Banjarmasin View Tower

Banjarmasin View Tower: The River Tourism Icon and Heart of Recreation in the City of a Thousand Rivers

Banjarmasin View Tower is more than just a tall building soaring on the banks of the Martapura River. Strategically located on Jalan Kapten Piere Tendean, this tower has transformed into a recreational gravity center for locals and international tourists alike. With an architecture that blends modern touches and distinctive Banjar ornaments, the View Tower offers a unique perspective to enjoy Banjarmasin's urban landscape from above, while also serving as a dynamic cultural gathering point.

#

History of Construction and Area Evolution

Inaugurated in 2014, the construction of the View Tower was part of an ambitious project by the Banjarmasin City Government to revitalize the riverbank area. Previously, this area was a densely populated and poorly organized residential zone. Through a river management program, this area was transformed into the clean and functional Siring Laut (Sea Embankment).

The evolution of the View Tower reflects Banjarmasin's paradigm shift in managing its water resources. From initially turning its back on the river, the city now uses the river as its "terrace" or main facade. This four-story tower, approximately 21 meters high, is designed to withstand the weight of visitors eager to witness the 360-degree panorama of Banjarmasin city.

#

Recreational Experience on Each Floor

The View Tower offers a different tiered experience on each level:

1. Ground Floor (Open Area): Often used for UMKM (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) exhibitions, impromptu art performances, and serves as the main meeting point. This area is directly integrated with the spacious pedestrian path of the siring.

2. Second and Third Floors: These areas are frequently used as gallery spaces or meeting rooms. Visitors can view various historical photos of Banjarmasin and future city development plans.

3. Fourth Floor (Observation Deck): This is the main attraction. The open area on the top floor allows visitors to feel the river breeze while watching the movement of kelotok (traditional motorboats) below, the golden dome of the magnificent Masjid Raya Sabilal Muhtadin, and the bridges that span the Martapura River.

#

Recreational Activities and Supporting Facilities

Recreational activities at the View Tower are not limited to the building itself. As an integrated tourist complex, visitors can enjoy various facilities:

• River Cruise with Kelotok: Right in front of the tower is a kelotok pier. Visitors can rent boats to cruise the river towards Kampung Hijau (Green Village) or simply circle around the siring area at very affordable rates.
• Siring Tendean Floating Market: Specifically on Saturday afternoons and Sunday mornings, the area in front of the View Tower becomes the location for a makeshift floating market. Although tourist-oriented, the interaction of buying and selling vegetables, fruits, and typical Banjar culinary delights on boats provides an authentic experience for those who cannot make it to the farther Lok Baintan Floating Market.
• Pedestrian Path and Jogging Track: The siring stretching around the tower is equipped with neat tiles and park benches, making it a favorite spot for light exercise or a leisurely afternoon stroll.

#

Entertainment and Culinary Experience

The View Tower is a paradise for culinary enthusiasts. Around the tower, from street food vendors to modern cafes, they serve South Kalimantan's signature dishes. Visitors must try Pentol Kuah, Soto Banjar, and traditional snacks like Bingka and Lempeng Pisang.

At night, the area transforms into a center of colorful light entertainment. There are often street music performances (busking) playing regional songs with modern arrangements, creating a romantic and lively atmosphere by the river.

#

Family-Friendly Features and Children's Attractions

For families with children, the View Tower provides quite complete facilities:

• Children's Playground: There is a special area with slides and swings on the north side of the tower.
• Rumah Anno: Right next to the View Tower stands Rumah Anno 1925, a renovated traditional Banjar house. Here, children can learn about traditional house architecture and local history in an educational setting.
• Mural Area and Photo Spots: Numerous instagrammable photo spots, including the iconic Bekantan statue that sprays water not far from the tower, make it a fun place to document family moments.

#

Cultural Significance and Community Role

Culturally, the View Tower has become a symbol of Banjarmasin's modernity without abandoning its cultural roots. This place functions as a melting pot for various community strata. Photography communities, cycling communities, and traditional dance communities often use the tower's plaza as a practice or gathering spot. The existence of this tower strengthens Banjarmasin's identity as a "River City" that values open public spaces for its citizens.

#

Visitor Information and Best Time to Visit

The View Tower can be visited every day, but there are optimal times to get the maximum experience:

• Sunday Morning (06:00 - 10:00 WITA): This is the busiest time. Visitors can enjoy the Floating Market, participate in the Car Free Day on the main road in front of the tower, and enjoy the fresh morning atmosphere.
• Late Afternoon (16:30 - 18:30 WITA): The best time to go up to the top floor of the tower is just before sunset. The silhouette of the city with the reflection of sunlight on the surface of the Martapura River offers a spectacular view.
• Saturday Night: The atmosphere is very festive with decorative lights and various folk entertainment.

Accessibility: The tower is very easily accessible by online transportation, city buses, and kelotok. There is no official entrance fee to go up the tower (subject to the latest city government policy), but visitors are expected to maintain cleanliness and order.

Banjarmasin View Tower is not just a concrete structure; it is the beating heart of social life in South Kalimantan. With a blend of river nature tourism, culinary richness, and adequate public facilities, this place guarantees a complete recreational experience for anyone who wants to get to know the soul of Banjarmasin City more closely.