Lasem, the Mini China: A Small Hidden Gem In the East Coast of Java

An The entire north coast of Java is not only the beating pulse of the island’s economic activities, but it is also dotted with fascinating cities and towns that hold significant historical values and enchanting cultural legacies.  Most interesting, traces of Chinese culture on Java lead to their origin in the little town located in the Rembang Regency Central Java, called Lasem.

Lasem is believed to be the site where the Chinese made their first settlement on Java over 200 years ago.  Named after the number 63 (Lak-sam in the southern Chinese dialect) that refers to the fleet of the legendary Admiral Cheng He from the Zu Di empire of the Ming Dynasty, the influence of Chinese culture on Lasem can still be strongly felt until today in the city’s architecture and daily life of the people.

Once known as “The little Beijing old town” by European researchers during Dutch the colonial days, Lasem was, however, dubbed the town “le petit Chinois” or Little China by the French.  Today, one can still observe distinctively oriental designed gates, Javanese-style porches with Chinese-style roofs, and three beautiful Chinese temples i.e. brightly-hued and intricately-designed Cu An Kiong Temple, Gi Yong Bio Temple Poo An Bio, which are incorporated into the Trinity Foundation, where each shows diverse rituals. Not only that, another legacy of Chinese culture is painted in the colorful patterns that called by Batik Lasem. Batik Lasem features vibrant designs such as the phoenix and butterflies with a combination of geometrical Javanese patterns.

“Little Tiongkok” is the most term to describe this fabulous town. Consist of unique history as well as culture, Lasem is a must visit town for one who loves to learn about heritage. Guided by some historian, Kekayon promises to give your customer a deep value of knowledge as well as heritage fun trip that will absolutely impress them.