Petak Sembilan Market - Image 1
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Petak Sembilan Market Jakarta

4.5
·2k reviews·, Indonesia

A bustling, sensory-rich Chinatown market in Jakarta, famous for fresh produce, meats, seafood, and authentic traditional snacks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, fresher goods

CrowdLow
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Petak Sembilan Market - Image 1

Petak Sembilan Market Jakarta

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, fresher goods

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling, sensory-rich Chinatown market in Jakarta, famous for fresh produce, meats, seafood, and authentic traditional snacks.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"Experience the vibrant heart of Jakarta's Chinatown with its incredible food and lively atmosphere!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Go Early for Freshness

Arrive in the morning for the best selection of fresh produce and meats. Less crowded too! :shopping_bags:

💰 Bargain Smartly

Prices are often negotiable, especially for non-food items. Have small change ready. :moneywithwings:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Culinary Delights

Authentic Culinary Delights

Throughout the market

Savor traditional snacks, fresh produce, meats, and seafood. Don't miss local favorites like Bakmi Loncat and Laksa Lao Hao.

Cultural Immersion

Cultural Immersion

Glodok Chinatown

Experience the heart of Chinese Jakarta culture, explore alleyways, and visit the historic Dharma Bhakti Temple.

Photographer's Paradise

Photographer's Paradise

Market alleys and stalls

Capture the vibrant colors, bustling activity, and unique textures of this lively traditional marketplace.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Bustle

Petak Sembilan Market is a vibrant, sensory experience. Expect crowds, especially on weekends and before holidays. Go with an open mind and be prepared for a lively atmosphere. It's a fantastic spot for authentic local food and cultural immersion.

Navigate with Care

This traditional market can get hectic and, at times, have strong smells due to sanitation. Keep your belongings secure, especially during peak hours. It's a great place for photographers, but stay aware of your surroundings.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, fresher goods
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, food stalls
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting Jakarta For the First Time: Recommendations & Tips

🎯 Go Early for Freshness

Arrive in the morning for the best selection of fresh produce and meats. Less crowded too! :shopping_bags:

💰 Bargain Smartly

Prices are often negotiable, especially for non-food items. Have small change ready. :moneywithwings:

reddit.com

Back to jakarta for the first time in 15 years, where to visit for a few days trip?

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on potentially uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Stay Hydrated

Jakarta can be hot and humid. Bring a water bottle or buy drinks from vendors. :droplet:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Go Early for Freshness

Arrive in the morning for the best selection of fresh produce and meats. Less crowded too! :shopping_bags:

💰 Bargain Smartly

Prices are often negotiable, especially for non-food items. Have small change ready. :moneywithwings:

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on potentially uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Stay Hydrated

Jakarta can be hot and humid. Bring a water bottle or buy drinks from vendors. :droplet:

📸 Be Mindful of Photos

Ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their goods. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Petak Sembilan Market is a highly authentic and vibrant traditional marketplace, praised for its incredible variety of fresh produce, meats, and especially its delicious traditional snacks and dishes. Visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere and the cultural immersion, though some note that it can be crowded, hot, and occasionally have strong smells. It's a popular spot for photographers and those seeking genuine local experiences.

"Typical Asian traditional market which is selling fresh vegetables, fruits, meat and poultry, herbs, seafood, even traditional snacks, utensils, and clothes.
It's located on the center of Glodok Chinatown, West Jakarta and close to Dharma Bhakti temple.

When i was here today before Chinese New Year 2024, this market was so crowded and hectic, some place have bad smell because of bad sanitation."

Sam Aditya Nugraha

"Ambience is okay, it gets pretty crowded on weekends so it might be hard to find seats and it gets hot especially if its crowded, just dont wear thick clothes here.

Food, not all food here are chinese there are some western and indonesian food too, so you get plenty of options.

Other than that its fun to explore around this place and its surroundings, there are some alleyways that are worth exploring.

Parking is pretty spacious and should be easy to find and close to the spot."

Devara

"Nice place to know Indonesian chinesse history
And there is Toasebio Vihara the oldest Vihara in Jakarta which witness for 1740's chinesse massacre"

Fibrina Astrid Damayanthi

What People Like

Authentic food and snacks
Vibrant atmosphere
Cultural immersion

What People Dislike

Crowded and hot
Occasional strong smells
Need for vigilance

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The market is located in Glodok Chinatown, West Jakarta. You can easily reach it by taxi, ride-sharing apps (like Gojek or Grab), or public transport. Many visitors find ride-sharing to be the most convenient option for direct access. Reddit

Yes, parking is generally available and described as spacious and close to the market, making it convenient for those arriving by car. Reddit

The market is surrounded by the bustling Glodok Chinatown. Exploring the alleyways can lead to unique discoveries, but be prepared for narrow paths and crowds. Reddit

While specific bus routes can change, TransJakarta buses often serve areas near Glodok. Checking a local transit app upon arrival is recommended for the most up-to-date information.

Due to its traditional market nature with uneven surfaces and crowds, it might be challenging for those with significant mobility issues. It's best to be prepared for a bustling, sometimes crowded environment.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no entrance fees to visit Petak Sembilan Market. It's a public marketplace open to everyone. Reddit

The market is generally open from early morning until late evening. However, specific stall hours can vary, and it's busiest during peak meal times and weekends. Reddit

Weekday mornings offer a less crowded experience with the freshest goods. Weekends and evenings are more vibrant and lively, with many food stalls operating. Reddit

The market can be particularly busy and festive before Chinese New Year, with special preparations and decorations. Reddit

While the market itself is free to enter, some of the nearby temples might have small donation boxes or voluntary contributions for upkeep.

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You can find a wide variety of items including fresh meats, poultry, seafood, vegetables, fruits, traditional snacks, herbs, spices, utensils, and even clothing. Reddit

Yes, bargaining is common, especially for non-food items. It's advisable to have small denominations of cash ready for purchases. Reddit

Look for stalls selling items like Bakmi Loncat, Laksa Lao Hao, Kuotie, and Cipedak. Many vendors specialize in these authentic treats. Reddit

You might find traditional Chinese crafts, decorative items, and unique ingredients that make for interesting souvenirs. Exploring the smaller alleyways can reveal hidden gems.

While the market is bustling, it's a traditional place for locals to shop for daily needs. Observing how locals shop and choosing busy stalls can be a good indicator of freshness.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Visitors rave about the authentic traditional snacks and dishes. Popular mentions include Bakmi Loncat, Laksa Lao Hao, and Kuotie. Reddit

Yes, besides Chinese specialties, you can also find Western and Indonesian food options, offering a diverse culinary experience. Reddit

Wander through the market and sample from various stalls. Be adventurous and try different local specialties. Reddit

While the market is known for its meat and seafood, some stalls might offer vegetable-based dishes or snacks. It's best to inquire directly with vendors.

Many food stalls offer simple seating areas. It can get crowded, especially on weekends, so be prepared for a lively, communal dining experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! The market is described as 'aesthetically pleasing' and a 'photographer's paradise' due to its vibrant atmosphere, colors, and authentic cultural scenes. Reddit

Capture the bustling activity of vendors, the colorful displays of produce and goods, the unique architecture of the surrounding Chinatown, and candid moments of daily life. Reddit

Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. It's also polite to ask permission before taking close-up shots of people. Reddit

Early mornings can offer softer light and fewer crowds, while evenings can provide a more dramatic, atmospheric feel with the market lights. Reddit

The narrow alleyways, the vibrant food stalls, and the entrances to nearby temples like Dharma Bhakti are all excellent spots for capturing compelling images.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Petak Sembilan Market can be an exciting, albeit busy, outing for families. The sheer variety of sights, sounds, and smells can be captivating for children. Encourage them to try new snacks and point out interesting produce. Focus on the food stalls that offer more approachable options, like simple noodle dishes or fruits. Reddit

Be prepared for crowds and potentially overwhelming sensory input. Keep a close eye on children at all times, especially in tighter spaces. Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the peak rush. It's a great opportunity to introduce kids to different cultures and foods in a lively, authentic setting.

💰 Budget Travelers

Petak Sembilan Market is a paradise for budget-conscious travelers. You can find incredibly affordable and delicious meals, from snacks to full dishes, often costing significantly less than in tourist-oriented restaurants. Bargaining is key for non-food items, so don't be afraid to negotiate prices politely. Reddit

For a truly economical experience, focus on sampling various street food offerings rather than seeking out sit-down restaurants. You can also find inexpensive souvenirs and daily necessities. Carry small denominations of cash to make transactions smoother and to facilitate bargaining.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This market is a dream location for photographers seeking vibrant street scenes and cultural authenticity. The colorful produce, bustling vendors, and intricate details of the market offer endless visual narratives. Explore the narrow alleyways for unique perspectives and atmospheric shots. Reddit

Best times for photography are early mornings for softer light and fewer crowds, or evenings for dramatic lighting. Remember to be respectful; ask permission before taking close-up portraits and be aware of your surroundings to ensure safety. The market's energy is infectious, so be ready to capture candid moments.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Culinary Heart of Chinatown

Petak Sembilan Market is a true gastronomic adventure, offering a glimpse into the authentic flavors of Jakarta's Chinatown. From fresh, raw ingredients to prepared dishes, the market is a feast for the senses. Visitors consistently highlight the traditional snacks and local specialties as a major draw. Dishes like Bakmi Loncat, a unique noodle dish, and Laksa Lao Hao, a flavorful noodle soup, are frequently mentioned as must-tries. Beyond these, you'll find an array of seafood, meats, and produce, reflecting the daily needs of the local community. Reddit

Navigating the food stalls can be an experience in itself. While some areas might have strong smells due to the nature of a traditional market, the sheer variety and authenticity of the food make it worthwhile. Many vendors have been serving these recipes for generations, offering a taste of history with every bite. It's a place where you can truly experience Indonesian Chinese culinary heritage firsthand. Reddit

For those seeking a more adventurous palate, exploring the less common snacks and ingredients can be incredibly rewarding. Don't be afraid to ask vendors about their specialties or try something new. The lively atmosphere and the passion of the food sellers add to the overall dining experience, making it more than just a meal – it's a cultural immersion. Reddit

A Photographer's Dream

Petak Sembilan Market is a visual wonderland, attracting many photographers looking to capture the essence of Jakarta's vibrant Chinatown. The market's bustling activity, colorful displays of goods, and the unique architecture of the surrounding Glodok area provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. From the early morning hustle of vendors setting up to the evening glow of market lights, each time of day offers a different photographic mood. Reddit

Key subjects include the vibrant produce stalls, the lively interactions between vendors and customers, and the intricate details of traditional crafts and foods. The narrow alleyways offer a sense of depth and discovery, perfect for creating atmospheric street photography. Many visitors describe the market as 'aesthetically pleasing,' emphasizing its visual appeal and the rich textures and colors that define it. Reddit

While the market is a photographer's dream, it's important to be mindful and respectful. Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, and be aware of your surroundings to ensure the safety of your equipment and belongings. The energy of the market is palpable, and capturing it authentically requires a blend of keen observation and respectful engagement. Reddit

Historical and Cultural Significance

Petak Sembilan Market is more than just a place to shop and eat; it's a significant cultural and historical hub in Jakarta. Located in the heart of Glodok Chinatown, it stands as a testament to the long-standing Chinese-Indonesian community. The market is situated near the Dharma Bhakti Temple (also known as Toasebio Vihara), which is the oldest Vihara in Jakarta and has witnessed centuries of history, including the tragic events of the 1740 Chinese massacre. Reddit

Visiting the market offers a chance to connect with the Indonesian Chinese history and traditions. You can observe preparations for Chinese festivals, find items used in temple rituals, and get a feel for the community's enduring cultural practices. The surrounding alleyways are also worth exploring, as they hold stories of the past and offer a more intimate glimpse into the neighborhood's heritage. Reddit

This area serves as a living museum, where daily life intertwines with historical significance. It's a place where traditions are preserved and passed down, making it a crucial site for understanding the multicultural fabric of Jakarta. The market's vibrancy is a reflection of the community's resilience and its continuous contribution to the city's identity. Reddit

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