Chinatown is one of tourist attractions that can be found in Malacca due to its unique building architecture, and a spectecular weekend night market at this area with gorgeous lighting at night makes this place more wonderful with lots of nice pictures to take! Every day, you will find a new and interesting place such as coffee places, unique restaurants, boutiques or perhaps temples. The best thing about this place is, everything is within walking distance. Besides, you will find products from all over the world being sold here. In other words, it is a heaven for a shopaholic. But you must acquire the art of bargaining beforehand, because you need to bargain to get the best deal here. Don’t forget to check the temples and try nonya food too! It must be in your travel list once you come to this place. Depending on your physical capacity, usually there are 4 or 5 streets that you will be able to stroll around in one go. Dont worry if you are lost, the people here are very friendly. Even though this place is really touristy the locals are helpful and nice.

How to Get There

One must reach Malacca state first, located at the southern part on Malaysia in order to visit Chinatown, Malacca. Here are some of the options:

By plane

Kuala Lumpur International Airport is the nearest airport to Melaka, which takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes drive to and from the airport. From here, take an express bus that will go straight to Melaka Sentral. The journey is estimated to be 2 hours with the fee of RM24. After that, take a taxi to go to Chinatown.

By Bus

Take an express bus at the TBS (Terminal Bas Bersepadu) that will take you straight to Melaka. The bus rate is around RM10 to RM15 depending on the coach. The bus ride usually takes approximately 3 hours. Melaka Sentral Bus Terminal is located at the heart of the town center. It is Malaysia’s first air- conditioned bus (state and express) and taxi terminal that has been servicing passengers in Malacca. The express bus, domestic bus and taxi are pooled together in this terminal for the convenience of passengers travelling around Melaka.

By Car

The faster route is by taking the North-South Expressway (PLUS). There are three exits to Melaka namely; Ayer Keroh toll, Simpang Empat, Alor Gajah toll and Lipat Kajang, Jasin toll. It takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes driving from Kuala Lumpur.

Tourist Attractions

Cheng Hoong Teng Temple

Built in 1645 and taking pride in being an oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia, this temple is a unique confluence of Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism. The history behind this modest temple is real, back to the original Chinese settlement in Melaka in the 1500s, and it is well maintained at considerable expense. Admission is free.

Cheng Ho Cultural Museum

This museum details the travels of Admiral Cheng Ho and his fleet. The historical figure of Cheng Ho is a fascinating character and seems to be very significant in the history of Chinese explorations and trade overseas. You will love the reconstructions of the ship and some of the quirky stories about the voyages. 

Baba-Nonya Heritage Museum

Baba-Nonya Heritage Museum is an interesting place that should be visited. This house belongs to a wealthy Baba Nyonya family. You will have an opportunity to learn more about their culture and unique lifestyle of their family. You need to ring and gain access to the museum. Photography is not allowed. You are also welcomed to buy original and cheap handicrafts as souvenir. The museum is open 7 days a week and the entrance fee is RM15 per adult and RM10 per child.