
Tay Kak Sie Temple Semarang
A historic Chinese temple in Semarang's Chinatown, offering a peaceful spiritual retreat and a gateway to delicious local cuisine.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Tay Kak Sie Temple Semarang
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Chinese temple in Semarang's Chinatown, offering a peaceful spiritual retreat and a gateway to delicious local cuisine.
"Felt very serene and blessed after praying and paying respect. Definitely worth visiting."

🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Shoulders and knees should be covered to show respect.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of ongoing prayers. Long exposure shots at night are stunning.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Main Temple Hall
Interior
Explore intricate carvings, colorful paintings, and statues of various deities. A truly spiritual and visually stunning experience.

Cheng Ho Statue
Temple Entrance
A prominent statue of the famed Chinese explorer, a symbol of cultural exchange and historical significance.

12 Zodiac Statues
Temple Gate
Admire the detailed statues representing the Chinese zodiac, a vibrant welcome to the temple grounds.

Potehi Puppet Performance
Temple Grounds (check schedule)
Witness traditional Potehi puppet shows, a unique cultural performance that adds to the temple's charm.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Atmosphere
Culinary Delights Nearby
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Shoulders and knees should be covered to show respect.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of ongoing prayers. Long exposure shots at night are stunning.
🍜 Culinary Exploration
Don't miss the delicious food stalls nearby, especially Lumpia Gang Lombok!
🚶♂️ Explore Chinatown
The temple is in the heart of Semarang's Chinatown, so explore the surrounding streets.
Tips
from all over the internet
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Shoulders and knees should be covered to show respect.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of ongoing prayers. Long exposure shots at night are stunning.
🍜 Culinary Exploration
Don't miss the delicious food stalls nearby, especially Lumpia Gang Lombok!
🚶♂️ Explore Chinatown
The temple is in the heart of Semarang's Chinatown, so explore the surrounding streets.
🕰️ Open 24 Hours
The temple is open around the clock, offering flexibility for your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Tay Kak Sie Temple for its peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it a highly recommended spiritual and cultural stop in Semarang. Its historical significance and well-preserved architecture are frequently highlighted, offering a glimpse into the city's rich heritage. The convenient location in Chinatown, coupled with the abundance of delicious local food stalls nearby, adds to its appeal.
"One of the oldest historical temple in Semarang. The atmosphere and ambience in here are really peaceful, yet really charming in a way I can't really describe.
May all beings be joyful and secure.
Really worth to pay a visit when visiting Semarang.
R&D"
Ignatius Ray
"While waiting for the famous lunpia gang lombok to be served, I ventured nearby area and brought me to this beautiful old Chinese temple located just beside and in the middle of Semarang Chinatown. There's a tall statue of Cheng Ho and Buddha under a bodhi tree in front of the temple. Inside the temple housed many popular Buddhist, Tao and Konghucu deities. Felt very serene and blessed after praying and paying respect. Definitely worth visiting."
ridone ko
"I heard this is one of the oldest temple in Semarang. It has General Chengho statue in front of the temple and 12 chinese zodiacs statue on the gate. It is very well maintained and its walls full of old fashioned and colorful painting with stories. It gives Taiwan's vibe in overall"
Ellen Brigitta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tay Kak Sie Temple is located in the heart of Semarang's Chinatown at Jalan Gang Lombok. You can easily reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or local public transport. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know the way.
Yes, there is a spacious parking area available, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While the main areas are generally accessible, some parts might have stairs. It's advisable to check specific accessibility details if needed.
Walking is the best way to soak in the atmosphere of Chinatown. You can easily discover hidden gems and local eateries.
Absolutely! Apps like Gojek and Grab are widely used in Semarang and can easily take you to Tay Kak Sie Temple.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Tay Kak Sie Temple is generally free. It's a place of worship, and donations are welcome but not mandatory.
The temple is remarkably open 24 hours a day, allowing visitors to experience its serene ambiance at any time.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly, avoid loud noises, and be respectful of worshippers. It's a place for prayer and reflection.
Yes, visiting during festivals can be a vibrant experience, but expect larger crowds. Check local event listings for dates.
Photography is generally permitted, but always be mindful of worshippers and avoid using flash in sensitive areas.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The temple houses various deities from Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian traditions, catering to a diverse range of beliefs.
Established in 1746, it's one of Semarang's oldest and largest historical Chinese temples, a significant cultural heritage site.
While formal guided tours might not always be available, the staff are often friendly and willing to share information about the temple's background.
You'll find intricate architecture, colorful murals depicting stories, statues of deities, and a peaceful atmosphere for prayer.
Look for the statue of General Cheng Ho and the 12 Chinese zodiac statues at the gate. The detailed wall paintings are also noteworthy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The area is famous for its culinary scene. You can find popular dishes like Lumpia Gang Lombok, mutton bone marrow stew, and various local snacks.
Yes, there is a pujasera (food court) located at the same site, offering a variety of local food options.
Lumpia Gang Lombok is a must-try. Also, explore stalls for Sumsum (mutton bone marrow stew) and other traditional Chinese-Indonesian dishes.
While many stalls focus on meat dishes, you can often find vegetarian-friendly options like noodle dishes or vegetable stir-fries. Inquire at the stalls.
Food stalls generally operate from late morning through the evening, with some potentially open later. It's best to check their specific hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The temple entrance with the zodiac statues, the main hall's intricate details, and the Cheng Ho statue are great for photos. Night shots with long exposure are also stunning.
Tripods are generally allowed, especially during less crowded times. However, always be considerate of other visitors and worshippers.
Daylight offers clear details, while evenings provide a magical ambiance with temple lights. Rainy nights can also create dramatic shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites to ensure peace and privacy. It's best to avoid using drones here.
The blend of traditional Chinese architecture, vibrant colors, intricate carvings, and the spiritual atmosphere makes it a photographer's delight.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the temple itself is a place for quiet reflection, the surrounding Chinatown offers a more lively atmosphere. Consider visiting during a time when there might be cultural performances like Potehi puppet shows, which can be particularly entertaining for children. Remember to dress modestly and explain the importance of respecting the sacred space to your children to ensure a positive experience for everyone.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Night photography here is especially rewarding, with the temple lights creating a magical glow. Experiment with long exposure shots to capture the movement of light and create stunning nightscapes. The surrounding Chinatown also offers interesting street photography subjects, blending old and new Semarang.
🍜 Foodie Travelers
Explore the food court within the temple complex or the numerous stalls surrounding it. You'll find a variety of traditional Chinese-Indonesian dishes, from mutton bone marrow stew to unique local snacks. It's an opportunity to savor authentic flavors and experience the vibrant street food culture of Semarang.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Culture
The architecture itself tells a story, with intricate carvings, colorful murals depicting ancient tales, and statues that inspire reverence. Visitors often remark on the temple's well-maintained state and the palpable sense of history that permeates the grounds. The presence of the Cheng Ho statue at the entrance further emphasizes the historical connections and cultural exchange that have shaped Semarang.
Beyond its static beauty, Tay Kak Sie is a living, breathing center of activity. Various ceremonies and celebrations are held here regularly, offering a chance to witness vibrant traditions firsthand. From the solemnity of monk processions to the lively atmosphere of festivals, the temple provides a dynamic cultural experience for all who visit.
The Culinary Heartbeat of Chinatown
Beyond lumpia, the temple complex itself hosts a pujasera (food court) offering a variety of local delights. Visitors rave about unique dishes like Sumsum (mutton bone marrow stew) and frog dishes, showcasing the diverse flavors available. This culinary exploration is an integral part of the Tay Kak Sie experience, offering a delicious counterpoint to the temple's serene atmosphere.
Exploring these food stalls is not just about eating; it's about immersing yourself in the local culture. The bustling energy, the aromas wafting through the air, and the friendly vendors all contribute to a memorable gastronomic adventure. It's a perfect opportunity to sample authentic Semarang flavors right next to a historical landmark.



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