Dr Soetomo Museum
Discover the life and legacy of Indonesian national hero Dr. Soetomo through personal artifacts, his workspace replica, and exhibits on the nationalis...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid weekend crowds
Dr Soetomo Museum
Best Time
Avoid weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the life and legacy of Indonesian national hero Dr. Soetomo through personal artifacts, his workspace replica, and exhibits on the nationalist movement.
"A quiet gem offering an intimate encounter with one of Indonesia's most inspiring national heroes. "
Free Admission! 🎉
Entry is free, making it an accessible historical and educational outing.
Check Opening Days
Typically open Tuesday-Sunday. Confirm hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dr. Soetomo's Personal Relics
Main Exhibition Halls
See personal belongings, photos, and medical tools that offer a glimpse into the life of this national hero.
+1Replica of His Workspace
Zone 2
Step into a recreated doctor's workstation, offering a tangible connection to his medical practice.
Dr. Soetomo's Grave
Museum Complex
Pay respects at the final resting place of the esteemed national hero, located within the museum grounds.
National Movement Zone
Zone 4 (Pavilion)
Explore exhibits detailing the nationalist movements Dr. Soetomo championed and their impact.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, But Plan Your Visit
Understand the Context
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission! 🎉
Entry is free, making it an accessible historical and educational outing.
Check Opening Days
Typically open Tuesday-Sunday. Confirm hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
QR Code Audio Guide
Enhance your understanding with the informative audio guide accessible via QR code.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking between exhibits and to the grave site.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission! 🎉
Entry is free, making it an accessible historical and educational outing.
Check Opening Days
Typically open Tuesday-Sunday. Confirm hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
QR Code Audio Guide
Enhance your understanding with the informative audio guide accessible via QR code.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking between exhibits and to the grave site.
Great for School Trips
Many schools visit for educational purposes, offering a lively atmosphere. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Dr. Soetomo Museum to be an informative and meaningful tribute to a key Indonesian national hero. The free admission and the personal nature of the exhibits, including his belongings and workspace replica, are highly appreciated. While some areas could benefit from updates, the overall experience is considered valuable for understanding Indonesian history and nationalism.
"Take note the ticket price for foreigners is IDR 15k. You can purchase the tickets online and pay via QRIS. The gallery officer was so friendly and allowed me to pay in cash as i don't have an Indonesian e-wallet payment app.
The museum is quite informative and the audio QR guide helped enhance the experience. The museum is divided into 4 sections - Zone 1 is Biography, Zone 2 is a replication of Dr Soetomo work station as doctor, Zone 3 is his tomb, and zone 4 is the movement zone.
Zone 2 is quite redundant and doesn't hold greater significance. The Aircon in zone 2 isn't working well either. Zone 4 is located outside at the pavilion. Overall, the museum is clean although the interior looks a bit rundown but the tomb and pavilion looks well-maintained.
It's recommended if you're into modern Indonesian history."
Muhammad Zulfadly Bin Abdul Manap
"Came here last month.
Walked around a bit but did not visit the museum.
Saw a group of school children led by teachers, it's good to have the young ones learn about important historical leaders."
Google Lum
"Dr. Museum Soetomo who is a National Hero and the Founder of the first Movement Organization in Indonesia. In this place you can see and read stories, pictures and relics of Dr. Soetomo. Also in the museum area is also his grave. His service is very great for the Our Nation"
Ian A.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at Jl. Bubutan No.85-87, Surabaya, within the Gedung Nasional Indonesia (GNI) complex. It's accessible by public transport or ride-sharing services. Some visitors mention using school buses for educational trips.
Information on dedicated parking is scarce, but it's located within a complex, so inquire locally or consider ride-sharing for convenience.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed, Surabaya has a public transport system. It's advisable to check local transit apps for the most current routes to the Bubutan area.
Zone 2's air conditioning is noted as not working well, and some areas might be less accessible. The grave and pavilion areas appear well-maintained.
The museum is divided into zones, including the main exhibition halls, a replica workspace, the grave, and a movement zone. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll move between these areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum offers free admission, which is a significant draw for visitors.
One review mentioned a ticket price of IDR 15k for foreigners, though general admission is free. It's best to confirm on arrival.
While admission is free, some special exhibitions or events might require booking. A website for booking tickets for events like 'ARUTALA' was mentioned.
The museum is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday. It's closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
While online payment via QRIS is available, one visitor noted that cash payment was accepted when they didn't have an Indonesian e-wallet.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore Dr. Soetomo's biography, see his personal belongings and medical tools, visit a replica of his workspace, and pay respects at his grave. The museum also covers the national movement he inspired. +1
Yes, an audio QR guide is available to enhance your understanding of the exhibits and Dr. Soetomo's life and work.
A visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and whether you utilize the audio guide.
While primarily focused on historical artifacts and information, the museum aims to provide an engaging experience through its curated displays and the audio guide.
Absolutely! It's a great educational destination for children to learn about Indonesian history and national heroes. Many school groups visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always good practice to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits.
The historical artifacts, the replica workspace, and the grave site can all make for compelling photographs, offering a sense of history and reverence.
Weekday mornings or afternoons tend to be less crowded, allowing for more relaxed photography without too many people in the background.
It's advisable to avoid using flash photography, especially near delicate artifacts, to preserve them. Check for signage or ask museum staff.
Short videos for personal social media are usually permitted, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid disruptive filming. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Kids can learn about a key figure in Indonesian history through engaging exhibits, personal artifacts, and a replica of Dr. Soetomo's workspace. The museum's location within the Gedung Nasional Indonesia complex also adds to the historical immersion. +1Consider utilizing the QR code audio guide to make the experience more interactive and informative for younger visitors. It's a great way to spark their interest in national heroes and the country's past. Plan your visit for a weekday to avoid larger school groups if you prefer a quieter experience.
📚 Students and Educators
+2 The exhibits on the national movement and Dr. Soetomo's biography align perfectly with curriculum goals for history and civics. Educators can leverage the museum's resources, including the audio guide, to create engaging lesson plans. The personal relics and replica workspace offer tangible connections to the past, making history come alive for students. It's an opportunity to foster a deeper understanding of national heroes and their impact on Indonesia's development.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
The museum's setting within the Gedung Nasional Indonesia adds to its historical significance. It's a place to connect with the roots of Indonesian identity and understand the sacrifices made for independence. The grave site also offers a solemn space for reflection on his enduring legacy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Dr. Soetomo
+2His work as a physician was deeply intertwined with his nationalist ideals. He believed that a healthy and educated populace was essential for a strong nation. The museum showcases his dedication to both medicine and national progress, highlighting his journey from a medical student to a visionary leader. Visitors can learn about his contributions to public health and his tireless efforts to unite Indonesians under a common banner of independence.
Understanding Dr. Soetomo's role is crucial for appreciating the historical significance of the museum. It's not just a collection of artifacts; it's a testament to the courage, intellect, and perseverance of a man who helped shape modern Indonesia. His legacy continues to inspire, reminding visitors of the importance of education, unity, and national pride.
+1Exploring the Museum's Collections
+1Beyond personal items, the museum features a significant collection of medical equipment from the era. These artifacts illustrate the state of healthcare during Dr. Soetomo's time and highlight the challenges he and his contemporaries faced. A particularly engaging exhibit is the replica of his workspace, allowing visitors to visualize where he practiced medicine and perhaps planned his nationalist endeavors.
Furthermore, the museum delves into the national movement that Dr. Soetomo spearheaded. Exhibits in Zone 4, located in a pavilion, detail the formation and activities of Boedi Oetomo and its impact on Indonesian nationalism. The museum complex also includes the grave of Dr. Soetomo, offering a place for reflection and remembrance.
The Gedung Nasional Indonesia (GNI) Context
+1Being part of the GNI complex means the museum is in a central area, making it accessible for various groups, including school tours and cultural excursions. The presence of other historical sites or educational institutions nearby can make it a part of a larger itinerary for those interested in Surabaya's heritage.
+1While the museum focuses on Dr. Soetomo, its location within a building dedicated to national history underscores the broader narrative of Indonesia's journey towards independence. It’s a reminder that the efforts of individuals like Dr. Soetomo were part of a larger, collective movement.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit