Tomohon Market Tomohon
A traditional Indonesian market famous for its 'extreme' meats and vibrant local produce. A unique cultural experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak vibrancy and freshness
Tomohon Market Tomohon
Best Time
Peak vibrancy and freshness
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A traditional Indonesian market famous for its 'extreme' meats and vibrant local produce. A unique cultural experience.
"It's something you need to see once in your lifetime."
Be Prepared for Smells
The 'extreme' meat section can have strong odors. Go in the morning for the freshest experience. :nose:
Embrace the Culture
It's a traditional market. Observe respectfully and be open to unique cultural insights. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Extreme' Meat Section
Designated area within the market
Witness a unique culinary tradition featuring meats like snakes, bats, and dogs. A truly unforgettable, albeit confronting, experience.
Fresh Produce and Local Delicacies
Main market area
Explore vibrant stalls overflowing with fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and local snacks like freshly baked 'apang' and 'cucur'.
Traditional Crafts and Household Goods
Various stalls throughout the market
Discover a variety of local crafts and everyday necessities, offering a glimpse into daily life and local commerce.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Extreme
Timing is Key for Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Be Prepared for Smells
The 'extreme' meat section can have strong odors. Go in the morning for the freshest experience. :nose:
Embrace the Culture
It's a traditional market. Observe respectfully and be open to unique cultural insights. :world_map:
Morning is Best
Visit early for the best selection and liveliest atmosphere before the heat sets in. :sunrise:
Photography Etiquette
Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their goods. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Be Prepared for Smells
The 'extreme' meat section can have strong odors. Go in the morning for the freshest experience. :nose:
Embrace the Culture
It's a traditional market. Observe respectfully and be open to unique cultural insights. :world_map:
Morning is Best
Visit early for the best selection and liveliest atmosphere before the heat sets in. :sunrise:
Photography Etiquette
Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their goods. :camerawithflash:
Consider Animal Welfare
Be aware of the ethical concerns surrounding some animal sales. Animal welfare groups are active here. :heart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tomohon Market is a unique cultural experience, offering a glimpse into traditional Indonesian commerce with its vibrant produce and local delicacies. However, its 'extreme' meat section, featuring exotic animals, is confronting and can be off-putting for many, with strong odors being a common complaint. Visitors often recommend an early morning visit for the best experience.
"It's something you need to see once in your lifetime. But I don't care to return because it is a traditional market and the odor is not favorable. To get a full experience, one should go on a Saturday between the hours of 6AM-11AM"
Voyage 2 Paradise
"The famous local and traditional markets in Tomohon, South Sulawesi Indonesia. Here many vegetables, fruits, any of meats and others. The unique one is extreme market thats sell any of extreme animals. The beauty and differs of Minahasa Tribe. Wonderful Indonesia, unity in diversity."
Bastian AS
"You can Find and buy fresh food also Traditional food. There are fresh food ingredients and household necessities.
There is an extreme market that sells wild animals such as snakes, bats, etc."
Lytha Pijoh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Tomohon Market from Manado is by car or taxi, which takes about an hour. Public transportation options like minivans (angkot) are also available and are a budget-friendly choice, though they may take longer.
Yes, you can usually find taxis or angkots near the market for your return journey. Negotiate fares beforehand if possible.
Renting a motorbike or hiring a car with a driver can offer flexibility to explore Tomohon and its surroundings, including nearby attractions.
Tomohon Market is centrally located within the city, making it easy to access other points of interest in Tomohon.
Limited parking is usually available, but it can get crowded, especially on weekends. Arriving early is recommended. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Tomohon Market is a public traditional market, and there is no entrance fee to browse.
The market is generally open daily from early morning until late afternoon. For the most vibrant experience, visit between 6 AM and 11 AM, especially on Saturdays.
Saturdays are typically the busiest and most vibrant days at Tomohon Market, offering the widest selection.
As a traditional market, accessibility can be challenging due to uneven surfaces and crowds. It's advisable to be prepared for a less accessible environment. :wheelchair:
Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful and ask for permission before taking close-up shots of people or their goods.
🎫 🛍️ Onsite Experience
The market is known for selling a variety of meats from animals like snakes, bats, rats, dogs, and cats, alongside more common meats.
Being a traditional market with a focus on fresh meats, strong odors are common, especially in the meat sections. Going in the morning can mitigate this slightly.
Absolutely! You'll find a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, local snacks, and household necessities.
For fresh produce and cooked snacks like 'apang' and 'cucur', it's generally considered safe if prepared hygienically. Exercise caution with raw or unusual meats.
It's a vital hub for the Minahasa people, showcasing their unique culinary traditions and daily life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Look for freshly baked 'apang' and 'cucur', as well as local fruits and spices. Be adventurous if you wish to try the more exotic offerings.
While the market primarily sells raw ingredients, you can find small stalls selling prepared snacks and drinks. For full meals, nearby eateries are available.
The market is infamous for selling meats from snakes, bats, rats, dogs, and cats.
This is a personal choice. Many visitors find it a unique cultural experience, while others are ethically opposed.
You might find vendors selling fresh coconut water, a refreshing treat, especially during warmer parts of the day.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant produce, bustling market activity, unique food items, and local vendors offer diverse photographic opportunities.
While generally permitted, always ask for permission before photographing individuals or their specific goods to be respectful.
Early morning light is often ideal for capturing the market's atmosphere and vibrant colors before the midday sun.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the market's breadth, and a zoom lens for details. :iphone:
Be mindful of the sensitive nature of the 'extreme' meat section. Photograph with respect and avoid sensationalizing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌍 Culturally Curious Travelers
🐾 Animal Welfare Advocates
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Extreme' Market Phenomenon
Recent efforts by animal welfare organizations and local authorities have led to bans on the sale of dog and cat meat in Tomohon. While this marks a significant step towards animal protection, the market's reputation for exotic meats persists. Visitors should be prepared for the visual and olfactory experience, which can be intense. Respectful observation is key, and many creators advise asking permission before photographing sensitive displays.
Beyond the 'extreme' offerings, the market is a vibrant hub for fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Visitors can find a wide array of fruits, vegetables, and traditional snacks like 'apang' and 'cucur,' offering a more conventional market experience. This blend of the traditional and the extreme makes Tomohon Market a complex and memorable destination.
Navigating Tomohon Market: Practicalities and Etiquette
When it comes to photography, it's crucial to be respectful. While capturing the market's unique character is tempting, always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their goods. This simple act of courtesy goes a long way in fostering positive interactions. For those interested in the 'extreme' aspects, be mentally prepared for what you might see and smell. Many visitors find it a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it's not for the faint of heart.
Beyond the 'extreme' elements, Tomohon Market is a fantastic place to sample local snacks like freshly baked 'apang' and 'cucur,' and to purchase fresh produce and spices. Engaging with local vendors, even with a language barrier, can be a rewarding part of the experience. Remember that it's a working market, so observing local customs and being mindful of your surroundings will enhance your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit