A Day at The House of Sampoerna

January 13, 2015

Situated in “old Surabaya”‚ this Dutch colonial-style building built in 1862, now become a preserved historical site. Liem Seeng Tee purchased the building in 1932, an immigrant from Fujian – China, who came to Indonesia, seeking for a better life. After years of struggle in Indonesia, Liem Seeng Tee established his company named Sampoerna, which then successfully became one of the leading kretek (tobacco and clove) cigarettes manufacturers in Indonesia. In 2003, the central complex has been painstakingly restored and is now open to public; meanwhile the west side building remains as the official family residence.

 

House of Sampoerna is only 15 minutes driving from Singgasana Hotel Surabaya. It offers a unique experience for visitors where you can discover the story of the founding family and the development of Sampoerna's business. The Museum’s top attraction is the making of Dji Sam Soe, Indonesia’s most prestigious hand-rolled kretek cigarette, with more than 400 women hand-rolling cigarettes at a speed of more than five cigarettes per minute.

 

Beside the museum, visitors can also go to the Art Gallery that presents a rotating series of exhibitions representing the works of the finest artists in Indonesia. After a full-day tour, you can buy some souvenirs at The Shop or simply enjoying a wide selection of Western and Asian foods at The Café. Live music performances will accompany your dining experience, on selected evenings. House of Sampoerna is open for public throughout the year, except during the Idul Fitri Holiday. No admission fees and no prior reservation needed.