Henri Sinurat

Lasem is the kind of place that doesn’t shout for attention. It sits quietly on the northern coast of Central Java, about 15 kilometers east of Rembang — a small town filled with stories, colors, and the scent of the sea. Locals call it “Little China of Java,” and it’s easy to see why. Chinese temples stand side by side with colonial houses, batik workshops, and Javanese fishing villages. Walk its narrow lanes and you’ll see red-bricked walls, faded wooden doors, and residents who still greet strangers with a smile. Lasem moves at its own rhythm — slower, softer, and deeply rooted in its past. A Short History: Where Cultures Met and Merged Centuries ago, Lasem was a thriving port on the ancient maritime trade route. Chinese merchants arrived, settled, and married local Javanese families, creating a unique cultural blend that remains strong to this day. You can see the heritage everywhere — in the architecture, the food, and most notably in Lasem’s signature batik. While other towns may...