[2024 George Town Attraction] Travel Guide for Clan Jetties of Penang (Updated Sep)
No.10 of Best Things to Do in Penang
Bridges
Historical Sites
Address:
Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening times:
Opens at 9:00-21:00Open
Recommended sightseeing time:
0.5-1 hour
Phone:
+60 19-593 5333
Clan Jetties of Penang ✨
It's wonderful to observe a unique way of life in a welcoming environment. The city center is accessible on foot. It is great to see a special way of life and have a good atmosphere. The view across the sea is also great. Along the way, there are both residences and shops selling food and goods.
The Chew jetty is the best known and most-visited jetty with thousands of visitors plying the narrow wooden walkway during weekends and public holidays.
Quite enjoyed grabbing some great pics on these jettys of the main land and also of the bridge into Penang.
Overall, for the environment and all had a good time. And dont forget to wear a hat because there are extremely hot here. ❤️
#mymymemories #ahappytrip #awesomepic #mustcome #besttimeever #best_trip_by_trip #bestdeal #awesometrip #tripcom
Firaa_
Chew Jetty
#penang
Chew Jetty which is built in 1888, is located at 45 Pengkalan Weld, Georgetown, and is around 350 meters 4 minutes walk from Weld Quay Jetty Bus Terminal. It is open daily from 0900-2100.
Chew Jetty is one of the largest and oldest clan jetties in Penang, it is also the most busy and lively, because it is more commercialised and touristy.
You can find shops selling snacks, deserts, souvenirs along the wooden walkway, some of them are operated by the residents there.
Ancient Chinese traditions are being kept alive in this community, including the ancient Taoist religion, there is a Taoist temple just inside the entrance and the others at the end of Chew jetty.
Raymond TCY
🇲🇾 jetty hopping in Penang
#penang
Landed in Penang for a day and decided to walk around Georgetown. As we heard about the clans jetties, we decided to pop by to take a look.
It was really interesting to see how the locals live by their surname in these jetties. One of the jetties was sort of "commercialise," and there is a stretch. of shops selling souvenirs and food.
But well, do respect the residents who are still living there by keeping our volume low.
#Malaysia
#JettyClans
charlini
Penang Clan Jetties
Rating: 3/5
Getting There - Grab! There’s also buses that stop nearby and you can check google maps for the bus route / timing!
Attractions - Tan and Lim jetties were VERY quiet but nice to see the old houses which were very picturesque! Chou jetty was the most popular with tourists, with quite a few shops and snacks available! Overall very different from pre-covid times, very quiet and not much to look at 😢
Food & Restaurants - There are quite a few coffee shops that are patronised by locals in the vicinity that sell the usual malaysian food! Didn’t try but looked popular with locals.
Shopping - A lot of tourist shops at Chou Jetty (姓周桥) which is the most touristy out of the 3 bridges.
doonz
I’m not from there but I love this place
I visited Penang few years before with my husband for our anniversary. we drove to Penang from KL and reached there after 4 hours.
Our initial plan was just a simple “checked in” at the Clan Jetties due to long travel time and exhausted body. Guess what, the stunning view of sunset of Clan Jetties ( uploaded above) had successfully let us spend an hour over there.
There was a coffee shop inside the clan where we can have the view of the above pictures (not sure still there or not). A cup of coffee with the above views are the best moment of my life.
#penang #stunningview #chillax
Julene Ngui
Locals live on floating wooden planks
Cool place to visit, one of the jetties in Penang where locals stay at. Most of the nearby houses along the main road have been converted into stores or cafes. Boat trips are also offered.
great for selfies.
#penang#jetty#cafe
_TS***wy
Penang Travel - The fishing boat on the side of the surname bridge sings late. The surname bridge is not just a bridge. It is a fishing village on the shore of this sea. The biggest feeling of coming to the surname bridge is like coming to the Tai O fishing village in Hong Kong.
The famous "Shuqiao" has small crafts in it. It feels like everything is exported from China and then changed to Penang style. (The things they sell personally feel that there is no special feature, and the quality is not bad, I will not be embarrassed when I lose the ground.)
I have not been to Tai O fishing village, I think there is no special feature here, that is, ordinary Just a fishing village, then look at its fishing boat singing late?
Hotel_Lover.
The surname bridge in Penang, Malaysia is somewhat like the Tai O fishing village in Hong Kong. It is a wooden house area built on wooden boards. It is divided into areas by surname. There are surnames Linqiao, surname Zhouqiao, surname Chen Qiao, surname Li Qiao, surname Yangqiao, Miscellaneous Bridge and Ping'an Bridge are said to have been unable to step into the family before, but now they have become tourist attractions.
Surname Zhouqiao is the most frequent visitor to tourists. Most of the residents here are middle-aged and elderly people. They are basically Chinese. The style of the surname bridge is somewhat like Gulangyu...haha~ is also a literary art, many The usual fishermen did not go out to fish, but opened their own house into a holiday home. It is said that the "First Love Red Bean Ice" starring A Niu was once here.
The old street in Penang near the surname bridge is the most concentrated area of Penang's three-dimensional murals. The Penang three-dimensional mural is a project of local artists in Penang. The main content is the local cultural style of Penang, but the mural comparison Scattered, often hidden in an inconspicuous corner, blending with the surrounding environment. If you want to finish reading it all, it is recommended to buy a map and click on it. It must be said that the artists in Penang are really talented. The history and culture of Penang is very strong. Together with these interesting and realistic murals, it is even more icing on the cake.
ZIMO.
When you come to Penang, the surname bridge is a place you can't miss. It is a must-see for you to learn about Penang and integrate into your local life. Everyone here builds the house on the sea, the bottom is supported by wooden stakes, and the households are connected by wooden boards. Because these people are connected to the sea and the land and they live together in a family of surnames, that’s why it is called the surname bridge. This is also the earliest gathering place for Chinese in Penang. Penang was once one of the most important seaports in Southeast Asia. With the demolition of some bridges, the surnames Lin surname Zhou, surname Chen, surname Li, surname Yang and different surnames are all included in the bridge. The world cultural heritage category has been protected. Zhouqiao, the largest surname, has more than a thousand residents. It is said that it monopolizes the right to buy and sell goods from Indonesia. The surname Li Bridge monopolizes merchant ships from China. The surname Chen and surname Yang Qiao are the main economic activities, mainly based on wood and charcoal. The film "First Love Red Bean Ice" was once shot here, and the artist Wu Qixian's home is also here.
chenhaowen.
First Visit to Penang's Clan Jetties: A Blend of History and Modernity
The Clan Jetties of Penang in George Town are one of the city's unique attractions. These wooden house communities built on the sea have a history of over a hundred years, witnessing the struggles and lives of early Chinese immigrants. Although many of the jetties have become popular tourist spots due to the rise of tourism, each jetty still retains its own unique story. The most famous is the largest, Chew Jetty, but the increasing commercialization here is somewhat different from the historical depth I had imagined. In contrast, the nearby Tan Jetty offers a tranquil and serene atmosphere, allowing me to truly feel the history and charm of this water community.
🚩Chew Jetty: Historical Relic Amidst Bustle
As the most representative of the clan jetties, Chew Jetty boasts numerous shops and food stalls, attracting a large number of tourists and creating a modern atmosphere. Walking on this jetty, it's easy to find various souvenirs and specialty snacks, especially cultural and creative products related to Chew Jetty, making the entire area full of commercial vibes.
Although the bustling vitality of the jetty attracts many tourists, I can't help but feel a bit disappointed. The sense of history here seems to be overshadowed by the modern commercial atmosphere, with neon lights flashing outside the wooden houses and the noise of tourists making it difficult to focus on the profound significance of this place as a haven for Chinese immigrants.
👍Tan Jetty: Authentic Scenery in Tranquility
In stark contrast to the bustling Chew Jetty, the nearby Tan Jetty is much quieter. As I stepped onto this jetty, I instantly felt a completely different atmosphere. The wooden houses here still retain their simple appearance, with few tourists stopping by, making the entire space seem to return to the early years.
The sea water gently lapping against the bridge piers, the breeze blowing, I couldn't help but slow down my pace and quietly appreciate the surrounding scenery. The residents here still live a simple life, occasionally seen leisurely sitting in front of their doors drinking tea and chatting, as if nothing has changed over time. The beauty of Tan Jetty lies not in its grandeur but in its preservation of the most authentic appearance of this water world.
📍Cultural Value of the Clan Jetties
As an important heritage of the Chinese community in Penang, the clan jetties carry rich cultural and historical connotations. These jetties were not only places where immigrants lived but also symbols of social class, family power, and community cohesion. Each clan jetty has its own unique historical background, and in the face of modernization and commercialization, they have shown different ways of survival.
Chew Jetty has chosen to embrace modern tourism, bringing economic prosperity but also diluting some of its cultural and historical colors. In contrast, Tan Jetty continues to guard the purity and simplicity of this water community with its low-key and tranquil stance.
📍Conclusion: Finding Balance Between Bustle and Tranquility
The clan jetties of Penang are undoubtedly a microcosm of the blend of history and modernity. For a first-time visitor like me, although the bustling and lively atmosphere of Chew Jetty is impressive, I am more inclined towards the rare tranquility and authenticity of Tan Jetty. Here, there are no bustling tourists, no excessive commercialization, only fragments of history and bits of daily life.
When you visit Penang next time, you might start with Chew Jetty to feel its lively and modern vibe, but don't forget to take some time to visit the nearby Tan Jetty, immerse yourself in the long-lost tranquility, listen to the sound of the waves gently lapping against the wooden bridge, and experience the most authentic charm of the clan jetties. This unique experience will be one of the most beautiful memories of your trip.
🔴Travel Tips: Taking a Grab is convenient and fast
🟠Must-Visit Spots: Clan Jetties, Hai Kee Food Court
🟡Recommended Hotels: SAVV
🟢Must-Try Foods: Bak Kut Teh, Street Snacks
🔵Shopping Guide: Penang Specialty Souvenirs
choshungo
Southeast Asia's niche tourist city | Penang.
|Penang. This time I discovered a relatively niche tourist city in Malaysia - Penang. There are not many tourists here, it is relatively quiet, and the prices are not expensive.
1. Even if you don't speak English in Penang, you don't have to worry about communication problems, because there are many Chinese people here. It is said that the Chinese population accounts for more than 40%. You can see Chinese signs everywhere on the street, and many hotel and shop staff speak Chinese. In addition, Alipay can be used in many places.
2. There are direct flights from China to Penang, so it is very convenient without having to transfer in Kuala Lumpur. When we returned, we took Shenzhen Airlines from Penang directly back to Shenzhen.
3. Penang is a World Cultural Heritage city. There are many characteristic old buildings in the center of Georgetown that are worth a leisurely stroll, such as the Clan Jetties, the Khoo Kongsi, Little India, Armenian Street, Harmony Street, Mural Lane, the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, St. George's Church, the Old Clock Tower, etc.
4. In addition to the Georgetown area, there are many other fun places around, such as Penang Hill. It is very similar to the summer in Miyazaki's anime. You must take the small train up the mountain, where you can see the city, forest and sea at the same time. After reaching the top of the mountain, go to The Habitat to hike in the tropical rainforest. You can see many monkeys and various plants and animals along the way. There is a section built on the forest, and it feels amazing to have towering trees under your feet.
Finally, there is a panoramic skywalk, which is the highest viewing platform in Penang. You can have a panoramic view of Penang. However, the skywalk is as high as four or five floors, and it is hollowed out. People with acrophobia may be afraid.
5. If you like the sea and beaches, you can go to Batu Ferringhi Beach. It is best to go at sunset, where you can ride a horse on the beach for a very romantic and unique experience.
6. If you like the countryside, you can go to Penang Hill Back to ride a four-wheel drive off-road vehicle to explore the countryside of Penang. It only costs 130 Malaysian Ringgit for two people, and you can drive for about an hour (round trip about 10 kilometers). There is a coach driving behind, so it is very safe.
7. In Penang, you can also rent a set of Baba Nyonya costumes for travel photography, and go to a local Nyonya restaurant to eat authentic Nyonya cuisine.
PS: Baba Nyonya is the offspring of ancient Chinese immigrants and Southeast Asian indigenous Malays. Men are called "Baba" and women are called "Nyonya".
In short, if you want to find a place in Southeast Asia with convenient transportation, low prices, few tourists, and a rich culture for vacation and living, Penang is a good choice.
HarperLncstr
Clan Jetties of Penang
#myhiddengems
It’s a unique place and worth a visit. Just try not to go in the hottest time of the day. Chew Jetty has some shops that sells souvenirs and such as well. It is quite hard to find parking in the area. I would recommend just walking over if you already are in the vicinity.
The good point of visit, in the afternoon it's very hot. I recommend to go at 5:00 p.m. onwards for sunset But many stores will be closed. You have to make a choice!!
LonelyBoy
Penang's living history! A must-visit!
Clan Jetties, Penang's most important heritage site🌉
A living history of Penang, a gathering place for Chinese immigrants in Nanyang
It is the largest waterfront settlement in George Town
Also part of the Penang clan jetties located south of Weld Quay
Not a bridge, more like a water village on stilts🏠
By the seaside, take photos of the bridge and the seascape
Houses are built over the sea, supported by stilts, with people of the same surname living on the same jetty
The Chew Jetty and Lim Jetty are the most famous
Chew Jetty is currently the most bustling
Tan Jetty extends the farthest out to sea, 80 meters
Navigate to Tan Jetty to reach the Red House❤️
LIBERTY INGRAM
Penang CityWalk One-Day Tour Guide
🌈The quaint Penang, vibrant with colors, offers a one-day CityWalk tour guide for a leisurely stroll through the streets and endless fun at the museums.
✅Tour Route
New Street Square — Shantou Street — Upside Down Museum — George Town Murals — Clan Jetties — Peranakan Mansion
💕Tour Tips
Starting from New Street Square, you'll find various food shops to settle breakfast with ease. As you wander, you'll reach Shantou Street, a haven for delicious snacks and drinks, with plenty of desserts and small bites.
The Upside Down Museum is great for taking atmospheric photos; it's fun and well-organized. Staff guide you through each scene and even help take pictures, ensuring both kids and adults have a great time.
Ticket: 34MB Time: 09:30-18:30
George Town's murals are one of the attractions here, with the entire street immersed in graffiti culture. You can casually snap 3D effect photos and slowly discover surprises. If you don't feel like walking, there are trishaws to take you around for check-ins.
Clan Jetties
These are stilt houses named after surnames. Mostly, they are shops. The riverside view is quite nice, and you can take a few photos.
Peranakan Mansion
A visit to a wealthy Peranakan-style house, open from 9 am to 5 pm. The house is richly decorated, and inside you can try on costumes and take photos.
🏷Ticket: 20MB, Costume Experience: 138MB, includes afternoon tea
Hair and makeup services are charged separately.
📌tips:
For a trip to Penang, it's recommended to exchange some cash for convenience, as many places are street food vendors, and grab can be used for taxis.
Logan.Morris^28
Experience the life of Chinese natives in Penang's Chinatown
Must-visit: When in George Town, the old city area of Penang, Malaysia, the Clan Jetties are a must-visit spot. In fact, the Clan Jetties are not a bridge, but a residential area connected to the sea, which has now been listed as a World Cultural Heritage site.
The Penang Clan Jetties are the earliest gathering place for Chinese in Penang. The houses built over the sea are simple yet not rudimentary. This place is not a single building, but a collective name for many jetties. Today, the surviving jetties named after the surnames Lim, Chew, Tan, Lee, Yeoh, and the Mixed Clans are six of the Clan Jetties. This is a great place to understand and integrate into the life of Penang.
Highlight: Currently, Chew Jetty is the largest among the Clan Jetties. The creaking wooden planks are full of historical charm. The small shops on the jetty offer a variety of cold drinks, fried snacks, seafood, and other specialty snacks, as well as handicrafts. It is also the filming location of the movie 'Ice Kacang Puppy Love', making it a perfect spot for fresh and quaint photo sessions.
Admission: Free.
Touring method: The characteristic of this place is that it is full of a strong sense of life, and the best way to experience it is by walking. Walking all the way to the end of the sea, accompanied by the gentle breeze blowing over the sea, is another kind of tranquility and coolness.
AvaMacLeod19
Penang | Clan Jetties
Clan Jetties. The Clan Jetties of Penang were the residential areas of Chinese immigrants who came to Nanyang in the past, consisting of wooden houses built in clusters along the coast. The so-called 'jetty' is not a bridge, but rather high-stilt wooden houses constructed along the coast on piers. They are elevated with wooden pillars, with the base solidified with cement, and wooden planks laid out to form the streets of the village, connecting it to the mainland. When the Chinese came to Penang to engage in trade and fishing, they lived by the sea, hence they built plank walkways and houses on top of them, forming unique little villages. The largest of these now is the Chew Jetty. Surrounded by tall buildings, the small stature of the Clan Jetties and the long piers quietly extend into the sea, showing a bit of vicissitude and calmness. These wooden houses were once on the verge of demolition and abandonment, but after Penang was recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site, the Clan Jetties were preserved. However, it is uncertain how long this type of wooden architecture can last. Before they disappear, come here to see and feel the hardships of the Chinese immigrants who came to Nanyang in the past, and to understand the intelligence, wisdom, and strong adaptability of the Chinese people.
RoamingVagabond$123
Clan Jetties Of Penang
#penangtrip Chew Clan is said to be the biggest among the rest. There are quite a couple of shops along the way. There is a cafe as well. Instagramable places. Quite worth a visit. Free entrance, there is a toilet along the way.an iconic landmark of Penang, the clan jetties are a row of ‘boardwalks’ that extend into the sea, each flanked by houses presumably owned by members of the same surname clan.
each jetty was subtly different from the next, increasing somewhat in grandeur until Chew Jetty, the most famous of the jetties. walking down each jetty took a total of just over an hour, taking in the views of birds, the ocean and the architecture of the jetties. it’s a serene, peaceful experience that you can slot into any jam-packed day for some downtime!
Chew Jetty itself has stalls and a temple leading up to the jetty, while the others have stalls along the roadside. Note that vehicles regularly pass through these boardwalks, so be mindful!
KrisAdventure_19
A Spicy and Sizzling Journey in Penang! Delicious and Fun!
A Spicy and Sizzling Penang! Delicious and Fun! One visit and you're hooked
✅ Itinerary
Day1️⃣: Clan Jetties - Mural Street - Overseas Chinese Museum - St. George's Church - Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion - (🏨Return to hotel for rest) - Batu Ferringhi Beach (watch the sunset🌇)
📝 Travel Tips
George Town's attractions are concentrated and within walking distance. It gets very hot and sunny at noon, so if you're feeling the heat, find a cafe to enjoy some air conditioning, or head back to the hotel to rest; 🥵 if you can't stand the heat, it's recommended to start your day around 7 am when it's less crowded, more beautiful, and not hot.
🏖️ For the beach sunset, I took a Grab, and I suggest leaving around 4:30 pm to avoid a bit of traffic.
Day2️⃣: Penang Hill - Kek Lok Si Temple
📝 Travel Tips
Take the funicular train up the hill, a round trip costs RM30, and the standard queue is about 30 minutes on non-holidays. ‼️ Don't throw away your ticket; you'll need it for the return trip and when exiting! Keep it with you at all times! 🌟 By the way: the monkeys🐒 on Penang Hill are so well-behaved.
😋 Food Recommendations:
✅ Pearly Kee's Nyonya Pantry
✅ Toh Soon Cafe
✅ Green House Prawn Mee
✅ Fook Sow Zee Hainan Chicken Rice
✅ The Mugshot Cafe (Salmon Bagel👍🏻)
✅ Penang Teochew Chendul (‼️ Street stall)
✅ The pokok under the big tree (live music, great atmosphere)
🏨 Hotel:
📍 The Shanghai Hotel (Female-exclusive hostel)
❤ It's all girls, mainly Europeans & Chinese & Chinese descendants, and it feels like being back in a dormitory during school days. Hostels are the best places to find travel companions as long as you're proactive.
‼️ They do not provide disposable slippers, toothbrushes and toothpaste, earplugs (bring your own if you're a light sleeper), or towels; the air conditioning has scheduled on/off times; from 6:30 am you will start to hear the sound of Muslim prayers🙏🏻
‼️ Tips to note
Penang is really hot and is suitable for a leisurely, slow-paced stroll. I took the citywalk route, starting in the morning, returning after lunch to rest, and heading out again in the evening, otherwise, it's just too hot.
sylas_3344
Nice to walk at around these area to see how different the life of the people that live here. It’s totally different from the hustle bustle of the city. Easy to get around with a lot of souvenir shops selling stuff along the jetties. Good view of sea.
Krissy Krissy
Nanyang Small Town | Penang 15 Play Attractions, Have you checked in?
| Penang 15 Play Attractions, Have you checked in?
🌿Penang, this Nanyang small town, has a rich history and diverse culture. Experience 15 must-visit attractions to make your trip fun! ✨
🏖 Penang Street Murals: Walking through the streets and alleys of Penang, you will find colorful murals that witness the development of Penang's art and show the unique charm of Penang. Find your own painting and feel the perfect fusion of art and life.
🏠 Surname Bridge: In Penang, each bridge has its unique surname. Walking on the surname bridge, feel the precipitation of history, and appreciate the power of family heritage. Find your own bridge, feel its story, and experience its emotions.
🤝 Nyonya Museum: The Nyonya Museum is a good place to understand Penang's diverse culture. Here, you can see the unique architectural style of Nyonya and feel the charm of Nyonya culture. Find your own piece of history, understand its story, and experience its culture.
🏖 Batu Ferringhi Beach: Sunshine, beach, waves, is the charm of Penang beach. Here, you can sunbathe, swim, surf, and enjoy the sunshine and sea breeze of Penang. Find your own beach, feel its beauty, and experience its tranquility.
🏞 Penang National Park: Penang National Park is a representative of Penang's natural scenery. Here, you can appreciate the beautiful scenery of Penang and feel the natural atmosphere of Penang. Find your own forest, feel its freshness, and experience its tranquility.
🏔 Flag-raising Mountain: The flag-raising mountain is the highest peak in Penang and the best place to watch the beautiful scenery of Penang. Here, you can see the panoramic view of Penang and feel the beauty of Penang. Find your own mountain peak, feel its magnificence, and experience its charm.
🏠 Kek Lok Si Temple, St. George's Church, Pulau Tikus, Snake Temple, Burmese Buddhist Temple, Wat Chaiyamangalaram, Reclining Buddha Temple: These temples and churches are representatives of Penang's religious culture. Feel the religious atmosphere of Penang and understand the religious culture of Penang. Find your own temple or church, feel its tranquility, and experience its faith.
🙏 In the Wat Chaiyamangalaram, I heard a magical legend. It is said that if you can make a wish or ask a question in front of the Buddha, and then hold up this Buddha, you can realize your wish. But I tried it and found that I couldn't hold it up. This surprised me because other people can easily hold up this Buddha. 🙏
📍Check in these attractions in Penang, chartered tours are the most convenient, there are 5 hours and 10 hours to choose from, and there are certified Chinese guides to explain the attractions for you, so you can appreciate the different cultural styles of different attractions, you can customize the attractions, let you go wherever you want, you just need to bring your mobile phone to take beautiful photos.
🎨For details, you can consult Didi.
Savoring Sojourns
The Clan jetties is really gorgeous during golden hours. Walkways are rather narrow and can get crowded during peak hours, but definitely worth the short 5mins walk down the jetties for the view.
Ensis Aurora
Penang Rapid Rides
It was a great moments to be back to my hometown.
Ride a bus and taking a ferry to Penang Island was so fun liked old times.
How time flies..wish to come back again.
April25
trip beach
#spooktaculartrip
Fahimi Stalk
Chew Jetty for the grams
Enjoyed the sea breeze and the scenery from the jetty. Definitely a place you should not miss.