Semarang is known as the capital city of Central Java province. The city is a silent witness in Indonesia’s everchanging history—starting as a major port during the Dutch colonial era and still holds great historical value until now.
Though Semarang is known for various educational and historical sites you can visit during the day, you can also enjoy some fun nighttime activities in the city.
Plan your trip to the fullest; here are seven exciting things to do in Semarang at night!
What to Do in Semarang at Night
1. Simpang Lima
Photo: kuuran_ayato via Instagram
Location: Semarang city center
What to do in Semarang at night? Your first stop should be Simpang Lima!
Simpang Lima is an intersection connecting big streets such as Jalan Pahlawan, Jalan Pandanaran, Jalan Ahmad Yani, Jalan Gajah Mada, and Jalan Ahmad Dahlan.
At the recommendation of Indonesia’s first president, Soekarno, this area now functions as the center of Semarang Plaza. Lapangan Pancasila was then built around the area to provide an open space where people could gather and do various activities.
There are always people crowding this area throughout the day, but it’s especially fun at night. You can rent neat bikes customized with intricate neon light designs, or enjoy the occasional live music and firework events held around the area.
On top of that, you’ll also be able to try out various street foods at the local stalls.
2. Kota Lama
Photo: Siti Nur Aeni via katadata.co.id
Location: Jl. Letjen Suprapto No.31, Tj. Mas, Kec. Semarang Utara, Semarang City, Central Java 50137
Kota Lama is a longstanding historical landmark. The area used to be the center of trade during the 19th–20th century, when the Dutch built Vijfhoek Fort to ensure that the trade went smoothly.
You can see the remnants of the past on the well-preserved European-style buildings around the area. Be sure to stick around until the sun sets though, for Kota Lama gives off an entirely different vibe at night.
Not only can you admire the grand architectural designs, but you can also visit Sentiling Market to hunt for antique trinkets or hunt for good food. Explore Kota Lama to your heart’s content by renting an ontel bike or vespa is a good choice too.
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3. Lake Rawa Pening
Photo: Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing of Republic of Indonesia
Location: Semarang Regency, Central Java, Indonesia
The name Rawa Pening is derived from the Javanese word wening that means serene and peaceful. This natural lake covers a total area of approximately 2,670 hectares.
You only need to pay Rp3,000 during the weekdays and Rp5,000 during the weekends to enjoy this beautiful lake.
Step away from your stressful routine and enjoy the cool breeze and calm waters, complete with the view of the mountains right on the horizon. This place makes a romantic getaway and offers many beautiful spots you can take pictures in!
4. Pecinan (Chinatown)
Photo: bacaekon.com
Location: Kauman, Semarang Tengah, Semarang City, Central Java 50188
This popular cultural hotspot is the space where various cultures meet. Semarang’s Chinatown is proof of cultural assimilation between people from various backgrounds, with elements from local Javanese, Chinese, to European.
You can partake in a tour exploring various historical spots in the area, or visit Semawis Night Market to try out some mouth-watering Indonesian and Chinese-influenced cuisine.
As for the cuisine, be sure to taste satays, soups, noodles, or Semarang specialties such as pisang plenet and lumpia.
If you visit Semarang’s Chinatown during the Lunar New Year, you can also enjoy other fun festivities. The place will be adorned in red and gold, and you can enjoy their unique procession and barongsai show.
5. Tabanas Bukit Gombel Park
Photo: mongotrip.com
Location: Jl. Setia Budi No.12, Ngesrep, Kec. Banyumanik, Semarang City, Central Java 50261
Tabanas Bukit Gombel Park is a romantic spot to visit with your partner. The park is located on a hill that overlooks the city, so you can appreciate the sparkling city lights of Semarang at night.
You can also enjoy a romantic dinner at the many cafes in the area. The cool breeze makes it a perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring the city.
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6. Banjir Kanal Barat River
Photo: semarangprojects via Instagram
Location: Jl. Gedung Batu Tim. No.203 G, Ngemplak Simongan, Kec. Semarang Barat, Semarang City, Central Java 50148
Next on what to do in Semarang at night, be sure to visit Banjir Kanal Barat River. Considered yet another romantic spot, you can enjoy the beautiful view of the river and warm street lamps scattered nearby.
Like something out of a movie, you can even enjoy a light festival every once in a while. Keep an eye out for the event, and witness the rare magical light show you’ll remember for years to come!
7. Lawang Sewu
Photo: phinemo.com
Location: Jl. Pemuda No.160, Sekayu, Kec. Semarang Tengah, Semarang City, Central Java 50132
Lawang Sewu is a historical building that used to function as the headquarter of a Dutch private train company, Nederlandsch-Indische Spoorweg Maatschappij (NISM).
The name Lawang Sewu is derived from the Javanese Language. Lawang means door, while sewu means a thousand. The name aptly refers to the thousand doors in this building.
Lawang Sewu has a great train-related collections and beautiful stained glass windows adorning many of the rooms. This place also has its share of scary stories and myths, making it an exciting place to explore at night!
Discover the eerie and mysterious side of Lawang Sewu—pay an entrance ticket starting from Rp10,000 and explore the building at night if you dare.
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Stay at Bobobox for a Convenient and Affordable Vacation at Semarang!
Exploring Semarang is easier with Bobobox Kota Lama. There are various tourist and culinary destinations within a short walking distance, so you won’t have to spend much on transport.
After a long day of exploring, you’ll get to rest well with our state-of-the-art sleeping pods. Lie on the fluffy pillow and bed, then adjust your lighting for better sleep.
Download the Bobobox app on Play Store or App Store for booking and more information.
