Exciting Things You Can Do in Makassar’s Bustling Chinatown

Chinatown Makassar — You may be familiar with Chinatown destinations abroad, but do you know that you could find many Chinatowns in several cities in Indonesia? One of them is located in Makassar, South Sulawesi. 

Makassar is an enthralling city with traces of intriguing histories well-loved by everyone. Apart from having historical ties with the Dutch colonization period, this capital city of South Sulawesi also has its own portion of history with China. Hence the Chinatown. 

Read more:

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• Mouthwatering Dishes You Should Definitely Try in Makassar
• Most Exciting Things to Do in Makassar You Shouldn’t Miss

Stroll around Makassar’s Chinatown, Full of History!

Chinatown is an intriguing site that you mustn’t miss during your visit to Makassar. Its strong Chinese influence shapes the dominant Chinese-style buildings and cultures thriving in this specific area. It’s not surprising that Chinatown in Makassar is well preserved and its authenticity maintained. 

Keen to explore Makassar’s Chinatown, t-mates? Given its convenient location amidst the city center, it’s easy for you to reach this destination. So, what are the exciting things that you could find in Makassar’s Chinatown? Let’s see!

1. Chinatown’s History– Something to Behold

As its name has suggested, you will find lots of Chinese-style architectures flourished in this area. The construction of this area can be traced back to the 14th century, the year in which Chinese ethnics first set their foot in this area. 

This information is documented on a Chinese grave headstone in Central Market. During the 16th century, known as the Ming Dynasty, a Chinese national anchored his ship on the south coast of Sulawesi for trade. 

His business grew rapidly, and this is when he decided to stay for good and formed a community in this area. Aside from said history, Chinese descendants of Makassar is known to be living in Jampea Road, Sumba, and Sulawesi.

2. Get to Know the Dominant Chinese Culture

Experience the ambiance of having a vacation in the lands of China as you visit the Chinatown area. Not only you could learn much of the cultures buried deep within, but every corner of this area is also completely instagenic! Enjoying history whilst at the same time engage in your photography hobby? Why not!

Witness old Chinese heritage buildings which have now turned into tourist attractions. In fact, you still can find traces of Dutch-style characteristics being retained in these buildings. 

3. Visit Xian Ma Temple

Next, visit Xian Ma Temple, also known as Naga Sakti Temple. Though this temple was initially built as a place for worship, no worries! You still could visit this glorious temple as it is open to public too. 

Built in 1864, this temple is known to be the oldest in Makassar. As of right now, this temple is almost two centuries old. When you visit this temple, do comply with its existing rules, t-mates, especially when prayers are conducted. 

4. Hunt for Unique Items and Witness the Festive of Chinese New Year Festival at Chinatown Market

As you fed up your curiosity in Xian Ma Temple, you will want to go shopping at the Chinatown market, which is known as the traditional market of this area. As Chinese New Year approaches, this market will be very packed by both tourists and locals.

Step onto Sulawesi Street– the site where many Chinese New Year Celebrations take place. You can witness various folk art performances such as lion dances. In this location as well, you will find modern buildings such as Dinasti Hotel & Yasmin Hotel.

During the Chinese New Year, many people enthusiastically participate in these activities, though they are not part of the Chinese descent itself. Ahh the beauty of diversity, indeed! 

Ahead of Chinese New Year, you can expect this area to be fully-decorated with Chinese decorations that festive the look of this already-bustling Chinatown. Truly beautiful! You can also find various traditional cuisines during this time around to explore, t-mates.

5. Chinatown is Where Mie Titi First Emerge

Culinary enthusiast, it is certain that you are familiar with this dish called Mie Titi. Maybe, you might be confused on why this oriental nuance is so typical and famous in Makassar? Turns out, there is a long history behind this dish that is still associated with Chinatown. 

If you happen to explore Chinatown, you simply could not miss the enjoyment of having Mie Titi right from its area of origin. Mie Titi is a type of dry ifu noodles that are served with thick sauce cooked with chicken, shrimp, meatballs, cabbage, carrots, and more ingredients that adds to this flavorful dish. 

The history of Mie Titi’s first creation stemmed from a Chinese descent named Ang Kho Tjao. Initially, Ang served his cookings to other fellow Chinese community members. However, the delicacy of this dish apparently is growing among the natives too. 

The recipe of this legendary cuisine was passed down to Ang Kho Tjao’s three children– Henky, Awa, and Titi. These three names are popularly known for their respective food stalls that stood around the Chinatown area. 

6. How to Get to Makassar’s Chinatown

Chinatown is located around Ahmad Yani Street. This popular area is divided into two distinct sub-districts, namely Wajo District and Ujung Pandang District. No worries, it’s not difficult to get to this area, as the main gate is only 400 meters away from Karebosi field. 

Karebosi field itself is located right in the center of Makassar. Also, Makassar’s Chinatown is close to Fort Rotterdam Fort and the renowned Losari Beach. You can easily reach this area by public transportations such as pete-pete, taxi and rickshaw.

Getting to Know Makassar’s Chinatown is Actually Fun!

Who would have thought that Makassar also got its own Chinatown area? If you yearn for a visit to China, this area will certainly help to manifest that dream of yours before you proceed to plan the real trip to China 😉 With all its thriving Chinese culture, you will find yourself enjoying your time in this bustling historical area.

This might call you to add Chinatown into your Makassar itinerary. Keen to explore Makassar? Get your flight to Makassar only at tiket.com!

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