Raja Uda (Butterworth) is Penang’s well-known CNY “lantern street,” with thousands of red lanterns spanning roughly a few kilometers and best enjoyed after nightfall. At night, the lanterns form a continuous red canopy that’s become a major “check-in” / photo spot in the area. It’s also a long-running local tradition that has been done annually (with pauses during the pandemic period). The lit-up stretch runs from the south junction of Jalan Telaga Air through Jalan Raja Uda.
Chinese New Year decorations at Love Lane before they were apparently removed by the local council due to potential obstruction to the road.
Note as of latest status, these are now back in place as shown below:
Armenian Street comes alive at night in this cozy, lantern-lit scene, where rows of glowing red Chinese lanterns float above the narrow lane and warm streetlights bounce off the old shophouse walls. The bright yellow road markings lead your eye into the distance, while little details (plants by the gates, hanging wires overhead, and small storefront corners) give the street its lived-in Penang character.
Jalan Mahsuri is a major, well-connected road in Bayan Baru that links important junctions and supports daily residential and commercial activity. This was a lighting and streetscape beautification project along Jalan Mahsuri which was initiated through a close collaboration between YB Fahmi Zainol (Pantai Jerejak state assemblyman) and the Penang Island City Council (MBPP). Its aim is to improve the area’s appearance while enhancing comfort and safety for residents and road users.
Above mural at Nagore Road was created by Thai artist Alex Face, one amongst many of his art works in various parts of George Town.
Despite its name, Armenian Street (Lebuh Armenian) was not originally settled by Armenians. It was named after the small Armenian community that once lived there in the early 1800s, who were influential traders and philanthropists in Penang. Interestingly, the famous Eastern & Oriental Hotel was founded by the Armenian Sarkies Brothers, who also established Singapore’s Raffles Hotel.
Today, the street is a UNESCO heritage hotspot known for its murals, cafes, and historic shophouses.
Colorful lanterns adorning Armenian Street during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
In the heart of George Town, a new mural at Armenian Street has turned heads while spreading an important message — “Love Our Turtles”. Launched as part of a month-long campaign (Aug 15 – Sept 14, 2025) by the IKHTIAR Foundation and proudly sponsored by ecoBrown’s, the artwork blends Penang’s cultural vibrancy with a call to protect endangered sea turtles and our oceans. More than just street art, this mural is part of a larger conservation movement, reminding visitors and locals alike that preserving marine life is as vital as celebrating heritage. The artwork is located just across the “Children on Bicycle” mural.
A small and somewhat hidden alley connecting M-Summit Hotel and the Gurdwara Road in front of Gama departmental store in George Town. The picturesque and Instagrammable alley is adorned with vibrant bougainvillea arches that stretch across the walkway. Its exact location can be found HERE.
Once Coffee cafe located at Jalan Datuk Koyah, The Sugar Tang place at Carnarvon Street, Yap Kongsi Temple at Armenian Street and a liquor store at Campbell Street.