Kesawan City Walk Area

Historical Transformation: From Trade Hub to Tourist Destination

The history of Kesawan is inseparable from the development of Medan City in the late 19th century. In the past, this area was the main business and trade center for the Chinese and European ethnic groups. Over time, the Medan City Government undertook a massive revitalization to transform this area into "The Kitchen of Asia".

The evolution of this area is evident in the wider sidewalks, the installation of retro-style streetlights, and the restoration of old building facades that retain their original aesthetics. This transformation aims to create a pedestrian-friendly space that allows visitors to enjoy the grandeur of Art Deco and Chinese Baroque architecture without being disturbed by heavy vehicle traffic at certain times.

Recreational Experience and Main Activities

Recreation in Kawasan Kesawan City Walk offers a multisensory experience. The most popular main activity is city strolling or a leisurely walk along the clean sidewalks. Visitors can enjoy the architectural details of iconic buildings such as the London Sumatra Building (Lonsum), which features 18th-century London architectural style, as well as various old shophouses that still function as offices or cafes.

For photography enthusiasts, Kesawan is a visual paradise. Every street corner offers an aesthetic and Instagrammable background. It is not uncommon for this area to be used as a location for pre-wedding photo sessions or creative content creation. Additionally, leisurely cycling in the afternoon has become a trend among Medan's youth who want to enjoy the city breeze amidst the historic buildings.

Entertainment and Culinary Tourism "The Kitchen of Asia"

The main entertainment in Kesawan lies in its culinary diversity. As a recreational center, this area offers the experience of tasting legendary dishes that have existed for decades. One of the most famous is Tip Top Restaurant, which still maintains its original recipes and authentic interior from the colonial era. Here, visitors don't just eat, but also take a trip back in time.

As night falls, the atmosphere becomes even more vibrant with the presence of various contemporary coffee shops occupying old buildings. Acoustic music from organized street performers adds to the romantic and warm atmosphere. The "The Kitchen of Asia" concept is implemented through a diverse range of food options, from Medan's local cuisine like sate kerang (cockle satay) and mie balap (racing noodles), to tantalizing peranakan dishes.

Family-Friendly Facilities and Attractions

Kawasan Kesawan City Walk is designed as an inclusive destination for all family members. The spacious pedestrian areas allow parents to comfortably bring strollers. Additionally, there are strategically placed park benches along the street for resting.

One of the main family-friendly attractions is Tjong A Fie Mansion. This grand house, belonging to a historical figure of Medan, functions as a museum that provides cultural education for children and adults. Inside the mansion, families can learn about tolerance and the history of cultural acculturation in Medan. The presence of small green open spaces and vehicle-free areas at certain times makes Kesawan a safe place for children to explore their surroundings.

Cultural Significance and Role for the Community

Kesawan is more than just a tourist spot; it is a symbol of Medan City's cultural diversity. Historically, this area was a meeting point for various ethnic groups: Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European. To this day, this role is maintained through various community events often held there, such as cultural festivals, creative night markets, and street art performances.

For the local community, Kesawan serves as the city's "living room." This place becomes a gathering spot for various communities, from history enthusiasts, classic car clubs, to sketch artists who capture old buildings with their brushstrokes. The social interactions that occur here strengthen the identity of Medan's residents as a heterogeneous yet harmonious society.

Unique Recreational Experience: "Night at the Museum" and Heritage Walk

One of the unique experiences that can only be found in Kesawan is the sensation of walking at night when the streetlights begin to illuminate, casting a dramatic effect on the old buildings. Visitors can join guided walking tours (Heritage Walk) often organized by local history communities. These tours provide deep insights into the secrets behind the walls of old buildings that might not be known to ordinary visitors.

Furthermore, the experience of enjoying coffee on the sidewalk while watching the city's activities slow down provides a sense of tranquility amidst the metropolitan hustle and bustle. The blend of coffee aroma, faint music, and the view of historic buildings creates a profound recreational memory.

Visitor Information and Best Time to Visit

Kawasan Kesawan City Walk is open to the public every day with no entrance fee (free), unless visitors wish to enter specific attractions like Tjong A Fie Mansion. To enjoy the maximum experience, the best time to visit is in the late afternoon before sunset (around 4:30 PM WIB) until the evening. At this time, Medan's air temperature begins to cool, and the city lights start to adorn the streets.

For visitors bringing private vehicles, parking areas are available around Jalan Ahmad Yani and other connecting roads. It is highly recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for long walks. Don't forget to bring a camera or ensure your phone's battery is fully charged, as every corner of Kesawan is worth capturing as a memento of your visit to the capital of North Sumatra.