Ahead of Chinese New Year, Semarang Iconic Destinations are Assured to be Ready to Welcome a Surge in Tourists
SEMARANG - In welcoming the celebration of the Chinese New Year 2577 Kongzili, the Ministry of Tourism conducted a direct review of a number of flagship destinations in Semarang, Central Java. This step was taken to ensure the readiness of tourist locations to receive a surge in visits during the Chinese New Year holiday.
Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana said that the celebration of Chinese New Year has a wide impact, not only in terms of culture and religion, but also on the economic movement of the community.
"The momentum of Chinese New Year is not just a religious celebration, but an engine for the wheels of the community's economy. We want to ensure that destinations are ready to welcome tourists with safe, comfortable, and quality services," said Widiyanti in an official statement confirmed in Jakarta, Wednesday.
In the agenda of his visit on Tuesday, February 7, Widiyanti together with the Mayor of Semarang Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti reviewed the Sam Poo Kong Temple. The place of worship and cultural heritage site is known as the center of the Chinese New Year celebration in Semarang City and is one of the favorite historical tourist destinations.
Widiyanti assessed Sam Poo Kong reflects a harmonious cultural blend. "He hopes that this year's Chinese New Year celebration will be a portrait of inclusive, organized, and proud Indonesian tourism," he said.
Meanwhile, the Founder of the Sam Poo Kong Temple Foundation, Mulyadi Setiakusuma, said that his party had prepared a series of cultural festivals that combined Javanese, Chinese, and national cultural elements.
The cultural festival will be held on February 15, 2026 and can be enjoyed by the public for free.
The review then continued to Lawang Sewu, a historic building that is an icon of Semarang City and a center for the development of historical-based educational tourism. At this location, Widiyanti saw firsthand various areas of the building known as "a thousand doors", including an immersive space that presents a digital experience through futuristic visual projections regarding the history of the Indonesian Railway.
The attraction is considered in line with the Tourism 5.0 program of the Ministry of Tourism which encourages the improvement of tourism services and experiences based on digital technology.
"Lawang Sewu is a tourism icon that is full of historical value. Through the immersive corridor, visitors can get to know the history of the Indonesian Railway and the value of the nation's struggle in a more lively and interactive way," said Widiyanti.
KAI Wisata Commercial Director, Hetty Herawati, added that during the Chinese New Year period, Lawang Sewu will present various additional attractions, such as barongsai performances and angpau distribution, to enrich the experience of tourists and increase the attractiveness of the destination.
His party also prepared tour guides who are ready to explain the history and uniqueness of Lawang Sewu comprehensively to visitors.
"We want every visitor not only to come to take photos, but also to understand the historical value and inspiration contained in it. Hopefully, they will go home with a meaningful experience and share it with more people," he said.
In addition to presenting special attractions, the management also ensures that the safety, comfort, and cleanliness of facilities are maintained to anticipate an increase in the number of tourists during the holiday season.
On big moments like Chinese New Year, the number of visits is projected to increase significantly, from an average of 6,000 people on weekdays to around 10,000 people.
"We are preparing various anticipatory steps so that visitors can enjoy the atmosphere of Lawang Sewu comfortably and safely," said Hetty.