What to Shop For in and Around Kesawan

Kesawan may be best known for its heritage buildings and street food, but it's also a surprisingly rewarding area for shopping — particularly if you're looking for locally made goods, traditional textiles, and authentic Sumatran souvenirs. Here's a guide to what to look for and where to find it.

Ulos: North Sumatra's Sacred Textile

Ulos is the traditional hand-woven ceremonial cloth of the Batak people of North Sumatra. More than just fabric, Ulos carries deep cultural significance — it is given at births, weddings, funerals, and as a mark of respect between families. Visitors can find Ulos cloth in various forms, from full ceremonial pieces to smaller scarves and table runners, at shops and markets around central Medan.

Look for vendors near the Kesawan area and along Jalan Sisingamangaraja who specialize in authentic, handwoven pieces. Be aware that machine-made imitations exist — authentic Ulos typically shows slight irregularities that are part of its handcrafted charm.

Bika Ambon and Edible Souvenirs

Food makes an excellent souvenir from Medan, and the area around Kesawan and Jalan Majapahit is lined with specialty snack shops. Popular edible souvenirs include:

  • Bika Ambon: Medan's signature honeycomb cake in gift-ready packaging
  • Bolu Meranti: A soft rolled cake unique to Medan, sold in beautifully branded boxes
  • Sirup Markisa: Passionflower syrup, a traditional North Sumatran drink concentrate
  • Durian candy and chips: Packaged durian-flavored snacks for those who love the king of fruits

Pasar Ikan Lama — The Old Fish Market Area

A short walk from Kesawan, the Pasar Ikan Lama (Old Fish Market) area is actually better known today for its Chinese herbal medicine shops, gold traders, and general goods vendors. It's one of Medan's oldest commercial districts and retains a wonderfully chaotic, old-world atmosphere. This is a great place to browse, even if you don't buy.

Tips for Shopping in Kesawan and Medan

  • Visit in the morning: Traditional markets and specialist shops are busiest and best-stocked in the morning hours.
  • Bring small bills: Vendors often struggle to make change for large Rupiah notes.
  • Ask about authenticity: For textiles and crafts, ask the vendor directly about the origin and materials. Genuine artisans are usually proud to explain their work.
  • Compare before buying: Especially for Ulos and souvenir food, it pays to walk the street first and compare quality and pricing.
  • Respect the haggling culture: In open markets, a friendly negotiation is expected and normal. In established shops, prices are usually fixed.

Modern Shopping Near Kesawan

For those who want air-conditioned shopping, several large malls are located within Medan's city center, including Sun Plaza and Medan Plaza, both reachable in minutes by ride-hailing. These carry international brands, local fashion labels, and large food courts representing Medan's diverse cuisine.

The Lifestyle Scene: Cafés and Concept Stores

In recent years, Medan has seen a growth in independent cafés and concept stores. Some have begun appearing near Kesawan and in adjacent neighborhoods, blending local aesthetics with modern café culture. These spaces often carry local art prints, handmade goods, and specialty Sumatran coffee — worth exploring if you want something beyond the traditional market experience.