Semarang is the capital city of Central Java province in Indonesia. It’s a bustling city with a fascinating mix of old and new attractions. From centuries-old temples and mosques to contemporary malls and museums, there’s something for everyone. Here are the top tourist attractions in Semarang that you shouldn’t miss!
Lawang Sewu
Location: Jl. Pemuda, Sekayu, Kota Semarang
Opening Hours: 07.00 – 17.00
Admission Fee: Rp 20,000
Built in 1904, Lawang Sewu is considered the icon of Semarang. This historic building was the headquarters of the Dutch East Indies Railway Company. The L-shaped building has a distinctive neo-gothic architecture with detailed ornaments decorating the white facade.
Lawang Sewu consists of two parts connected by a bridge. The first part housed the offices while the second part was the lodging quarters. Don’t miss the basement where you can see the old train tracks and tunnels. Be sure to explore all corners of this landmark to truly appreciate its beauty.
Sam Poo Kong Temple
Location: Jl. Simongan No.129, Bongsari, Semarang
Opening Hours: Daily 24 hours
Admission Fee: Free
Sam Poo Kong is the oldest temple in Semarang, dating back to the 9th century. This Buddhist temple honors Admiral Zheng He (Cheng Ho), a Chinese Muslim explorer credited with introducing Islam to Indonesia.
The main prayer hall houses three large Buddha statues as well as an array of intricate carvings and paintings. The temple complex also contains other smaller temples, each with its own uniqueness.
Visitors can see the replica of Zheng He’s ship, climb up the drum tower, and walk through the mystical Cave of Zheng He said to be his meditation spot. The best time to visit Sam Poo Kong is during Chinese New Year when the temple is lively with celebrations.
Simpang Lima
Location: Jl. Jenderal Sudirman, Pleburan, Kota Semarang
Opening Hours: Always open
Admission Fee: Free
Simpang Lima is the central square of Semarang located right in the heart of the city. This lively open field is surrounded by significant buildings and monuments.
In the middle of the square stands the Lawang Sewu monument, replica of the iconic building. On the east side is the large Semarang Grand Mosque with its towering minaret. Across the mosque is the Roman Catholic St. Mary Cathedral with its red dome.
Every afternoon, Simpang Lima turns into a bustling hangout place. Vendors open up food stalls serving local delicacies like Lumpia or Wingko Babat. Parents take their children to play while teenagers flock to see their friends.
Semarang Old Town
Semarang Old Town encompasses several neighborhoods south of Simpang Lima square that still retains the colonial charm and architecture. Some of the top attractions here include:
Kauman
The center of Islamic culture in Semarang, Kauman is home to the historic Great Mosque of Central Java. Go inside to see the unique 3-tiered roof structure. Kauman is also known for its batik workshops and galleries.
Pecinan
Pecinan or ‘Chinatown’ is the Chinese quarter of Semarang. The vibrant Ji Xian Guan temple is located here along with rows of shop houses selling herbs, foods, and supplies for Chinese rituals. Don’t miss taking photos by the iconic Chinese gates.
Kota Lama
Kota Lama or ‘Old Town’ has winding streets lined with elegant colonial buildings and trading offices. Climb up the historic lighthouse for scenic city views or visit the Toy Museum to see antique toy collections from around the world.
Ambarawa Railway Museum
Location: Jl. Stasiun No. 1, Bagong, Ambarawa
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 09.00 – 17.00
Admission Fee: Rp 10,000
Around an hour drive from Semarang, Ambarawa Railway Museum displays an impressive collection of 21 locomotives dating back to the Dutch colonial era. Steam engine train enthusiasts will absolutely love exploring this museum.
The trains are placed chronologically from the oldest Stoomtram locomotive to the newest D.H 7. Visitors can get inside some of the trains and imagine being transported back in time. Don’t forget to check out the Ambarawa train station and take a short ride on the steam train.
Brown Canyon
Location: Bandungan, Central Java
Opening Hours: Daily 07.00 – 17.00
Admission Fee: Rp 15,000 (weekdays), Rp 20,000 (weekends)
For those craving outdoor adventure from the city, head to Brown Canyon in Ambarawa. This canyon along the Grindulu River has cliffs up to 15 meters high on both sides.
Put on your life jacket and hop aboard a rubber boat to cruise through Brown Canyon. Along the way, you’ll pass through swift rapids and see gorgeous vertical cliffs covered in lush greenery. The cruise takes around 1.5 hours to complete.
Afterwards, spend some time hiking and taking in the fresh mountain air. There are food stalls and picnic spots by the riverbank to take a break. Brown Canyon offers fun yet affordable outdoor activities for the whole family.
Gereja Blenduk
Location: Jl. Letjend Suprapto No.32, Kota Semarang
Opening Hours: Daily 05.00 – 18.00
Admission Fee: Free
Gereja Blenduk is the oldest church in Semarang built in 1753. Located in the Chinatown area, this Protestant church has an octagonal shape and large dome reminiscent of Chinese temples.
Inside, the church features a Neo-Baroque style with stained glass windows, chandeliers, and patterned tiles. Visitors are welcome to join the sermons or simply sit and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Don’t forget to check out the old church organ located on the second floor balcony.
Be sure to ask the church officer to tell you the history and legends surrounding this landmark. The charming historic ambiance makes Gereja Blenduk worth a quick stop while exploring Semarang old town.
Maritime Museum
Location: Jl. Pemuda, Tj. Mas, Kota Semarang
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 09.00 – 15.30
Admission Fee: Rp 10,000
Gain insight into Indonesia’s rich maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum located inside the former Netherlands Indies Harbormaster building. This museum contains an extensive collection related to sea exploration and trade.
The exhibits include navigational instruments, ships models, ceremonial cannons, and maps. Visitors can learn about famous European explorers like Marco Polo and Christopher Columbus as well as local heroes like Sultan Hasanuddin.
Don’t miss the exhibit detailing the voyages of Chinese explorer Zheng He who docked at Semarang port during the Ming Dynasty. There is also an outdoor area displaying various anchors and lighthouses. Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore this informative maritime museum.
Central Java Grand Mosque
Location: Jl. Gajah Raya, Srondol Wetan, Kota Semarang
Opening Hours: Daily 24 hours
Admission Fee: Free
The impressive Central Java Grand Mosque is the second largest mosque in Indonesia after Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta. This grand structure can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers at once.
The highlight is the 45-meter high minaret providing stunning views over Semarang city. Visitors are welcome inside to see the towering pillars, grand dome, and intricate carvings. Make sure to dress modestly and avoid visiting during prayer times.
Surrounding the mosque is a lively complex with shops, restaurants, and a library. On certain nights, the mosque projects colorful lights onto the minaret creating a picture-perfect scene.