My Johor adventure kicked off in Segamat.. It was said that the name of Segamat came from the expression ‘Segar amat!’ meaning ‘Very fresh!’, where Bendahara Tepok exclaimed as he and his troops rested and drank from the river during their retreat from Johor. 

This was around 1511, after the fall of Malacca to the invading Portuguese led by Afonso de Albuquerque.

Segamat is a town and district located at the topmost part of the state of Johor, bordering two other states of Malaysia. It is located roughly 172 km from johor Bahru, the capital city of State of Johor

Anyway my trip there was fun filled with nature, history, culture, food, and a little bit of magic.

✨ Walters Farm

Spread across six hectares, Walters Farm is a one-stop wonderland that blends five attractions in one: a recreational park, mini zoo, rest house, children’s playground, and even a water theme park. 

It’s perfect for families or anyone young at heart. The mini zoo was such a delight, I got up close with parrots, chameleons, owls, civets, hedgehogs, ball python, rabbits, mouse deer and more. Best part? You can feed, pet, and even snap selfies with some of them! 

Beyond the animals, there is an outdoor adventure park with wave pools, suspension bridge walk, and splash zones for kids (and kids-at-heart).

🚉 The Old Railway Track Monument

Next stop was a little piece of history — the old Railway Track Monument. Once part of a bustling rail line that connected Johor’s communities, it now stands preserved as a tribute to the district’s transportation heritage. 

Framed by greenery, it’s a quiet yet meaningful spot that makes you pause and reflect, and of course, it’s a great photo stop too.

🎨 Lorong Seni dan Budaya
We wandered into the colourful Lorong Seni dan Budaya, a hidden alleyway bursting with murals, cultural motifs, and storytelling walls. 

Every corner is Insta-worthy, but beyond that, it’s a celebration of Segamat’s community and creativity.. be sure to stop by the nearby mosque for some refreshing Cendol or Rojak !!!

👑 Dataran Batu Hampar
Segamat’s new landmark, the Johor Crown Monument at Dataran Batu Hampar (also called the Rock Garden), is definitely another must-see. 

With four old gun barrels surrounding a regal crown replica, and fountains and landscapes surrounding it, it’s especially majestic and I heard it is pretty striking at night when the colourful lights bring it to life.

🍲 Port Baung Taman Yayasan

No trip is complete without food! I had a hearty lunch at Port Baung Taman Yayasan, a local favourite eatery.

Their specialty is the baung (freshwater catfish) and giant river prawns cooked in rich, spicy yellow broths — the kind of comforting Johorean flavours that instantly win your heart.

⛺ Kebun Haus Glamping

Finally, I got to check out Kebun Haus Glamping, where rustic charm meets modern comfort. Imagine sleeping in beautifully styled tents, surrounded by lush greenery, with adorable free-roaming pet crested chickens to keep you company. 

I loved the setting… you could stargaze, swim in the pool or soak in the tub, dine outdoors, or just soak in the peaceful kampung vibes. Or just come here for the delicious drinks, snacks and dessert!!!! It’s the perfect hideaway to end the night on a cosy, magical note.

Segamat truly surprised me with its mix of attractions, from animals and art to history, food, and glamping under the stars…. And this was just Day 1 of my Majestic Johor journey!