Bukit China, or Chinese Hill, is a green hillside cemetery in Melaka with graves dating to the 17th century and earlier. A free loop trail of about 2 km passes through the burial ground, beneath trees and past monkeys, with views over the city along the way. At the foot of the hill, stop at the temple to read about the cemetery’s history. It is a quiet change of pace from Melaka’s busy streets, with a place to walk, jog and explore local history.
A cemetery on a green hillside
Bukit China is a hillside burial ground in Melaka, known for its large Chinese cemetery. Graves here date back to the 17th century, with tombs from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The site has more than 12,000 graves, though many burial places have been damaged or lost over time.
The cemetery is also a green space for walking and jogging. A loop trail of about 2 km winds through the trees, offering a quieter break from the streets of the city. Monkeys can be seen along the way, and parts of the route look out over Melaka.
The temple and memorials
At the base of the hill, the temple has information about the cemetery’s past. It makes a useful first stop before following the trail, especially if you want context for the graves you will see along the route.
A memorial to Chinese people killed by the Japanese during the Second World War is also near the hill. The old Hang Li Poh Well, dated to 1459, is nearby within whitewashed walls.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee for Bukit China?
No. The approximately 2 km loop trail is free to explore.
How long is the Bukit China walking trail?
The loop is approximately 2 km.
What can you see at Bukit China?
The hillside has a large Chinese cemetery with graves dating to the 17th century and earlier, as well as a temple with historical information. The trail also passes through greenery and has views over Melaka.
When is Bukit China busiest?
The area gets busier during Qing Ming, also known as All Souls’ Day. For a quieter walk, visit outside that period.
