Pasar Bawah Market
A bustling traditional market in Pekanbaru, offering local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious snacks. Experience authentic Indonesian commerce.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest produce and lively atmosphere
Pasar Bawah Market
Best Time
Freshest produce and lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling traditional market in Pekanbaru, offering local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious snacks. Experience authentic Indonesian commerce.
"Great place for tourist to buy souvenirs. Lots of cheap cloth my mother and sister bought 'kain ela for baju kurung' here, it was beatiful."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to explore all levels! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Bargain for Souvenirs
Prices are negotiable, especially for clothing and accessories. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Local Snacks & Delicacies
Various stalls throughout the market
Sample delicious potato crackers with unique flavors and try the famous Bolu Kemojo cake.
Souvenir Shopping
Second level
Find beautiful 'kain ela' for traditional clothing and other unique accessories.
Fresh Produce & Seafood
Wet market section
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the fish market with fresh catches daily.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Navigating the Levels
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to explore all levels! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Bargain for Souvenirs
Prices are negotiable, especially for clothing and accessories. :moneywithwings:
🧼 Be Mindful of Hygiene
It's a traditional market; cleanliness varies. Keep an eye out and choose wisely. :soap:
😋 Taste Local Treats
Don't miss the potato crackers and Bolu Kemojo cake! :ice_cream:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to explore all levels! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Bargain for Souvenirs
Prices are negotiable, especially for clothing and accessories. :moneywithwings:
🧼 Be Mindful of Hygiene
It's a traditional market; cleanliness varies. Keep an eye out and choose wisely. :soap:
😋 Taste Local Treats
Don't miss the potato crackers and Bolu Kemojo cake! :ice_cream:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pasar Bawah Market is a vibrant tourist spot offering a wide array of local products and souvenirs at great prices. Visitors enjoy the authentic market experience, especially the unique snacks and textiles. However, some find the cleanliness and hygiene could be improved, and navigating the multi-level building without working escalators requires effort.
"Great place for tourist to buy souvenirs. Lots of cheap cloth my mother and sister bought 'kain ela for baju kurung' here, it was beatiful. However, it kind of smelly bcs of they mixed the dry market and wet market, and they don't take care of cleanliness and hygiene much."
Farhanah Mohd Zahar
"Tourist Market - especially local product potato crackers coated with chili or honey or durian flavour."
captzulh
"Bolu kemojo is one of good cullinary options here, besides wide variant of chips also can be easily found in this traditional market. Travellers can also seek for accessories watch and dress at 2nd level. This is old building so dont expect to have an elevator and the escallator does not work so prepare more energy to climb!!😂"
Muhammad Nazar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pasar Bawah Market is located in the Chinatown area of Pekanbaru, adjacent to a waterway. It's accessible by local transportation like taxis or ride-sharing apps. Many visitors find it a central spot to explore.
Yes, it's a well-known landmark in Pekanbaru, often referred to as the 'Lower Street Market' or 'Tourist Market'. Its location in the Chinese gathering area makes it a distinct spot.
The market itself is best explored on foot. Be prepared for stairs as escalators and elevators may not be functional.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Pasar Bawah Market is a public market and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely explore its various sections.
As a traditional market, it generally operates from morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit in the morning for the freshest produce and liveliest atmosphere.
There are no admission fees for any sections of the market. You are free to browse and shop as you please.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Products
You can find a variety of souvenirs, including beautiful 'kain ela' for traditional clothing, accessories, and local handicrafts.
Historically, Pasar Bawah was known for imported goods due to its proximity to waterways. While less prominent now, you might still find some imported items, particularly ceramics.
Absolutely! The market is famous for local culinary delights like potato crackers with various flavors and the delicious Bolu Kemojo cake.
Yes, bargaining is common and expected, especially for items like clothing and accessories. Be polite and have fun negotiating! :moneywithwings:
Local snacks like flavored potato crackers and unique textile items are great gift options. Ceramic products are also a popular choice.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are several breakfast shops and food stalls within and around the market, especially near intersections. You can find a variety of local dishes and snacks.
Don't miss the local potato crackers with chili, honey, or durian flavors, and the sweet Bolu Kemojo cake.
While the market has a wide range of produce, specific vegetarian dishes might be limited. Look for stalls selling fruits, vegetables, or simple snacks.
Generally, food prices at traditional markets are very affordable, offering great value for money.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of the fresh produce, the bustling crowds, and the unique architecture of the old building. The fish market section offers dynamic shots.
It's generally appreciated to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their products. A smile and a polite gesture go a long way.
Mornings offer the best natural light and the most activity, creating a lively scene.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that it can get crowded, so holding hands is a good idea. The market is a great place to teach children about different cultures and the importance of local markets. Focus on the food stalls and souvenir sections for more engaging experiences for younger visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
This is also an excellent place to experience local cuisine without breaking the bank. The street food and local eateries offer delicious meals at a fraction of the cost of restaurants. It's a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and save money simultaneously.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Culture
Today, the market retains its character as a central gathering place, particularly for the local Chinese community, who often shop and dine here. It's considered the Chinatown of Pekanbaru and is a favorite among out-of-town visitors looking for authentic local experiences. The market's location adjacent to a waterway further emphasizes its historical significance as a trading post.
Exploring Pasar Bawah offers a chance to witness the blend of traditional commerce and daily life. From the fresh produce and meats in the wet market section to the dry goods and accessories on the upper levels, it provides a comprehensive snapshot of local commerce and culture.
Navigating the Market's Levels
This multi-level structure is where you'll find a diverse range of goods. The lower levels typically house the fresh produce, meats, and seafood, offering a vibrant and sometimes pungent sensory experience. As you ascend, you'll discover stalls selling textiles, clothing, household items, and various accessories.
Given the physical demands of navigating the market, wearing comfortable footwear is highly recommended. It allows you to explore more freely and comfortably, ensuring you don't miss out on any hidden gems or unique finds across all the levels.
Culinary Delights at Pasar Bawah
Another highly recommended treat is the Bolu Kemojo, a traditional cake that is both delicious and visually appealing. Its unique texture and sweet flavor make it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. You can often find these cakes being prepared fresh, adding to the market's authentic charm.
Beyond these specific treats, the market is a great place to sample other local delicacies and find ingredients for home cooking. The presence of numerous breakfast shops near the intersections ensures that you can enjoy a full meal or a variety of snacks throughout your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit