🌿 Hidden Gem in Perak: The Mysterious “Japanese House” at Sungai Gopeng 🌿

#springitinerary On my way from Gopeng to Kampar, I made a special detour to the small village of Sungai Gopeng New Village (Malim Nawar) just to see the famous “Japanese House.” This striking three-story red brick building towers over the surrounding low-rise homes, making it truly stand out. Built during the Japanese occupation of Malaya, the “Japanese House” was originally used to store and produce gunpowder ingredients but later became a production site for carbide (known locally as “smelly electricity”). Nearby, you can still find remnants of another similar building foundation and huge pieces of charcoal. There used to be two “Japanese Houses,” plus an office to manage workers’ access. After the factory was abandoned, locals dismantled the bricks to build houses. This is one of Malaysia’s rare surviving Japanese occupation-era buildings. Over time, the lower part of the structure has been engulfed by twisting tree roots, adding to its mysterious charm. What makes the “Japanese House” so fascinating can’t be put into words — you have to visit it yourself to truly feel its atmosphere. Unfortunately, there are no informational signs at the site to explain its history, so it remains a niche spot mostly for curious visitors and photo lovers. #malaysia #perak #sungaigopeng #hiddengem #japanesehouse