ARTEKS : Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur
Vol 11 No 2 (2026): ARTEKS : Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur | April 2026 ~ June 2026

The relationship between Chinese community traditions and belief systems and the architectural form of the Chinatown area in Lasem, Central Java

Julindiani Iskandar (Parahyangan Catholic University)
Purnama Salura (Parahyangan Catholic University)
Yohanes Karyadi Kusliansjah (Parahyangan Catholic University)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Jun 2026

Abstract

Historical records indicate that Chinese communities have consistently adapted to their surrounding environments. This adaptive capacity has influenced both activities and architectural styles found within Chinatown areas. Although the architectural forms of Chinatowns may appear similar on the surface, they often embody an integration of traditions and belief systems that shape their design. This study aims to explore, analyze, and define the relationship between the traditions and belief systems of the Chinese community and the architectural forms of Chinatown in the Lasem Chinatown area, Central Java. A qualitative approach is employed in this research to collect primary data through two main methods: (1) conducting interviews with key informants to gather data on traditions and beliefs related to activities, and (2) carrying out field observations to collect data on the architectural forms of Chinatown. The data are analyzed and interpreted to reveal the relationships between the interview information obtained and the observational findings. In the context of residential buildings, the traditions and beliefs of the Chinese community are transmitted from generation to generation without significantly altering the architectural form. Chinese architecture functions as a pragmatic replication of ancient structures from their homeland, brought by Chinese immigrants to Indonesia, particularly to Lasem. The findings of this study offer valuable insights into the relationship between traditions and belief systems and the architectural forms of Chinatown, and propose strategies for the sustainability of contemporary Chinese architectural practices.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ARTEKS

Publisher

Subject

Civil Engineering, Building, Construction & Architecture

Description

ARTEKS : Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur is a medium of scholarly publication published by Architecture Study Program of Universitas Katolik Widya Mandira in collaboration with Indonesian Architect Association. It serves several goals i.e. being a medium of communication, dissemination and exchange of ...