Melaka: A Charming City Brimming with History and Culture
Melaka is a historical city facing the Strait of Melaka in Malaysia. From the 15th to the 19th century, it was ruled by various nations including the Melaka Sultanate, Portugal, the Netherlands, and Britain, leading to a unique cityscape where Eastern and Western cultures intertwined. In 2008, Melaka and George Town were registered as UNESCO World Heritage sites as “Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca.”
History of Melaka
The history of Melaka began in the 14th century with the establishment of the Melaka Sultanate by King Parameswara. Subsequently, it underwent colonial rule by Portugal, the Netherlands, and Britain, with each country’s culture taking root in the city. When Malaysia gained independence in 1957, Melaka became one of its cities.
Climate of Melaka
Melaka has a tropical rainforest climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The rainy season is from October to December, and the dry season is from March to May. Facing the Strait of Melaka, sea breezes make the climate relatively comfortable, but the sun is strong, so don’t forget sun protection like hats and sunscreen.
Tourist Attractions in Melaka
Melaka offers various tourist attractions, including historical buildings and beautiful nature.
Historical Buildings
- St. Paul’s Church Ruins: The ruins of a church built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Although only the walls and bell tower remain, it has become a symbolic tourist spot in Melaka.
- Dutch Square: A square that retains the atmosphere of the Dutch colonial era. Lined with red-brick buildings, it exudes a European charm.
- Fort Santiago: A fortress built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. It is now open to the public as a museum.
- A Famosa Fortress: A fortress built by the Dutch. Only a part of its walls remains today.
Nature
- Strait of Melaka: The Strait of Melaka is one of the world’s most important shipping lanes. You can watch cruise ships and tankers pass by.
- Masjid Selat Melaka: Mosque from the Strait of Melaka (Link to related article)
- Melaka River: A river that flows through Melaka. You can stroll along the riverbanks or take a cruise to enjoy the cityscape.
Melaka Cuisine
Melaka offers dining spots where you can enjoy cuisine from various countries.
- Nyonya Cuisine: A fusion of Chinese and Malay cultures. Representative dishes include otak-otak, laksa, and assam prawn.
- Malay Cuisine: You can enjoy typical Malaysian dishes such as Nasi Lemak, Satay, and Rendang.
- Chinese Cuisine: Many Chinese people reside in Melaka, so Chinese cuisine is also popular.
- Indian Cuisine: Melaka also has many Indian restaurants where you can enjoy dishes like Tandoori Chicken and Curry.
Access from Kuala Lumpur City to Melaka (Train, Bus, Grab)
1. Train
- One-way fare: Approximately 35 Malaysian Ringgit (approx. 980 JPY)
- Journey time: Approximately 4.5 hours
- Boarding station: KL Sentral Station
- Alighting station: Melaka Station
- Operating company: KTM
- Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Train and Tickets (KL Sentral Station) (Link to related article)
- Timetable: https://www.ktmb.com.my/traintime.html
- Booking method:
- Online booking: https://www.ktmb.com.my/traintime.html
- Station ticket counter
- Notes:
- Train services are limited, so check the timetable in advance.
- Baggage allowance is up to 2 pieces of hand luggage.
- From Melaka Station to the city center, you can use taxis, buses, or ride-hailing services like Grab.
2. Bus
- One-way fare: Approximately 15 Malaysian Ringgit (approx. 420 JPY)
- Journey time: Approximately 3 hours
- Bus Terminals:
- Puduraya Bus Terminal
- Bandar Tasik Selatan (BTS) Bus Terminal
- Bus Companies:
- Transnasional
- Konsortium Express
- Timetable: https://www.easybook.com/en-bn/bus/booking/kualalumpur-to-malacca
- Booking method:
- Online booking: https://www.easybook.com/en-bn/bus/booking/kualalumpur-to-malacca
- Bus terminal ticket counter
- Notes:
- There are many bus services, offering more flexibility with time.
- Baggage allowance is up to 2 pieces of hand luggage.
- From Melaka Bus Terminal to the city center, you can use taxis, buses, or ride-hailing services like Grab.
3. Grab
- Fare: Approximately 50 Malaysian Ringgit and up (approx. 1,400 JPY and up)
- Journey time: Approximately 2 hours
- Booking method: Grab app
- Notes:
- Grab is an on-demand ride-hailing service, so cars may not arrive exactly at the reserved time.
- Fares vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.
- Baggage allowance varies by vehicle type.
Conclusion
Melaka is a city where you can enjoy various attractions, including history, culture, nature, and gourmet food. When traveling to Malaysia, why not visit Melaka?
