Reflection on the visit to two sacred sites in Semarang, Indonesia
On October 18th, as School of Peace participants, we visited two places of worship in Semarang City, Central Java, Indonesia. The two worship places were Sam Poo Kong, a temple incorporating Buddhist, Confucian, Islamic, and Taoist elements, and Pura Agung Giri Natha, a Hindu temple.
Our first destination of the day was Sam Poo Kong Temple. With its open area and limited shade, we were exposed to a hot, sunny day while exploring the sacred site in Semarang. The temple was first built in the 14th century by Admiral Zheng He with a mix of Javanese and Chinese architecture. Upon our arrival, we were amazed by the beautiful buildings and the peaceful atmosphere, not only because of the incredible architecture, but also because of the interfaith aspect united by the temple in harmony.
For me, Fah, at the temple, I sat observing worshippers lighting incense, families, and people who came to this place, quietly taking photographs. I sensed how the temple functions simultaneously as a sacred site, a cultural landmark, and a living archive of shared memory. This experience enhanced my understanding of how material design, color, form, and spatial layout can foster harmony between reverence and social connection.
For me, Sherilyn, the temple expanded my curiosity about the ancestral religious traditions as a Chinese Indonesian. Fortunately, one of the elder temple members shared his knowledge about Sam Poo Kong temple, making this visit more memorable and interesting for me.
According to the elder’s information, Sam Poo Kong temple consists of five temple buildings. The three main buildings are used for offering prayers to Sam Poo Kong (the God of Life), the grave of Kyai Juru Mudi (the helmsman), and Tu Di Gong (the God of Earth). Upon entering the place, prayers are expected to be said to Thien or God, followed by an encounter with Men Shen (the God of Door) to open their hearts, and finally to the God host of the temple. The fourth and the fifth temples were built in recognition of Kyai Jangkar (the anchorman) and Kyai Tumpeng (the cook).
We observed that this Chinese temple really appreciates Gods and Goddesses, as well as many famous legendary figures from the past, especially Admiral Zheng He and everyone involved in his history. What interests us most is his adventurous and heroic story of spreading Islamic teachings and intervening in conflicts among the archipelago's kingdoms. Also, as a fun fact, he imported a giraffe and a lion to Indonesia.
We continued to Pura Agung Giri Natha (Hindu Temple)—the most prominent Hindu Temple in Semarang. My (Sherilyn) first impression of Pura was the Balinese vibes that greeted us, the visitors. As we walked inside, traditional Hindu ornaments adorned the walls. Unfortunately, I was not allowed to enter the temple due to specific rules prohibiting women from entering the temple while on their period. Instead, I stayed outside to respect their beliefs of not allowing women during their period to enter the sacred site.
For me, Fah, my first feeling upon arriving at the temple was that it was very peaceful and remarkable. The Balinese-style gates and many statues made the place calm and admirable. A local guide showed me how Hindus pray at the temple. I also watched a short traditional dance performed by a group of worshippers; it was terrific and graceful. Even though it was very hot on that day, I felt peaceful and welcome. I learned to slow down, be respectful, and listen. I left feeling grateful for the kindness of the people and the beauty of their expression of their religious beliefs and culture.
These visits showed us how the two different Indonesian sacred sites are both unique and full of stories. Sam Poo Kong narrates a maritime history of encounter and exchange, while Pura Agung Giri Natha exemplifies a living tradition that is carefully stewarded through daily ritual and community engagement. Experiencing the diversity of the inter-religious temples in Indonesia broadened our minds about the beauty of unity and togetherness.
Sherilyn Kwa, Indonesia
Soulisa Xamonty (Fah), Laos
