According to Chinese mythology, Hell Courts are where punishments are meted out against individuals who have committed sins in their lives. There are altogether ten courts of hell that would pass judgment on one’s past deeds before a form of reincarnation is determined. Here in the sixth Hell Court where the chamber of vivisection is situated, sinners who have killed domestic animals in excess are being punished, getting a taste of their own medicine. In his bid to educate the public about Chinese culture, Aw Boon Haw built a theme park housing statues and sculptures that portrayed the themes of Chinese legend, such as scenes from the Hell Courts. Originally called Tiger Balm Gardens, Haw Par Villa was along Pasir Panjang Road in 1937.
