The Ghosts of Lawang Sewu: Indonesia’s Most Haunted Landmar



Lawang Sewu, an architectural marvel in Semarang, Indonesia, is as famous for its haunting legends as it is for its stunning colonial design. The name "Lawang Sewu" translates to "A Thousand Doors" in Javanese, a reference to the numerous doors and windows that make up the grand structure. While it was originally built as the headquarters for the Dutch East Indies Railway Company (Nederlandsch-Indische Spoorweg Maatschappij – NIS) in 1907, its dark past has led it to be regarded as one of the most haunted places in Indonesia.

A Dark and Tragic History

Lawang Sewu has witnessed multiple historical events and tragedies, many of which are believed to have left behind restless spirits. During World War II, the Japanese occupied the building and converted its underground areas into torture chambers and execution sites. These hidden dungeons, once used to imprison and execute Indonesian freedom fighters, are now said to be the source of terrifying paranormal activity.

After Indonesia gained independence, the building was used for various governmental and military purposes, but its sinister reputation continued to grow. Over the years, stories of ghostly encounters, eerie noises, and shadowy figures have made Lawang Sewu a hotspot for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers.

The Ghostly Legends of Lawang Sewu

The Headless Spirits of the Basement
Perhaps the most terrifying stories come from the underground dungeon, where the Japanese are said to have tortured and beheaded prisoners. Many visitors and security personnel have reported seeing headless apparitions wandering through the corridors. Some even claim to hear moans and whispers coming from the basement, despite it being empty.

The Kuntilanak – The Ghostly Woman in White
A well-known legend surrounding Lawang Sewu involves a Kuntilanak, a vengeful female spirit often seen dressed in white with long, flowing hair. According to urban myths, this spirit is the ghost of a woman who was assaulted and killed in the building. She is often spotted near the staircases or peering out of windows, sometimes laughing or crying in the middle of the night.

The Shadow Figures in the Hallways
Many visitors and ghost hunters have reported seeing dark, shadowy figures moving along the endless hallways of Lawang Sewu. These figures are said to vanish when approached or appear suddenly in photographs. Some believe they are the spirits of Dutch and Japanese soldiers, still trapped within the walls of the building.

Mysterious Footsteps and Disembodied Voices
Staff and visitors alike have claimed to hear unexplained footsteps, whispers, and screams echoing through the halls. Some say the sounds are from the spirits of those who suffered during the Japanese occupation, forever reliving their pain.

The Mirror Ghost
One of the most spine-chilling stories is the mirror ghost—a spirit that appears when you look into certain mirrors in the building. Some visitors have reported seeing a pale figure standing behind them in reflections, only to turn around and find nothing there.

A Paranormal Attraction

Due to its eerie reputation, Lawang Sewu has become one of Indonesia’s most famous haunted locations, drawing both history buffs and paranormal investigators. Ghost-hunting television shows have featured the site, and many visitors come hoping to experience something supernatural.

Despite its haunted past, Lawang Sewu has undergone restorations to preserve its historical value. It is now open to the public as a museum, where people can explore its grand halls, underground chambers, and eerie corridors.

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, Lawang Sewu is a place that exudes mystery and intrigue. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and chilling ghost stories make it one of the most captivating and spine-tingling destinations in Indonesia.