Semarang

Semarang is the capital of Central Java province in Indonesia.

The city's name is said to derive from the Javanese words "asem" and "arang", which could be translated as "scarce tamarind."

Semarang lies on the province's northern coast. It is a bustling, growing mid-sized city with a population of over 1.5 million. More an administrative and business town rather than a tourist destination, it nevertheless has its own charm, with contrasting modern mid-rises, a significant set of Dutch colonial architecture, Chinatown, and "kampung" all jutting against each other.

Semarang's topography is marked by a narrow coastal plain, rising sharply inland. The city sprawls up from the coast, and the higher areas see some of the highest rate of residential development, due to the slightly cooler climate. The sea is slowly reclaiming the coastal lowlands during the monthly rob or high tides, causing flooding up to more than a kilometer from the coast.

The coastal location can make the climate uncomfortably hot and humid. It is not unusual for temperatures to be above . In contrast to many Indonesian cities, Semarang still has a fair amount of greenery. Locals will tell you that areas that used to be (by their standards) "cool" are no longer. The climate is hot and humid, except on the slope - where it is slightly more pleasant - towards Ungaran, so wear light-coloured cotton clothes, such as T-shirts and knee-length trousers for comfort.

Semarang is still rather off the tourist trail and knowing even basic Indonesian will be helpful and Javanese will be well-received.

In 2007 the government started to promote Semarang as a tourist destination, starting with the Semarang Pesona Asia (Semarang, Asia's Enchantment) branding.

• Tourist Information Center (TIC) Semarang, Jl Pemuda No 147 Semarang (Just across the street from the City Hall. Near Lawang Sewu and Tugu Muda. TransSemarang Koridor I, II, III, IV, +62 24 351-5451. Has an information counter and some leaflets about Semarang and other parts of Central Java. The Joglosemar bus (going to Yogyakarta or Solo) and the Central Java Travel shuttle van (going to Jepara), depart from here.
• Tourist Information Center, (TIC) Achmad Yani Airport. The tourist office also has an information counter at the airport.

Tourist Information Center (TIC) Semarang, Jl Pemuda No 147 Semarang (Just across the street from the City Hall. Near Lawang Sewu and Tugu Muda. TransSemarang Koridor I, II, III, IV, +62 24 351-5451. Has an information counter and some leaflets about Semarang and other parts of Central Java. The Joglosemar bus (going to [[Yogyakarta]] or [[Solo]]) and the Central Java Travel shuttle van (going to [[Jepara]]), depart from here.

Tourist Information Center, (TIC) Achmad Yani Airport. The tourist office also has an information counter at the airport.

• Gua Kreo, Jl Raya Goa Kreo, Kandri, Gunung Pati (Any taxi driver will know the place, +62 852 9179-4931. daily 05:00–18:00. A modest cave formation surrounded by a man-made lake with a resident band of long-tailed macaques. Can get crowded on the weekend, but you may it all to yourself on a weekday.
• Lawang Sewu, Jl Pemuda, Sekayu (Right on the Tugu Muda roundabout. 07:00-21:00. Lawang Sewu means 'a thousand doors' in Javanese. It has a lot of them, but probably not that many. Built as the headquarters of the Dutch East Indies railway company in 1907, over time it served various purposes. The Dutch reputedly used the basement as a jail and torture centre. During World War II it was used as the Japanese army's headquarters in Semarang, and further atrocities were committed by the Japanese. The attic, with its twin water towers, was used by the military as a badminton court. Reputed to be haunted. Tour guides are available at the building's entrance. Flashlight tours of the basement, with its interesting system of small pools of water to help keep it cool, are a fun scare.
• Sam Poo Kong Temple, Jl Simongan No. 129, +62 24 760-5277. The beautiful Sam Poo Kong temple (Gedung Batu) was built to honour the Muslim Chinese admiral Cheng Ho of the Ming Dynasty, who visited Semarang in the early 15th century. It was extensively renovated in 2006 to celebrate the 600th anniversary of Cheng Ho's visit. In the entry area there are a couple of stores that sell Chinese art and objects, including giant candles and, of course, there's a place to eat. This complex is one of the major temples for certain Chinese religions, notably Kong Hu Chu (Confucianism), and is replete with a long stone mural depicting major events of Cheng Ho's time here, as well as several different temples, each with its own specific style and architecture. You can burn an envelope in a special prayer oven, or ask a soothsayer to read fortune-telling sticks for you. The temple area is open to visitors if you pay an additional fee, otherwise you can see much of it from behind a chain - but the mural is behind the temples - but only those seeking to pray may actually enter the temples.
• Simpang Lima. A large square and shopping district at the heart of Semarang. At night, you can eat, drink, or just wander around. Enjoy a ride on the decorated bicycles ("gowes"). On Sunday mornings, this is the venue for Semarang's Car Free Day (actually a couple of hours only), where families gather and enjoy activities such as cycling, roller-blading, playing basketball or simply enjoying the atmosphere while eating in their favorite food stall.
• Taman Budaya Raden Saleh, Jl Sriwijaya No.29. A park and cultural centre, with theater and dance performances and the occasional art exhibition in the four buildings in the complex. It has was formerly the site of Semarang's zoo. Suitable for family recreation or just watching artists practice for their performances.
• Tanjung Emas. A busy, important port during Dutch occupation (from 17th century to 1945). Of special interest is the lighthouse built in 1884.
• Watugong Buddhist Temple, Jl Perintis Kemerdekaan Pudakpayung, Banyumanik (Any taxi driver will know it, or take the TransJateng rapid transit bus from the centre of town in the direction of Bawen. Popular Buddhist site, featuring the 45m Pagoda Avalokitesvara with seven tiers, the tallest in Indonesia. Various shrines relevant to the Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. Development started in the 1950s.

Before you get into the hilly area named Bukit Sari, you will see on your left Taman Tabanas Gombel where you can stop by, drink tea and see Semarang from the hill. It's a really beautiful view in the daytime and a very special romantic view during the nighttime.

• Old Town. Northern Semarang has many old Dutch colonial buildings. This was where the old walled city was located. The wall is no longer there, but many of the buildings remain. While there are a number specific points of interest, the whole area is atmospheric and interesting for a wander. Early morning or late afternoon offers the coolest parts of the day and the best light for photography. The rundown nature is part of its charm, but the City Council is making concerted efforts to bring it back to life. The numbers of cafes and restaurants is slowly growing. This helps to give life to the area at night also, and there is a semi-permanent bric-a-brac market that is most active during these cooler hours. During certain high tides, the area is flooded. Tackling it is also part of the government's plan, and the flooding is slowly dropping in terms of number and intensity of incidents.
• Gereja Blenduk, Jl Letjen Suprapto 32 (The heart of the Old Town. The name means "domed church". A beautiful Protestant church built in 1753, it is the oldest church in Semarang. It has a baroque organ, a rarity in Indonesia.
• Semarang Contemporary Ary Gallery, Jl Taman Srigunting No.5-6, +62 24 355-2099. Tu-Su 10:00–16:30. Modern gallery offering a selection of contemporary art in revolving exhibitions. Strong focus on Asian artists in general and Indonesian artists in particular.
• Taman Srigunting. A small, shady square nestled by the Gereja Blenduk. Good for a quick sit-down after the exertions of walking around the Old Town, and great for indulging in a bit of the Indonesian national pasttime of taking selfies. Expect to be invited to join in photos with other visitors.

Old Town. Northern Semarang has many old Dutch colonial buildings. This was where the old walled city was located. The wall is no longer there, but many of the buildings remain. While there are a number specific points of interest, the whole area is atmospheric and interesting for a wander. Early morning or late afternoon offers the coolest parts of the day and the best light for photography. The rundown nature is part of its charm, but the City Council is making concerted efforts to bring it back to life. The numbers of cafes and restaurants is slowly growing. This helps to give life to the area at night also, and there is a semi-permanent bric-a-brac market that is most active during these cooler hours. During certain high tides, the area is flooded. Tackling it is also part of the government's plan, and the flooding is slowly dropping in terms of number and intensity of incidents.

Gereja Blenduk, Jl Letjen Suprapto 32 (The heart of the Old Town. The name means "domed church". A beautiful Protestant church built in 1753, it is the oldest church in Semarang. It has a baroque organ, a rarity in Indonesia.

Semarang Contemporary Ary Gallery, Jl Taman Srigunting No.5-6, +62 24 355-2099. Tu-Su 10:00–16:30. Modern gallery offering a selection of contemporary art in revolving exhibitions. Strong focus on Asian artists in general and Indonesian artists in particular.

Taman Srigunting. A small, shady square nestled by the Gereja Blenduk. Good for a quick sit-down after the exertions of walking around the Old Town, and great for indulging in a bit of the Indonesian national pasttime of taking selfies. Expect to be invited to join in photos with other visitors.

• Tugu Muda, At the western end of Jl Pandaran and Jl Pemuda. One of Semarang's landmarks - an obelisk set in the middle of a roundabout. It commemorates the five days of fierce battle (14-19 October 1945) between Indonesian freedom fighters and Japanese soldiers who refused to surrender.

Tugu Muda, At the western end of Jl Pandaran and Jl Pemuda. One of Semarang's landmarks - an obelisk set in the middle of a roundabout. It commemorates the five days of fierce battle (14-19 October 1945) between Indonesian freedom fighters and Japanese soldiers who refused to surrender.

• Museum Ronggowarsito, Jl. Abdurrahman Saleh No. 1, +62 24 7602389. 08:00–14:00, except on Monday. Javanese culture and art. Rp 2,000.
• MURI, Jl. Setiabudi no.179 Srondol. M–F 08:00–16:00. Indonesian Record Museum.
• Mandala Bhakti, Jl. Mgr. Sugiyopranoto. Tu–Th 08:00–18:00, F 08:00–10:30, Su 08:00–12:00. Military museum.

Museum Ronggowarsito, Jl. Abdurrahman Saleh No. 1, +62 24 7602389. 08:00–14:00, except on Monday. Javanese culture and art. Rp 2,000.

MURI, Jl. Setiabudi no.179 Srondol. M–F 08:00–16:00. Indonesian Record Museum.

Mandala Bhakti, Jl. Mgr. Sugiyopranoto. Tu–Th 08:00–18:00, F 08:00–10:30, Su 08:00–12:00. Military museum.

Always interesting. Go early in the morning to see the most activity. They tend to have quietened down by late morning. There are a plenty to choose from. Perhaps the pre-eminent one in Semarang is

• Pasar Johar, Jl K.H. Agus Salim, Kauman Tengah (Just south of the Old Town and at the eastern end of Jl Pemuda.. Built in 1936, and famous for its neo-vernacular design by architect Thomas Karsten. Unfortunately damaged by fire in 2016, but renovation started in late 2017 and will hopefully restore it back to full glory.

Pasar Johar, Jl K.H. Agus Salim, Kauman Tengah (Just south of the Old Town and at the eastern end of Jl Pemuda.. Built in 1936, and famous for its neo-vernacular design by architect Thomas Karsten. Unfortunately damaged by fire in 2016, but renovation started in late 2017 and will hopefully restore it back to full glory.

Gua Kreo, Jl Raya Goa Kreo, Kandri, Gunung Pati (Any taxi driver will know the place, +62 852 9179-4931. daily 05:00–18:00. A modest cave formation surrounded by a man-made lake with a resident band of long-tailed macaques. Can get crowded on the weekend, but you may it all to yourself on a weekday.

Lawang Sewu, Jl Pemuda, Sekayu (Right on the Tugu Muda roundabout. 07:00-21:00. Lawang Sewu means 'a thousand doors' in Javanese. It has a lot of them, but probably not that many. Built as the headquarters of the Dutch East Indies railway company in 1907, over time it served various purposes. The Dutch reputedly used the basement as a jail and torture centre. During World War II it was used as the Japanese army's headquarters in Semarang, and further atrocities were committed by the Japanese. The attic, with its twin water towers, was used by the military as a badminton court. Reputed to be haunted. Tour guides are available at the building's entrance. Flashlight tours of the basement, with its interesting system of small pools of water to help keep it cool, are a fun scare.

Sam Poo Kong Temple, Jl Simongan No. 129, +62 24 760-5277. The beautiful Sam Poo Kong temple (Gedung Batu) was built to honour the Muslim Chinese admiral Cheng Ho of the Ming Dynasty, who visited Semarang in the early 15th century. It was extensively renovated in 2006 to celebrate the 600th anniversary of Cheng Ho's visit. In the entry area there are a couple of stores that sell Chinese art and objects, including giant candles and, of course, there's a place to eat. This complex is one of the major temples for certain Chinese religions, notably Kong Hu Chu (Confucianism), and is replete with a long stone mural depicting major events of Cheng Ho's time here, as well as several different temples, each with its own specific style and architecture. You can burn an envelope in a special prayer oven, or ask a soothsayer to read fortune-telling sticks for you. The temple area is open to visitors if you pay an additional fee, otherwise you can see much of it from behind a chain - but the mural is behind the temples - but only those seeking to pray may actually enter the temples.

Simpang Lima. A large square and shopping district at the heart of Semarang. At night, you can eat, drink, or just wander around. Enjoy a ride on the decorated bicycles ("gowes"). On Sunday mornings, this is the venue for Semarang's Car Free Day (actually a couple of hours only), where families gather and enjoy activities such as cycling, roller-blading, playing basketball or simply enjoying the atmosphere while eating in their favorite food stall.

Taman Budaya Raden Saleh, Jl Sriwijaya No.29. A park and cultural centre, with theater and dance performances and the occasional art exhibition in the four buildings in the complex. It has was formerly the site of Semarang's zoo. Suitable for family recreation or just watching artists practice for their performances.

Tanjung Emas. A busy, important port during Dutch occupation (from 17th century to 1945). Of special interest is the lighthouse built in 1884.

Watugong Buddhist Temple, Jl Perintis Kemerdekaan Pudakpayung, Banyumanik (Any taxi driver will know it, or take the TransJateng rapid transit bus from the centre of town in the direction of Bawen. Popular Buddhist site, featuring the 45m Pagoda Avalokitesvara with seven tiers, the tallest in Indonesia. Various shrines relevant to the Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. Development started in the 1950s.

• Catfish Park (Taman Lele). Kecamatan Tugu. Open daily. Facilities: children's playground, cultural and art shows, animal shows.
• Marina Beach. North Semarang. Facilities: swimming pool, children's playground, beach volleyball, water sports.
• Ngaliyan Tirta Indah, Jalan Raya Ngaliyan Kecamatan Ngaliyan. Facilities: swimming pool, beautiful plantation, flower garden, sports centre.
• Puri Maerokoco and Kampoeng Laut (a famous over-the-water restaurant). Tawangmas PRPP, a clone of TMII (Jakarta). Facilities: cultural and art shows, boat, water bike, small train, fishing pond.
• Sodong, 20 km from Semarang. Beautiful plantation, fishing pond, swimming pool.

After some hard travelling, a long flight, climbing a volcano or just a long walk around town, an easy way to unwind is one of 'reflexology' places offering an hour or two in an easy chair, with vaguely Oriental ambient music tinkling away, while someone squeezes your feet (despite being called reflexology, it is rarely that, but very pleasant nonetheless). All for a very reasonable price.

• Cozy Feet, Jl Kapten Piere Tendean No. 5, Sekayu (The street behind the Novotel., +62 24 354-9823. 10:00-22:00 every day. Reflexology and massage.
• Yu Zu Tang, Jl Anggrek Raya Blok C No. 20-22, Pekunden (Behind the Citraland Mall. Leave the mall by the door next to Galael supermarket, turn right and follow the wall of the mall around until you get to Yu Zu Tang., +62 24 841-3036. 10:00-22:00. Reflexology and massage. From Rp75,000 for one hour.

Cozy Feet, Jl Kapten Piere Tendean No. 5, Sekayu (The street behind the Novotel., +62 24 354-9823. 10:00-22:00 every day. Reflexology and massage.

Yu Zu Tang, Jl Anggrek Raya Blok C No. 20-22, Pekunden (Behind the Citraland Mall. Leave the mall by the door next to Galael supermarket, turn right and follow the wall of the mall around until you get to Yu Zu Tang., +62 24 841-3036. 10:00-22:00. Reflexology and massage. From Rp75,000 for one hour.

• Jateng Fair, at PRPP Marina. Annual showcases of Central Java Promotions and Development. It's held between June and July.
• Jaran Sampo, Tay Kak Sie and Sam Poo Kong Temples. Attend the biggest ceremony of the Chinese community in Java, featuring a colourful procession and dances of decorated horses and 'liong' (dragon).
• Dug Der Festival, Johar, Kota Lama, Polder Tawang. Annual festival, one week before fasting month, or puasa. The name is derived from the sound of bedug ("Dug" - the sound of a gigantic drum often associated with Islam), and meriam bambu ("Der" - the sound of the traditional bamboo cannon). At the end of the festival, there's "Ngarak Warak", meaning procession to bring Warak across the city's main street (normally from the Mayor's office to the Johar Market). The Warak is a mythology animal, part giraffe, part lion, part Chinese dragon, part horse and part bird. It's the icon of the festival. You can buy toys at the festival, normally a warak laying an egg, thus the name "Warak Ngendog".
• Wayang Wong Ngesti Pandowo, Jl. Sriwijaya No. 29 (inside Taman Budaya Raden Saleh, Ki Narto Sabdho building, +62 81 57784939. A weekly show of Javanese drama in the form of human puppet (wayang orang in Indonesian or wayang wong in Javanese), with stories from folklore, Mahabarata and Ramayana. There is a show every Saturday night. An excellent chance to get a glimpse of Javanese culture in Semarang Rp 25,000.

Jateng Fair, at PRPP Marina. Annual showcases of Central Java Promotions and Development. It's held between June and July.

Jaran Sampo, Tay Kak Sie and Sam Poo Kong Temples. Attend the biggest ceremony of the Chinese community in Java, featuring a colourful procession and dances of decorated horses and 'liong' (dragon).

Dug Der Festival, Johar, Kota Lama, Polder Tawang. Annual festival, one week before fasting month, or puasa. The name is derived from the sound of bedug ("Dug" - the sound of a gigantic drum often associated with Islam), and meriam bambu ("Der" - the sound of the traditional bamboo cannon). At the end of the festival, there's "Ngarak Warak", meaning procession to bring Warak across the city's main street (normally from the Mayor's office to the Johar Market). The Warak is a mythology animal, part giraffe, part lion, part Chinese dragon, part horse and part bird. It's the icon of the festival. You can buy toys at the festival, normally a warak laying an egg, thus the name "Warak Ngendog".

Wayang Wong Ngesti Pandowo, Jl. Sriwijaya No. 29 (inside Taman Budaya Raden Saleh, Ki Narto Sabdho building, +62 81 57784939. A weekly show of Javanese drama in the form of human puppet (wayang orang in Indonesian or wayang wong in Javanese), with stories from folklore, Mahabarata and Ramayana. There is a show every Saturday night. An excellent chance to get a glimpse of Javanese culture in Semarang Rp 25,000.

Catfish Park (Taman Lele). Kecamatan Tugu. Open daily. Facilities: children's playground, cultural and art shows, animal shows.

Marina Beach. North Semarang. Facilities: swimming pool, children's playground, beach volleyball, water sports.

Ngaliyan Tirta Indah, Jalan Raya Ngaliyan Kecamatan Ngaliyan. Facilities: swimming pool, beautiful plantation, flower garden, sports centre.

Puri Maerokoco and Kampoeng Laut (a famous over-the-water restaurant). Tawangmas PRPP, a clone of TMII (Jakarta). Facilities: cultural and art shows, boat, water bike, small train, fishing pond.

Sodong, 20 km from Semarang. Beautiful plantation, fishing pond, swimming pool.

One of the favourites is milkfish, bandeng, pressure-cooked to soften the bones. It goes by the name bandeng presto or bandeng duri lunak. Also popular are lumpia Semarang (a spring roll with bamboo-shoot filling), wingko babat (small grilled patties of glutinous rice and shredded coconut), ganjal rel (a cake named after the railway sleeper that it resembles in shape and texture) and pia Kemuning (various kind of filling, but the traditional ones are filled with palm sugar). There is a well-known strip of toko oleh-oleh stores on Jl Pandanaran.

• Bandeng Juwana Elrina, Jl Pandanaran no.57, +62 24 831-1488. 06:30-22:00 Sun-Thur, 06:30-23:00 Fri-Sat. Bandeng presto, lumpia Semarang, wingko babat, gandjal rel cake and more. Free tasting.
• Wingko Babat Cap Kereta Api, Jl Cendrawasih 14 (On the eastern edge of the Old Town., +62 24 354-2064. This outlet is just on the edge of Semarang's Old Town. In addition to wingko they have a wide range of other sweet and savoury snack stuffs, and a small selection of souvenirs like fridge magnets. The shop is a much calmer experience than the toko oleh-oleh of Jl Pandanaran which can be crowded and hot, especially if a coachload of tourists arrives.

Bandeng Juwana Elrina, Jl Pandanaran no.57, +62 24 831-1488. 06:30-22:00 Sun-Thur, 06:30-23:00 Fri-Sat. Bandeng presto, lumpia Semarang, wingko babat, gandjal rel cake and more. Free tasting.

Wingko Babat Cap Kereta Api, Jl Cendrawasih 14 (On the eastern edge of the Old Town., +62 24 354-2064. This outlet is just on the edge of Semarang's Old Town. In addition to wingko they have a wide range of other sweet and savoury snack stuffs, and a small selection of souvenirs like fridge magnets. The shop is a much calmer experience than the toko oleh-oleh of Jl Pandanaran which can be crowded and hot, especially if a coachload of tourists arrives.

There are numerous places around town to buy jewelry, paintings, handicrafts, art and other items that could make great souvenirs, and these places can be found all over town. You can buy batik, antiques and traditional items in Pasar Johar (Johar Market)). There is plenty of choice. It is also accessible by Angkot (mini-bus). Aside from there, you can also buy high-quality batik at department stores, or at batik specialists like Batik Keris and Danar Hadi, both in the Simpang Lima square area.

Semarang also has its own style of batik, which can be found in various stores around town.

Club Merby on Jl MT Haryono (Mataram) No 653.

• Andika Art & Crafts Gallery, Jl Puri Anjasmoro, Block O-1/5., +62 24 760-6123.
• Lia Gallery, Jl Genade Selatan 2, +62 24 749-8700.
• Goedang Art & Antique, Jl Pemuda 37, +62 24 356-4453.
• Gallery Gerbang, Jl Dr. Wahidin 56, +62 24 844-7860.
• Pandjang Art Shop, Jl Widoharjo 31A, +62 24 354-1460.
• La Vogue, Jl Pemuda. The city's oldest antique shop.

Andika Art & Crafts Gallery, Jl Puri Anjasmoro, Block O-1/5., +62 24 760-6123.

Lia Gallery, Jl Genade Selatan 2, +62 24 749-8700.

Goedang Art & Antique, Jl Pemuda 37, +62 24 356-4453.

Gallery Gerbang, Jl Dr. Wahidin 56, +62 24 844-7860.

Pandjang Art Shop, Jl Widoharjo 31A, +62 24 354-1460.

La Vogue, Jl Pemuda. The city's oldest antique shop.

As Semarang is not a tourist city, you won't find a large concentration of money changers. Those listed below are generally reliable, and you can even call ahead to 'lock' a rate first before coming in personally in the next half an hour or so.

• Golden Valasindo, Jl Jend Sudirman 322, Ruko Siliwangi Square Kav 10 (TransSemarang Corridor I and IV, stop at Pasar Karangayu (Karangayu Market) - on the way from airport to the city centre, +62 24 7663-2631.
• Rudo Indovalas Dunia, Jl Simpang Lima, Gajah Mada Plaza Bl A/9-10 (TransSemarang Koridor III and IV, stop at Simpang Lima, +62 24 844-4111.
• Supit, Jl Pemuda 39C, +62 24 354-2461.
• Supit (branch office), Mal Ciputra Shop Office Bl B/4, Jl Simpang Lima 1 1 (TransSemarang Corridor III and IV, stop at Simpang Lima, +62 24 844-0814.
• Valin Internusa, Jl Mayjen DI Panjaitan 158-160, +62 24 356-5222. Banks are open between 08:30-15:00.

Golden Valasindo, Jl Jend Sudirman 322, Ruko Siliwangi Square Kav 10 (TransSemarang Corridor I and IV, stop at Pasar Karangayu (Karangayu Market) - on the way from airport to the city centre, +62 24 7663-2631.

Rudo Indovalas Dunia, Jl Simpang Lima, Gajah Mada Plaza Bl A/9-10 (TransSemarang Koridor III and IV, stop at Simpang Lima, +62 24 844-4111.

Supit, Jl Pemuda 39C, +62 24 354-2461.

Supit (branch office), Mal Ciputra Shop Office Bl B/4, Jl Simpang Lima 1 1 (TransSemarang Corridor III and IV, stop at Simpang Lima, +62 24 844-0814.

Valin Internusa, Jl Mayjen DI Panjaitan 158-160, +62 24 356-5222.

Although Semarang's choice of foods is not as large as other cities, you can find Japanese, Italian, Thai, Korean, Indian and more.

There are food stalls all over Semarang. They are popular and cheap, as they are not permanent, and do not have phone numbers and exact addresses. However, they usually open in the same spot and time every day. Hygiene is not a top priority. If you have a sensitive stomach, consider the cook's access to the fresh water and toilets, as well as whether the food is cooked fresh or set out in serving dishes.

The cheapest of the cheap is nasi kucing (literally, cat rice) which is very small portions (just enough for a cat to eat, presumably) of rice served with a modest amount of meat and vegetables.

• Kedai Beringin, Jalan Beringin I/9 (On a small residential street heading north off Jl Pierre Tendean behind the Novotel, +62 24 355-4292. 07:00-15:00 Javanese menu, 16:00-21:30 Chinese menu.

  A Semarang institution, frequented by office workers at lunchtime for its cheap and good Javanese-style dishes - rice with various soupy dishes (rawon, asem-asem daun kedondong, etc), nasi campur, gado-gado and so on. Various ice-based desserts also available. Halal. Opens for two sessions a day. The first, at lunchtime, offers the Javanese menu. Opening again in the late afternoon and evening, it offers a more Chinese style menu.

  Be aware that there are two Kedai Beringin in town. The other is not so far away, in front of Poncol train station. Bigger, with a wider menu, and offering some dishes with pork.

• Lumpia Gang Lombok, Gang Lombok, Chinatown (next to Tay Kak Sie temple. The pioneer of Semarang's many lumpia (spring roll) stalls. Started operating before the Second World War. Some of the owners of other lumpia outlets started by working at this place. Uses both dried shrimp and fresh shrimp. Semarang lumpia is known for the use of bamboo shoots, which give them a distinctive taste.
• Simpang Lima. This square in the heart of Semarang has plenty of stalls offering a variety of local food. Prices are low: a piece of fried chicken, a thigh or a leg, plus a plate of steamed rice for as little as Rp15,000. Some stalls offer lesehan (sitting on a mat), with or without a low table. Active from early morning until late at night. The best stalls are busy and sell out quickly.
• Soto Bangkong, Ruko Bangkong Plaza, Jl. Brigjen Katamso No. 1, Peterongan, Semarang (a kilometre or so to the east of Simpang Lima. Any taxi driver or ride sharing driver will know the location., +62 24 841-2842. daily 07:00–22:00. Clear chicken soup, a local variation of the soto ayam found across Indonesia. A Semarang institution.
• Jalan Pahlawan, south of Simpang Lima, you will also find many food stalls under tents (tenda), selling a variety of foods from Gudeg (Jogjakartan pressure-cooked sweet jackfruit meal, usually served dry or wet with coconut milk soup, and you can add in fried chicken, eggs, and other items), bubur ayam (chicken porridge, a real treat), jagung bakar (grilled corn) and many others. Pamper yourself with plenty of good food, yet very cheaply. If you'd like something local, try Pak Edi's (Mr. Edi is the proprietor of the kaki lima) tahu gimbal, which is shrimp fried in a patty, raw cabbage, lontong, krupuk and bean sprouts in peanut sauce. If you want dessert, across the street from where the grilled corn vendors are is the famous es putar Conglik, where they serve traditional coconut milk ice cream in a variety of tantalizing flavors, such as coconut, durian, chocolate, and blewah (Cucumis melo, a type of squash).
• Semawis Night Market, Gang Warung, Chinatown. Night market, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. Hawker-style local food. There's also an annual, larger Semawis Market before Chinese New Year.
• Ayam Goreng Salim, Jl Pringgading (Food stall on the corner of Jl Mataram and Jl Pringgading.. Tasty fried chicken
• Kalasan Fried Chicken, in Simpang Lima offers good food at cheap prices.
• Koee Lekker Paimo, Jl Karanganyar, (in front of Loyola High School, a famous school in Semarang). Indonesian interpretation of Dutch pancakes. Daytime, weekdays only (Mon-Sat).
• Prasodjo. Hot and fried tofu (soybean curd) and tempe (soybean cake), eat them while they're hot with a green chilli named "cabe rawit" if you love it spicy hot!
• Mbok Berek, Jl Jendral Sudirman 58A. ayam penyet (traditional Javanese fried chicken that is smashed in a mortar and pestle so you can enjoy the sumsum - marrow), served with coconut milk and lalapan (raw vegetables).
• Nasi Ayam Bu Wido, Kemuning. Nasi Ayam or Javanese Chicken Curry (open for dinner only).
• Satay Pak Kempleng, Ungaran area - is delicious and known for years for its big cut satay portion (open for lunch).
• Soto Bangkong, (Bangkong Chicken Soup). Soto is delicious soup with a chicken/beef and turmeric based broth.

Kedai Beringin, Jalan Beringin I/9 (On a small residential street heading north off Jl Pierre Tendean behind the Novotel, +62 24 355-4292. 07:00-15:00 Javanese menu, 16:00-21:30 Chinese menu.

A Semarang institution, frequented by office workers at lunchtime for its cheap and good Javanese-style dishes - rice with various soupy dishes (rawon, asem-asem daun kedondong, etc), nasi campur, gado-gado and so on. Various ice-based desserts also available. Halal. Opens for two sessions a day. The first, at lunchtime, offers the Javanese menu. Opening again in the late afternoon and evening, it offers a more Chinese style menu.

Be aware that there are two Kedai Beringin in town. The other is not so far away, in front of Poncol train station. Bigger, with a wider menu, and offering some dishes with pork.

Lumpia Gang Lombok, Gang Lombok, Chinatown (next to Tay Kak Sie temple. The pioneer of Semarang's many lumpia (spring roll) stalls. Started operating before the Second World War. Some of the owners of other lumpia outlets started by working at this place. Uses both dried shrimp and fresh shrimp. Semarang lumpia is known for the use of bamboo shoots, which give them a distinctive taste.

Simpang Lima. This square in the heart of Semarang has plenty of stalls offering a variety of local food. Prices are low: a piece of fried chicken, a thigh or a leg, plus a plate of steamed rice for as little as Rp15,000. Some stalls offer lesehan (sitting on a mat), with or without a low table. Active from early morning until late at night. The best stalls are busy and sell out quickly.

Soto Bangkong, Ruko Bangkong Plaza, Jl. Brigjen Katamso No. 1, Peterongan, Semarang (a kilometre or so to the east of Simpang Lima. Any taxi driver or ride sharing driver will know the location., +62 24 841-2842. daily 07:00–22:00. Clear chicken soup, a local variation of the soto ayam found across Indonesia. A Semarang institution.

Jalan Pahlawan, south of Simpang Lima, you will also find many food stalls under tents (tenda), selling a variety of foods from Gudeg (Jogjakartan pressure-cooked sweet jackfruit meal, usually served dry or wet with coconut milk soup, and you can add in fried chicken, eggs, and other items), bubur ayam (chicken porridge, a real treat), jagung bakar (grilled corn) and many others. Pamper yourself with plenty of good food, yet very cheaply. If you'd like something local, try Pak Edi's (Mr. Edi is the proprietor of the kaki lima) tahu gimbal, which is shrimp fried in a patty, raw cabbage, lontong, krupuk and bean sprouts in peanut sauce. If you want dessert, across the street from where the grilled corn vendors are is the famous es putar Conglik, where they serve traditional coconut milk ice cream in a variety of tantalizing flavors, such as coconut, durian, chocolate, and blewah (Cucumis melo, a type of squash).

Semawis Night Market, Gang Warung, Chinatown. Night market, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. Hawker-style local food. There's also an annual, larger Semawis Market before Chinese New Year.

Ayam Goreng Salim, Jl Pringgading (Food stall on the corner of Jl Mataram and Jl Pringgading.. Tasty fried chicken

Kalasan Fried Chicken, in Simpang Lima offers good food at cheap prices.

Koee Lekker Paimo, Jl Karanganyar, (in front of Loyola High School, a famous school in Semarang). Indonesian interpretation of Dutch pancakes. Daytime, weekdays only (Mon-Sat).

Prasodjo. Hot and fried tofu (soybean curd) and tempe (soybean cake), eat them while they're hot with a green chilli named "cabe rawit" if you love it spicy hot!

Mbok Berek, Jl Jendral Sudirman 58A. ayam penyet (traditional Javanese fried chicken that is smashed in a mortar and pestle so you can enjoy the sumsum - marrow), served with coconut milk and lalapan (raw vegetables).

Nasi Ayam Bu Wido, Kemuning. Nasi Ayam or Javanese Chicken Curry (open for dinner only).

Satay Pak Kempleng, Ungaran area - is delicious and known for years for its big cut satay portion (open for lunch).

Soto Bangkong, (Bangkong Chicken Soup). Soto is delicious soup with a chicken/beef and turmeric based broth.

• Dyriana Bakery & Cafe, Jl Pandanaran 51A (look for the big oval billboard., +62 24 831 8531, +62 24 844 5175. 06:30-22:00. Freshly baked bread — try "roti pisang" (bread with a small banana inside) —– cakes, and a nice cafe serving local hot food and cold drinks. Air-conditioned. Often has demonstrations of traditional products being made (call first, often around 15:00-17:00).
• Elrina Restaurant, Jl Pandanaran 83, +62 24 831 0205. Serving different dishes of milkfish with local taste, Chinese and seafood. Air-conditioned.
• Gama Ikan Bakar & Seafood, Jl. M.T. Haryono 870A (Just south of the well-known Bangkong interchange on Jl MT Haryone, about a kilometre east of Simpang Lima., +62 24 845-5005, +62 24 845-5855. 11:00-23:00. Indonesian seafood, with both indoor and outdoor eating areas.
• Gelato Matteo, Jl Mataram 914 (near SMP Maria Mediatrix and SMA Sedes, +62 821 366-434-330. Mon-Fri 10:00-22:00 Saturday 10:00-23:00 Sunday 10:00-20:00. Real Italian gelato made by a real Italian man. All the favourite flavours plus some specials. Cups, cones and in brioche. Small range of other snacks, and proper Italian coffee.
• Ikan Bakar Cianjur, Jl LetJen Suprapto 19 (Opposite Gereja Blenduk, +62 (24) 3562333. Highly dependable Sundanese food with quick service in lovely old Dutch bank building. The name refers to the grilled fish for which it is famous.
• Karuna, Jl Depok No. 47, +62 24 355-3182. One of Semarang's only vegetarian restaurants. In the Chinese style, this replicates meat-dishes but with mushrooms, beancurd and tempe. Canteen-style, where you look in the case and point to what you want. On Saturdays it has a fixed-price all you can eat offer, but you have to clear your plate. If not, you will be fined. Has a small selection of wholefoods for sale as well - pulses, dried fruit, nuts.
• Mbah Jingkrak, Jl Taman Beringin No. 3 (In the residential area to the north of Jl Pierre Tendean, behind the Novotel., +62 24 355-3366. One of the chain of Javanese restaurants. Choose from a large number of dishes laid out - white or red rice, beancurd and tempe dishes, devil's hair chicken (pitik rambut setan), hot and sour steamed chicken (garang asem). Staff will spoon portions of those you point to, then the total is added up when you get to the end. Bentuman Steak shares the same building.
• Nglaras Rasa, Jl MH Thamrin 124., +62 24 831-9766. Regular food and buffet. Specialising in catering for large groups, including coach parties. Air-conditioned.
• Sate & Gule Kambing 29, Jl Letjen Soeprapto 29 (right in front of the famous Blenduk Church in the Old Town, +62 24 354-9692. Daily 9AM–10PM. Anything you like, as long as it is goat. Famous for its goat sate and soup. This is the original restaurant, with original interiors and no air-conditioning. There are two more branches in Semarang - less inspiring interiors, but they do have AC, and a branch in each of Yogyakarta and Jakarta.
• Toko Oen, Jl Pemuda 52, Bodjong., +62 24 354-1683. A Semarang institution since Dutch colonial days. Famous for its ice cream, steak and fried rice, and bread and cookies. Still with the atmospheric original decor. Serves pork.
• Talisman Rotisserie, Jl Teuku Umar No. 18, Gajah Mungkur, +62 815 770-2469. daily 10:00-23:00. It's all about chicken - mostly cooked on a rotisserie, but also soups. Salads and sides, including mashed potatoes. Part of the same group as the Basilia and Massimo restaurants.

Dyriana Bakery & Cafe, Jl Pandanaran 51A (look for the big oval billboard., +62 24 831 8531, +62 24 844 5175. 06:30-22:00. Freshly baked bread — try "roti pisang" (bread with a small banana inside) —– cakes, and a nice cafe serving local hot food and cold drinks. Air-conditioned. Often has demonstrations of traditional products being made (call first, often around 15:00-17:00).

Elrina Restaurant, Jl Pandanaran 83, +62 24 831 0205. Serving different dishes of milkfish with local taste, Chinese and seafood. Air-conditioned.

Gama Ikan Bakar & Seafood, Jl. M.T. Haryono 870A (Just south of the well-known Bangkong interchange on Jl MT Haryone, about a kilometre east of Simpang Lima., +62 24 845-5005, +62 24 845-5855. 11:00-23:00. Indonesian seafood, with both indoor and outdoor eating areas.

Gelato Matteo, Jl Mataram 914 (near SMP Maria Mediatrix and SMA Sedes, +62 821 366-434-330. Mon-Fri 10:00-22:00 Saturday 10:00-23:00 Sunday 10:00-20:00. Real Italian gelato made by a real Italian man. All the favourite flavours plus some specials. Cups, cones and in brioche. Small range of other snacks, and proper Italian coffee.

Ikan Bakar Cianjur, Jl LetJen Suprapto 19 (Opposite Gereja Blenduk, +62 (24) 3562333. Highly dependable Sundanese food with quick service in lovely old Dutch bank building. The name refers to the grilled fish for which it is famous.

Karuna, Jl Depok No. 47, +62 24 355-3182. One of Semarang's only vegetarian restaurants. In the Chinese style, this replicates meat-dishes but with mushrooms, beancurd and tempe. Canteen-style, where you look in the case and point to what you want. On Saturdays it has a fixed-price all you can eat offer, but you have to clear your plate. If not, you will be fined. Has a small selection of wholefoods for sale as well - pulses, dried fruit, nuts.

Mbah Jingkrak, Jl Taman Beringin No. 3 (In the residential area to the north of Jl Pierre Tendean, behind the Novotel., +62 24 355-3366. One of the chain of Javanese restaurants. Choose from a large number of dishes laid out - white or red rice, beancurd and tempe dishes, devil's hair chicken (pitik rambut setan), hot and sour steamed chicken (garang asem). Staff will spoon portions of those you point to, then the total is added up when you get to the end. Bentuman Steak shares the same building.

Nglaras Rasa, Jl MH Thamrin 124., +62 24 831-9766. Regular food and buffet. Specialising in catering for large groups, including coach parties. Air-conditioned.

Sate & Gule Kambing 29, Jl Letjen Soeprapto 29 (right in front of the famous Blenduk Church in the Old Town, +62 24 354-9692. Daily 9AM–10PM. Anything you like, as long as it is goat. Famous for its goat sate and soup. This is the original restaurant, with original interiors and no air-conditioning. There are two more branches in Semarang - less inspiring interiors, but they do have AC, and a branch in each of [[Yogyakarta]] and [[Jakarta]].

Toko Oen, Jl Pemuda 52, Bodjong., +62 24 354-1683. A Semarang institution since Dutch colonial days. Famous for its ice cream, steak and fried rice, and bread and cookies. Still with the atmospheric original decor. Serves pork.

Talisman Rotisserie, Jl Teuku Umar No. 18, Gajah Mungkur, +62 815 770-2469. daily 10:00-23:00. It's all about chicken - mostly cooked on a rotisserie, but also soups. Salads and sides, including mashed potatoes. Part of the same group as the Basilia and Massimo restaurants.

• The Blue Lotus Coffeehouse, Jl Ahmad Yani No.197 (At the Bangkong intersection, between Panin Bank and CIMB Niaga Bank, +62 812 286-9248. Tu–Su 09:00-21:00. Famous for the freshly home-roasted Indonesian coffee and eight different ways of brewing, but has a great selection of Western food and Japanese cheesecake. Comfy sofas and strong Wi-Fi
• Bowery, Jl Achmad Yani 140, +62 24 831-0855. Steaks, wine, cocktails, mocktails, generally fine dining. Western and Asian. Black and chrome, atmospheric lighting, Gotham-city vibe. Paired with the more casual dining Eastman.
• Holiday, Jl Pandanaran 6 Blok 18-20. Expensive Chinese food, including dim sum, often considered the best Chinese restaurant.
• Pesta Keboen, Jl Veteran 29. Indonesian and Dutch cuisine served in a restored Dutch colonial house furnished with antiques and Dutch East Indies memorabilia. Go there for the ambience.
• Pringgading Restaurant, Jalan Pringgading 54. Chinese food with an Indonesian flair. Yum cha on Sunday mornings. Always full, very lively and chaotic. Service is not outstanding.
• Rinjani View, Jl Rinjani No.12 (across the street from Hotel Candi Baru), +62 24 8508541, +62 24 8508543. 10:00-01:00. One-stop entertainment, food and beverage centre located in the upper town. Rinjani View consists of six outlets: Resto, Lounge, Teraz, Karaoke, The Cafe and Apartment's View. There's a fabulous view of Semarang City and Java Sea from all six. Serves Western, Chinese and Indonesian food. WiFi is available.
• Seoul Palace, Jl Pandanaran 109. Korean-style restaurant, with delicious barbecue, flavourful soups, and noodle dishes. Does not serve pork.
• Sisingamangaraja Site, (known as "S2"), Jl Sisingamangaraja, (across the street from the Grand Candi Hotel). A modern and hip mixed-use complex where people can hang out, drink, eat Japanese, Peranakan, or Western cuisine, or have coffee and desserts.
• Spiegel Bar and Bistro, Jl Let Jend Suprapto No.34 (In the heart of the Old Town, close to Gereja Blenduk and Taman Srigunting, +62 24 358-0049. Su-Th 10:00–00:00, F-Sa 10:00–late. Thoughtful and atmospheric reworking of an almost derelict heritage building, formerly a general store during colonial times. Pizza, burgers, pasta, steak, fish and chips, Caesar salad - the menu is similar to all other Indonesian venues of this kind. A few surprises here and there. It's a bar too, so there is alcohol, but also means smoking is allowed. The building also hosts two related businesses:Spiegel Home Studio — a rental studio apartment. Sleeps 4. Rp800,000. Room service available from the bistroImpala.space — co-working space, on the mezzanine above the bistro
• The Tavern, No. 1 Jalan Rinjani, Gajah Mungkur, +62 24 850-3099. M-F 4PM-12AM Sa-Su 4PM-1AM. Steaks, burgers, grills, pasta, pizzas. A selection of Indonesian dishes. Beer, wine. Fills up quickly so book or go early.
• Trattoria, The Vee Building, Jl Gajah Mada, Brumbungan, +62 24 354-8333. 11:00-23:00. One of the chain of Italian restaurants found across southeast Asia. Dependable and good - pizzas, pastas, steak. Also serves Japanese sushi and sashimi. Serves wine by the glass.
• Xiang Yuen, +62 24 8416 222. Jl Sisingamangaraja No. 16. M-F 06:00-15:00 & 18:30-22:30, Sa-Su p7:00-15:00 & 18:30-22:30. Authentic Cantonese & Szechuanese. Rp 100,000-1,000,000

The Blue Lotus Coffeehouse, Jl Ahmad Yani No.197 (At the Bangkong intersection, between Panin Bank and CIMB Niaga Bank, +62 812 286-9248. Tu–Su 09:00-21:00. Famous for the freshly home-roasted Indonesian coffee and eight different ways of brewing, but has a great selection of Western food and Japanese cheesecake. Comfy sofas and strong Wi-Fi

Bowery, Jl Achmad Yani 140, +62 24 831-0855. Steaks, wine, cocktails, mocktails, generally fine dining. Western and Asian. Black and chrome, atmospheric lighting, Gotham-city vibe. Paired with the more casual dining Eastman.

Holiday, Jl Pandanaran 6 Blok 18-20. Expensive Chinese food, including dim sum, often considered the best Chinese restaurant.

Pesta Keboen, Jl Veteran 29. Indonesian and Dutch cuisine served in a restored Dutch colonial house furnished with antiques and Dutch East Indies memorabilia. Go there for the ambience.

Pringgading Restaurant, Jalan Pringgading 54. Chinese food with an Indonesian flair. Yum cha on Sunday mornings. Always full, very lively and chaotic. Service is not outstanding.

Rinjani View, Jl Rinjani No.12 (across the street from Hotel Candi Baru), +62 24 8508541, +62 24 8508543. 10:00-01:00. One-stop entertainment, food and beverage centre located in the upper town. Rinjani View consists of six outlets: Resto, Lounge, Teraz, Karaoke, The Cafe and Apartment's View. There's a fabulous view of Semarang City and Java Sea from all six. Serves Western, Chinese and Indonesian food. WiFi is available.

Seoul Palace, Jl Pandanaran 109. Korean-style restaurant, with delicious barbecue, flavourful soups, and noodle dishes. Does not serve pork.

Sisingamangaraja Site, (known as "S2"), Jl Sisingamangaraja, (across the street from the Grand Candi Hotel). A modern and hip mixed-use complex where people can hang out, drink, eat Japanese, Peranakan, or Western cuisine, or have coffee and desserts.

Spiegel Bar and Bistro, Jl Let Jend Suprapto No.34 (In the heart of the Old Town, close to Gereja Blenduk and Taman Srigunting, +62 24 358-0049. Su-Th 10:00–00:00, F-Sa 10:00–late. Thoughtful and atmospheric reworking of an almost derelict heritage building, formerly a general store during colonial times. Pizza, burgers, pasta, steak, fish and chips, Caesar salad - the menu is similar to all other Indonesian venues of this kind. A few surprises here and there. It's a bar too, so there is alcohol, but also means smoking is allowed. The building also hosts two related businesses:Spiegel Home Studio — a rental studio apartment. Sleeps 4. Rp800,000. Room service available from the bistroImpala.space — co-working space, on the mezzanine above the bistro

The Tavern, No. 1 Jalan Rinjani, Gajah Mungkur, +62 24 850-3099. M-F 4PM-12AM Sa-Su 4PM-1AM. Steaks, burgers, grills, pasta, pizzas. A selection of Indonesian dishes. Beer, wine. Fills up quickly so book or go early.

Trattoria, The Vee Building, Jl Gajah Mada, Brumbungan, +62 24 354-8333. 11:00-23:00. One of the chain of Italian restaurants found across southeast Asia. Dependable and good - pizzas, pastas, steak. Also serves Japanese sushi and sashimi. Serves wine by the glass.

Xiang Yuen, +62 24 8416 222. Jl Sisingamangaraja No. 16. M-F 06:00-15:00 & 18:30-22:30, Sa-Su p7:00-15:00 & 18:30-22:30. Authentic Cantonese & Szechuanese. Rp 100,000-1,000,000

In Semarang it is not easy to find bars. However, lately a few stylish venues have sprung up, mainly caters to the trendy young population.

• E-Plaza, Jl. Ruko Gajahmada Lantai II No.29. Located in an entertainment complex which comprises a cinema, a restaurant, and pool game venue.

There are few bars and cafes around 'Simpang Lima' (right in the downtown). After sunset, please avoid small tents selling homemade tea (teh poci) as lots of hookers look for targets, especially rich looking travelers.

Wedang or wedhang means hot, soothing drink. You can get them in Simpang Lima, hotels or restaurants in Semarang. One of the most popular variety is STMJ (Susu Telor Madu Jahe, a concoction of milk, egg, honey, and ginger drink).

• Es Kelapa Muda Kartika, Jl MT. Haryono 83 (near Bubakan). The most delicious young coconut drinks. Daytime only, just get there early because late afternoon they're most likely sold out already.
• Black Canyon Coffee Bar, (in front of Hotel Candi Baru). Stylishly designed. Cozy place but very crowded especially during weekends.
• Club 123, Jalan Pemuda 123 (at Basement of Novotel Semarang, +62 24 356 3000. 21:00 - 02:00.

E-Plaza, Jl. Ruko Gajahmada Lantai II No.29. Located in an entertainment complex which comprises a cinema, a restaurant, and pool game venue.

Es Kelapa Muda Kartika, Jl MT. Haryono 83 (near Bubakan). The most delicious young coconut drinks. Daytime only, just get there early because late afternoon they're most likely sold out already.

Black Canyon Coffee Bar, (in front of Hotel Candi Baru). Stylishly designed. Cozy place but very crowded especially during weekends.

Club 123, Jalan Pemuda 123 (at Basement of Novotel Semarang, +62 24 356 3000. 21:00 - 02:00.

Semarang is moderatly safe. People are nice to strangers, helpful and friendly.

Never touch anyone's head (especially teenagers and older men) as it is considered as "insult" and might invite troubles. In the crowded bus/train/small car used as public transportation, "unintended touch" is tolerated. Never look at someone (especially young men) straight in the eyes more than 3 times as it might be considered as "challenging them to fight" (this applies especially in bigger towns/cities) - Villagers are more friendly to strangers.

Semarang is neither a small city nor huge city if compared to Jakarta. Everyone is urged to observe universal safety rules such as "only walk in the light-bright areas"; do not attempt to deal with hookers or trans-sexual hookers which are usually done under secluded and dark areas; lady travelers are urged not to travel alone after 23:00 especially in an unknown dark neighborhood, sometimes even in residential areas. Only withdraw a moderate amount of money in an open air ATM.

When riding the public transportation it is not encouraged to wear jewellery, or gaudy and branded or designer watches. Petty thieves are common, but they do not strike when it isn't obvious. During the night if you must use public transportation, look for those units which have more than a few people riding and do avoid the empty ones. You might want to choose a seat close to the driver.

Hospitals with 24 hours emergency rooms:

• Kariadi Hospital, Jl Dr. Sutomo No. 16, +62 24 413993.
• RS. St. Elizabeth, Jl. Kawi No 1, +62 24 831 0035.
• RS. Telogorejo, Jl. K.H. Achmad Dahlan, +62 24 446000.
• RS. Panti Wilasa Cipto, Jl. Dr.Cipto 50, +62 24 546040.
• RS. Panti Wilasa Citarum, Jl. Citarum No. 98, +62 24 3542224.

Kariadi Hospital, Jl Dr. Sutomo No. 16, +62 24 413993.

RS. St. Elizabeth, Jl. Kawi No 1, +62 24 831 0035.

RS. Telogorejo, Jl. K.H. Achmad Dahlan, +62 24 446000.

RS. Panti Wilasa Cipto, Jl. Dr.Cipto 50, +62 24 546040.

RS. Panti Wilasa Citarum, Jl. Citarum No. 98, +62 24 3542224.

The dialing code for Semarang is 024.

Some hotel lobbies and cafés offer free wifi. Ask your server for the password wifi (PAHS-wuhrd WIGH-fee).

• Ambulance, 118.
• Police, 110.
• Central Java Police HQ, Jl Pahlawan 1, +62 24 831-1382.
• Semarang Police HQ, Jl Dr Sutomo 19, +62 24 844-4444, +62 24 841-8400.

Police stations:

• Central Semarang, Jl Brumbungan Tengah 41, +62 24 354-5175.
• North Semarang, Jl Letjen Suprapto 45, +62 24 692-1275.
• South Semarang, Jl Sultan Agung 103, +62 24 831-5123.
• West Semarang, Jl Ronggolawe Selatan, +62 24 761-0698.
• East Semarang, Jl Majapahit, +62 24 671-0863.

Ambulance, 118.

Police, 110.

Central Java Police HQ, Jl Pahlawan 1, +62 24 831-1382.

Semarang Police HQ, Jl Dr Sutomo 19, +62 24 844-4444, +62 24 841-8400.

Central Semarang, Jl Brumbungan Tengah 41, +62 24 354-5175.

North Semarang, Jl Letjen Suprapto 45, +62 24 692-1275.

South Semarang, Jl Sultan Agung 103, +62 24 831-5123.

West Semarang, Jl Ronggolawe Selatan, +62 24 761-0698.

East Semarang, Jl Majapahit, +62 24 671-0863.

East Overland, all points to Surabaya, taking in:

• The important religious sites in Demak and Kudus
• The batik centre of Bakaran near Pati to see the unusual black, cream and indigo batik
• Rembang for its salt fields and kawista syrup
• The Chinese architecture and heritage of Lasem, with its famous batik style
• Cepu for its former glories of the teak industry, and its outrageously OTT hotel
• The remnants of the Majapahit empire near Mojokerto By air, to Surabaya and Bali

Southeast The main destination in that direction is Solo, a two to three hour drive. On the way you will pass through:

• Salatiga, relaxed university hill town located at the foot of Mount Merbabu, and jumping off point to explore Lake Rawa Pening and go up to the mountain village of Kopeng
• Boyolali, famous for its dairy industry, and the delicious clear soup Soto Seger Mbok Giyem. Also the jumping off point to visit the copper-beating village of Cepogo and to investigate the pass between the volcanoes of Merapi and Merbabu
• Once in Solo, keep going further south and east, either up the slope of Mount Lawu to the magical high temples of Sukuh and Cetho, and then over into East Java, or towards the fantastic surfing beach of Watu Karung near Pacitan

South

• Slightly south of Semarang are some smaller hill towns easily reached in a day trip: Ungaran, Bandungan and Ambarawa
• Keep going further south to Magelang and Yogyakarta. It takes 3-4 hours to drive from Semarang to Yogyakarta

Southwest

• Go to the Dieng Plateau through the small towns of Temanggung and Wonosobo to see ancient Hindu temples/candi in a former ancient city which lies in the misty plateau
• Keep going in that direction and you will eventually get to the resort town of Pangandaran in West Java

West All points to Jakarta, including:

• Pekalongan, famed for its batik and an easy day-trip on the train
• Cirebon
• Bandung

Northwest Direct flights to Batam, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur

North Flights and ferries across the Java Sea to various spots in Kalimantan make Semarang a good jumping off spot to see the orangutans in Tanjung Puting National Park near Pangkalanbun

Northeast and out to sea

• Jepara for its laid back, coastal town vibe, furniture industry and jumping off point to explore Mount Muria
• Karimunjawa - A marine national park in the small islands north of Semarang