Museum of Tjong Yong Hian

On last summer of 2017, a friend of mine invited me to travel to Indonesia, specifically the city of Medan. One of the most memorable sightseeing places would be the Museum of Tjong Yong Hian. Although this museum is acknowledged by the Indonesian government as one of the tourist spots, this museum is privately owned and managed by the descendant of Tjong Yong Hian.

♦ A brief history. Tjong Yong Hian / Zhāng Róng xuān / 張榕軒 (surname Tjong / Zhāng / 張. 1850 - 1911) was originally a Chinese citizen who immigrated to Medan around 1970. Although being primarily a businessman, he was appointed as Major by the ruling Dutch Indies government at that time because of his contribution in building cemeteries, hospitals, homeless shelters, schools, and places of worship. He was also bestowed the imperial title of Vice Minister by the Qing emperor in 1909.

♦ The bridal door & bedroom. The most interesting spot in this museum is the Bridal Door. It’s an antique door decorated for wedding occasion. It’s interesting because lot’s of people are trying to take a picture in front of this door for the hope of better relations. The unmarried couple will take a picture in front of the door in hope of smooth marriage, while singles will take a picture in front of it in hope of getting a partner. There’s also a cloth-for-rent station nearby where visitors could rent antique Chinese bridal clothing for the picture.

♦ Antique vases & collectibles. They are not for sale though. Only for public display.