Kapuas River Square Park

Historical Transformation and Evolution of Public Space

In the past, this area was merely a riverbank used for trade and water transportation activities. However, as time went by, the Pontianak City Government undertook a massive transformation. Continuous development and renovation since the early 2000s have reshaped this area into a modern park while still retaining its local characteristics.

One of the most significant evolutions is the arrangement of the waterfront, which now features neat wooden and concrete flooring, safety railings, and an aesthetic lighting system at night. The addition of a replica of the Equator Monument in the center of the park serves as a reminder that Pontianak is the only city in the world crossed by the zero-degree latitude line right in its heart.

Recreational Activities and Superior Facilities

Taman Alun-Alun Kapuas offers a variety of activities that pamper visitors of all ages. For those who seek tranquility, sitting on the park benches while enjoying the gentle river breeze is a primary choice. Available facilities include a spacious pedestrian path (jogging track), a children's play area, and a fountain that dances to music at certain hours.

One of the main attractions is the presence of a tourist pier. Visitors can not only gaze at the river but also interact with it directly. The cleanliness and security facilities in this park are also well-maintained, with regular patrols by Satpol PP officers and evenly distributed trash bins, ensuring comfort for every visiting family.

Entertainment Experience: Cruising the Kapuas River by Tourist Boat

If you visit Taman Alun-Alun Kapuas, the most unmissable experience is taking a tourist boat cruise along the Kapuas River. These boats typically have two floors; the lower deck offers a quieter atmosphere, while the upper deck provides a 360-degree view of the river and floating settlements.

During the approximately 30 to 45-minute journey, you will be treated to views of the riverside community's activities, the historic Masjid Jami’ Sultan Syarif Abdurrahman, and the magnificent Kapuas Bridge. Entertainment on board is often accompanied by local music, making this journey a complete sensory experience—a blend of beautiful visuals and the harmony of natural sounds.

Family-Friendly Destination and Children's Attractions

This park is designed with a family-friendly concept. The children's playground is equipped with various rides such as swings and slides placed on a safe surface. Furthermore, the vast open area allows children to run freely without the disturbance of motorized vehicles, as this park is a car-free zone.

In the afternoon, the area is often filled with vendors selling traditional to modern toys, such as soap bubbles and electric toy cars. The presence of the Equator Monument replica also serves as an educational tool for children to learn about geography and their city's pride from an early age.

Cultural Significance and Community Role

Taman Alun-Alun Kapuas is the "living room" for the people of Pontianak. Culturally, this place serves as a meeting point for various ethnic groups in West Kalimantan—Malay, Chinese, Dayak, and others—all mingling in harmony. This park often hosts cultural festivals, such as the Meriam Karbit Festival on Eid al-Fitr night or Cap Go Meh celebrations.

Local communities, ranging from photography clubs, rollerblading sports groups, to reptile enthusiasts, often use this park as a base for their activities. This creates a warm and dynamic social atmosphere, where visitors not only come to see the sights but also to interact and experience the hospitality of the local residents.

Local Culinary Delights by the Riverbank

Recreation is incomplete without culinary tourism. Around the park area, there are various food carts selling Pontianak's signature snacks. You must try "Es Krim Angi" or traditional ice cream served in a coconut shell, which is very refreshing to enjoy in Pontianak's tropical weather. Additionally, there are snacks like fried bananas with srikaya jam, wet crackers, and various river fish dishes that can be enjoyed while watching the sunset.

Visitor Information and Best Time to Visit

Taman Alun-Alun Kapuas is located on Jalan Rahadi Usman, Pontianak City. The park is open every day and has no entrance fee (free), except for vehicle parking fees and tourist boat tickets.

The best time to visit is in the afternoon, starting from 4:00 PM WIB. At this time, the sun is not too hot, and you can witness a spectacular sunset view on the western horizon of the Kapuas River. When night falls, the park transforms into an area full of colorful lights from decorative lamps and the twinkling of passing boats, creating a romantic and tranquil atmosphere.

For out-of-town tourists, it is recommended to visit this park on weekdays if you want to avoid crowds, or on weekends if you want to experience maximum festivity and the typical night market hustle and bustle. Taman Alun-Alun Kapuas is a perfect representation of the soul of Pontianak City: open, dynamic, and always flowing like the waters of the Kapuas River.