7 Historic Chinatowns in Indonesia You Should Visit

As Chinese New Year 2025 approaches, are you planning a getaway to explore some of Indonesia’s most vibrant and historic Chinatowns?

These neighborhoods, home to generations of Chinese-Indonesians, boast unique cultural and historical significance, having shaped the character of the cities they’re nestled in for decades or even centuries.

Nearly every major city in Indonesia has a Chinatown worth exploring. These areas are easily recognized by their traditional Chinese architecture, often hiding culinary treasures and cultural landmarks that delight visitors.

Here are seven recommendations for historic Chinatowns in Indonesia that you can visit to trace the journey of Chinese culture in the country.

Chinatown Glodok, Jakarta

Located in West Jakarta, Glodok is not only one of the largest Chinatowns in Indonesia but also one of the oldest and most iconic. Established in the 17th century, this area became a hub for Chinese settlers in Batavia (modern-day Jakarta) and has flourished ever since.

Glodok is renowned for its rich history and cultural significance. Notable landmarks include Jin De Yuan Temple (Kim Tek Ie Temple) and Dharma Bhakti Temple, which date back to the 1600’s.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Glodok’s traditional market alleys, where everything from fresh produce to electronic goods is on offer.

The culinary scene is equally enticing. Try the legendary Es Kopi Tak Kie, a coffee shop serving delicious brews for nearly a century.

Chinatown Tangerang, Banten

Situated along the Cisadane River, Chinatown Tangerang, formerly known as Benteng, has roots tracing back to the 1400s. Chinese immigrants intermarried with locals, forming the unique Peranakan community known as Cina Benteng or Tionghoa Benteng.

One of the area’s key attractions is the Boen Tek Bio Temple, the oldest in Tangerang, which serves as a symbol of the region’s heritage. The vibrant market here continues to be a thriving hub for trade, reflecting the area’s historic importance.

For a deeper dive into history, head to the Benteng Heritage Museum in the heart of Pasar Lama. Housed in a beautifully preserved 18th-century building, the museum tells the story of the Chinese Peranakan community in Tangerang.

If you can’t visit during Chinese New Year, mark your calendar for the Peh Cun Festival in mid-year, featuring the exhilarating dragon boat races on the Cisadane River.

Lasem Chinatown, Central Java

Known as Little China, Lasem is a small sub-district in Rembang Regency, Central Java, with a history as one of Indonesia’s oldest Chinatown areas.

Lasem’s Chinatown spans five villages: Soditan, Karangturi, Sumbergirang, Babagan, and Gedongmulyo. Here, charming streets, ancient Chinese-style buildings, and warm locals offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Must-visit spots in Lasem include:

• Cu An Kiong Temple, built in the 16th century
• Lawang Ombo
• Rumah Merah (Little China Heritage)
• Opa Gwan House
• Mini Museum
• Nyah Lasem House
• Kauman Islamic Boarding School

And don’t leave without purchasing Lasem batik, renowned for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors.

Semarang Chinatown, Central Java

Located near Semarang’s Old Town, this Chinatown is a lively blend of history and culture. Originally, the Chinese community lived around Sam Po Kong Temple in Simongan.

But later relocated to the city center under Dutch orders. Over the years, Semarang’s Chinatown developed into a bustling area with deep historical roots.

The district is divided into several zones: Pecinan Lor (North Chinatown), Pecinan Kidul (South Chinatown), and Pecinan Wetan (West Chinatown).

Each area has its own charm, but the heart of Semarang Chinatown lies in Pasar Semawis, a weekend market filled with street food and vibrant stalls. Open from Friday to Sunday evenings, it’s the perfect spot to sample local delights.

Don’t miss Gang Lombok, famous as Semarang’s lumpia capital, or explore Gang Cilik, Gang Gambiran, and Gang Baru, where traditional markets offer an array of goods and authentic experiences.

Chinatown Solo, Central Java

The history of Chinatown in Solo dates back to the 18th century during the reign of King Mangkunegara I. In 1755, Chinese traders were relocated from Pasar Gede to Kampung Balong in Sudiroprajan Village, marking the beginning of Chinatown Solo’s development.

Over time, this area became home to many Chinese-Indonesian families, making it the largest Chinatown in Solo.

The vibrant Grebeg Sudiro event, now an iconic Chinese New Year celebration in Solo, originated from the traditional Buk Teko ritual held by the Chinese community in Solo.

Chinatown Singkawang, West Kalimantan

Known as Pecinan Jamthang Singkawang-Kuching, Singkawang’s Chinatown is a historical gem in West Kalimantan.

The Chinese community here, primarily Hakka and Teochew, has been established since the 18th century, with smaller groups of Cantonese and Hokkien also contributing to the city’s rich culture.

Singkawang is famously referred to as the “City of a Thousand Temples,” with over 700 vihara and chedi scattered throughout the area.

The city’s Cap Go Meh celebration is a must-see, featuring an exhilarating tatung and cultural parade that draws crowds from all over the world.

Chinatown Medan, North Sumatra

While smaller than other Chinatowns in Indonesia, Medan’s Chinatown in the Kesawan area is a vibrant hub worth exploring. Located near the city center and the Belawan Port, Kesawan has long been a center of trade and culture.

A highlight of Medan’s Chinatown is the historic Tjong A Fie House, an architectural gem that showcases the life and legacy of one of Medan’s most influential figures.

Before beginning your adventure, fuel up with a hearty breakfast of Bihun Bebek Asie, a local favorite.

Explore Chinatowns with TRAC Car Rental

Discover Indonesia’s Chinatowns with ease and comfort using TRAC car rental. Whether you’re visiting iconic temples, exploring traditional markets, or sampling culinary delights, TRAC ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.

Whether you want self-drive car rental or with a driver, all can be accommodated by TRAC. With service coverage spread across various cities in Indonesia, TRAC is certainly the right choice for various travel needs.

Booking a TRAC car rental is also easy to do on the homepage of the TRAC website or the TRACtoGo application. Download the app now on Google Playstore or Apple Appstore.

Don't forget to subscribe to the TRAC newsletter to stay up to date with various news and information about promos, the latest event & concert schedules, tips and vacation recommendations, simply by entering your email in the banner below.

Whatever the track, just use TRAC!