The House of Sampoerna is one of Surabaya’s most iconic and fascinating landmarks. A historic site that offers a deep dive into Indonesia’s rich culture and the legacy of its tobacco industry, it’s a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals alike. Located in Surabaya, East Java, this museum and cultural center showcase the heritage of the Sampoerna family and their significant contributions to the local and national tobacco industry. The combination of the museum's historical exhibits, the beautiful colonial architecture, and the working cigarette factory makes it a unique place to explore.
Reaching the House of Sampoerna is quite straightforward, as it is located in the heart of Surabaya, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The museum is located on Taman Sampoerna Street, which is just a few kilometers from the city center.
If you are coming from the Surabaya Juanda International Airport, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service, such as Grab or Gojek, which would take around 30 minutes depending on traffic. From the Surabaya Gubeng Train Station, it is only a short 10-minute drive by car or public transport.
Public buses, taxis, and private vehicles are common ways to reach the House of Sampoerna, and it is well connected by road. Once you arrive, there are plenty of signs and directions guiding you to the entrance of the museum.
Surabaya has a tropical climate, with hot and humid conditions year-round. The weather is usually warm, with temperatures averaging between 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F). If you plan to visit the House of Sampoerna, it’s a good idea to check the forecast before your trip. The city experiences a rainy season from November to March, so you might encounter showers during this period, especially in the late afternoon. If you visit during the dry season (April to October), you will enjoy sunny days ideal for walking around the city and visiting attractions.
The House of Sampoerna operates every day of the week, providing ample opportunity to explore the museum. The opening hours are as follows:
It’s recommended to arrive in the morning to avoid the afternoon crowds, as weekends can be busy with both local visitors and tourists. The museum is open on public holidays, so you can plan your visit around festive occasions too.
The House of Sampoerna is famous for its deep-rooted connection to the tobacco industry and the Sampoerna family's legacy. Established in 1932, the Sampoerna brand became synonymous with quality clove cigarettes, or “kretek,” which is a significant part of Indonesian culture. The museum itself is housed in a stunning Dutch colonial-style building that dates back to the early 20th century. Its beautiful architecture, historical displays, and the ongoing production of kretek cigarettes attract visitors from all over the world.
What makes this place unique is the combination of a museum and an active cigarette production facility. Visitors have the chance to witness firsthand the traditional methods of hand-rolling kretek cigarettes, a skill passed down through generations. It offers an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at the tobacco industry, making it a truly unique and insightful experience for all who visit.
The House of Sampoerna offers an affordable entry fee for those wanting to explore the museum and the surrounding areas. Here’s a quick overview of the entry details:
The entry ticket includes access to the museum, which showcases the history of the Sampoerna family, the traditional tobacco production process, and other exhibits about Surabaya’s historical significance. There are also souvenir shops where visitors can purchase various Sampoerna merchandise and local goods.
The House of Sampoerna was originally built in 1862 as a Dutch colonial-style building. It was later converted into a cigarette factory by the Sampoerna family in 1932. The factory was one of the first in Indonesia to produce kretek cigarettes, blending tobacco with cloves. This unique combination made the brand famous and solidified the Sampoerna family's place in Indonesia’s tobacco history.
The building itself is an excellent example of colonial-era architecture, with high ceilings, large windows, and intricate woodwork. The museum retains the vintage charm of its early 20th-century origins, and the space is beautifully preserved, providing an immersive historical experience. The structure is a mixture of Dutch and Indonesian architectural influences, with traditional carvings and decorative details adding character to the building.
There is a variety of things to do at the House of Sampoerna. Visitors can:
The House of Sampoerna is a fascinating glimpse into Indonesia’s past and the story behind one of the country’s most recognizable brands. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking to explore Surabaya, this museum offers an experience that is both educational and entertaining. Don’t miss the chance to learn about Indonesia’s tobacco heritage in one of the most beautiful and well-preserved historical sites in Surabaya!