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Exploring the History and Culture of Glodok’s Chinatown Jakarta

Kamis, 19 September 2024 - 21:27 | 21.86k
The gate to the Glodok Chinatown. (Photo: Mistahul Rahmi for TIMES Indonesia)
The gate to the Glodok Chinatown. (Photo: Mistahul Rahmi for TIMES Indonesia)

TIMESINDONESIA, JAKARTA – Located in Jakarta’s Old Town, Glodok’s Chinatown is one of the oldest and largest Chinese communities in Indonesia. Glodok is not only a bustling commercial hub but also a treasure trove of history and culture deeply rooted in Chinese influence.

This area offers a fascinating glimpse into how Chinese culture has thrived amid the hustle and bustle of Jakarta's metropolitan life.

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For those looking to delve deeper into the life of Jakarta’s Chinese community, Glodok’s Chinatown is the perfect destination. Every corner of this area is filled with historical stories that shape its unique identity, from old Chinese-style architecture to ancient religious sites.

The Origin of the Name Glodok

As the gateway to the Chinatown area, the name “Glodok” itself has an intriguing history. It is derived from the sound of water flowing through a wooden spout near the “Ciliwung River” in the 1670s. The "gluduk-gluduk" sound of the water rolling inspired the name Glodok. This spout was not only important to the locals but also became a symbol of the area’s early development.

"The name Glodok sounds unique, doesn’t it? Who would have thought it came from the sound of a water spout, which is now just a distant memory," Andi, the local tour guide said with a smile.

Over time, this area became one of the main hubs for the Chinese community in Jakarta, preserving their cultural heritage and traditions. Today, Glodok remains known as a thriving center of Chinese commerce and culture, despite the city’s ongoing modernization.

Pancoran Tea House: A Cup of History in Every Pot

Not far from Chinatown’s main gate, tour participants are invited to visit the historic “Pancoran Tea House”. This building was originally established by a Chinese businessman named Gan Djie, who, along with his wife, opened a tea house offering free tea to anyone passing by.

Every day, they provided eight teapots of free tea in front of their shop, a tradition that continues to this day. "This story really showcases the generosity of the Chinese community in the past. Even today, this tradition of free tea still continues," Andi explained, pointing to the row of neatly arranged teapots.

Pancoran Tea House is not just a place for those seeking to taste traditional tea; it also stands as a silent witness to the spirit of sharing within the Chinese community of old.

Vihara Dharma Bhakti: A Spiritual Icon of Chinatown

A visit to Glodok’s Chinatown is incomplete without a stop at Vihara Dharma Bhakti, also known as Kim Tek Le. Built in 1650 by Chinese Lieutenant Kwee Hoen, this temple is one of the main spiritual centers for the Chinese community in Jakarta.

The Vihara houses 27 statues of deities, with the most famous being the statue of Goddess Kwan Im, which has a long history, having been saved from the flames during the Chinese Massacre of 1740. “This statue symbolizes spiritual strength that has endured through various hardships,” the guy added. 

This temple also serves as a center for three major beliefs—Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism—all coexisting in harmony. "This is a remarkable example of how the Chinese community blends their beliefs in one place of worship," the guide remarked.

Vihara Dharma Jaya Toa Se Bio: A Centuries-Old Witness to History

Not far from Vihara Dharma Bhakti stands Vihara Dharma Jaya Toa Se Bio, built in 1660. Having stood for more than 370 years, this temple has borne witness to many historical events in Jakarta, including the large-scale massacre by the VOC during the Chinese Massacre.

"This temple holds many dark stories about the struggles of the Chinese community in the past. Every statue and altar inside reminds us of how they survived various pressures and violence," he stated. 

Inside this temple, there are several deities worshiped by Confucians and Buddhists alike, such as Thian Khaw Ciong Kun and Giok Hong Siang Tee. Vihara Dharma Jaya Toa Se Bio stands as a reminder that Glodok is not only a commercial hub but also a spiritual center that has endured for centuries.

St. Maria De Fatima Catholic Church: A Fusion of Chinese and Catholic Cultures

One of the most intriguing aspects of Glodok is the cultural fusion found at “St. Maria De Fatima Catholic Church”. Built in 1953 with South Chinese (Fukien) architectural style, the church’s interior is dominated by red, gold, and yellow—colors traditionally associated with Chinese culture.

"If you look closely, you’ll feel how Chinese culture strongly influences the design of this church," the guide said, pointing to the Chinese lion statues, known as qilin, in front of the church. The presence of this church symbolizes the cultural diversity that coexists peacefully within Glodok’s Chinatown.

Sukaria Store: A Hub for Traditional Chinese Goods

One of the oldest and most well-known stores in Glodok is Sukaria Store, which sells various traditional Chinese goods. From wedding supplies to funeral essentials, this store provides for the Chinese community’s traditional needs.

"This store isn’t just a shop; it’s part of the area’s history," the guide explained. "Sukaria Store has witnessed countless celebrations and ceremonies held within this community for decades."

Petak Enam (CovenTown): Tracing Colonial to Modern Footsteps

No journey through Glodok’s Chinatown is complete without a visit to ‘Petak Enam”, now known as CovenTown. This area highlights Jakarta’s development from colonial times to the modern era. It has become a fascinating tourist spot for those wanting to learn more about Jakarta’s history and growth, particularly in relation to Chinese culture.

Glodok’s Chinatown is much more than just a commercial hub. It is a place where the history, culture, and traditions of Jakarta’s Chinese community continue to thrive and be preserved. Visiting this area allows visitors not only to gain a deeper understanding of the Chinese legacy in Jakarta but also to reflect on the stories that have shaped Glodok’s unique identity as a center of Chinese culture in Indonesia. (*)

Pewarta: Mistahul Rahmi (DJ)

**) Ikuti berita terbaru TIMES Indonesia di Google News klik link ini dan jangan lupa di follow.



Editor : Khodijah Siti
Publisher : Rizal Dani

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