Semarang

Semarang is the capital of Central Java province in Indonesia.

Semarang Halal Travel Guide

The city's name is said to derive from the (Javanese) words "asem" and "arang", which could be translated as "scarce tamarind."

Orientation

Semarang lies on the province's northern coast. It is a bustling, growing mid-sized city with a population of over 1.5 million. More an administrative and business town rather than a tourist destination, it nevertheless has its own charm, with contrasting modern mid-rises, a significant set of Dutch colonial architecture, Chinatown, and "kampung" all jutting against each other.

Semarang's topography is marked by a narrow coastal plain, rising sharply inland. The city sprawls up from the coast, and the higher areas see some of the highest rate of residential development, due to the slightly cooler climate. The sea is slowly reclaiming the coastal lowlands during the monthly rob or high tides, causing flooding up to more than a kilometer from the coast.

How is the Climate in Semarang

The coastal location can make the climate uncomfortably hot and humid. It is not unusual for temperatures to be above Celsius 32. In contrast to many Indonesian cities, Semarang still has a fair amount of greenery. Locals will tell you that areas that used to be (by their standards) "cool" are no longer. The climate is hot and humid, except on the slope - where it is slightly more pleasant - towards Ungaran, so wear light-coloured cotton clothes, such as T-shirts and knee-length trousers for comfort.

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Local Language in Semarang

Semarang is still rather off the tourist trail and knowing even basic Indonesian will be helpful and (Javanese) will be well-received.

Visitor information

In 2007 the government started to promote Semarang as a tourist destination, starting with the Semarang Pesona Asia (Semarang, Asia's Enchantment) branding.

• Semarang Tourism Board Center (TIC) Semarang - Has an information counter and some leaflets about Semarang and other parts of Central Java. The Joglosemar bus (going to Yogyakarta or Solo) and the Central Java Travel shuttle van (going to Jepara), depart from here.

• Semarang Tourism Board Center, (TIC) Achmad Yani Airport - The tourist office also has an information counter at the airport.

Travel to Semarang

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Semarang

• Achmad Yani International Airport - It is well connected with multiple flights each day from hub airports in Jakarta and Surabaya. There are also direct connecting Flights from cities in Kalimantan, such as Pangkalanbun, Sampit, Pontianak and Ketapang (KalStar), as well as Balikpapan and Banjarmasin (Lion Air). Direct connection from other cities includes Bandung and Batam (Lion Air), Bandar Lampung (Aviastar) and Bali (Garuda, Wings Air). International flights are also available, daily from Kuala Lumpur (AirAsia) and less frequently from Singapore, ( AirAsia, Silk-Air).

For international arrivals, if you need a Visa on Arrival, proceed to the left side of the immigration queue, otherwise go straight to the immigration counter.

Buses from the airport

Line 4 (Koridor IV) of the TransSemarang bus system passes through the airport between 05:30 and 17:30. For the downtown (e.g. Simpang Lima or the City Hall Balai Kota), take the bus towards Tawang train station and transfer to Line 1 (Koridor I) in Karangayu. Tickets cost Rp5,500 which includes transfers to any of the other lines. Keep your ticket for checking.

Taxis from the airport

There is a taxi counter outside arrivals, to the left. Cross over the drop off lane. Prices are fixed and roughly double the price of normal city taxis because the airport cooperative has a monopoly. A cheaper option is to turn right out of arrivals and walk to where incoming taxis drop off travellers at the departure area, and take one that has just dropped its passengers off. A city taxi to Simpang Lima or the downtown area should cost about Rp50,000.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Semarang

There are two main train stations, both on the north coast mainline connecting Jakarta with Surabaya:

• Tawang Station - Stasiun Tawang or Semarang Tawang - Located in the Old Town (Kota Lama) area, Tawang is historically significant, being the oldest major train station in Indonesia that is still operational, having been used since 1867. It mostly serves business and executive class long distance trains from other major cities. However, some economy trains do stop here, for example those serving Solo and Purwokerto. Be sure to listen out for the bittersweet farewell/welcome song Yen ing tawang ono lintang (When there are stars in the sky), played over the tannoy at the arrival or departure of every train.

• Poncol Station - Stasiun Poncol or Semarang Poncol - Poncol mainly handles economy class trains serving nearby cities in Central Java, such as Tegal, Pekalongan, or Purwokerto. However and there are some long distance economy trains serving Jakarta, Surabaya, and Malang.

Semarang is well-connected to Jakarta, Bandung and Surabaya by train. From Solo, once daily early in the morning there is an economy class train Kalijaga, meaning travel from Yogyakarta all the way by rail is theoretically feasible, although it requires a 04:00 departure with a transfer, and is likely to be slower and less comfortable than taking the direct buses. Multiple executive-class trains connect Semarang to Jakarta (6 hours) and Surabaya (4 hours) several times a day, with overnight journeys also feasible. The Harina service connects Semarang to Bandung once a day with executive, business and economy class coaches.

By car

Semarang can be visited by vehicle from Jakarta in around 8-9 hours, via Cipali Toll Road, which replaces the existing Pantura road. Surabaya is along the Pantura to the east, and takes about 7 hours.

You can reach Semarang from Solo partly on the tollway which now joins Semarang to Salatiga. It should take 2-3 hours. Drivers from Solo are noted for their aggressive and reckless driving.

From Cilacap in the very southwest of Central Java will take seven to eight hours, via Banyumas, Wonosobo and Temanggung. At Temanggung you can choose to keep going on the primary streets through Secang and Ambarawa, or to cut up over the side of Mount Ungaran to Sumowono and Bandungan and take advantage of their all-day fruit and grocery market.

Travel on a Bus in Semarang

Many bus companies offer daily service from Jakarta, from Pasar Rebo Terminal in East Jakarta, Kalideres Terminal in West Jakarta or from Lebak Bulus Terminal in South Jakarta. The overnight bus with A/C is also available with good service. You can choose bus operators such as Rosalia Indah, Raya, Kramat Jati, Safari Dharma Raya, Garuda Mas, Laju Prima, which are all well reputed. Sometimes the bus route is Jakarta to Solo via Semarang. You can choose them too, but make sure to remind the bus driver's assistant (the person who checks your ticket on-board the bus) to wake you up in Semarang.

There is an executive-class tourist bus Joglosemar, which connects Jogjakarta, Solo and Semarang (hence the name). It picks up tourists from specific hotels and provides Snacks and water for their trip. Pricier than other executive buses, it is more comfortable and provides friendly service. They depart almost hourly.

Other companies providing shuttle vans in and out of Semarang include DayTrans (from Jogjakarta, Jepara), Solo and Cilacap), Central Java Travel, Bejeu (from Jepara), Bintang Raya, Matraman Travel, Mitra Travel and Putra Mandiri.

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Semarang

Semarang's Tanjung Emas Port (reachable by TransSemarang Koridor III) is located in the northern part, in an area that unfortunately is often flooded during high tide.

It is regularly served by ships mostly to/from destinations in Kalimantan. The state-owned PT PELNI has ships going to Banjarmasin (using KM Egon), Pontianak (using KM Lawit), and Kumai (using KM Leuser and KM Egon). Another operator with ships also going to Kalimantan is Dharma Lautan Utama, which serves Pontianak, Ketapang, Kumai and Sampit. There are no regular ships going directly into Semarang from other major cities in Java, except for occasional ships from Jakarta during the mudik period close to Lebaran offered as an alternative for people going back to their hometowns.

Cruise ships occasionally spend a day in port. It has few facilities for passengers, but an informal market of street vendors often assembles outside the secure area. Most passengers take a one-day tour to Borobudur, or a city tour of Semarang.

How to get around in Semarang

By shuttle van/bus

There are medium-sized buses operated by government-owned company DAMRI in the city. These buses are normally blue and white, and travel the following routes:

• DAMRI Route 1: Terboyo-Banyumanik
• DAMRI Route 2: Terboyo-Mangkang
• DAMRI Route 3: Ngaliyan-Pucang Gading
• DAMRI Route 4: Johar-Kompleks Perumnas
• DAMRI Route 5: Mangkang-Ungaran (via toll road)
• DAMRI Route 6: Penggaron-Ungaran (via toll road)

All DAMRI buses are air-conditioned and relatively well-maintained. There are also routes operated by companies such as Rata Kencana, MINAS and Nugroho, which tend to not be air-conditioned and the fleet tends to be less well-maintained. These stop whenever a passenger flags them down. To alight, just tell the driver or conductor and the bus will stop. There are very few designated bus stops and no route maps whatsoever, so it is good to ask beforehand and double check with the conductor. Fares range from Rp4,000 to Rp9,000 depending on the distance travelled.

There are also TransSemarang buses with designated stops on raised platforms (locally known as shelter). Despite being called a BRT system and the buses do not travel in designated lanes. There are six routes:

• Koridor I: Penggaron-Mangkang
• Koridor II: Pudakpayung-Terboyo (Bus terminal)
• Koridor III: Pelabuhan (Port)-Akpol
• Koridor IV: Cangkiran-Ahmad Yani Airport-Stasiun Tawang (Tawang Station)
• Koridor V: Meteseh to PRPP
• Koridor VI: Diponegoro University (UNDIP) to Semarang State University (UNNES).

Most interchanging of buses is done at the Balai Kota (City Hall) or SMAN 5 shelter on Jl Pemuda. Further expansion is underway for Corridors V and VI.

Ticket costs Rp5,500 for adults and Rp4,000 for students. The ticket is valid for as long as you are travelling, but you cannot break your journey. If you get off one bus and get straight on another and the ticket is valid. Keep your ticket when transferring from one corridor to another so that you won't have to buy a new ticket. Some of the less-frequented shelters do not have officials selling tickets, so you have to buy on-board. Every bus also has a conductor. This is by far the most visitor-friendly method of going around by public transport.

Central Java provincial government also runs a bus rapid transit route, Trans Jateng, from Tawang train station to the bus terminal at Bawen, kilometers 36.5 away on the southern outskirts of the city. Passing through Semarang Old Town and the main post office, town hall, Tugu Muda, Kariadi hospital. It also passes the Watu Gong Buddhist temple, and the Sido Muncul jamu factory. A ticket costs Rp5,500. If you break your journey, you will need to buy another ticket when you get back on. The first bus leaves at 05:00, until 21:00. They run every 15-20 minutes and should do the whole journey in about 90 minutes.

There are plenty of shuttle vanes (locally called angkot or daihatsu) serving other routes. The route is written on the windscreen, and sometimes on the back and side of the vehicle. The route is normally written in the form of 'origin-destination' and sometimes with 'via' information if there is more than one shuttle van route with the same origin-destination but with a different path in between. For example and the route written as Johar-Sampangan, means it starts in Johar and ends in Sampangan, and vice-versa. Minibus fares are around Rp4-3,000. There are two kinds of shuttle van and the orange coloured ones travel longer routes, and the yellow ones travel shorter routes (e.g. from a housing complex to the nearest market or terminal). Ask the conductor or driver before you board about the route and whether it goes where you want to go. This is where you need some rudimentary Indonesian as the person you ask is unlikely to speak English.

Best way to travel in Semarang by a Taxi

Taxis are safe and comfortable, and reasonably priced (starting price Rp6,000).

Make sure you understand the route or ask a friend. Make sure the driver uses the meter ("argo"). If he refuses to use the meter, use another taxi. Ordering a Blue Bird in Semarang is now feasible through a smartphone app. They also link up with the Go-Jek ride service to offer Go-Bluebird.

Online ride-hailing apps

Using your smartphone, you can now easily hail a GoJek or Grab in Semarang. It is worth investing in a local SIM card with data so you can use the apps. In Semarang, Grab offers Grab Car and Grab Bike, and GoJek offers its full range, including Go-Bluebird, its tie-in with Bluebird Taxis: book a Bluebird using the GoJek app. Because the maps used in the app are not always reliable, drivers tend to call you shortly after they accept the job, to get more precise information. It is helpful to have enough Indonesian language skills to tell them exactly where you are waiting, to be able to describe a useful landmark, and what colour clothes you are wearing.

Halal Friendly Walking Tours in Semarang

At first glance, central Semarang seems to have wide pavements. On closer inspection and they turn out to be paved with ceramic wall tiles that are lethally slippery when wet. Trees grow out of them, bus shelters take up nearly the whole width, traders start to encroach. Coupled with the hot and humid climate, walking suddenly seems a lot less attractive. What's more, trying to cross the road is borderline suicidal. Many of the primary streets in the central area are one way, which turns them into race tracks. Pedestrian crossings, even with traffic lights, are disregarded. There are footbridges in places, but construction is low quality so watch your step on the stairs, and some have railings missing.

The Old Town is the only part of town that can be truly explored on foot. In behind Gereja Blenduk you will find a fascinating warren of streets between colonial offices and warehouses.

You can walk around the open green space of Simpang Lima, but crossing the road to get there is risky.

What to see in Semarang

• Gua Kreo - Kreo Cave | A modest cave formation surrounded by a man-made lake with a resident band of long-tailed macaques. Can get crowded on the weekend, but you may it all to yourself on a weekday.

• Lawang Sewu - Lawang Sewu means 'a thousand doors' in (Javanese). It has a lot of them, but probably not that many. Built as the headquarters of the Dutch East Indies railway company in 1907, over time it served various purposes. The Dutch reputedly used the basement as a jail and torture centre. During World War II it was used as the Japanese army's headquarters in Semarang, and further atrocities were committed by the (Japanese). The attic, with its twin water towers, was used by the military as a badminton court. Reputed to be haunted. Tour guides are available at the building's entrance. Flashlight tours of the basement, with its interesting system of small pools of water to help keep it cool, are a fun scare.

• Simpang Lima - A large square and shopping neighborhood at the heart of Semarang. At night, you can eat, drink, or just wander around. Enjoy a ride on the decorated bicycles ("gowes"). On Sunday mornings, this is the venue for Semarang's Car Free Day (actually a couple of hours only), where families gather and enjoy activities such as cycling, roller-blading, playing basketball or simply enjoying the atmosphere while eating in their favorite food stall.

• Taman Budaya Raden Saleh - Raden Saleh Cultural park | A park and cultural centre, with theater and dance performances and the occasional art exhibition in the four buildings in the complex. It has was formerly the site of Semarang's zoo. Suitable for family recreation or just watching artists training for their performances.

• Tanjung Emas - A busy, important port during Dutch occupation (from 17th century to 1945). Of special interest is the lighthouse built in 1884.

• Watugong Buddhist Temple - Vihara Buddhagaya Watugong | Popular Buddhist site, featuring the 45m Pagoda Avalokitesvara with seven tiers and the tallest in Indonesia. Various shrines relevant to the Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. Development started in the 1950s.

Before you get into the hilly area named Bukit Sari, you will see on your left Taman Tabanas Gombel where you can stop by, drink tea and see Semarang from the hill. It's a really beautiful view in the daytime and a very special romantic view during the nighttime.

Around the Old Town

• Old Town - Kota Lama, Oudstadt | Northern Semarang has many old Dutch colonial buildings. This was where the old walled city was located. The wall is no longer there, but many of the buildings remain. While there are a number specific points of interest and the whole area is atmospheric and interesting for a wander. Early morning or late afternoon offers the coolest parts of the day and the best light for photography. The rundown nature is part of its charm, but the City Council is making concerted efforts to bring it back to life. The numbers of cafes and restaurants is slowly growing. This helps to give life to the area at night also, and there is a semi-permanent bric-a-brac market that is most active during these cooler hours. During certain high tides and the area is flooded. Tackling it is also part of the government's plan, and the flooding is slowly dropping in terms of number and intensity of incidents.

• Gereja Blenduk - GPIB Immanuel | The name means "domed church". A beautiful Protestant church built in 1753, it is the oldest church in Semarang. It has a baroque organ, a rarity in Indonesia.

• Semarang Contemporary Ary Gallery - Modern gallery offering a selection of contemporary art in revolving exhibitions. Strong focus on Asian artists in general and Indonesian artists in particular.

• Taman Srigunting - A small, shady square nestled by the Gereja Blenduk. Good for a quick sit-down after the exertions of walking around the Old Town, and great for indulging in a bit of the Indonesian national pasttime of taking selfies. Expect to be invited to join in photos with other visitors.

Monuments

• Tugu Muda - The Monument to Youth | One of Semarang's monuments - an obelisk set in the middle of a roundabout. It commemorates the five days of fierce battle (14-19 October 1945) between Indonesian freedom fighters and Japanese soldiers who refused to surrender.

Museums

• Museum Ronggowarsito - (Javanese) culture and art.

• MURI - Museum Rekor Indonesia | Indonesian World Records Museum

• Mandala Bhakti - Military museum.

Traditional markets

Always interesting. Go early in the morning to see the most activity. They tend to have quietened down by late morning. There are a plenty to choose from. Perhaps the pre-eminent one in Semarang is

• Pasar Johar - Johar Market | Built in 1936, and famous for its neo-vernacular design by architect Thomas Karsten. Unfortunately damaged by fire in 2016, but renovation started in late 2017 and will hopefully restore it back to full glory.

Best things to do in Semarang

• Catfish Park (Taman Lele). Kecamatan Tugu. Open daily. Facilities: children's playground, cultural and art shows, animal shows.
• Marina Beach. North Semarang. Facilities: swimming pool, children's playground, beach volleyball, water sports.
• Ngaliyan Tirta Indah, Jalan Raya Ngaliyan Kecamatan Ngaliyan. Facilities: swimming pool, beautiful plantation, flower garden, sports centre.
• Puri Maerokoco and Kampoeng Laut (a famous over-the-water restaurant). Tawangmas PRPP, a clone of TMII (Jakarta). Facilities: cultural and art shows, boat, water bike, small train, fishing pond.
• Sodong, 20 kilometers from Semarang. Beautiful plantation, fishing pond, swimming pool.

Events

• Jateng Fair | Annual showcases of Central Java Promotions and Development. It's held between June and July. Attend the biggest ceremony of the Chinese community in Java, featuring a colourful procession and dances of decorated horses and 'liong' (dragon).

• Dug Der Festival | Annual festival, one week before fasting month, or puasa. The name is derived from the sound of bedug ("Dug" - the sound of a gigantic drum often associated with Islam), and meriam bambu ("Der" - the sound of the traditional bamboo cannon). At the end of the festival and there's "Ngarak Warak", meaning procession to bring Warak across the city's main street (normally from the Mayor's office to the Johar Market). The Warak is a mythology animal, part giraffe, part lion, part Chinese dragon, part horse and part bird. It's the icon of the festival. You can buy toys at the festival, normally a warak laying an egg, thus the name "Warak Ngendog".

• Wayang Wong Ngesti Pandowo - A weekly show of (Javanese) drama in the form of human puppet (wayang orang in Indonesian or wayang wong in (Javanese)), with stories from folklore, Mahabarata and Ramayana. There is a show every Saturday night. An excellent chance to get a glimpse of (Javanese) culture in Semarang

Study in Semarang

• Sobokarrti - A cultural institution offering presentations and some training of (Javanese) performing arts: dance, gamelan, wayang kulit. The building was designed by Thomas Karsten, drawing together elements of indigenous (Javanese) and Dutch tropical colonial styles.

• Diponegoro University - Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) | State university, and the biggest and oldest university in the city (est. 1956). Faculties of law, economics, medicine, architecture, engineering, fisheries and marine sciences, animal agriculture, humanities, social and political sciences, public health, natural sciences and mathematics, and psychology. Almost 40,000 students in two campuses, Pleburan (downtown) and Tembalang in the southeastern part of the city. Offers six month and one year Indonesian language courses through the Darmasiswa program.

• Semarang State University - Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES) | Has over 21,000 students in faculties of education, language and arts, social sciences, mathematics and science, engineering, sport science, economics and law. Opened in 1965. It offers six month and one year courses via the Darmasiswa program: Indonesian language, fine art, handicrafts, traditional music, traditional dance and batik art.

How to work legally in Semarang

Finding part-time work as a traveller in Indonesia is never easy and will be of questionable legality due to the strict labour laws. You may be in contravention of the terms of your visa.

Be aware that your part-time work may take the place of a full-time job for a competent and experienced (Indonesian).

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Semarang

Oleh-oleh

One of the favourites is milkfish, bandeng, pressure-cooked to soften the bones. It goes by the name bandeng presto or bandeng duri lunak. Also popular are lumpia Semarang (a spring roll with bamboo-shoot filling), wingko babat (small grilled patties of glutinous Rice and shredded coconut), ganjal rel (a cake named after the railway sleeper that it resembles in shape and texture) and pia Kemuning (various kind of filling, but the traditional ones are filled with palm sugar). There is a well-known strip of toko oleh-oleh stores on Jl Pandanaran.

• Wingko Babat Cap Kereta Api - This outlet is just on the edge of Semarang's Old Town. In addition to wingko they have a wide range of other sweet and savoury snack stuffs, and a small selection of souvenirs like fridge magnets. The shop is a much calmer experience than the toko oleh-oleh of Jl Pandanaran which can be crowded and hot, especially if a coachload of tourists arrives.

Halal Restaurants in Semarang

Although Semarang's choice of foods is not as large as other cities, you can find Japanese, Italian, (Thai), Korean, Indian and more.

There are food stalls all over Semarang. They are popular and affordable, as they are not permanent, and do not have phone numbers and exact addresses. However and they usually open in the same spot and time every day.

The cheapest of the affordable is nasi kucing (literally, cat rice) which is very small portions (just enough for a cat to eat, presumably) of Rice served with a modest amount of Meat and vegetables.

• Simpang Lima - This square in the heart of Semarang has plenty of stalls offering a variety of local Halal food. Prices are low: a piece of fried Chicken, a thigh or a leg, plus a plate of steamed Rice for as little as Rp35,000. Some stalls offer lesehan (sitting on a mat), with or without a low table. Active from early morning until late at night. The best stalls are busy and sell out quickly.

• Soto Bangkong - Clear Chicken soup, a local variation of the soto ayam found across Indonesia.

• Jalan Pahlawan, south of Simpang Lima, you will also find many food stalls under tents (tenda), selling a variety of foods from Gudeg (Jogjakartan pressure-cooked sweet jackfruit meal, usually served dry or wet with coconut milk soup, and you can add in fried Chicken, eggs, and other items), bubur ayam (chicken porridge, a real treat), jagung bakar (grilled corn) and many others. Pamper yourself with plenty of good food, yet very cheaply. If you'd like something local, try Pak Edi's (Mr. Edi is the proprietor of the kaki lima) tahu gimbal, which is shrimp fried in a patty, raw cabbage, lontong, krupuk and bean sprouts in peanut sauce. If you want dessert, across the street from where the grilled corn vendors are is the famous es putar Conglik, where they serve traditional coconut milk ice cream in a variety of tantalizing flavors, such as coconut, durian, Chocolates, and blewah (Cucumis melo, a type of squash).

• Ayam Goreng Salim - Fried Chicken Salim | Tasty fried chicken

• Kalasan Fried Chicken, in Simpang Lima offers good food at affordable prices.
• Koee Lekker Paimo, Jl Karanganyar, (in front of Loyola High School, a famous school in Semarang). Indonesian interpretation of Dutch pancakes. Daytime, weekdays only (Monday to Sat).
• Prasodjo. Hot and fried tofu (soybean curd) and tempe (soybean cake), eat them while they're hot with a green chilli named "cabe rawit" if you love it spicy hot!
• Mbok Berek, Jl Jendral Sudirman 58A. ayam penyet (traditional (Javanese) fried Chicken that is smashed in a mortar and pestle so you can enjoy the sumsum - marrow), served with coconut milk and lalapan (raw vegetables).
• Nasi Ayam Bu Wido, Kemuning. Nasi Ayam or (Javanese) Chicken Curries (open for dinner only).
• Satay Pak Kempleng, Ungaran area - is delicious and known for years for its big cut satay portion (open for lunch).
• Soto Bangkong, (Bangkong Chicken Soup). Soto is delicious soup with a chicken/ beef and turmeric based broth.

• Dyriana Bakery & Cafe | Freshly baked bread — try "roti pisang" (bread with a small banana inside) —– cakes, and a nice cafe serving local hot food and cold drinks. Air-conditioned. Often has demonstrations of traditional products being made (call first, often around 15:00-17:00).

• Elrina Restaurant - Serving different dishes of milkfish with local taste, Chinese and seafood. Air-conditioned.

• Gama Ikan Bakar & Seafood | Indonesian seafood, with both indoor and outdoor eating areas.

• Ikan Bakar Cianjur - IBC | Highly dependable (Sundanese) food with quick service in lovely old Dutch bank building. The name refers to the grilled fish for which it is famous. One of Semarang's only Vegetarian restaurants. In the Chinese style, this replicates meat-dishes but with mushrooms, beancurd and tempe. Canteen-style, where you look in the case and point to what you want. On Saturdays it has a fixed-price all you can eat offer, but you have to clear your plate. If not, you will be fined. Has a small selection of wholefoods for sale as well - pulses, dried fruit, nuts.

• Mbah Jingkrak | One of the chain of (Javanese) restaurants. Choose from a large number of dishes laid out - white or red Rice, beancurd and tempe dishes, devil's hair Chicken (pitik rambut setan), hot and sour steamed Chicken (garang asem). Staff will spoon portions of those you point to and then the total is added up when you get to the end. Bentuman Steak shares the same building.

• Nglaras Rasa - Regular food and buffet. Specialising in catering for large groups, including coach parties. Air-conditioned.

• Sate & Gule Kambing 29 - Sate Dua Sembilan | Anything you like, as long as it is goat. Famous for its goat sate and soup. This is the original restaurant, with original interiors and no air-conditioning. There are two more branches in Semarang - less inspiring interiors, but they do have AC, and a branch in each of Yogyakarta and Jakarta.

• Talisman Rotisserie - It's all about Chicken - mostly cooked on a rotisserie, but also soups. Salads and sides, including mashed potatoes. Part of the same group as the Basilia and Massimo restaurants.

• The Blue Lotus Coffeehouse | Famous for the freshly home-roasted Indonesian coffee and eight different ways of brewing, but has a great selection of International food and Japanese cheesecake. Comfy sofas and strong Wi-Fi.

In Semarang it is not easy to find bars. However, lately a few stylish venues have sprung up, mainly caters to the trendy young population.

Wedang or wedhang means hot, soothing drink. You can get them in Simpang Lima, hotels or restaurants in Semarang. One of the most popular variety is STMJ (Susu Telor Madu Jahe, a concoction of milk, egg, honey, and ginger drink).

• Es Kelapa Muda Kartika, Jl MT. Haryono 83 (near Bubakan). The most delicious young coconut drinks. Daytime only, just get there early because late afternoon they're most likely sold out already.
• Black Canyon Coffee Bar, (in front of Hotel Candi Baru). Stylishly designed. Cozy place but very crowded especially during weekends.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Semarang

Semarang - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Semarang, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Semarang. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Semarang and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Semarang. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Semarang. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inSemarang: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Semarang.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Semarang: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Semarang, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Semarang.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Semarang, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Semarang, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Semarang and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Semarang, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Semarang, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Semarang without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Semarang is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Semarang.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Semarang is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Semarang, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Semarang Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Semarang

eHalal Group Semarang is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Semarang. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Semarang.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Semarang ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Semarang. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Semarang, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Semarang are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Semarang

Go to Jalan Kauman (Near Johar Market - TransSemarang Koridor II or buses to/from Terboyo Terminal) and you'll find a lot of affordable accommodation. They are most likely to be a basic fan room with outside bathroom for the best price level, some naming themselves as losmen (inns) and others as hotel. Several places offering basic fan room are located near the mosque at the northern end (Masjid Kauman) with rooms going for as affordable as Rp 70,000. Many budget places will not have a Middle Eastern style shower.

Another group of good accommodation, slightly more upmarket but still affordable hotels, can be found along Jl. Imam Bonjol. With Rp 650,000 or even less you can possibly have an air-conditioned room in these hotels, such as Hotel Bali and Rahayu. TransSemarang Koridor III and buses to/from Terboyo Terminal (except DAMRI) pass by Jl. Imam Bonjol.

Both areas are not too far from both train stations (Poncol and Tawang), as well as the seaport (Tanjung Mas).

• Quest Hotel Semarang
• Santika Premiere Hotel Semarang

Stay Safe

Semarang is moderatly safe. People are nice to strangers, helpful and friendly.

When riding the public transportation it is not encouraged to wear jewellery, or gaudy and branded or designer watches. Petty thieves are common, but they do not strike when it isn't obvious. During the night if you must use public transportation, look for those units which have more than a few people riding and do avoid the empty ones. You might want to choose a seat close to the driver.

Medical Issues in Semarang

Hospitals with 24 hours emergency rooms:

• Kariadi Hospital - Rumah Sakit Umum Pusat Dr. Kariadi | Jl Dr. Sutomo No. 16 -6.9938, 110.4069 ☎ +62 24 413993
• RS. St. Elizabeth, Jl. Kawi No 1. ☎ +62 24 831 0035
• RS. Telogorejo, Jl. K.H. Achmad Dahlan, ☎ +62 24 446000.
• RS. Panti Wilasa Cipto, Jl. Dr.Cipto 50, ☎ +62 24 546040.
• RS. Panti Wilasa Citarum, Jl. Citarum No. 98, ☎ +62 24 3542224.

Telecommunications in Semarang

The dialing code for Semarang is 024.

Some hotel lobbies and cafés offer free wifi. Ask your server for the password wifi (PAHS-wuhrd WIGH-fee).

Cope

• Ambulance: ☎ 118
• Police: ☎ 110
• Central Java Police HQ,Jl Pahlawan 1, ☎ +62 24 831-1382
• Semarang Police HQ. Jl Dr Sutomo 19, ☎ +62 24 844-4444, +62 24 841-8400

Police stations:

• Central Semarang. Jl Brumbungan Tengah 41, ☎ +62 24 354-5175
• North Semarang. Jl Letjen Suprapto 45, ☎ +62 24 692-1275
• South Semarang. Jl Sultan Agung 103, ☎ +62 24 831-5123.
• West Semarang. : Jl Ronggolawe Selatan, ☎ +62 24 761-0698
• East Semarang. Jl Majapahit, ☎ +62 24 671-0863

Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Semarang

East Overland, all points to Surabaya, taking in:

• The important Hindu religious sites in Demak and Kudus
• The batik centre of Bakaran near Pati to see the unusual black, cream and indigo batik
• Rembang for its salt fields and kawista syrup
• The Chinese architecture and legacy of Lasem, with its famous batik style
• Cepu for its former glories of the teak industry, and its outrageously OTT hotel
• The remnants of the Majapahit empire near Mojokerto

By air, to Surabaya and Bali

Southeast The main destination in that direction is Solo, a two to three hour drive. On the way you will pass through:

• Salatiga, relaxed university hill town located at the foot of Mount Merbabu, and jumping off point to explore Lake Rawa Pening and go up to the mountain village of Kopeng
• Boyolali, famous for its dairy industry, and the delicious clear soup Soto Seger Mbok Giyem. Also the jumping off point to visit the copper-beating village of Cepogo and to investigate the pass between the volcanoes of Merapi and Merbabu
• Once in Solo, keep going further south and east, either up the slope of Mount Lawu to the magical high temples of Sukuh and Cetho, and then over into East Java, or towards the fantastic surfing beach of Watu Karung near Pacitan

South

• Slightly south of Semarang are some smaller hill towns easily reached in a day trip: Ungaran, Bandungan and Ambarawa
• Keep going further south to Magelang and Yogyakarta. It takes 3-4 hours to drive from Semarang to Yogyakarta

Southwest

• Go to the Dieng Plateau through the small towns of Temanggung and Wonosobo to see ancient Hindu temples/candi in a former ancient city which lies in the misty plateau
• Keep going in that direction and you will eventually get to the resort city of Pangandaran in Western Java

West All points to Jakarta, including:

• Pekalongan, famed for its batik and an easy day-trip on the train
• Cirebon
• Bandung

Northwest
Direct connecting Flights to Batam, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur

North
Flights and ferries across the Java Sea to various spots in Kalimantan make Semarang a good jumping off spot to see the orangutans in Tanjung Puting National Park near Pangkalanbun

Northeast and out to sea

• Jepara for its laid back, coastal town vibe, furniture industry and jumping off point to explore Mount Muria
• Karimunjawa - A marine national park in the small islands north of Semarang

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