Accessible by ferry from Singapore and Batam, Tanjung Pinang (Tanjungpinang) is the main town of Bintan Island and the capital of the Riau Islands. At bird’s eye view, the township is lined with myraid piers, testimony to its role as a main trading port of the island. Steeped with laid back and idyllic charm, Tanjung Pinang offers great insights to Bintan’s local culture, history and heritage. Its traditional architecture reflects the influence of the 19th century Dutch colonization, contributing to its quaint appeal. Shoppers will love the town for its colourful assortment of goods, value-for-money bargains and friendly merchants. Get into the mood and rev your engines up by joining in the hustle and bustle at the Tanjung Pinang Wet Markets or Tanjung Pinang Traditional Market. Marvel at the fresh produce and seafood or stock up on many types of local dried seafood and tidbits. There are also shopping malls such as the newly opened Tanjung Pinang City Center where the only movie theatre in Bintan sits. Recharge after your shopping spree at one of the many spa outlets that offers rejuvenating massages at affordable prices! To learn more about Tanjung Pinang, visit the new iconic Gedung Gonggong which is a visual feast, and also serves as a Tourism Information Center.
Besides shopping and relaxation, there is no shortage of food options and sightseeing attractions. Two famed temples – Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (500 Lohan Temple) and Vihara Avalokitesvara Graha (Guanyin Temple) will make exciting additions to your itinerary. For an extra dose of culture and history, board the pompong (water taxi) to reach Senggarang Village and Pulau Penyengat for an unforgetable time. After a long day, head to Rimba Jaya for night market street food, or one of the nation’s favourite Nasi Padang chain—Sederhana Masakan Padang for Nasi Padang ‘hidang‘ style.