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Semarang is the fifth biggest city in Indonesia. As the capital of this province of Central Java, it is located in the northern portion of the country. In the middle of its technological and economic advancement, the town has managed to keep a brand new culture. A balance between Javanese, Chinese, Dutch, and Arabic culture could be felt in town.
This harmonization of unique cultures climbed through the town’s foundation. Situated within the Java Sea, Semarang has been among the trade centers of Java. Its location made it a popular transit point for boats traveling to these bigger vents, leading to the mixture of cultures and ethnicities in East Asia and Europe.
The ethnic diversity can readily be viewed from the structure of these buildings in certain regions. Kauman is affected by Islamic civilization, Chinatown conveys evidence of the Chinese community, which evolved from Semarang before the Dutch arrived in Indonesia, along with the Old City provides glimpses of European civilization. Blenduk Church, a Protestant church constructed by Dutch in 1753, is now a milestone of the Old City region, formerly the European cultural and commercial district.
Now, Semarang is additionally a stop-off stage for overseas cruise ships that come in Tanjung Emas port. The cruise-goers can go to different tourist destinations in and about Semarang and Central Java, for instance, the famous Borobudur and Prambanan Temple.
Along with the historic holiday season, Semarang also has more contemporary attractions, particularly for people who enjoy hanging out at night since it is a city that never sleeps. At the core of the town, Simpang Lima (five-way intersection) is one the greatest destinations at nighttime. The region is full of a variety of food sellers that are accessible from early evening till morning.
The place to Visit in Semarang
- Old City
Even the Old City’s historic buildings include the ones utilized today as offices, houses, a hospital, a current marketplace, colleges, and places of worship.
- Lawang Sewu
Gedung Lawang Sewu, called “the construction with a million doorways,” is a landmark building in Semarang. It was constructed from 1904 to 1919 as the Dutch East Indies Railway Company head office until 1942. Now, Lawang Sewu brings an average of 1,000 visitors every day for the ceremonial and exhibition events.
- Kreo Cave
Situated at the mountains and valleys of the Kreo River, Kreo Cave is the place of wood in Semarang. Visitors will delight in the gorgeous all-natural scenery, including paddy areas, cliffs, and transparent rivers, together with seeing wild monkeys. Kreo Cave is in the middle of both Jatibarang’s reservoirs and can also be linked by a bridge.
- Sam Poo Kong Temple
Sam Poo Kong or Gedung Batu Temple is the oldest temple in this city which was built by Admiral Zeng He (Cheng Ho), the Chinese Muslim explorer. The temple complex consists of five temples among the Javanese and Chinese architectural styles. In 2002 to 2005, it got a renovation and became one of the most majestic temples in Southeast Asia nowadays.
Local Food to Eat in Semarang
- Lumpia
Lumpia is the favorite food among the local people and tourists. Lumpia is a kind of spring roll produced of flour dough full of bamboo sprouts along with prawn and then fried. It is served with fresh chives, fresh green chili, and sweet sauce with pickles.
- Bandeng Presto
Bandeng presto is made of bandeng (milkfish) cooked with high pressure to make the bones tender and easy to eat. Developed by chili paste, it’s served with rice.
- Gimbal Tofu
Gimbal tofu comprises fried carrot, sliced raw cabbage, rice salad, bean sprouts, egg whites, and dreadlocks (fish grilled in chili batter). It’s blended with a sausage comprising fish paste.
- Mie Kopyok
Kopyok noodle consists of boiled peppers, bean sprouts, and also parts of lontong (cooked rice). It’s wrapped in banana leaves with celery, salt, celery, and garlic water. Fried crackers and onions would be the best companies for Mie Kopyok.
Whether your trips take you on a long stroll on beaches, delicious cuisines, relaxing spas, and resorts or urban attractions, extra research will give you the best experience for your visit. Get to know more about Semarang by visiting Wonderful Indonesia.