Mirella Pandjaitan
Jan 26, 2026
Jakarta's very own Chinatown has undergone a notable revamp, emerging as one of the preferred destinations for both travellers and Jakarta residents seeking walkable streets, culinary exploration, and an authentic Old Town atmosphere. Glodok is therefore an essential stop for those drawn to history, flavour, and atmosphere. Its central location makes it easy to reach, but it is the neighbourhood’s layered character that truly captivates.
About Glodok
An abundant spectrum of experiences in Taman Sari District, West Jakarta await. Glodok is profoundly one of the city’s most densely layered centres of trade and food culture—lively, compact, and endlessly revealing.
Anchored in historical tourism, Glodok is defined by its collection of distinctive architectural landmarks and time-honoured Chinese ornaments that trace their origins back generations. Glodok becomes especially magnetic in the days leading up to Lunar New Year. Streets glow in auspicious shades of red as vendors line the pavements with festive ornaments, transforming the area into a vivid, almost cinematic tableau.
The revitalisation of areas such as Petak Enam, the arrival of contemporary coffee shops and modern bakeries, and the continued presence of long-established businesses have collectively reinforced Glodok’s relevance for younger generations—without diluting its identity as Indonesia’s most iconic Chinatown.
Getting to Glodok
Glodok is less than five kilometres from Monumen Nasional (Monas) in Central Jakarta—approximately a 13-minute drive, depending on traffic. Those opting for public transportation can still have an equally straightforward journey, with several accessible options available.
1. By KRL Commuter Line
The closest train station to Glodok is Jakarta Kota Station, an architectural landmark in its own right. From the station’s North Exit, Glodok is approximately one kilometre away—a 10- to 15-minute walk. Alternatively, you can use a ride-hailing service.
- Transfer at Manggarai Station, then continue to Jakarta Kota with the Bekasi Line.
- Take a direct train terminating at Jakarta Kota from Bogor or Depok.
- Transfer at Duri Station, continue to Manggarai, and then proceed to Jakarta Kota from Tangerang.
2. By TransJakarta
The nearest TransJakarta stop is Halte Glodok, about 600 metres away or walkable for around 10 minutes. Several TransJakarta routes pass through this stop, including Corridor 1 (Blok M–Kota) and Corridor 1A (PIK–Balai Kota).
Best activities to do at Glodok
The neighbourhood makes for an ideal weekend escape, where multiple points of interest sit within easy walking distance of one another. Dedicate a day to nibble and walk. Be sure to stop by with an empty stomach!
Eat, eat, and eat all day long at Petak Enam or Petak Sembilan
Petak Enam is a culinary destination infused with the lively atmosphere of Chinatown. Dominated by striking shades of red, you enter through its gates into a spacious plaza lined with food stalls A myriad of approachable local and international comfort foods—such as fried cempedak, donuts, kuotie, choipan, es goyang, and traditional Chinese pastries—can be enjoyed. At certain times, the area also hosts manyao, a disco-style event accompanied by Chinese music that brings warmth and energy to the evening.
Although located within the same district as Petak Enam, Petak Sembilan oozes a more traditional atmosphere, strongly infused with the character of an old market adhering to long-established patterns. This culinary hub also functions as a traditional marketplace showcasing goods such as clothing, food ingredients, and Chinese cultural items. Classic Glodok specialties such as Mie Baskom Mak Atun, Kedai Lao Hoe, and pia lao hoki—widely recognised as Glodok’s signature bakpia—can be found here.
Petak Enam: Jl. Pancoran No.43, Glodok, Taman Sari, West Jakarta
Opening hours: Weekday, 9:30 AM-9 PM | Weekend, 8:30 AM-9 PM
Petak Sembilan: Jl. Kemenangan Raya No. 40 5, Glodok, Taman Sari, West Jakarta.
Opening hours: 6 AM-3:30 PM
Endure the spiritual life of Vihara Toa Se Bio
The spiritual legacy of the Chinese-Indonesian community remains deeply embedded in Vihara Toa Se Bio. The temple continues to function actively and plays an integral role in the daily lives of local residents. With worship activities taking place throughout the day, the vihara underscores that Glodok is not merely a tourist destination, but a living neighborhood where tradition continues uninterrupted.
Address: Jl. Kemenangan III No.48, RT.11/RW.3, Glodok, Taman Sari, West Jakarta.
Opening hours: Daily, 6 AM-7 PM
Gereja Santa Maria de Fatima is infused with Chinese flair
Also known as Gereja Toasebio, Santa Maria de Fatima Church remains an active place of worship for the Catholic community. Notably, the church retains an authentic and aesthetically distinctive Chinese architectural style. Established in 1955 and designated as a heritage building, the church has undergone minimal renovation, allowing visitors to observe traces of its age throughout the structure. Architectural details include upward-curving rooflines, Chinese characters inscribed on various elements, lion statues flanking the main entrance, and a tabernacle resembling a traditional offering table. This space is welcome for exploration or to attend services.
Address: Jl. Kemenangan III No.47, Glodok, Taman Sari, West Jakarta.
Opening hours: Daily, 6 AM-6 PM
Heart of Chinese medical stores
The Chinese medicine hub nestled along Jl. Pancoran Raya in West Jakarta stands as the most comprehensive—and largest—of its kind in Indonesia. Here, dozens of artisanal shops present an exquisite array of traditional remedies, each meticulously curated for wellness and longevity. Many of these establishments have been lovingly passed down through second and third generations, preserving the same attentive service and timeless expertise. A number of shops even welcome sinshe (traditional healers) who provide personalised consultations and medical examinations, ensuring that each visit feels both intimate and authentically rooted in centuries of Chinese medicinal tradition.
Immortalise your Glodok day at the Pancoran Glodok gate
Steeped in history, the iconic Pancoran Glodok Gate first graced the streets in 1937, erected to honour the royal wedding of Dutch Princess Juliana and Prince Bernhard. Just a year later, in 1938, the gate was transformed into an even grander spectacle to celebrate Queen Wilhelmina’s 40-year reign. The gate also marked Emperor Hirohito’s birthday during the Japanese occupation in 1944, layering further historical resonance onto this ceremonial threshold. Today, the Pancoran Glodok Gate stands proudly as the majestic entrance to Jakarta’s Chinatown—a living monument where heritage, culture, and architectural drama converge.
Observe aesthetic grandeur and deep history of Vihara Dharma Bakti
Vihara Dharma Bakti, also known in Mandarin as Kim Tek Le, is the oldest temple in Jakarta and was established in devotion to the Goddess Kwan Im. To this day, it remains an energetic centre of worship. Many visitors come to admire its compelling design. The temple is filled with statues of deities, intricate carvings, calligraphy, and paintings, all enveloped in the fragrant aroma of incense. Those wishing to experience the temple at its most animated are encouraged to visit during Lunar New Year, when the atmosphere becomes especially lively and festive.
Address: Petak Sembilan, Jl. Kemenangan III No.19, Glodok, Taman Sari, West Jakarta,
Opening hours: Daily, 6 AM-4 PM
Revel in the cultural landmark of Candra Naya
Glodok’s historical dimension is further reflected in Candra Naya. Although modest in scale, Candra Naya conceals remarkable beauty within. Designated as a heritage building, it once served as the residence of the Khouw van Tamboen family and dates back to the 19th century. Today, the house is open to the public as a museum and is also available for private events. Its distinctive position, flanked by modern high-rise buildings, has not diminished the authenticity of its original design. You can explore its exhibited collections, including a fish pond situated in the courtyard.
Address: Green Central City, Jl. Gajah Mada No. RT.3, RT.2/RW.5, Glodok, Taman Sari, West Jakarta.
Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9 AM-4:30 PM
Shop like an insider
Glodok is a treasure trove for the curious traveller, where heritage and flavour intertwine in every alley. Among its must-find delights are five items specially found in Glodok, each capturing the true essence of the area.
- Traditional Chinese herbs are prized for their healing properties and culinary versatility.
- Artisanal candies are sold by the gram and perfect for sampling before committing.
- Sea cucumbers are a rare and luxurious ingredient that speaks to Glodok’s culinary sophistication.
- Fragrant incense sticks imbue both ritual and home with an evocative aroma.
- Frog meat is offered fresh or cooked for those with adventurous tastes.
An honourable mention is Pancoran Chinatown Point. Classic sophisticated residential buildings intertwine with commercial areas as well as thematic citywalks and malls. Here, you can find wholesale and retail of various local and imported goods including Chinese medicine, herbal medicine, and electronic goods.
Tips to shop at Glodok
So, your stomach can no longer contain anything else? It's time to shop! Navigating Glodok is as much about rhythm as it is about strategy. A few insider principles go a long way.
1. Bargaining is part of the experience
Prices here are rarely fixed. From Lunar New Year decorations to everyday curios, each stall tells its own story through its pricing. Polite negotiation is not only accepted—it’s expected. Approach it with ease and a sense of play.
2. Buy with the calendar in mind
Lunar symbolism matters. Depending on the current year, remnants of previous zodiac cycles normally remain on display. Look closely!
3. Cash remains king
Despite Jakarta’s growing cashless culture, much of Glodok still operates on a traditional system. Bring sufficient cash, particularly if you plan to shop from sidewalk stalls or explore the narrow alleys. Digital payments are more commonly accepted in Petak Enam and the modern bakeries, but elsewhere, cash remains the preferred currency.
4. Eat with intention
Glodok is a paradise for the culinary curious, home to generations-old food vendors and deeply rooted Chinese cooking traditions. That said, many dishes are non-halal and pork-based. Muslim travellers, or those with dietary restrictions, should ask about ingredients before ordering—most vendors are happy to clarify.
5. Scout before you commit
You’ll find sidewalks densely packed with stalls selling near-identical wares along Glodok’s iconic gateway. Resist the urge to buy immediately. Take a slow loop around the area, note quality and pricing, and return to the pieces that linger in your mind.
