Simokerto: The Hidden Gem of Surabaya

Discover Simokerto in Surabaya, a blend of tradition and modernity, offering vibrant markets, historic sites, and a warm, welcoming community.

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Simokerto

Simokerto in Surabaya is a neighborhood where tradition meets the modern world. This district offers an authentic look into the daily lives of local Indonesians, far from the hustle and bustle of the city center. Here, you can stroll through narrow streets lined with charming houses and small shops, offering a fascinating glimpse into local culture and traditions. One of the highlights of Simokerto is its vibrant markets. These bustling spots are perfect for experiencing the rich flavors and aromas of Indonesian cuisine. Sample delicious street food, from satay to fresh tropical fruits. For those interested in history, the neighborhood features several historic sites that tell the story of Surabaya's past. Simokerto is also known for its friendly and welcoming residents. Visitors are often greeted with smiles and warmth, making it a great place to interact with locals and learn more about their way of life. Whether you're interested in culture, food, or history, Simokerto provides a unique and enriching experience for any tourist.

Local tips in Simokerto

Visit the local markets in the morning to experience the freshest produce and street food.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the streets can be narrow and uneven.
Learn a few basic Indonesian phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it enhances your experience.
Bring cash, as many small shops and food vendors do not accept credit cards.
Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious or historical sites.

File:2022 Mitsubishi Xpander Ultimate, Pasar Atom, North Surabaya.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Berkas:House of Sampoerna Mei 2015.jpg - Wikipedia bahasa Indonesia, ensiklopedia bebas

Berkas:The front side of Sanggar Agung Temple, Surabaya-Indonesia, which is facing the sea.jpg - Wikipedia bahasa Indonesia, ensiklopedia bebas

Berkas:Submarine Monument Surabaya 3.JPG - Wikipedia bahasa Indonesia, ensiklopedia bebas

File:Suramadu Bridge 5.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Monumen Tugu Pahlawan dan Museum Sepuluh Nopember Surabaya

Discover the monumental tribute to Indonesia's heroes at Monumen Tugu Pahlawan and Museum Sepuluh Nopember in Surabaya - a historical journey awaits.

Surabaya Submarine Monument

Discover the Surabaya Submarine Monument, a unique historical landmark showcasing Indonesia's naval heritage and offering an immersive experience.

Museum W.R. Soepratman

Discover Indonesia's cultural legacy at Museum W.R. Soepratman, a captivating exhibition space in Surabaya showcasing art, history, and heritage.

Kota Tua Surabaya

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Kota Tua Surabaya, a captivating historical landmark in East Java, Indonesia.

Sidotopo

Discover the vibrant culture and rich history of Surabaya starting from Sidotopo Train Station, a key transit hub in East Java, Indonesia.

Titik Nol Surabaya

Discover the heart of Surabaya at Titik Nol, a historic landmark that blends cultural heritage with modern vibrancy in East Java.

Uitkijkpost in Kalimas Soerabaia - Menara Syahbandar - Havenmeester Kalimas

Experience the rich maritime history and stunning views at Menara Syahbandar, Surabaya's iconic historical landmark.

Kampung Seng

Explore Kampung Seng, a historical landmark in Surabaya, where culture, tradition, and vibrant architecture come together in East Java.

Klokkentoren van Lindeteves-Stokvis

Explore the Klokkentoren van Lindeteves-Stokvis, a historical landmark in Surabaya showcasing colonial architecture and vibrant local culture.

Spot Kota Tua

Explore Kota Tua in Surabaya, a historical landmark rich in colonial charm, vibrant culture, and local delicacies waiting to be discovered.

Unmissable attractions to see

Apsari Park

Discover Apsari Park in Surabaya, a vibrant urban oasis with lush greenery, delicious food, and serene walking paths perfect for relaxation and leisure.

Muhammad Cheng Hoo Mosque

Experience the tranquil beauty and cultural significance of Muhammad Cheng Hoo Mosque in Surabaya, a unique blend of Islamic architecture and local heritage.

Kya Kya Surabaya

Explore Kya Kya Surabaya, a vibrant historical landmark filled with local culture, delicious cuisine, and a lively atmosphere in East Java.

De Javasche Bank

Explore De Javasche Bank in Surabaya, a captivating museum showcasing Indonesia's colonial history and rich cultural heritage.

Taman Hiburan Rakyat

Experience the thrill and joy at Taman Hiburan Rakyat, Surabaya's favorite amusement park packed with fun rides and beautiful gardens.

Kampoeng Lawas Maspati

Explore the vibrant heritage of Kampoeng Lawas Maspati, a cultural hub in Surabaya showcasing traditional architecture, arts, and local flavors.

Museum W.R. Soepratman

Explore the artistic legacy of W.R. Soepratman at this captivating museum in Surabaya, where Indonesia's rich culture comes to life.

Kota Tua Surabaya

Explore the historical charm and vibrant culture of Kota Tua Surabaya, a captivating destination steeped in rich heritage and colonial architecture.

Religious Tourism MAmpel

Explore the rich Islamic heritage and vibrant community life at Religious Tourism Ampel, a spiritual gem in Surabaya, East Java.

Essential places to dine

Depot King Ocean

Discover fresh seafood delights at Depot King Ocean - Surabaya's family-friendly destination for ocean-inspired cuisine.

Kuliner Sahabat Simolawang

Experience authentic Indonesian flavors at Kuliner Sahabat Simolawang - famous for its nasi goreng, noodles, and satay in Surabaya.

SANTOSO Resto

Experience authentic Indonesian cuisine at Santos Resto in Surabaya – where every dish tells a story of rich flavors and cultural heritage.

Kedai Dimsum Surabaya

Discover authentic dim sum at Kedai Dimsum Surabaya - where each bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Dermaga Resto

Experience authentic Indonesian flavors with breathtaking waterfront views at Dermaga Resto in Surabaya.

Warung Ericka

Experience authentic Indonesian brunch at Warung Ericka in Surabaya - where local flavors meet cozy ambiance.

Tempe Penyet Simokerto

Savor authentic Indonesian flavors at Tempe Penyet Simokerto, a must-visit chicken restaurant in Surabaya's culinary scene.

Gubuk Panganan Suroboyo

Discover authentic Indonesian cuisine at Gubuk Panganan Suroboyo in Surabaya – where every dish tells a story.

Madam Ling Kitchen

Discover authentic Indonesian flavors in a family-friendly atmosphere at Madam Ling Kitchen in Surabaya.

Warga J Gabut

Experience the vibrant fast food scene at Warga J Gabut in Surabaya - where quick bites meet local flavor.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Toko Ali

Explore the authentic taste of Indonesia at Toko Ali, Surabaya's vibrant grocery store offering local flavors and culinary treasures.

Tyas Store

Explore the charm of Tyas Store in Surabaya, where local craftsmanship meets warm hospitality, perfect for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Keisha Store

Explore the enchanting Keisha Store in Surabaya for unique clothing and accessories that capture the spirit of East Java.

A. Gusge

Explore the heart of Surabaya at A. Gusge, your go-to gift shop for authentic East Java crafts and memorable souvenirs.

Ocean Shop

Explore the vibrant fashion scene at Ocean Shop, Surabaya's premier dress store offering unique styles and exceptional quality.

Luculucu

Explore Luculucu Gift Shop in Surabaya for authentic Indonesian souvenirs and local treasures that capture the essence of East Java's vibrant culture.

giyagi bouquet

Explore Giyagi Bouquet in Surabaya for exquisite floral arrangements and unique gifts that capture Indonesia's vibrant beauty.

ZIDANE FASHION

Explore Zidane Fashion in Surabaya for trendy women's clothing that captures the essence of Indonesian style in a vibrant market setting.

Ignes Castle_olshop

Explore Ignes Castle Olshop in Surabaya - a vibrant shopping destination filled with local crafts, diverse dining, and cultural experiences.

blank.co

Explore a fashionable women's clothing store in Surabaya, offering trendy apparel and accessories for every occasion.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Our Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Our Bar in Surabaya, where delicious grilled dishes meet captivating live music for an unforgettable night out.

Old Wood Bistro

Discover the perfect blend of live music and culinary delights at Old Wood Bistro, Surabaya's most vibrant dining destination.

NEON by Brassery

Experience the vibrant nightlife at NEON by Brassery, a lively bar and nightclub in Surabaya offering exceptional drinks and unforgettable ambiance.

COLORS PUB & RESTAURANT

Discover the lively ambiance of COLORS PUB & RESTAURANT in Surabaya, where great food, live music, and vibrant culture come together for an unforgettable experience.

HOPS Kitchen & Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors of Surabaya at HOPS Kitchen & Bar, where culinary delights meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

Breakshot

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Breakshot, Surabaya's top karaoke bar, where great food, drinks, and endless singing await.

Geldbang Bar & Lounge

Discover the lively ambiance of Geldbang Bar & Lounge in Surabaya, where live music, delicious drinks, and dancing come together for an unforgettable night out.

TRIBES Bar & Lounge

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Surabaya at TRIBES Bar & Lounge, where live music meets crafted cocktails in a lively atmosphere.

Depot 136

Experience the vibrant nightlife and culinary delights of Depot 136, a premier bar and restaurant in Surabaya offering a delightful fusion of flavors.

Denny Satria

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Surabaya at Denny Satria, where local culture meets friendly ambiance in a lively bar setting.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Simokerto

Discover Simokerto with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHalo
  [ha-lo]
- GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
  [se-la-mat ting-gal]
- YesYa
  [ya]
- NoTidak
  [ti-dak]
- Please/You're welcomeSilakan
  [si-la-kan]
- Thank youTerima kasih
  [te-ri-ma ka-sih]
- Excuse me/SorryMaaf
  [ma-af]
- How are you?Apa kabar?
  [a-pa ka-bar]
- Fine. And you?Baik. Dan kamu?
  [ba-ik. dan ka-mu]
- Do you speak English?Apakah kamu bisa berbahasa Inggris?
  [a-pa-kah ka-mu bi-sa ber-ba-ha-sa ing-gris]
- I don't understandSaya tidak mengerti
  [sa-ya ti-dak men-ger-ti]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya ingin melihat menu, silakan
  [sa-ya in-gin me-li-hat me-nu, si-la-kan]
- I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
  [sa-ya ti-dak ma-kan da-ging]
- Cheers!Selamat minum!
  [se-la-mat mi-num]
- I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin membayar, silakan
  [sa-ya in-gin mem-ba-yar, si-la-kan]
- Help!Tolong!
  [to-long]
- Go away!Pergi!
  [per-gi]
- Call the Police!Panggil polisi!
  [pang-gil po-li-si]
- Call a doctor!Panggil dokter!
  [pang-gil dok-ter]
- I'm lostSaya tersesat
  [sa-ya ter-se-sat]
- I'm illSaya sakit
  [sa-ya sa-kit]
- I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
  [sa-ya in-gin mem-be-li]
- I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat-lihat
  [sa-ya hu-nya me-li-hat-li-hat]
- How much is it?Berapa harganya?
  [be-ra-pa har-ga-nya]
- That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
  [i-tu ter-la-lu ma-hal]
- Can you lower the price?Bisa ditawar?
  [bi-sa di-ta-war]
- What time is it?Sekarang jam berapa?
  [se-ka-rang jam be-ra-pa]
- It's one o'clockSekarang pukul satu
  [se-ka-rang pu-kul sa-tu]
- Half past (10)Setengah (10)
  [se-ten-gah (10)]
- MorningPagi
  [pa-gi]
- AfternoonSore
  [so-re]
- EveningMalam
  [ma-lam]
- YesterdayKemarin
  [ke-ma-rin]
- TodayHari ini
  [ha-ri i-ni]
- TomorrowBesok
  [be-sok]
- 1Satu
  [sa-tu]
- 2Dua
  [du-a]
- 3Tiga
  [ti-ga]
- 4Empat
  [em-pat]
- 5Lima
  [li-ma]
- 6Enam
  [e-nam]
- 7Tujuh
  [tu-juh]
- 8Delapan
  [de-la-pan]
- 9Sembilan
  [sem-bi-lan]
- 10Sepuluh
  [se-pu-luh]
- Where's a/the...?Di mana ada/ada...
  [di ma-na a-da/a-da]
- What's the address?Apa alamatnya?
  [a-pa a-la-mat-nya]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Bisa tunjukkan saya (di peta)?
  [bi-sa tun-juk-kan sa-ya (di pe-ta)]
- When's the next (bus)?Kapan yang berikutnya (bus)?
  [ka-pan yang be-ru-ti-nya (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Satu tiket (ke ....)
  [sa-tu ti-ket (ke ....)]

History of Simokerto

Simokerto's history can be traced back to the early days of Surabaya, which was established as a port city in the 13th century. Situated near the banks of the Kalimas River, Simokerto served as an essential community for traders and fishermen, contributing to the economic foundation of the region.
During the Dutch colonial period in the 18th and 19th centuries, Simokerto experienced significant development. The Dutch established trade routes that connected Simokerto to other regions, leading to the growth of local industries, particularly fishing and agriculture. The neighborhood's strategic location made it a vital point for trade and commerce.
The Japanese occupation of Indonesia from 1942 to 1945 brought about drastic changes in Simokerto. The community faced harsh restrictions and forced labor, as the Japanese sought to exploit local resources. However, this period also sparked a sense of nationalism among the local population, setting the stage for post-war independence movements.
Following Indonesia's independence in 1945, Simokerto became a hub for new settlers and migrants from various parts of the archipelago. The influx of people contributed to the neighborhood's cultural diversity, with various ethnic groups coexisting and enriching the local traditions and customs.
In contemporary times, Simokerto has evolved into a vibrant neighborhood, blending modernity with its rich history. Local festivals, traditional markets, and community events reflect the cultural heritage of Surabaya. The neighborhood is also known for its culinary scene, offering a variety of traditional Indonesian dishes that showcase the flavors of East Java.

Simokerto Essentials

Simokerto is easily accessible from various neighbourhoods in Surabaya. The neighbourhood is approximately 10 km from the city center, and you can reach it via public transportation. Local buses (angkot) run frequently from major hubs like Tunjungan Plaza and Gubeng Station. Alternatively, taxis and ride-hailing services like Gojek and Grab are convenient options for a more direct route.
Simokerto is a compact neighbourhood, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, local angkots and ojek (motorcycle taxis) are available. Bicycles can also be rented from local shops for a more leisurely exploration of the area. Public buses connect Simokerto to other parts of Surabaya, ensuring accessibility.
Simokerto is generally safe for tourists; however, it is advisable to remain vigilant. Areas near the Simokerto market can be crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, especially in bustling local markets. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for police assistance or 119 for medical emergencies. Several hospitals and clinics are available in and around Simokerto. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide basic over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and practices; covering your shoulders and knees is recommended in places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous, especially to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a nod. A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food, but ensure it's from clean stalls. Don't refuse food or drink offers as it may offend your hosts.
To experience Simokerto like a local, visit the bustling Simokerto Market early in the morning for fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with vendors for insight into local life. For a unique experience, attend community events, which can often be found advertised on local bulletin boards. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby historical sites, including traditional Javanese houses.

Simokerto: The Hidden Gem of Surabaya

Local tips in Simokerto