CULTURE AND TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Culture

The culture of Singkawang is dominated by Chinese culture and Buddhism is the major religion. Singkawang has been called the City of Thousand Temples because of the numerous temples with Chinese architecture located in this city.

Mandarin (as well as English) is taught in most Singkawang schools, from Kindergarten and Primary School, up to High School 

 There are also many Churches with services in the Hakka language and Mandarin language.

Unlike many other places in Indonesia,pork is very easy to find and relatively cheap.  Not far from the main traditional market there is a pork market selling various pork products.

 Singkawang is famous for its Chinese food especially Hakka style food. 

The housing architecture is also very influenced by Chinese traditions, not only in terms of form and model but also the color of paint and the housing decorations. 

The old typical Chinese city landscape still exists and many buildings with  Chinese features still decorate the city. Some buildings that are more than 100 years old are still standing . 

Cap Go Meh Carnival

Imlek and Cap Go Meh Carnival

Cap Go Meh is one of the most important festivals in Singkawang. This festival recently became an international event.  It is held two weeks after Chinese New Year ie between January or February depending on the Chinese calender.  As soon as Christmas and New Year is over, decorations for Chinese New Year begin emerging and soon the entire city is decorated by Chinese lanterns and Cherry blossom trees.  

Other Attractions.

Singkawang attracts many tourists.  These are just some of the attractions that can be considered to be visited when you are in Singkawang. 

Hongkong Market Singkawang

Located downtown, this is actually a night market for the local cakes and other Chinese culinary delicacies. Activities at the market start around  6pm and close at midnight. 

Pasir Panjang Beach
Singkwang has several beaches but Pasir Panjang is the most famous and most popular.  During the holidays it is crowded by visitors from the surrounding villages and cities, as well as local residents of Singkawang.

This beach is only 17 km from the center of Singkawang and has facilities such as hotels, restaurants, cottages.  

Randayan Island

This is the most natural tourist spot of Singkawang. Facing the Natural Sea, this beach surrounded by a number of smaller islands.  You can explore the beach and its small islands by speedboat that can be rented here. If diving is one of your interests, you can also satisfy your hobby here. 

This island can be reached in 2 hours by speedboat from Pasir Panjang Beach.  The beautiful sea coral, various sea creatures, white sands and blue water, are the main attractions of this island. Visitors can overnight there, in villa accommodation.