[2025 Kuching Attraction] Travel Guide for Carpenter St (Updated Jul)

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration • Arrive at Kuching International Airport • Transfer to your hotel and check-in • Start your day with breakfast at a local kopitiam (coffee shop), try Sarawak Laksa or Kolo Mee • Explore Kuching Waterfront: Take a leisurely walk along the riverbank and enjoy the view of the Sarawak River • Visit the Sarawak State Museum, showcasing Bornean history and culture • Stop by the Cat Statue, one of Kuching’s quirky landmarks (Kuching means “cat” in Malay) • Visit Carpenter Street and India Street for shopping and local crafts • Dine at Top Spot Food Court for fresh seafood with local favorites like midin (fern) and butter prawns Day 2: Nature and Wildlife • Visit the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre: Watch semi-wild orangutans in their natural habitat (morning feeding session around 9 AM) • Head to Bako National Park for a day trip: Enjoy nature trails, wildlife (like proboscis monkeys), and beautiful beaches • Hike through one of the trails and experience the unique flora and fauna of Sarawak • Enjoy lunch at the park canteen or have a packed picnic • Continue exploring Bako’s scenic views and diverse wildlife, or relax at one of the beaches • Return to Kuching and relax at your hotel • Dinner at a local restaurant or enjoy street food at Kuching’s night markets Day 3: Culture and Departure • Visit the Sarawak Cultural Village: Explore traditional longhouses and learn about Sarawak’s indigenous cultures • Enjoy a cultural performance showcasing the dances and music of Sarawak’s ethnic groups • Have lunch at Damai Beach Resort or a local eatery nearby • Relax by Damai Beach and enjoy some beach activities like swimming or a relaxing stroll • Transfer back to Kuching International Airport for your departure flight

#localtourguides #100waysoftravel **"Wandering Through History: A Solo Adventure on Bishopgate and Carpenter Street in Kuching"** During my solo trip to Kuching, I had the pleasure of exploring the historic charm of Bishopgate and Carpenter Street. These ancient streets offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich heritage, showcasing well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant local culture. Bishopgate is notable for its charming buildings with historical significance, while Carpenter Street is known for its bustling atmosphere and diverse range of shops and eateries. Walking through these streets felt like stepping back in time, with each turn revealing unique architectural details and quaint shops. The blend of old-world charm and lively local life made the experience truly memorable. If you're visiting Kuching, taking a leisurely stroll through Bishopgate and Carpenter Street is a must. It’s an enriching way to experience the city’s history and local culture firsthand.

Like all cities, there’s always that one place that you can walk through and feel the rich history vibrating through the streets. For Kuching, that award goes to Carpenter Street, a pretty narrow road with old shophouses left and right. Down this street, you can find coffee shops and cafes, goldsmiths, furniture stores and even temples! Most of these shops remain as they were since they were first built and that’s what gives it its charm. Do remember to put on your sunscreen as it gets pretty sunny out there ☀️#newyearadventure

As a self acclaimed pizza connoisseur, I must admit I’ve searched high and low for the best pizza in Kuching. And now, I’ve found it. Located at Fairlane Bar, tucked behind the winding streets of Carpenter Street, look for Balkanico! A small little pop up store that serves oven baked pizzas from 5PM onwards! The pizzas are beyond large - definitely to be shared between 2-3 pax. Do drop by for a bite to eat and if you’re a drinker, you can also get alcoholic beverages to pair along with your pizza from the bar next door!

A walk along Carpenter Street in Kuching, there are a lot of things you can discover here, it's a stretch of mixed businesses that pass down from generations to generations. Entering under the charming Chinese ornate Harmony Arch, you can find coffee shop, backpackers’ hostel, Chinese eateries, bars, fruits stalls, pastries, snacks, banana fritters, clothing, old furniture shops, Chinese temple and many more. Must try the Siew Pao or Baked Barbeque Buns. It was so yummy! Lovely to walk through at night with the lights, eating places and pubs. Address: Lebuh Carpenter 93000 Kuching Sarawak Ambiance/Facilities: 8/10 Rating: 4.5/5 #mustvisit

#summervacay Harmony Arch, located at the entrance of Kuching’s iconic Carpenter Street, is a must-visit landmark rich in cultural and historical significance. Built to symbolize unity among the city’s diverse communities—Chinese, Malay, and Indian—the arch stands as a gateway to a street teeming with heritage, antique shops, temples, and traditional eateries. It’s not just a passage but a photo-worthy spot beloved by both locals and tourists, making it a popular Instagram backdrop. The vibrant colors, intricate carvings, and architectural elegance of the arch reflect Kuching’s multicultural spirit. Just steps away lie important heritage sites like the Tua Pek Kong Temple and the Old Courthouse. Whether you’re a history buff or just exploring Kuching’s charm, Harmony Arch offers the perfect blend of culture, aesthetics, and storytelling that captures the heart of Sarawak’s capital.

#summervacay Carpenter Street in Kuching, especially the stretch along Jalan China, is a charming heritage enclave that reflects the rich legacy of early Chinese settlements in Sarawak. Flanked by century-old shophouses with intricate wooden façades, this street exudes old-world charm. It’s home to traditional businesses, Chinese temples, and famed street food like kolo mee and sio bee. As you stroll, you’ll encounter vintage gems, including a classic car parked like a time capsule. The street has become a photogenic hotspot, especially where it frames a direct view of the iconic golden-roofed Sarawak State Assembly Building in the distance—perfect for Instagram-worthy shots. With its nostalgic atmosphere, cultural depth, and vibrant visuals, Carpenter Street offers a must-visit experience that captures the soul of Kuching, blending heritage with modern discovery. A true hidden gem for history lovers and wanderers alike.

#summervacay Nestled along historic Carpenter Street in Kuching, Sairam Company is a cherished local gem known for its authentic Chinese bakery goods and traditional Sarawak black pepper products. Stepping into this old-fashioned shop is like walking back in time—wooden shelves are lined with freshly baked local biscuits like almond cookies, wife cakes, and mung bean pastries, all made from time-honored recipes. A standout attraction is their in-house black pepper grinding process, where visitors can witness how Sarawak’s world-renowned black pepper is meticulously cleaned, roasted, and ground into aromatic powder. This hands-on insight into the spice-making tradition draws locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re shopping for nostalgic treats or premium pepper as souvenirs, Sairam Company offers an authentic cultural experience you won’t find in modern malls.

#springitinerary After dinner, I spent a lovely evening exploring Carpenter Street, one of Kuching’s most charming heritage areas. Entering through the iconic Old Bazaar Kuching arch, located beside The Waterfront Hotel and Merdeka Plaza, I was instantly transported into a blend of culture, history, and local charm. The street is lined with traditional shophouses, quirky cafes, antique stores, and vibrant street art — all making it a must-visit for anyone in Kuching. Just steps away is the beautifully restored Old Courthouse, adding to the area’s timeless appeal. It’s also an Instagram-worthy spot, perfect for capturing photos of old-meets-new Kuching. A peaceful, atmospheric walk that truly capped off a memorable Day 1.

#cherryblossom25 Carpenter Street, nestled in the heart of Kuching’s Old Bazaar, is a must-visit destination rich in history and culture. Dating back to the 19th century, this vibrant street was originally known as “Attap Street” due to the thatched roofs of its early shophouses. Today, it showcases well-preserved Chinese shophouse architecture, many of which have been occupied by the same families for generations. Visitors can explore a variety of traditional trades, including goldsmiths, tinsmiths, and furniture makers, alongside eateries serving local delicacies like kolo mee and laksa Sarawak. Notable landmarks include the Harmony Arch, marking the entrance to the street, and the historic Hiang Thian Siang Ti Temple, rebuilt in 1889 after a fire. Carpenter Street offers a unique glimpse into Kuching’s multicultural heritage, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the city.     

#weekendgetaways Located on Carpenter Street in Kuching, Yia Coffee Company offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a weekend getaway. With its excellent coffee and relaxed environment, it's an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy some "me time." Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax, this café provides a great ambiance to spend hours savoring your favorite brew while enjoying the calm surroundings.

Here is a 3-day itinerary for Kuching, Malaysia, to help you experience the charm of Kuching in a short time: Day 1: City Culture Exploration Morning: Arrive in Kuching, check in to your hotel, and take a short break. You can choose to stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton or the Imperial Hotel, both of which are located in the city center near the Sarawak River, making it easy to get around. Afternoon: Visit the Kuching Cat Statue, a symbol of Kuching, located at the end of Jalan Padungan, and take a photo. Then stroll to Carpenter Street (Chinatown), the largest Chinatown in East Malaysia, with many temples, shops, restaurants, and food stalls, and experience the rich Chinese cultural atmosphere. Evening: Head to the Sarawak River to enjoy the riverside scenery, have dinner at a nearby restaurant, and experience the leisurely nightlife of Kuching. Day 2: Nature and Culture Experience Morning: Head to Bako National Park, a tropical rainforest reserve, for a hike to explore the mysteries of the rainforest and see wildlife such as proboscis monkeys and long-tailed macaques. Noon: Have lunch at the restaurant in Bako National Park. Afternoon: Head to the Sarawak Cultural Village to learn about the culture and traditions of the indigenous people of Sarawak and enjoy various handicrafts and performances. Evening: Return to the city and visit the Sarawak Museum to learn more about the history and culture of Sarawak. Day 3: City Leisure and Shopping Morning: Head to Kuching Waterfront Park to enjoy the 900-meter-long waterfront art gallery, historical sites, Chinese Pavilion, musical fountain, and modern art sculptures. Noon: Enjoy local cuisine at a restaurant near the waterfront park. Afternoon: You can go shopping at local markets, such as the Central Market, to buy souvenirs, handicrafts, etc. You can also enjoy free time near the hotel.

Yearly destination since 2018 peaceful place lots to see plenty to eat nice to stay city seafood is a must with reasonable price and is very delicious and the famous Sarawak kolo mee a dry noodle dish with slices of meat is a must in kuching later cake make a good souvenir transportation is super easy if you plan to move around few large shopping malls for shopping too

#familytrips2024 Absolutely loved the fritters - the batter was crispy tasty and the banana was sweet. Getting the banana fritters ( pisang goreng) was like going to war. We reached the place before the stall opened. You had to fight amongst hordes of people all wanting those fritters. Deliciously caramelised fried bananas. Excellent pisang goreng! Our dream destination is to go to Hong Kong for my family trip as Hong Kong is paradise for food lovers, offering a wide variety of culinary delights. My family will enjoy it very much.

Kuching, Malaysia, known as the City of Cats, is not only home to adorable felines but also offers mouthwatering Chinese cuisine and a wealth of attractions. Here, you can visit the Sarawak Museum and the Cat Museum to appreciate the local rich cultural heritage; stroll along the Kuching Waterfront Park to enjoy the beautiful river views; and even head to the national parks of Malaysia to get up close with various rare animals. Kuching, a city that blends delicious food with beautiful scenery, is a place that makes you want to stay forever.