Discover the Enchantment of Lawang Sewu
Explore Lawang Sewu, an architectural marvel and historical museum in Semarang, showcasing Indonesia's rich heritage and captivating stories.
A brief summary to Lawang Sewu
- Jl. Pemuda No.160, Semarang City, Sekayu, Semarang Tengah, Central Java, 50132, ID
- +62821-3461-1660
- Monday 8 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-8 pm
- Saturday 8 am-10 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Lawang Sewu, translating to 'Thousand Doors', is one of Semarang's most iconic landmarks that enchants tourists with its stunning architectural beauty and rich historical significance. Built in the early 20th century, this grand structure served as the headquarters for the Dutch East Indies Railway Company and has a captivating story to tell. As you wander through its expansive halls and vast corridors, you'll discover a blend of Dutch colonial architecture, complete with elegant arches, intricate wooden doors, and impressive stained glass windows, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Beyond its architectural splendor, Lawang Sewu is also home to a museum that showcases the history of the railway in Indonesia, offering insight into the country's colonial past. Visitors can explore various exhibitions that narrate the story of transportation evolution in the region. Additionally, the site is rumored to be haunted, adding an air of mystery that attracts thrill-seekers and ghost enthusiasts. Guided tours are available, providing deeper context into the building's history, architecture, and the legends that surround it. Open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, and until 10 PM on Saturdays, it's an ideal spot for a day visit or an evening exploration. A visit to Lawang Sewu promises a memorable experience filled with history, culture, and breathtaking sights, making it a must-see destination for anyone traveling to Semarang.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting for photography.
- Consider joining a guided tour for an enriched experience and deeper understanding of the site's history.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking through the expansive grounds.
- Don’t miss the basement area, where many of the ghost stories are said to originate.
- Check for any special events or exhibitions that may be happening during your visit.
Getting There
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Public Bus
If you are in the Semarang city center, head to the nearest bus stop and take the bus route that heads towards Jl. Pemuda. You can ask the bus driver to drop you off at the stop nearest to Jl. Pemuda No.160. Once you get off, walk along Jl. Pemuda towards the northwest for about 5-10 minutes. Lawang Sewu will be on your right.
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Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from one of the rental shops in the city center. Start riding towards Jl. Pemuda. Follow the road signs that lead to Jl. Pemuda No.160. As you cycle along Jl. Pemuda, keep an eye out for Lawang Sewu, which will be located on your right after approximately 15 minutes of cycling.
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Walking
If you are close to the city center, start walking toward Jl. Pemuda. Head towards the direction of the Semarang Grand Mosque, which is a prominent landmark. Continue on until you reach Jl. Pemuda, then turn left. Walk straight for about 10-15 minutes, and you will find Lawang Sewu on your right side.
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Motorcycle Taxi (Ojek)
Use a ride-hailing app to request a motorcycle taxi (ojek). Enter 'Lawang Sewu' or the full address 'Jl. Pemuda No.160, Sekayu, Kec. Semarang Tengah' in the app. The driver will pick you up from your location and take you directly to Lawang Sewu. This is a quick option, usually taking around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.
Attractions Nearby to Lawang Sewu
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Tugu Muda Semarang
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Gereja Katedral Santa Perawan Maria Ratu Rosario Suci
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Kampung Pelangi
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Kampung Pelangi Kalisari
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Taman Pandanaran
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Kota lama
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Indonesia Kaya Park
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Baiturrahman Grand Mosque Semarang
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BUNDARAN SIMPANG LIMA SEMARANG
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Banjir Kanal Barat
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Lapangan Pancasila Simpang Lima Semarang
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Simpang Lima Semarang
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Sumbing sunrise spot
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Pasar Imlek Semawis
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Semarang - Quartier Chinois - Chinatown
Landmarks nearby to Lawang Sewu
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Menara Masjid Raya Baiturrahman Semarang
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Kawasan Lapangan Pancasila Simpang Lima Semarang - Jawa Tengah
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Plaza Simpang Lima
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Plasa Simpang Lima
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Semarang Central Mosque
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PATUNG CHENG HOO
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Zhènghé Diāoxiàng - 鄭和雕像 - Patung Zhèng Hé in Semarang
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Semawis
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Kantoor van de Nederlandsch-Indische Levensverzekering en Lijfrente Maatschappij (NILLMIJ)
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Oud Samarang , Eks Borneo Soematra Maatschappij Kantoor
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Eks Borneo Soematra Maatschappij Kantoor te Samarang
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Ereveld Candi
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Gedung Marba ( Martak - Bajunaid ) - History of Yemeni Bussinesman - رجل أعمال يمني - in Semarang
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Semarang Venetian of Java
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Spot Foto ꦱꦶꦛꦶꦏ꧀ꦲꦺꦣꦶꦁ