Discover Semarang: History, Culture and City Life

Semarang brings together a layered urban history, lively traditions and a range of ways to spend the day. In Kota Lama, historic sites tell stories of earlier eras; elsewhere in Semarang, museums, nature experiences and evening activities are part of the city’s character. Which of these aspects interests you most may also shape your choice of holiday rental.

Kota Lama and the History of Semarang

Kota Lama Semarang grew from a fortified city and became known as the Old City, or Kota Lama. In 2020, Kota Semarang Lama was designated a national heritage area by the Ministry of Education and Culture. Four historic sites there represent Semarang’s history from the 15th century to the early 20th century. The area therefore represents more than a single era: its historical roots span several centuries.

One striking example is Gedung Marba. Yemeni entrepreneur Marta Badjunet had the building constructed in the mid-19th century. At the time, it served as the modern De Ziekel department store and as the office of an import-export company. Stasiun Tawang railway station also tells the story of the city: during the colonial period, it was an important transport hub for the colonial government. Dutch architect Sloth-Blauwboer designed the station, which opened on 1 June 1914. Stasiun Tawang is on the northern side of Kota Lama.

At the Museum Kota Lama Semarang, historical objects are combined with interactive 3D screens. They present the city’s history as a virtual experience. This offers a distinctive way to explore history not only through buildings, but also through exhibits and digital interpretation.

Traditions, Temples and Performing Arts

Dugderan is a tradition in Kota Semarang passed down through generations. It welcomes the joy surrounding the start of Ramadan. Before the pandemic, a parade held two days before the first day of fasting was part of the tradition.

Performing arts also have a place in Semarang. The Ngesti Pandowo Wayang Orang troupe has been well known there since the 1970s; performances can be seen at Gedung Kesenian Ki Narto Sabdo in the Taman Budaya Raden Saleh complex. Tari Semarangan is a traditional dance from Semarang, performed as a pair by two female dancers. If you would like to plan around a particular performance, check the latest dates.

The Sam Poo Kong Temple, also called Gedong Batu Temple, is attributed to the Chinese Muslim seafarer Admiral Zheng He, also known as Cheng Ho. He is said to have founded it in the 15th century. Today, the temple serves as a place of prayer and pilgrimage. In the sixth month of the lunar calendar, a festival connected with Sam Poo Kong is held to commemorate Admiral Cheng Ho’s arrival in Semarang. Check the latest dates before planning your trip.

Walking Tours, Cycling and Evenings in the City

A walking tour community offers regular tours in Kota Lama. Visitors can also cycle through the district. These are two different ways to explore the historic area: on a guided walk or at your own pace by bike. Check the latest tour times before making plans.

On weekend evenings, a Car Free Night takes place along Jl. Letjen Suprapto in Kota Lama. If this particular evening is important to your trip, check the latest event dates. The Simpang Lima area offers a different focus: in the evening, visitors can sample traditional dishes and ride decorated pedal vehicles or tandem bicycles around Lapangan Pancasila.

Nature and leisure spots also add to the picture of Semarang. Tall, shady trees grow in Hutan Wisata Tinjomoyo. Hammocks are set up at some locations for taking photos, and activities and competitions, such as bird competitions and camping, are often held there. Semarang Zoo combines animal protection and conservation with educational and leisure activities that help visitors learn more about the diversity of flora and fauna. Grand Maerokoco offers pedal boats and other activities, among other things.

Flavours and Choosing a Focus for Your Stay

Lumpia is a snack typical of Semarang, born from the cultural connection between Javanese and Chinese influences. Pasar Semawis is also known as Pusat Semawis and Pasar Malam Semawis, and it also goes by the name Waroeng Semawis. These names can help you recognise the place by its different names.

When looking for a holiday rental, you could start by considering which experiences you want to shape your stay: the historic sites of Kota Lama, traditions and performing arts, or nature and leisure activities. Visitors who want to use Semarang’s official tourist bus service can take the double-decker buses Si Denok, Si Kenang and Si Kuncung. Check whether the service is available on your travel dates before making plans.

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