Languages Spoken in Surabaya: A Complete Guide
Surabaya is a bustling metropolis located in East Java, Indonesia. It is the second-largest city in the country and is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious cuisine. With a population of over 3 million people, Surabaya is a melting pot of different ethnic and cultural groups. As such, it boasts a diverse range of languages spoken among its residents. In this post, we will explore the various languages spoken in Surabaya and their significance to the city.Indonesian Language: The Official Language of Surabaya
The Indonesian language, also known as Bahasa Indonesia, is the official language of Surabaya and the entire country. It is the lingua franca that is spoken and understood by most Indonesians. Bahasa Indonesia is a standardized form of Malay that was adopted as the national language in 1945, after Indonesia gained independence from Dutch colonial rule.As a result of the Indonesian government’s efforts to promote the use of Bahasa Indonesia, it has become the dominant language in Surabaya. It is used in government, education, media, and commerce. Almost all Surabayan residents can speak and understand Bahasa Indonesia.Javanese Language: The Local Language of Surabaya
Javanese is the most widely spoken local language in Surabaya, as well as in the entire Java Island where the city is located. It is a member of the Austronesian language family and is spoken by over 85 million people worldwide. Javanese has a rich cultural history and is often associated with traditional arts such as wayang (shadow puppetry) and gamelan (traditional music).In Surabaya, Javanese is spoken primarily by the older generation, although many young people still use it in informal settings. The language also plays an important role in the city’s culture and traditions, particularly during religious ceremonies and cultural festivals.Madurese Language: The Second Most Spoken Local Language in Surabaya
Madurese is the second most widely spoken local language in Surabaya, after Javanese. It is spoken by the Madurese ethnic group, who make up a significant portion of the city’s population. Madurese is also a member of the Austronesian language family and is closely related to Indonesian.In Surabaya, Madurese is spoken mostly by the older generation of Madurese people. However, many young Madurese people in Surabaya can also speak the language. Madurese is an important part of the Madurese culture, which has a rich history of traditional song and dance.Chinese Language: The Language of the Chinese Indonesian Community in Surabaya
Chinese is spoken primarily by the Chinese Indonesian community in Surabaya. The community has a long history in the city, dating back to the 13th century when Chinese traders first arrived in the area. Today, the Chinese Indonesian community is one of the largest ethnic groups in Surabaya.Chinese in Surabaya is spoken in various dialects, including Hokkien, Teochew, and Mandarin. Many Chinese Indonesians in Surabaya are bilingual and can speak both Chinese and Bahasa Indonesia.Bahasa Osing: The Regional Language of Osing Community
Bahasa Osing is a regional language spoken by the Osing community in Surabaya. The community is mainly concentrated in the Banyuwangi district of East Java, which is located southeast of Surabaya. The language is closely related to Javanese and is also a member of the Austronesian language family.In Surabaya, Bahasa Osing is spoken mostly by the Osing migrants who have moved to the city for work or education. The language is becoming less commonly used as the younger generation of Osing people prefers to speak Bahasa Indonesia or Javanese.Conclusion
Surabaya is a city that is rich in cultural and linguistic diversity. The city’s inhabitants speak a range of languages, including Bahasa Indonesia, Javanese, Madurese, Chinese, and Bahasa Osing. Each of these languages has its cultural significance and plays an important role in the city’s society. Whether you are a tourist or a resident, understanding the various languages spoken in Surabaya can help you gain a deeper appreciation of the city’s culture and history.A Local’s Guide to Surabaya: More Than Just a Complete Guide to Languages
Surabaya is a prominent city located in East Java, Indonesia, and is known for being a hub for business, trade, and commerce. But beyond its urban façade, Surabaya is also a city rich in culture, history, local cuisine, and hidden gems that only locals know, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking a unique experience. In this insider’s guide, we’ll reveal some of the city’s most enchanting features, and offer travelers an unforgettable journey through Surabaya.
Hidden Gems Worth Discovering in Surabaya
Surabaya is home to many famous tourist sites such as the 10th of November Museum, Tugu Pahlawan, and the House of Sampoerna. However, there are also some hidden gems that only the locals know about. For example, the Klenteng Sanggar Agung temple, which boasts impressive Chinese architecture and mesmerizing Chinese-inspired statues, is worth visiting. The Surabaya Rawon Setan restaurant is also a must-visit spot for travelers who crave food adventures, with its infamous rawon soup, cooked using cow’s blood, herbs, and spices, that will certainly challenge your taste buds. Moreover, we highly recommend a trip to Kampung Arab, a vibrant Arab quarter in Surabaya, where you can experience its unique culture, indulge in Middle Eastern cuisine, and enjoy a traditional cup of tea from a surabi tea stall.
Cuisine That Will Satisfy Your Taste Buds
Indonesian cuisine is known for being an exotic blend of different flavors and spices. In Surabaya, travelers will find a delicious mix of Javanese, Chinese, and Arabic-inspired cuisine that will leave them wanting more. One local favorite is the rujak cingur, a spicy fruit salad laced with peanut sauce, served with softened cow’s nose and jicama. Another popular dish is the sate klopo, a skewered chicken, lamb, or beef grilled to perfection and sprinkled with grated coconut.
Talking about local cuisine is incomplete without highlighting Surabaya’s legendary street food scene. Take a stroll through the night market, called Pasar Malam, where countless food vendors offer mouth-watering treats such as pempek, a fishcake served with tangy vinegar sauce, and lontong kikil, a dish made from rice cakes and stewed cow’s feet.
Immersing Yourself in Local Culture
Surabaya has a rich cultural heritage that spans centuries-old, and it is worth experiencing some of its cultural festivities. The city also hosts the annual Surabaya Carnival Night Parade, featuring dazzling floats, vibrant costumes, and marching musicians. Throughout the year, visitors can also catch the Angklung Car Free Night, a weekly event showcasing Sundanese music and dance performances using traditional bamboo instruments.
Another unique aspect of Surabaya’s culture is the pasar rakyat, or traditional market, where you can find anything from exotic birds to antique Chinese porcelain. The Pasar Pabean Market area is particularly worth exploring, as it offers a glimpse into Surabaya as a 19-century trading post.
Unraveling Surabaya’s Hidden History
Surabaya has a rich history, including its role in the Indonesian Revolution. One must-visit spot is the Museum Kapal Selam, a submarine museum containing artifacts and exhibits related to Indonesia’s naval history. Another must-visit site is the Kya-Kya Passer, a historic trading center built in 1912, where visitors can shop for traditional batik cloths, clothing, and accessories.
If you are fascinated by colonial-era architecture, a visit to Gedung Grahadi, a neoclassical governor’s palace built in 1812, is highly recommended. Here, you can stroll its elaborate gardens and learn about its history.
Unforgettable and Unique Experiences
For travelers looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, we highly recommend visiting the Ciputra Waterpark, a stunning ocean-themed water park that is beloved by locals of all ages. Another unique experience is to take a herbal tour of the traditional Javanese jamu (herbal medicine) scene. Here, you can experience local customs relating to health and wellness and learn more about traditional plant healing, including workshops and demonstrations.
Surabaya is a city full of surprises that only locals know. So, get ready to explore the city’s hidden gems, indulge in its eclectic cuisine, immerse yourself in its vibrant culture, and uncover its fascinating history. Follow this guide to Surabaya and share your unforgettable experience with friends and family!
