From local cafes to cute thrift shops and exciting malls, find out what to do around this lesser-known part of JB in our ultimate Skudai guide!
Most Singaporeans (us included) usually visit places near the JB Checkpoint like Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, or cafe-hopping areas like Mount Austin.
But after going so often, we realised we’ve already explored a lot of what they currently have to offer. So we thought, why not venture to a different area and see what we can find?
Introducing Skudai — a lesser-known JB neighbourhood that’s equally filled with fun activities and aesthetic cafes and bars. Plus, there’s even a mall that’s basically an amusement park! Here are 29 things to do, eat, shop (and even stay), in this ultimate Skudai guide 👇
What to Do in Skudai
Exciting Activities in Skudai
1) LOST in JB: Sutera the Haunted House Escape Room
LOST in JB is a famous escape room brand in Johor, with interesting themes and live actors bringing the experience to life. However, their Sutera outlet is uniquely horror-themed — only for the bravest souls 👻
From haunted schools to abandoned factories, test your bravery and work together with your friends to solve puzzles and survive these eerie escape rooms!
Cost: From RM48/pax (~S$14), varies for different themed rooms
Opening hours: 12PM – 10:15PM (Mon – Thu), 11AM – 11:30PM (Fri – Sun)
Address: 30, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/4, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
How to get there: 6min walk from Sutera Mall (Google Maps)
2) Roll-On Skating
Featuring a disco ball, neon lights, and nostalgic pop music — transport back to the 1980s and strap your wheels on at Roll On.
This is the largest roller skating rink in JB and offers options of either roller-skates or roller-blades. For beginners, there’s also a training area with handlebars to hold onto and practise at before heading out into the open area.
Cost: From RM35/pax (~S$11) for 2hrs, inclusive of skate rental
Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM
Address: 5F-01, Paradigm Mall, Jln Mewah Ria 2, Taman Bukit Mewah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 20min drive from JB Sentral (Google Maps)
3) Escape JB Adventure
Located in Paradigm Mall, Escape JB is a fun adventure park spread across three different levels (UG, 2 and 3). Choose between being catapulted into the air, attempting backflips on a mega trampoline, or zipping down a big yellow slide with a vertical drop!
Don’t worry, an experienced staff member will be stationed at each activity to ensure your safety every step of the way.
Entrance fee: From RM79/pax (~S$24)
Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM
Address: Paradigm Mall, Skudai Hwy, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia (three stations spread across levels UG, 2, and 3)
How to get there: 20min drive from JB Sentral (Google Maps)
4) RUD Go-kart
Whizz down a 400m track on a go-kart at RUD Karting Sutera! This is the first JB karting adventure situated in a shopping centre (specifically Sutera Mall’s car park), with both electric and petrol karts.
So, what’s the difference? The former is quieter and has instant acceleration, while the latter gives a faster driving experience overall!
Cost: From RM35/pax for a 10min session (~S$11)
Opening hours: 11AM – 12AM (Sun – Fri), 11AM – 2AM (Sat)
Address: L2-648, Sutera Mall, 1, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/4, Tama
How to get there: 24min drive from JB Sentral (Google Maps)
Chill Activities in Skudai
5) Loud Speaker & PakGame
Combine your love of singing and playing video games at Pak Game and Loud Speaker Karaoke! Grab your friends and enjoy private rooms equipped with a karaoke system with the latest hits, as well as console games like Mario Kart and Just Dance.
Of course, you can also do them separately: rent a room to sing for 3 hours (from RM10/pax), or a room to play video games for RM30/hour (2 pax).
Cost: From RM50/hr (~S$15) for a party room (min. 2 pax)
Opening hours: 11AM – 3AM
Address: 135, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/2, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 5min walk from Sutera Mall (Google Maps)
6) Blue Ice Skating Rink
As the first and largest ice skating rink in Johor, Blue Ice Skating Rink has plenty of space for you to dish out your best moves. Each session lasts 2 hours, and you can even rent skating aids for S$9 per hour if you need a little help.
*Pro-tip: Book your tickets online via Klook for discounted prices and to skip the physical queues!
Cost: From ~S$15/pax via Klook (including socks and gloves)
Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM
Address: 3F-30, Paradigm Mall, Lbh Skudai, Taman Bukit Mewah, 81200 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
How to get there: 20min drive from JB Sentral (Google Maps)
7) TuDuDIY
Photo credit: @tududiy via Instagram
TuDuDIY is JB’s first and only weightless tufting studio! It has special tufting guns, which are generally lighter than the traditional ones, making it less heavy to hold. After tirelessly punching yarn through fabric, you’ll end up with a beautiful and personalised product (usually rugs) that you can bring home!
Other than tufting, there are also various workshops available such as charm decorating, doll painting and candle-making.
Cost: From RM138/pax (~S$42) for a tufting workshop session
Opening hours: 10:30AM – 10PM (last entry at 7:30PM)
Address: 36B, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/4, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 7min walk from Sutera Mall (Google Maps)
Read also: 11 Exciting Yet Affordable Things to Do in Skudai Under S$20 — JB’s New Up-and-coming Neighbourhood
Where to Eat in Skudai
Unique Cafes in Skudai
8) Kafuka Cafe & Music Studio
Head up to the second level of a shophouse, and you’ll find Kafuka Cafe & Music Studio — with minimalist decor and resident cats roaming about!
The cafe serves light bites, pretty desserts, and aesthetic drinks with interesting flavours like hawthorn chiffon cake and pineapple basil americano.
Opening hours: 12PM – 6PM (Mon – Wed), 12PM – 7PM (Fri – Sun), closed on Thu
Address: 16A, Jalan Bendahara 12, Taman Ungku Tun Aminah, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 8min drive from Sutera Mall (Google Maps)
9) Cosmo Seeds (Sky Farm & Cafe)
What’s unique about Cosmo Seeds Sky Farm & Cafe is that it provides a hydroponic farm-to-table dining experience. Meaning, they grow their own veggies using technology (no soil!), and then serve them straight to your food.
The menu consists of customisable salad bowls, pastas, desserts and even hotpot. If you have time, you can even opt for a farm tour at the cafe for RM30 per adult (with a tour guide).
Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM
Address: TGV Same Floor, Lot 4-39, Level 4 Rooftop, Tasek Central, 2, Jalan Pendekar 16, Taman Ungku Tun Aminah, 81300 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 2min walk from Tasek Central (Google Maps)
10) Layer Bakehouse
Layer Bakehouse is known for its delicious and creamy basque cheesecakes, which are made in-house daily! Some popular flavours include pistachio, dark chocolate ganache, earl grey tea, and original.
Besides cakes, the cafe also has brunch items like pizzas and sourdough sandwiches. Not to mention, the space is cosy and offers free WiFi and plugs — so you can chill as long as you want to.
Opening hours: 9:30AM – 6:30PM, closed on Mon
Address: 24, Jalan Bakti 65, Mutiara Rini, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 8min drive from AEON Taman Universiti Shopping Centre (Google Maps)
11) Koramie
Introducing Malaysia’s late-night self-service instant noodle shop, Koramie! Choose your noodles from the huge ramen wall, which has a wide range of flavours like salted egg, seaweed, and ghost pepper.
Then, you’ll be given an aluminium bowl to cook your noodles at the DIY cooking stations. After a couple of minutes, sit down, relax and enjoy your hearty meal.
Opening hours: 10AM – 4AM
Address: 55, Jln Mutiara 1/2, Mutiara Rini, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 20min drive from Sutera Mall (Google Maps)
Must-try International Cuisines in Skudai
12) SUP by SUPER KIMCHI
You know the food at SUP by SUPER KIMCHI is authentic when it’s run by a Korean family. The must-trys here are the kimchi dishes like Kimchi Jigae (stew) and Chunky Kimchi Jeon (pancake), made with really fresh and delicious kimchi.
Other dishes include the usual favourites like grilled pork, steamed egg and gochujang noodles.
Opening hours: 11AM – 10PM (Sun – Thu), 11AM – 11PM (Fri – Sat)
Address: 37, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/3, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 11min drive from Paradigm Mall (Google Maps)
13) Madras to Malaya Cafe
Madras to Malaya is an Indian eatery that’s popular with locals — it’s usually crowded during meal times! Items on the menu include Mee Goreng, Chappati, Nasi Lemak, and 60 types of thosai (a thin, savoury pancake). We tried the chicken masala thosai, and it came rich with potatoes and tender chicken.
Opening hours: 7AM – 8:30PM
Address: 1, Jalan Perdagangan 1, Skudai, 81300 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 11min walk from AEON Taman Universiti Shopping Centre (Google Maps)
14) Thong Bowl Thai Beef Noodle
Hailed as the biggest Thai beef noodles and milk tea in Malaysia, Thong Bowl is worth a visit. From our experience, the broth of the beef noodles was super flavourful with a good balance of salty and sour.
But if you’re not in the mood for beef, there are also options of chicken noodles, porridge or the tom yum bowl filled with seafood. Before you leave, don’t forget to order the signature 1.5L milk tea!
Opening hours: 11AM – 10PM
Address: Lot HY-01, Level G, Paradigm Mall, Lbh Skudai, Taman Bukit Mewah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 19min drive from JB Sentral (Google Maps)
Trendy Bars in Skudai
15) The GRID Kitchen and Bar
The GRID Kitchen and Bar serves up both Western and local food like chicken wings and fries, as well as kampung fried rice (with a spicy kick)! Pair these with a couple of drinks like long island tea and whiskey sour, and you’re set for a great night out with friends.
Oh, did we mention there’s a stage where you can sing to your heart’s content in front of an audience?
Opening hours: 4PM – 12AM (Tue – Sun), closed on Mon
Address: 19, Jalan Pertama 6, Pusat perdagangan danga utama, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 5min drive from Paradigm Mall (Google Maps)
16) Chill Oasis
Hidden behind an inconspicuous Vietnamese cabinet entrance, Chill Oasis is a Moroccan-themed speakeasy bar.
Both the decor and food are inspired by Moroccan flavours, having dishes like Barramundi Linguine with Chermoula Sauce (chermoula is often used in Moroccan cooking). But the highlight is the beautifully presented and uniquely named drinks, such as Atlas Elixir and Silky Dunes!
Opening hours: 5:30PM – 12AM
Address: Y4, Jalan Hijauan 1, Horizon Hills, 79100 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 20min drive from JB Sentral (Google Maps)
17) Cabinet 8
Photo credit: @jwc.cabinet8.jb via Instagram
Heads up, it might be a little challenging to find the entrance of Cabinet 8 — but here’s a hint: it’s located within an office!
Once you’re inside, you’ll find classy cocktails crafted by bartenders, incorporating local flavours like curry leaf, pandan, and mango lassi. If you have a specific preference, you can also ask them to personalise a drink for you!
Opening hours: 7PM – 12AM (Sun – Thu), closes 1AM on Fri and Sat
Address: 102, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/3, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 5min walk from Sutera Mall (Google Maps)
Where to Shop in Skudai
Thrifting in Skudai
18) Shashinki Camera
Shashinki literally translates to photograph (shashin) and machine (ki) in Japanese. So you can expect all sorts of cameras (Nikon, Canon, Fuji, etc.) and tech equipment at Shashinki Camera.
There are brand new items, but also used ones at discounted prices. We found a Nikon camera in decent condition going for around ~S$380, which is way cheaper than paying over S$1,000 for a brand new one! There are also Boya mics, camera bags and tripods for sale.
Opening hours: 8:30AM – 5PM (Mon – Fri), 8:30AM – 1PM (Sat), closed on Sun
Address: 69, Jalan Flora 1/9, Taman Pulai Flora, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 3min drive from AEON Taman Universiti Shopping Centre (Google Maps)
19) Empire Bundle
Empire Bundle is a thrift haven, with a range of shirts, pants, jackets and dresses for sale from as low as RM5. There’s even a whole section of denim wear to browse, and a fitting room to try on the pieces. Best of all, it opens till midnight for all you late-night shoppers.
Opening hours: 8AM – 12AM
Address: 15, Jalan Kebudayaan, Taman Universiti, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 6min walk from AEON Taman Universiti Shopping Centre (Google Maps)
20) Bandoru Bundle
Photo credit: @bandorumalaysia via Instagram
Located in Plaza Angsana, Bandoru Bundle is perfect for those prepping for a winter trip. The shop has beanies and mufflers from RM5, as well as thick jackets from RM40. Also look out for deals like five pieces for RM60 when walking around!
Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM
Address: Lot L2, Plaza Angsana, 29a Level, 42, Skudai Hwy, Bandar Baru Uda, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
How to get there: 8min drive from Paradigm Mall (Google Maps)
Where to Find Cute Outfits in Skudai
21) Megumi’s Room
From daily casual wear to office-friendly clothes, Megumi’s Room has different types of outfits to add to your wardrobe. Most clothes are free size and affordable (from RM39).
However, do note that they mostly come in sets, which we personally think is great ’cause you won’t need to think of how to pair your tops and bottoms separately! If you’re lucky, you might get to see the owner’s fluffy cats roaming about.
Opening hours: 12PM – 8PM
Address: 36, Jalan Pendekar 10, Taman Ungku Tun Aminah, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 5min walk from Tasek Central (Google Maps)
22) GET THE LOOK EMMA
GET THE LOOK EMMA leans to a more girly and chic style — think shirts with frills and midi skirts. The staff can also help to mix and match if you want a new look, just ask! Clothes are sold separately, and in sets.
Opening hours: 12PM – 7PM
Address: 15,Jalan Pendekar 15,Taman Ungku Tun Aminah Skudai, 81300 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 1min walk from Tasek Central (Google Maps)
23) BY KOCHI’S
Minimal yet trendy designs, pastel and earthy tones, and flowy pieces — BY KOCHI’S features a range of cute Korean-Japanese summer wear. The shop also has a sofa, so your friends or partners can just chill while you slowly pick your clothes out 😉
Opening hours: 11AM – 8PM
Address: 19, Jalan Pendekar 15, Taman Ungku Tun Aminah, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 1min walk from Tasek Central (Google Maps)
Malls in Skudai
24) Paradigm Mall
Paradigm Mall feels like an amusement park all packed into one building. There are plenty of things to do, such as indoor roller skating in a retro American diner setting, singing karaoke in colourful huts, and even DIY baking workshops.
You can easily spend a whole day at this mall like we did, with many exciting activities like archery and rock climbing.
Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM
Address: K013, Paradigm Mall, Skudai Hwy, Taman Bukit Mewah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
How to get there: 20min drive from JB Sentral (Google Maps)
25) Sutera Mall
While not as well-known as City Square or KSL Mall, Sutera Mall has its own charms too — with fun activities and good food!
Race your friends on a 400m go-kart track or try your luck at over 50 gachapon machines at DARUMA. Foodies can check out Nite Bite, a new food corner (opened Jan 2024), with eight stalls offering a variety of cuisines from Chinese noodles to Italian gelato.
The mall also has a unique feature — a Behind the Wall concept located on the ground floor. Besides being great for photos, the painted art street also holds a meaningful purpose, where you can learn more about the mall’s sustainability efforts.
Read also: 11 Best Things to Do, See, Eat in Sutera Mall and Surrounds — JB’s Lesser-known Local Shopping Hub
Opening hours: 10:30AM – 10:30PM
Address: L1-046, Sutera Mall, 1, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/4, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
How to get there: 24min drive from JB Sentral (Google Maps)
26) AEON Taman Universiti Shopping Centre
AEON has several malls across Malaysia, including one in Skudai known as AEON Taman Universiti Shopping Centre. It’s pretty small, only spanning two levels. There are a couple of food options: a food court, Burger King and McDonald’s to grab a quick bite if you’re in the area.
Shopping options are few (some have yet to open), but there’s Watsons, Guardian and Mr DIY for necessities. Mr. Toy also sells cute products — some inspired by Disney!
Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM (Sun – Thu), 10AM – 10:30PM (Fri – Sat)
Address: No.4, Jalan Pendidikan, Taman Universiti, 81300 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 30min drive from JB Sentral (Google Maps)
Where to Stay in Skudai
27) Budget: Bzz Hotel Skudai
Photo credit: Bzz Hotel Skudai
Bzz Hotel Skudai has all the essentials you’ll need — free WiFi, private bathrooms, cable TV, and even a 24-hour reception — from an affordable rate of ~S$50 per night! Opt for a tatami room that’s Japan-inspired with wooden flooring, low beds and warm lighting.
The hotel is also just under a 15-minute drive from Paradigm Mall, Sutera Mall, and AEON Taman Universiti Shopping Centre.
Cost: From ~S$50/night (up to 2 pax)
Address: 20km, Jalan Pontian Lama, Pulai, 81110 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 12min drive from Sutera Mall (Google Maps)
28) Convenience: Hyatt Place Johor Bahru Paradigm Mall
Hyatt Place Johor Bahru is only a minute’s walk from Paradigm Mall — the mall’s entrance can be accessed directly from the hotel lobby! Be it ice skating, singing karaoke or rock climbing, you can play to your heart’s content before coming back to rest, or take breaks in between activities.
Rooms are also super spacious and fitted with comfy beds. Plus, the hotel offers free amenities like a gym and swimming pool for guests!
Cost: From ~S$110/night (up to 2 pax)
Address: Paradigm Mall, Jln Mewah Ria 2, Taman Bukit Mewah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
How to get there: 1min walk from Paradigm Mall (Google Maps)
29) Luxurious: Pulai Springs Resort
Photo credit: Pulai Springs Resort, Johor Bahru via Facebook
Pulai Springs Resort is a playground by itself — there’s footgolf (a hybrid of football and golf), five swimming pools, a sauna and steam room, a tennis court, a fitness centre and even a spa!
Each room is equipped with a TV, minibar, sofa and balcony, with prices as low as ~S$91 per night (including breakfast). The resort is also near the Taman Universiti area, where you can check out local gems like Shashinki Camera and Layer Bakehouse.
Cost: From ~S$91/night (up to 2 pax)
Address: 20km, Jalan Pontian Lama, Pulai, 81110 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
How to get there: 5min drive from AEON Taman Universiti Shopping Centre (Google Maps)
Discovering New, Underrated Gems in Johor Bahru
Sometimes, it doesn’t hurt to step into unfamiliar territory to find the best gems. We’ve gone to JB many times, but Skudai surprised us with plenty of fun things to do.
So make spontaneous decisions, try a restaurant you’ve never heard of, or just wander around aimlessly. Who knows — you might just find something new you’ll absolutely love!
If you’re unsure of how to start exploring Skudai, check out marked attractions/places on Google Maps, browse IG/TikTok for recommendations and (most importantly) read our guides:
– 11 Exciting Yet Affordable Things to Do in Skudai Under S$20 — JB’s New Up-and-coming Neighbourhood
– Skudai Food Guide — 11 Lesser-known Local Eats, Cafes and Bars Just 30 Minutes Away from JB Checkpoint
– 9 Budget-friendly Things to Do in Paradigm Mall, JB from ~S$4 — Karaoke, Baking Workshop, Rock Climbing
– 11 Things to Do Near the JB Causeway — JB Sentral, Mount Austin, Skudai
– 11 Best Things to Do, See, Eat in Sutera Mall and Surrounds — JB’s Lesser-known Local Shopping Hub
Which of these places are you most excited to visit in this ultimate Skudai guide? Let us know in the comments below!
