Singkawang City of-thousand-Chinese-temples

Singkawang located 145 km north of Pontianak, capital of West Kalimantan, Singkawang is the second largest city in the province, bordering the State of Sarawak, Malaysia. Unlike other towns in Indonesia, Singkawang has a distinct oriental atmosphere with hundreds of Chinese temples found around almost every corner of town. This is because over 70% of Singkawang’s population is of Chinese descent, predominantly of the Hakka tribe with some Teochew. Others are Malays, Dayaks and other Indonesian ethnic groups.

Singkawang-Temple

In the 18th century, West Borneo lured many from mainland China to the gold mines at Monterado The Chinese came by the thousands, and on their way there they used to overnight in Singkawang. Most settled here and their descendents today form the majority population of Singkawang.

One of the oldest temples here is the Tri Dharma Bumi Raya temple, established in 1878 dedicated to the god of the forest, or Tua Peh Kong.  

Normally a quiet city, Singkawang comes alive each Chinese New Year, reaching its climax at Cap Goh Meh, or the fifteenth day of Chinese New Year, closing the celebrations. For this event, Chinese from around the region, including those from Java and Sumatra but from Singapore and Malaysia flock to Singkawang to celebrate the event with family and friends.

During these celebrations, the Tatung or Chinese shamans will perform their supernatural prowess to the thousands gathered along the streets, while remaining totally unharmed. However, before performing their feats they first pray for blessing at the temple of Toa Peh Kong.

Singkawang is also famous for its Chinese ceramics, still produced in the old style with “antique” designs. Center for ceramics is at Sa Kok, some 7 km. from Singkawang. Ceramics made in Singkawang is very popular on Java and can be bought in many parts of Jakarta and Surabaya.