife: The Southern Ridges area is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys, squirrels, birds, and butterflies. Visitors walking along Henderson Waves or the Southern Ridges trail may encounter various species of tropical flora and fauna.

5. Popular Activities and Attractions

Henderson Waves is not just a pedestrian bridge but also a destination for various activities. Visitors can enjoy:

• Walking and Hiking: The Southern Ridges offers one of the best places in Singapore for walking and hiking. The Henderson Waves bridge is a key highlight for those traversing the Southern Ridges trail, and many people use the bridge as a starting or ending point for their hike.
• Photography: The stunning architecture of Henderson Waves, combined with the sweeping vistas it offers, makes it a favorite spot for photography. Visitors can capture beautiful shots of the bridge’s curves, the surrounding parks, and the skyline of Singapore.
• Stargazing: Given the bridge’s height and location, Henderson Waves provides an excellent spot for stargazing at night. The peaceful atmosphere and lack of urban light pollution make it a quiet spot to observe the night sky.

6. Events and Special Occasions

Though Henderson Waves is primarily a public pedestrian bridge, it is occasionally used for special events and activities. For example, it can be a popular spot for:

• Fitness and Nature Events: The Southern Ridges area often hosts nature walks, fitness programs, and health-related events, many of which pass through Henderson Waves.
• Public Celebrations: During national celebrations or holidays, special lightings and decorations may be put up on the bridge, enhancing its visual appeal and creating a festive atmosphere for visitors.

7. Accessibility

Henderson Waves is easily accessible by public transport, with HarbourFront MRT Station being the nearest major station. From there, visitors can either walk to the bridge or take a short bus or taxi ride. For those interested in a longer nature walk, there are several access points to the Southern Ridges trail that lead to the bridge. Additionally, the bridge itself is wheelchair accessible, and there are ramps to facilitate easy access for people with mobility impairments.

8. Conclusion

Henderson Waves is a prime example of how architecture and nature can blend seamlessly. With its stunning wave-like design, panoramic views, and connection to Singapore’s extensive green spaces, it has become one of the country's most popular landmarks for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re visiting for the scenic views, a peaceful walk through nature, or to marvel at the bridge’s design, Henderson Waves is an unmissable attraction in Singapore.