Wonokromo, Surabaya Travel Guide
Discover the dynamic blend of history, culture, and modernity in Wonokromo, Surabaya's vibrant southern neighbourhood, home to zoos, markets, and architectural marvels.
Wonokromo is a bustling neighbourhood located in the southern part of Surabaya, Indonesia's second-largest city. This dynamic area is rich in history, culture, and modern attractions, making it an irresistible destination for tourists exploring Surabaya. The blend of old-world charm and contemporary allure makes Wonokromo a unique place to visit. Wonokromo is home to one of Surabaya's most famous landmarks, the Surabaya Zoo. Established in 1916, it is one of the oldest and largest zoos in Southeast Asia, housing a vast array of animals and offering an educational experience for visitors of all ages. Just a short distance away is the Royal Plaza, a modern shopping mall where you can find everything from local crafts to international brands, along with a variety of dining options to suit all tastes. The neighbourhood is also known for its vibrant street markets, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Pasar Wonokromo is a bustling traditional market offering a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, textiles, and souvenirs. The aroma of Indonesian street food wafts through the air, inviting you to sample dishes like sate, nasi goreng, and various local snacks. Wonokromo's rich cultural heritage is evident in its architecture and religious sites. The Al-Akbar Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque of Surabaya, is a must-visit. This architectural marvel is one of the largest mosques in Indonesia and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck. Additionally, the neighbourhood boasts several colonial-era buildings, providing a glimpse into Surabaya's historical past.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Wonokromo.
- Visit Surabaya Zoo early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch the animals at their most active.
- Explore Pasar Wonokromo for unique souvenirs and enjoy local street food delicacies.
- Take a trip to the observation deck of the Al-Akbar Mosque for panoramic views of Surabaya.
- Use local transportation options like becaks (cycle rickshaws) for a more authentic experience.
Explore Wonokromo: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
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Bungkul Park
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Monumen Tugu Pahlawan dan Museum Sepuluh Nopember Surabaya
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Alun - Alun Surabaya
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Bungkul Park
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Suro and Boyo Statue
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Monumen Perjuangan Polisi Republik Indonesia
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Taman Ronggolawe
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Fusia Restaurant - Rajanya Nasi Timbel
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Restoran Bebek Tepi Sawah Surabaya
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The Consulate
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ONNI House Surabaya
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Old Wood Bistro
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NEON by Brassery
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Lobby Lounge at Shangri-La Hotel, Surabaya
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COLORS PUB & RESTAURANT
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NEON by Brassery
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W Super Club Basra Surabaya
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Kowloon Palace International Club
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Top Ten Club Coyote Bar
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Darmo Trade Center
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Yegktio_Store
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OWEL SHOP
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Toko Handayani 1
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Explore Wonokromo on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Wonokromo, mapped for you.
Wonokromo Essentials
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Wonokromo is well-connected to other neighborhoods in Surabaya. The main access point is via the Surabaya Gubeng Train Station, which is nearby. From the airport, you can take a taxi or ride-hailing service directly to Wonokromo, which takes about 30-45 minutes. Alternatively, public buses and angkots (minivans) are available from various neighborhoods, with routes that lead to Wonokromo.
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Getting around Wonokromo is convenient with several modes of transportation. The area is served by public buses and angkots, which are an affordable way to navigate the neighborhood. For a more personalized experience, consider renting a bicycle to explore local sights at your own pace. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also readily available for longer distances or late-night travel.
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Wonokromo is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated streets. Areas around the markets can sometimes attract petty crime, so keep an eye on your belongings. Always be cautious and use reputable transportation services.
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In case of emergencies, dial 112 for police assistance or 118 for medical emergencies in Indonesia. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospitals, such as RSUD Dr. Soetomo. It's also wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. In case of any legal issues, contact your embassy or consulate for guidance.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting spiritual sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, including dressing appropriately in religious places. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a nod. Avoid overly familiar gestures unless invited. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food and accept hospitality. Don’t refuse food or drink offered, as it may be seen as impolite.
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To experience Wonokromo like a local, visit the traditional markets for fresh produce and local snacks. Engage with street vendors, as they often share interesting stories about their goods. Try to learn a few basic Indonesian phrases; locals appreciate the effort. Additionally, explore nearby parks and community spaces where you can observe daily life and interact with residents.
Useful Local Phrases for Wonokromo
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Wonokromo. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHalo
[ha-loh] - GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
[seh-lah-maht ting-gahl] - YesYa
[yah] - NoTidak
[tee-dahk] - Please/You're welcomeSilakan
[see-lah-kahn] - Thank youTerima kasih
[tuh-ree-mah kah-see] - Excuse me/SorryMaaf
[mah-ahf] - How are you?Apa kabar?
[ah-pah kah-bahr] - Fine. And you?Baik. Bagaimana denganmu?
[bah-eek. bah-gai-mah-nah dehng-ahn-moo] - Do you speak English?Apakah kamu bisa berbahasa Inggris?
[ah-pah-kah kah-moo bee-sah buhr-bah-hah-sah eeng-grees] - I don't understandSaya tidak mengerti
[sah-yah tee-dahk mehng-gehr-tee]
- HelloHalo
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya ingin melihat menu, tolong
[sah-yah een-geen meh-lee-haht meh-noo toh-lohng] - I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
[sah-yah tee-dahk mah-kahn dah-yahng] - Cheers!Selamat minum!
[seh-lah-maht mee-noom] - I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin membayar, tolong
[sah-yah een-geen mehm-bah-yahr toh-lohng]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya ingin melihat menu, tolong
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- Help!Tolong!
[toh-lohng] - Go away!Pergi!
[pehr-gee] - Call the Police!Panggil polisi!
[pahng-geel poh-lee-see] - Call a doctor!Panggil dokter!
[pahng-geel dohk-tehr] - I'm lostSaya tersesat
[sah-yah tuhr-seh-saht] - I'm illSaya sakit
[sah-yah sah-keet]
- Help!Tolong!
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- I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
[sah-yah een-geen mehm-beh-lee] - I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat-lihat
[sah-yah hahn-yah meh-lee-haht-lee-haht] - How much is it?Berapa harganya?
[beh-rah-pah hahr-gahn-yah] - That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
[ee-too tuhr-lah-loo mah-hahl] - Can you lower the price?Bisa kurangi harganya?
[bee-sah koo-rang-gee hahr-gahn-yah]
- I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
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- What time is it?Jam berapa sekarang?
[jahm beh-rah-pah seh-kah-rahng] - It's one o'clockSekarang pukul satu
[seh-kah-rahng poo-kool sah-too] - Half past (10)Setengah (sepuluh)
[seh-tehn-gah (seh-poo-looh)] - MorningPagi
[pah-gee] - AfternoonSore
[soh-reh] - EveningMalam
[mah-lahm] - YesterdayKemarin
[keh-mah-reen] - TodayHari ini
[hah-ree ee-nee] - TomorrowBesok
[beh-sohk] - 1Satu
[sah-too] - 2Dua
[doo-ah] - 3Tiga
[tee-gah] - 4Empat
[em-paht] - 5Lima
[lee-mah] - 6Enam
[eh-nahm] - 7Tujuh
[too-joo] - 8Delapan
[deh-lah-pahn] - 9Sembilan
[sehm-bee-lahn] - 10Sepuluh
[seh-poo-looh]
- What time is it?Jam berapa sekarang?
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- Where's a/the...?Dimana ada/...?
[dee-mah-nah ah-dah/...?] - What's the address?Berapa alamatnya?
[beh-rah-pah ah-lah-maht-nyah] - Can you show me (on the map)?Bisa tunjukkan pada saya (di peta)?
[bee-sah toon-jook-kahn pah-dah sah-yah (dee peh-tah)?] - When's the next (bus)?Kapan yang berikutnya (bus)?
[kah-pahn yahng beh-ree-koot-nyah (boos)?] - A ticket (to ....)Tiket (ke ....)
[tee-keht (keh ....)]
- Where's a/the...?Dimana ada/...?
History of Wonokromo
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Wonokromo's history is tightly intertwined with the colonial era, particularly during the Dutch East Indies period. Established in the late 19th century, it became a significant area for the burgeoning trade activities in Surabaya, which was a pivotal port city for the Dutch. The neighborhood's layout and infrastructure were influenced by colonial urban planning, with many buildings reflecting Dutch architectural styles.
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During the Indonesian National Revolution (1945-1949), Wonokromo played an important role as a center for resistance against colonial rule. Many local leaders emerged from the area, and it became a hub for political organization and activism, reflecting the broader struggle for independence that was sweeping across Surabaya and Indonesia as a whole.
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Wonokromo is known for its rich cultural diversity, featuring a mix of Javanese, Chinese, and Arab influences. This cultural blend is evident in the local cuisine, festivals, and daily life. Traditional markets, such as Pasar Wonokromo, serve as vibrant centers of commerce and social interaction, showcasing the neighborhood's unique cultural tapestry.
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In recent decades, Wonokromo has experienced significant urbanization and development. The area has seen an influx of new businesses, residential complexes, and improved infrastructure. This transformation reflects the broader economic growth of Surabaya as Indonesia's second-largest city, while still preserving elements of its historical charm.
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The neighborhood has also become a focal point for community art initiatives, with local artists and organizations promoting cultural activities and workshops. This resurgence of interest in the arts is part of a larger movement within Surabaya to celebrate and preserve local heritage, making Wonokromo a vibrant hub for creativity.
Neighbourhoods near Wonokromo
The closest neighbourhoods to Wonokromo, if you have time for more than one stop.
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Explore More of Surabaya
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Explore SurabayaWonokromo in Photos
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The Vibrant Heart of Surabaya: Wonokromo
Wonokromo is a bustling neighbourhood located in the southern part of Surabaya, Indonesia's second-largest city. This dynamic area is rich in history, culture, and modern attractions, making it an irresistible destination for tourists exploring Surabaya. The blend of old-world charm and contemporary allure makes Wonokromo a unique place to visit. Wonokromo is home to one of Surabaya's most famous landmarks, the Surabaya Zoo. Established in 1916, it is one of the oldest and largest zoos in Southeast Asia, housing a vast array of animals and offering an educational experience for visitors of all ages. Just a short distance away is the Royal Plaza, a modern shopping mall where you can find everything from local crafts to international brands, along with a variety of dining options to suit all tastes. The neighbourhood is also known for its vibrant street markets, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Pasar Wonokromo is a bustling traditional market offering a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, textiles, and souvenirs. The aroma of Indonesian street food wafts through the air, inviting you to sample dishes like sate, nasi goreng, and various local snacks. Wonokromo's rich cultural heritage is evident in its architecture and religious sites. The Al-Akbar Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque of Surabaya, is a must-visit. This architectural marvel is one of the largest mosques in Indonesia and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck. Additionally, the neighbourhood boasts several colonial-era buildings, providing a glimpse into Surabaya's historical past.