Monday 18 November 2013

10 must visit shopping malls in Johor

In recent years, the shopping scene in Johor has grown more vibrant. Apart from the old shopping malls that provide that rustic charm, the newer ones pride themselves on carrying international brands and duty free shopping. Here at travelshootandshare, we bring to you 10 awesome shopping malls worth checking out.


photo credits: www.citysqjb.com
1. City Square
A stone's throw from immigration

Due to its proximity to the causeway, this is one of the easiest shopping malls to get to after clearing immigration. Shopaholics will rejoice as this mall consists of more than 200 retailers that sell both local and international goods. For every girl who is in need of a beauty fix, there are various hair and beauty salons at prices below those in Singapore. This shopping mall also houses a movie theatre for movie buffs. And yes, movie tickets are cheaper here!

Johor Bahru City Square
106 & 108, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, 
80000 Johor Bahru

Opening hours
Daily: 1000 - 2200
(excludes movie theatre)

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     Photo credits: http://travel.findbulous.info/upload/19846/re-image1.jpg

              2. KSL City Mall
Modern, hip and the big sister of the lot

Once you've crossed the causeway, a 5 to 10 minutes drive is all you need to reach this mall that is beaming with activity. Apart from having the usual fashion and beauty stores, this mall sets itself apart by housing the TESCO hypermarket for those needing to stock up on fresh food. Another plus point of this mall is the KSL hotel. It allows for a sleepover for those too tired to drive back.

KSL City Mall
33 Jalan Seladang, Taman Abad, 
80250 Johor Bahru

Opening hours
Daily: 1000 - 2200
(excludes movie theatre)

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3. Plaza Sentosa
A quiet enclave

For those who want a quieter mall and do not want to jostle with the crowds, Plaza Sentosa is the place to go. There are hair and manicure salons for those wanting to pamper themselves. A supermarket called "The Store" is also located in this mall. For couples looking for cheaper bridal photography and dresses, there are a few bridals shops around this mall.

Plaza Sentosa
Jalan Sutera, Taman Sentosa
80150 Johor Bahru


Opening hours
Daily: 1000 - 2200
(excludes massage shops)

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Photo credits: http://berjayahotel.com/johorbahru/

4. The Zon
Duty free heaven

A 10 minute drive from the causeway, this shopping mall prides itself on selling duty free goods. Shoppers are in for a treat as The Zon provides the widest selections of duty free goods in southern Malaysia. After shopping, relax along one of the many waterfront restaurants and entertainment outlets.

The Zon 
88 Jalan Ibrahim Sultan, 
80300 Johor Bahru

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Photo credits: http://malaysia.curiouscatnetwork.com/files/2011/11/plaza_pelangi_jb.jpg

5. Plaza Pelangi
For that nostalgic vibe

Also situated near the causeway, this is an old mall which my folks used to bring me to very often. I usually go back to this mall whenever they hold their Popular sale to get books and stationery at a discounted price. At night this area comes alive with the trucks that serve lok lok, a popular Malaysian stick food that can be eaten for dinner or supper.

Plaza Pelangi
2 Jalan Kuning
80400 Johor Bahru

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6. Danga City Mall
Where activities and action meet

This mall is buzzing with activities for teenagers and adults. There's an indoor paintball arena for those wanting to have some indoor warfare fun. I've tried the indoor paintball activity and I must say it was quite an eye opener. You dress up in suits, and with your team members, attempt to be the first to reach your enemy's base while shooting paint bullets at them. Apart from the paintball arena, there's also an indoor archery corner and a bowling alley for those interested in other sports activities.

Danga City Mall
Jalan Tun Abdul Razak Susur 1,
80000 Johor Bahru


Opening hours
Daily: 1000 - 2200

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7. Holiday Plaza
For those nick-nacks 

Despite its age, this shopping mall stands out for the number of handphone accessory and DVD shops available. Prices here are cheaper than the bigger and newer shopping malls. Do remember to bargain too if you would like to get a good deal.

Holiday Plaza
80250 Johor Bahru

Opening hours
daily: 1000 - 2200

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8. AEON Tebrau City Shopping Centre
For the international brands

If you are looking for a mall that carries international brands, this mall carries many global brands such as Topshop, Mango and Charles and Keith. As most prices follow international pricing, this is one mall I often go to during the sale season.

Aeon Tebrau City Shopping Centre 
1 Jalan Desa Tebrau, 
81100 Johor Bahru,

Opening hours
Sun - Thur: 1000 - 2200
Fri - Sat: 1000 - 2300

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                                    Photo credits: http://acacia-design.com/ts1.jpg

9. Sutera Mall
For local shopping and dining options

This is another mall that is slightly away from the city centre. It will take you approximately 15 to 20 minutes to get here once you've cleared customs. With 85 apparel shops, there is a wide range of fashion clothing for shopaholics. Their basement floor is rather similar to Far East Plaza in Singapore. You'll get to see lots of handphone accessories stores and female clothes stores. Apart from retail shops, entertainment activities such as Karaoke singing, archery and arcade games are also available at this mall. Outside the shopping mall, there are tons of eateries; quaint, old and new, that are worth checking out.

1 Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/4, 
Taman Sutera Utama, 81300, 
Skudai, Johor

Opening hours
daily: 1030 - 2230 

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Photo credits: http://www.panoramio.com/photo/69597760

10. Johor Premium Outlet
Discounted high end shopping 


I'm sure most of you have heard of this factory outlet that has been in the limelight since its opened. The phrase two opening which just opened on 15th November 2013, promises 40 new brand name stores. Apart from having famous brands such as Ferragamo and Coach, this premium outlet is expecting new stores such as Kate Spade and Tory Burch to open during their phrase two opening. (Read about my personal experience: click here)


Johor Premium Outlet
Indahpura
81000 Kulaijaya
Johor Darul Takzim

Opening hours
daily: 1000 - 2200