Medan –

The city of Medan has many legendary traditional markets. One of them is Hongkong Market, which has existed since the Dutch colonial era and is nicknamed Medan’s China Town.

Hongkong Market is located in the same area as the former Soechi Hotel in Medan. It is situated on Jalan MT Haryono, in the Pasar Baru neighborhood, Medan Kota district.

As observed, Hongkong Market in Medan currently has no buying and selling activity, with only a few workers entering and exiting the market. It is known that the market closed in 2024.

Current scene at Hongkong Market in Medan.

The attendant shared that Hongkong Market was once very prosperous, bustling with trading activities, especially in textiles. The market was located in the basement of the former Soechi Hotel in Medan.

He also mentioned that the name “Hongkong Market” came from the many Chinese ethnic buyers who shopped there.

“This market used to be crowded, with many Chinese sellers and buyers. People shopped for fabrics, electronics, and vegetables—everything was available. The market also boosted nearby shops,” he said.

Memories of shopping at Hongkong Market were also shared by a Medan resident, who recalled going there with their parents.

“I went shopping at Hongkong Market a few times. It was always packed with Chinese vendors and shoppers. After shopping, we’d always buy satay from that famous stall in front of the market,” they reminisced.

“The prices weren’t exactly cheap, but not too expensive either. The selection was quite complete, and we had our regular spots,” they added.

A historian noted that Hongkong Market has been around since 1905, after the establishment of the Old Fish Market.

“Originally, Hongkong Market, built in 1905, was meant for vegetable trading. As more vendors came, various goods started appearing, including human-powered rickshaws, known as Hongkong Rickshaws,” the historian explained.

“With this trade, people began calling it Hongkong Market. Additionally, many Chinese merchants operated there, creating a distinct Hongkong atmosphere,” they continued.

The historian added that Hongkong Market’s presence during the colonial era made the area resemble a China Town, evident from the high number of Chinese traders.

“At that time, China Town hadn’t yet shifted to Kesawan, which wasn’t as grand as it is now. Although Tjong A Fie was there, not all traders in Kesawan were Chinese. But in Hongkong Market, most were,” they said.

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Hongkong Market

Hongkong Market is a bustling traditional market located in Đà Nẵng, Vietnam, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of goods, including fresh produce, clothing, and local handicrafts. Established during the French colonial period, it became a key trading hub and retains historical significance as one of the city’s oldest markets. Today, it remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Vietnamese street food and affordable souvenirs.

Soechi Hotel

The Sochi Hotel, located in Sochi, Russia, is a historic hotel that dates back to the Soviet era, known for hosting prominent guests during the 20th century. Renovated in recent years, it combines classic architecture with modern amenities, serving as a key accommodation for visitors to the Black Sea resort city. Its legacy is tied to Sochi’s development as a premier destination for relaxation and international events, including the 2014 Winter Olympics.

Old Fish Market

The Old Fish Market, often found in historic port cities, was traditionally a bustling hub for seafood trade, dating back to medieval or early modern periods. These markets were central to local economies and culture, with some, like Hamburg’s *Alter Fischmarkt* (1682) or Marseille’s *Vieux-Port*, still preserving their heritage. Today, many such sites have been repurposed as cultural or dining spaces while retaining their historic charm.

Kesawan

Kesawan is a historic area in Medan, Indonesia, known for its well-preserved colonial-era architecture and vibrant cultural heritage. Once the commercial heart of the city during Dutch colonial rule, it features landmarks like the Tjong A Fie Mansion and the London Sumatra Building. Today, Kesawan remains a bustling district, blending its rich history with modern shops and cafes.

Tjong A Fie

Tjong A Fie was a prominent Chinese-Indonesian merchant and philanthropist who lived in Medan, Sumatra, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His former residence, the Tjong A Fie Mansion, built in 1900, is a well-preserved historical site showcasing a blend of Chinese, Malay, and European architectural styles. Today, it serves as a museum that reflects Medan’s multicultural heritage and Tjong A Fie’s significant role in the region’s economic and social development.

Medan Zoo

Medan Zoo, located in Medan, Indonesia, is one of the oldest zoos in the country, established during the Dutch colonial era in the early 20th century. It houses a variety of local and exotic animal species, though it has faced criticism over the years for outdated facilities and animal welfare concerns. Despite its challenges, the zoo remains a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists.