Glodok (Chinatown)

Overview

Glodok is Jakarta's historic Chinatown, a buzzing commercial district packed with Chinese temples, herbal-medicine shops, traditional bakeries, and some of the city's best street food.

Highlights

• Jin De Yuan Temple: The oldest Chinese temple in Jakarta, dating to 1650.
• Street Food: Dim sum, bakpao, kopi-susu, and noodle stalls along every alley.
• Traditional Commerce: Shops selling herbal medicine, dried goods, and Chinese calligraphy supplies.

History

Glodok's Chinese community dates to the 17th century, when the VOC resettled Chinese traders in this area. Despite periods of unrest, the neighbourhood retains its distinct Chinese-Indonesian character.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Arrive hungry—the food variety is staggering.
• Tip 2: Explore the narrow alley markets behind the main roads.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.