Snow Beer - Originates and Uniquely from Ipoh

Ipoh - Tucked away in the heart of Ipoh Old Town, Kafe Yoon Wah is famous for one simple yet unforgettable experience.  The legendary “snow beer.” I have never heard about it before, and nothing quite prepared me for how refreshing it would be in the warm Malaysian weather. 

Edward drove us past rows of old shophouses and coffee shops, until we reached Kafe Yoon Wah. The place had that nostalgic kopitiam feel with simple tables, lively chatter, and the comforting aroma of local dishes being served around us.

Then came the star of the visit: the snow beer. It arrived in a frosted mug with a thick layer of icy foam sitting on top like freshly fallen snow. The mug itself was chilled to the point where tiny droplets formed instantly on the glass.  The Heineken beer poured into the frosted mug creates a frozen foam and my first sip was incredibly satisfying; with ice cold, smooth, and crisp. The frozen foam added a unique texture, making the drink feel extra refreshing with every mouthful.  I just loved this refreshing beer.

What made the experience even better was pairing the snow beer with local food. The cold, frothy drink complemented the savoury flavours perfectly, especially in the warm afternoon heat. It was one of those simple pleasures that felt special because of the setting, the company, and the local tradition behind it.

Pig intestine dish

Squid dish

Edward suggested for Donny and I to try Apple cider the 'Snow Beer' style and mentioned that it will still be as refreshing and he was correct.

Apple Cider frosted

Tasik Cermin Adventure & Kin Loong Coffee Shop

Ipoh - The morning air in Ipoh carried a gentle coolness as we set off for Tasik Cermin, a place often described as one of the city’s hidden natural gems. Surrounded by dramatic limestone hills and quiet countryside, the area promised a mix of adventure and serenity. As we arrived, we learned that there was an entrance fee for each of the adventure parks within the area, as the sites are privately managed and maintained. Instead of rushing through everything, we decided to take our time and explore at a relaxed pace.

We began by walking along the outside of Tasik Cermin 1. Even from the outer paths, the towering limestone cliffs were impressive. The rock walls rose sharply into the sky, their surfaces weathered by time, creating natural textures and patterns. The reflections of the cliffs in the still waters gave the lake its name—“Mirror Lake.” The calmness of the place made it feel almost untouched, as if the modern world had not quite reached this hidden corner of Ipoh.

From there, we continued our walk towards Kin Loong Valley, a peaceful area tucked between limestone formations. The path was quiet, with only the sound of birds and the occasional breeze moving through the trees. It felt like stepping into a different world—one where nature took the lead and everything else slowed down.

There are a set of stairs that led up to a small limestone peak. It was not a difficult climb and the short climb was worth it. From the top, the view opened up to the valley below. The greenery spread out between the dramatic grey limestone hills, creating a contrast that was both rugged and beautiful. 

Climb up the stairs

After the climb, we headed down to Kin Loong Coffee Shop for a well-earned break.

Kin Loong Coffee is a small, traditional-style café nestled in the valley, known for its relaxed atmosphere and classic Ipoh flavours. The shop has a rustic charm, with simple seating and a peaceful view of the surrounding limestone hills. We ordered kaya toast and their famous Ipoh white coffee. The toast was warm and crispy, spread with fragrant coconut kaya and a thin layer of butter that melted into the bread. The white coffee was smooth, aromatic, and slightly creamy; a comforting and satisfying drink after the short climb. It was a simple breakfast, but in that serene valley setting, it felt especially memorable.

Kin Loong Coffee is popular in a local, experiential sense and especially for visitors who want an authentic Ipoh coffee atmosphere.

Pour the white coffee into the ice beaker

Delicious Ipoh white coffee

Toasty kaya bread

We continued our adventure to Tasik Cermin 2, also known as the Hidden World. This section is famous for its secretive entrance through a cave tunnel that leads to a concealed lake.

Edward and Donny

Tasik Cermin 2 came about as a former mining site, where limestone quarrying and tin mining activities once took place. Over time, as mining operations stopped, rainwater filled the excavated areas, forming a hidden lake surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Because the lake is enclosed by rock formations and not visible from the outside, it earned the nickname “Hidden World.” What was once an industrial site has since been transformed into a natural attraction, blending history with scenic beauty.

bending our necks 

To reach the hidden lake, we boarded an inflatable boat that took us through the cave tunnel. The journey itself was the highlight. As we drifted into the darkened passage, the air became cooler and the light dimmer. 

The cave ceiling hung low in certain sections, and at one point, we all had to bend down carefully to avoid bumping our heads. It added a small thrill to the ride, like entering a secret world.

Then, suddenly, the tunnel opened up into the hidden lake. The scene was breathtaking. Calm water stretched out before us, perfectly reflecting the towering limestone cliffs on all sides. The silence was striking, broken only by the gentle movement of the boat. It felt like discovering a secret place that few people knew about. A peaceful sanctuary hidden behind stone walls.

Around Tasik Cermin area, there were also family-friendly activities available. There were ATV rides, which looked exciting for those wanting a bit more adventure, and a small animal petting zoo that would be especially enjoyable for children. The area was clearly designed to cater to both nature lovers and families looking for a fun day out.

Nasi Ganja Ayam Merah - Uniquely Ipoh restaurant

 Ipoh - Nasi Ganja in Ipoh is one of those legendary food stops that locals speak about with a smile and visitors go out of their way to find. Officially known as Yong Suan Nasi Kandar, the stall sits inside a traditional Chinese coffee shop, creating a uniquely Malaysian scene where cultures and flavours meet on a single plate.

The stall gained international attention when a pilot reportedly sent a helicopter to Ipoh just to pick up 36 packets of Nasi Ganja, showing just how far fans would go for a taste. The story quickly went viral and cemented the dish’s reputation as one of Malaysia’s most talked-about comfort foods.

What makes this place even more special is its setting. It’s an Indian Muslim nasi kandar stall operating inside a Chinese coffee shop.  This is something that reflects Ipoh’s multicultural food heritage. It’s the kind of scene you rarely find elsewhere, where different traditions blend seamlessly over plates of good food.

Despite its name, there are no illegal ingredients involved. The nickname “Nasi Ganja” comes from how addictive the dish is. Regulars joke that once you try it, you’ll keep craving it again and again, as if it had some magical pull. The plate typically comes with fluffy white rice drenched in a rich mix of curries, tender stewed beef, and the restaurant’s signature fried red chicken.

The beef is especially memorable, slow-cooked until it becomes incredibly soft, soaking up the fragrant spices. The fried red chicken, with its crispy exterior and juicy interior, is another highlight that keeps customers lining up. The combination of curry gravies poured generously over the rice creates a bold, comforting flavour that defines the nasi kandar experience.

A visit to Nasi Ganja isn’t just about eating; it’s about experiencing a piece of Ipoh’s identity and bold flavours, cultural harmony, and a dish so good people once called in a helicopter for it.

Journey through Ipoh Old Town - Ipoh Street Art & Birch Memorial Clock Tower

 Ipoh - Walking through Concubine Lane and the surrounding streets of Ipoh, I kept stumbling upon vibrant murals that brought the old town to life. Every corner seemed to have a splash of colour.  Some showing nostalgic scenes of kopitiams, trishaws, and daily life, while others featured playful illustrations with catchy, fancy words like “Ipoh City of Music” and “Old Town Vibes.” 

The murals blended perfectly with the heritage buildings, giving the area a youthful, creative energy. I paused often to snap photos, each artwork telling its own little story. It felt like an open-air gallery, where Ipoh’s past and present met on the same walls.

Standing prominently at a busy junction in Ipoh’s old town is the Birch Memorial Clock Tower, a landmark that blends colonial history with striking architecture. I stopped by during my walk through the heritage district, and despite the traffic moving around it, the clock tower felt like a quiet reminder of a very different era.

The clock tower was built in 1909 to commemorate James W. W. Birch, the first British Resident of Perak. Birch was assassinated in 1875 in Pasir Salak after conflicts with local Malay chiefs over British administrative policies. The tower was later erected by the British colonial administration as a memorial to him, and it has since become one of Ipoh’s most recognisable heritage structures.

Architecturally, the tower is elegant and symmetrical, painted in a soft white that stands out against the surrounding shop houses and roads. It rises in several tiers, each decorated with classical columns, floral motifs, and symbolic panels. Around the upper section, there are relief panels representing the four virtues of civilisation—Justice, Patience, Courage, and Prudence. A reflection of British imperial ideals of that time.

A Unique book store in Ipoh - BookXcess

 Ipoh - Tucked inside the charming Kong Heng Square, just a short stroll from the lively Concubine Lane, I stumbled upon one of the most unique bookstores I’ve ever visited—BookXcess. Located at 91 Jalan Sultan Yussof, the store sits inside a beautifully restored former bank, and the moment I stepped in, I felt like I had entered a secret literary vault.

entrance to the vault

What makes this bookstore so special is its setting. Instead of ordinary shelves, many of the books are displayed inside old bank vaults and safety deposit compartments. The space retains its vintage banking atmosphere, complete with heavy vault doors and industrial touches, giving the entire store a nostalgic and cozy feel. The concept is both creative and memorable.  You’re not just browsing books; you’re exploring a piece of history. 

The bookstore spans multiple levels, and I found myself wandering from section to section, discovering everything from novels and thrillers to art, design, and business books. One of the best parts is the pricing with many titles are heavily discounted, making it easy for visitors to pick up a few unexpected reads without guilt.  There was also an art exhibit below.

There’s also a quiet, relaxing atmosphere throughout the store. The soft lighting, wooden textures, and vintage architecture create the perfect environment to slow down and browse. It felt less like a commercial bookstore and more like a hidden sanctuary for book lovers.

I spent quite a bit of time walking through the old vault areas, taking photos and admiring the creative layout. It’s the kind of place where every corner has character, and every shelf seems to hold a small discovery.

If you ever find yourself in Ipoh’s Old Town, BookXcess at Kong Heng Square is definitely worth a visit. It’s not just a bookstore. It’s an experience.

White Coffee - Originates and Uniquely Ipoh

 Ipoh - Ipoh is famous for its white coffee, a style that dates back to the 19th century. Chinese migrants working in the tin mines introduced the method of roasting coffee beans with margarine and serving the brew with sweetened condensed milk.

Despite the name, the beans are not white. The term “white coffee” refers to the lighter roasting method and the addition of milk, which gives the drink its creamy colour. Over time, this style became a defining feature of Ipoh’s food culture and is now enjoyed across Malaysia and beyond.

OldTown was the first brand to commercialise Ipoh white coffee as a modern café chain, starting in 2005, helping bring this local drink to a wider audience. However, the original style of white coffee had already been created decades earlier by traditional kopitiams in Ipoh. 

During my time exploring Ipoh Old Town, I made a stop at the OldTown Heritage Gallery, a charming and informative space that tells the story behind one of Malaysia’s most recognisable coffee brands. The gallery is located on the second floor of the OldTown Heritage Centre, just a short walk from Concubine Lane, making it an easy and worthwhile stop during a heritage walk.

To reach the gallery, I walked through the air-conditioned café on the ground floor and headed up a staircase that led to the exhibition space. The gallery felt modern yet nostalgic at the same time. It was not large, but it was thoughtfully curated, with displays that explained the origins of OldTown and the development of Ipoh’s coffee culture.

Inside, there were interactive wall displays showing the traditional coffee-making process, along with antique coffee equipment and ceramic cups. One section featured a miniature kopitiam setup, which gave a glimpse into how traditional coffee shops in Ipoh used to look. It felt like stepping into a smaller, preserved version of the past. 

There were also artistic touches throughout the space, including decorative lanterns and exhibits created by local artists. The overall atmosphere was calm and educational, and I appreciated how the gallery balanced heritage storytelling with modern presentation. The open-air corridor and balcony area added a relaxed feel, overlooking the street below. 

One thing that stood out to me was that entry to the heritage gallery was free, which made it even more appealing. It was a simple, accessible way to learn about Ipoh’s coffee heritage without needing to commit to a full museum visit. 

My visit to the OldTown Heritage Gallery was brief, but it added depth to my understanding of Ipoh’s coffee culture. After spending days exploring food stalls, kopitiams, and cafés, it was nice to see the story behind the drink that defines the city.

Journey through Ipoh infamous Concubine Lane

 Ipoh - Concubine Lane is one of the most talked-about streets in Ipoh Old Town, and it was a place I was curious to see for myself. The lane is narrow, lively, and full of colour, with souvenir stalls, dessert shops, and old shophouses that give it a nostalgic charm. As I walked through, I found myself stopping every few steps to take photos. The bright signboards, hanging lanterns, and heritage façades made it one of the most photogenic spots in the area.

Street murals along concubine lane

Despite its cheerful atmosphere today, the lane carries a rather intriguing history. It is said that during the tin-mining boom in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this area was owned by a wealthy mining tycoon. According to local stories, he housed his concubines along this particular lane, which is how it eventually became known as Concubine Lane. Whether entirely factual or partly folklore, the name stuck, and today it remains one of the most recognisable streets in Ipoh.

After wandering around and snapping plenty of photos, I stopped at a quaint dessert shop called Custard King. 

It was a small, simple place, but clearly popular.  I ordered two types: an egg custard served cold and a milk custard served hot. The cold egg custard was smooth and refreshing, 

The milk custard was sold out, and I had to wait about ten minutes for the next batch to be prepared. The wait turned out to be worth it. The hot milk custard felt comforting and lightly sweet. Sitting there with my desserts after a long walk through the busy lane was the perfect little break before continuing my Ipoh adventure.