Main Bazaar

Main Bazaar is the oldest street in Kuching, Sarawak, located along the south bank of the Sarawak River at the Kuching Waterfront. Established in 1864 during the Brooke era, it is lined with historic two-storey shophouses. Today it is known as Kuching's primary handicraft and souvenir precinct, offering textiles, woodcarvings, antiques and local crafts within a preserved heritage streetscape.

Visitors can expect a pedestrian-friendly heritage street of restored shophouses housing handicraft, antique, textile and souvenir shops. The street runs parallel to the Kuching Waterfront promenade with views of the Sarawak River and the Astana across the river. Interiors display Sarawakian crafts including pua kumbu textiles, beadwork, woodcarvings and pottery. The area is compact and walkable, with cafes and galleries interspersed among shops, and is often explored as part of a waterfront walking route.

Main Bazaar was established in 1864 under Charles Brooke, the second White Rajah of Sarawak, as Kuching's earliest commercial street. It served as the main trading hub for merchants along the Sarawak River and retains its original row of shophouses, representing the commercial development of Kuching during the Brooke administration.

The street is a cultural hub for Sarawak handicrafts and heritage commerce, showcasing crafts of Malay, Chinese and Dayak communities including pua kumbu ikat textiles, beadwork, woodcarvings and ceramics. It reflects Kuching's multicultural trading history and remains a centre for traditional craft preservation and souvenir trade.