These Cities in Indonesia Have Unique Chinese New Year Celebrations

While most people in Indonesia may know it as “Imlek” rather than “Sin Cia”, it’s also often referred to as “Chinese Eid”. It’s no surprise that as cultures mix, celebrations take on a unique twist. The same can be said for the way Lunar New Year is celebrated in different cities across the archipelago with cities adding a local touch to the celebration..

There are several cities that have unique traditions when celebrating Chinese New Year. You invite friends, friends, family and loved ones to visit one of them. Curious about the unique celebrations? Let's check this information.

5 Indonesian Cities with Unique Chinese New Year Celebrations

The thrilling Water War Festival in Selatpanjang, Riau

If you're familiar with Thailand's Songkran Festival, where the streets are wet because  people celebrate by drenching each other in water, you'll love Riau Province's own version: the Water Fight Festival or "Cian Ciu." According to Chinese tradition, water is a symbol of sustenance and the more one is doused with water, the more blessings are shared.

Grebeg Sudiro symbolizes acculturation in Surakarta

You may have heard of “Grebeg Syawal” or “Grebeg Suro”, but have you ever heard of Grebeg Sudiro? This celebration in Surakarta, Central Java is a unique mix of Chinese and Javanese cultures.

The “Gunungan” procession, which is typically led by the Barongsai procession, is often inaugurated by the Sultanate of Surakarta. What sets this celebration apart is the use of basket cakes, called Gunungan, that are piled high and are the target of residents during the parade.

The vibrant Chinese Culture Week in Yogyakarta

If you happen to be in Yogyakarta during the Lunar New Year holidays and looking for a unique “Imlek” celebration experience, head to Ketandan village in the Malioboro area. CHinese Culture Week 2023 is set to take place from January 30 to February 5, 2023.

The main attractions include a bustling bazaar and a lively carnival, all aimed at welcoming the new year. Just make sure to bring some extra cash. And for those of you who are foodies, don’t worry about finding something to eat. The organizers have planned to have both halal and non-halal food available and sold separately.

Visiting the traditional temples in Glodok, Jakarta

Petak Sembilan, also known as Glodok, is an historic Chinatown neighborhood in Jakarta. During the Lunar New Year celebrations, Petak Sembilan becomes a popular destination for locals who come to pray and revel in the festive atmosphere.

The Dharma Bakti Temple and Toa Se Bio Temple are the focal point of the celebrations in this area. As you’re visiting places of worship, make sure to dress appropriately and be respectful of those who are praying.

The festive Lunar New Year and Cap Go Meh celebration in Singkawang

No list of Lunar New Year celebrations in Indonesia would be complete without putting Singkawang in the conversation. Lunar New Year celebrations in Singkawang last for 15 days and culminate in the vibrant Cap Go Meh Festival.

People from all over the area, other cities and provinces, even from abroad, flood the streets to take part in the carnival-like atmosphere.

One of the highlights of the celebrations is the iconic “Tatung” procession, where hundreds of people dressed as “Tatung”, believed to be the medium for the gods to come down to earth, parade through the city.

It’s an attention-drawing attraction, but be prepared to see some extreme and dangerous scenes during the procession.

Acculturation and cultural assimilation in Indonesia often result in unique and exciting celebrations, such as the Lunar New Year celebrations in those cities.

Next time the Lunar New Year rolls around, consider visiting one of these cities with friends and family to experience the unique blend of cultures that make Indonesia so diverse through the Lunar New Year and Cap Go Meh celebrations.

Explore Chinese New Year Celebration Locations With TRAC Services

If you're planning on traveling with a large group of people, TRAC's bus rental services are a great option. TRAC offers various bus types and capacities to choose from, including luxury buses that are both stylish and comfortable.

For smaller groups, a small bus may be the best fit. But if you're traveling with a larger group, TRAC also offers big buses that can fit up to 59 passengers. And for those looking for a luxurious experience, TRAC now offers medium-sized luxury bus rental options.

You may have been familiar with the TRAC’s big-sized luxury buses with the mini meeting room, but this time, you have another option with the introduction of TRAC’s medium-sized luxury buses. These buses are simpler in design but still come equipped with all the necessary amenities for a comfortable journey, such as cushy seats with arm and footrests, a pantry, a toilet, and entertainment facilities.

For ease of booking, you can do it through the TRACtoGo application. Immediately install the TRACtoGo application on Playstore or Appstore. And get various interesting promos in it.

Oh yes, for the latest information, don't forget to follow TRAC's social media via Instagram @trac_astra, Facebook TRAC-Astra Rent a Car and Twitter @TRACastra.

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