Finance

All Aboard the Future: Singapore's First MRT Train Hotel Set to Open in 2025!

2025-04-11

Author: John Tan

Experience Uniquely Singaporean Hospitality

Get ready for an innovative staycation like no other! Singapore is set to introduce its very first MRT train hotel, and bookings will open in the second half of 2025. Imagine spending the night in a decommissioned train, transformed into a cozy hotel, where nostalgia meets modern comfort!

The Details of Train Pod @ one-north

Welcome to Train Pod @ one-north, where each of the eight compact rooms—measuring about 7.5 square meters—are nestled inside a refurbished Kawasaki-Nippon Sharyo C751B train carriage. This unique hotel offers an authentic train experience, including original interiors and a captivating visual treat: real footage of the train’s previous journeys shown on display screens.

Every room is air-conditioned and comes equipped with bunk beds for two guests, plus an en-suite bathroom. Guests can immerse themselves in the MRT experience with details like the iconic MRT map and campaign posters from the Land Transport Authority adorning the walls.

Innovative Amenities and Booking Process

But that’s not all! A special feature of the Train Pod experience includes a stunning 30-minute video ride from Redhill to Joo Koon stations, filmed from the train captain's perspective. Outside the train, guests can also enjoy common facilities like a food vending machine, laundry services, an outdoor kitchen, and even a dining area fitted with original MRT seats!

Gone are the days of traditional check-ins; this unique hotel employs facial recognition technology to ensure seamless check-in for guests.

Budget-Friendly Rates for Unique Experiences

Room rates are set to be budget-friendly, ranging from $80 to $90 on weekdays and $100 to $120 on weekends, exclusive of taxes.

Pioneering Sustainability and Local Start-Up Collaboration

The brainchild of local start-up Tiny Pod, this project is supported by JTC Corporation, the agency managing Singapore’s industrial infrastructure. It builds on Tiny Pod’s success with pop-up shipping container hotels since 2020, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and sustainability.

A Nostalgic Touch with Future Potential

The train was officially decommissioned in May 2024, with lots of love and care put into its refurbishment—$300,000 was invested, taking eight months to complete the transformation.

Tiny Pod’s founder, Mr. Seah Liang Chiang, expressed excitement over Train Pod’s unique blend of nostalgia and sustainability. The hotel is designed as a temporary structure, with plans to operate for up to seven years. If the response is strong, Tiny Pod is ready to consider adding more decommissioned train carriages, boosting its fascinating concept further.

The Future Awaits!

So, are you ready to book your stay in the first-ever MRT train hotel? Keep your eyes peeled for the launch, and prepare for a blend of history, fun, and a completely unique adventure right in the heart of Singapore!