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, the culpable soul is being punished accordingly. 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 built in 1937 along Pasir Panjang Road.
