Palembang, also known as Balinebang, is a charming Southeast Asian city on the island of Sumatra.

When traveling to 🇲🇨Indonesia, most people visit Java·Indonesia. However, Sumatra·Indonesia and Borneo (Kalimantan)·Indonesia offer a more unique experience. Palembang, in particular, is less frequented by tourists. I had the opportunity to visit for work and discovered its connection to China, dating back to the voyages of Zheng He. 🇲🇨Kraton and Ampera Bridge: A Play of Light and Shadow My first stop was Kemaro Island Pagoda. I recommend arriving at 8 a.m. to avoid the harsh sun and capture the vibrant colors of this red, gold, and green pagoda, which blends Chinese and Indian Buddhist architectural styles. Inside, you can climb the steep steps to the top for a panoramic view of the city, the courtyard, and the Musi River. In the afternoon, I visited the Ampera Bridge, a red steel landmark that was once Indonesia's only lift bridge. At dusk, the bridge's reflection on the river creates a cinematic scene, reminiscent of the 🌉Golden Gate Bridge in documentaries. However, up close, the differences in size and structure are apparent. 🍲Food Recommendation: I recommend trying the Palembang fish cakes at the riverside night market, Pempek Vico. Pair them with the sweet and spicy sauce for a taste of 600 years of Minnan flavor. 🇲🇨Chinese Temples and Southeast Asian Legends Take a boat to Kemaro Island in the Musi River and visit the Hok Tjing Rio Temple. Listen to the boatman recount the poignant love story of Chinese merchant Chen Wen An and the Srivijayan princess. The Srivijaya kingdom has a rich history, as evidenced by the Al Mutaqin Mosque. The temple's upturned eaves and dragon carvings, combined with Indonesian coconut wood structures, create a unique aesthetic. In the afternoon, return to the city to visit the Cheng Ho Mosque. The Chinese-style gatehouse and octagonal pavilion with a large drum evoke the maritime history of the Ming Dynasty. Don't miss the portrait of Zheng He in the temple's scripture room. 📝Tips: 🚕Transportation: Use Grab or hire a car for a day trip (approximately IDR 900,000). ❇️Experiences: Get a fortune poem at Shuiyue Palace (interpretations available in Chinese and Indonesian). Take a night cruise on the Musi River to see the fishing lights. Book a tour with dinner on Trip.com. ❤Souvenirs: Batik cloth around Kemaro Island Pagoda and wooden statues on Kemaro Island are good choices. If you're unsure, visit Carrefour. 🔱Explore the world's most beautiful destinations🔱