7 Indonesian Cities to Celebrate Chinese New Year

The Chinese New Year or Imlek in 2025 falls on January 29, is a time for family gatherings, house cleaning and decorating, prayers, and celebrations. The festivities include lion dance performances, fireworks, sharing red envelopes (angpao), and enjoying traditional dishes.

Coinciding with a five-day long weekend from January 25 to 29. This holiday stretch includes Isra Mi’raj on Monday, January 27, a collective leave on Tuesday, January 28, and the weekend on January 25 and 26.

Many regions in Indonesia with significant Chinese communities, such as Jakarta, Bintan, Singkawang, and Palembang, host lively celebrations during this season.

If you missed the opportunity to travel during the year-end holiday season, this long weekend is the perfect time for a domestic getaway. Here are seven destinations to consider for an exciting and memorable Chinese New Year celebration:

1. Jakarta

Jakarta always offers a unique charm and vibrant atmosphere for celebrating Chinese New Year. In Jakarta, the Chinese New Year festivities can be enjoyed in Petak Sembilan and Glodok. Visit Vihara Dharma Bhakti, the city’s oldest temple built in 1650. The area is also known for its delicious Chinese cuisine and shops selling antique items and traditional New Year decorations.

2. Bintan

Bintan in the Riau Islands is known for its vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations. Explore the bazaar in Tanjungpinang, where you can find traditional foods and festive goods. Don’t miss the iconic Tien Sang Miau Temple, a 300-year-old temple uniquely covered in banyan tree roots.

3. Selatpanjang

Selatpanjang, located in the Meranti Islands of Riau, is one of the cities home to a large Chinese ethnic community. It is famous for its Water War Festival or Cian Cui during Chinese New Year. This unique event involves locals of all ethnicities and lasts for six days, taking place from 4 to 6 PM daily. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that brings the community together in celebration.

4. Palembang

In Palembang, South Sumatra, the Chinese New Year is centered around Kemaro Island on the Musi River. Visitors can explore the Hong Cek Bio Pagoda and Hok Tjing Rio Temple. Before the grand finale on Cap Go Meh, various activities such as competitions, cultural performances, and food festivals are held on the island.

5. Singkawang

Singkawang, also known as the City of a Thousand Temples, is located in West Kalimantan. It’s a cultural hub for the Hakka and Han communities in Indonesia. During Cap Go Meh, the city comes alive with lantern parades, Chinese cultural performances, street-cleansing rituals, and the captivating tatung parade.

6. Semarang

In Semarang, Central Java, visitors can head to Semawis Market in Chinatown to sample traditional foods and shop for Chinese New Year essentials. Don’t miss Sam Poo Kong Temple, an iconic landmark with distinctive Chinese architecture located in the city’s western area.

7. Solo

In Solo, Central Java, Pasar Gede is the center of Chinese New Year festivities. The celebration features Grebeg Sudiro, a unique tradition where fruits and vegetables are arranged into a mountain-like structure. This event is celebrated not only by the Chinese community but also by Javanese locals, reflecting the city’s cultural harmony.

Plan Your Trip Now!

Which destination excites you the most for Chinese New Year 2025? Don’t miss out—secure your accommodation and travel tickets now to ensure you get a spot at your favorite destination. Make this January long weekend an unforgettable holiday full of joy and celebration!

 


Source: tempo.co, detik.com, tribunnews.com

Photo Credit: Ademir Web (pexels.com)

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