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Lawang Sewu
The 'Thousand Doors' building was a Japanese execution site in WWII. Prisoners were beheaded in the basement. A headless ghost called 'kuntilanak' haunts the corridors. Indonesia's most famous haunted building.
1907 - Present
Semarang, Indonesia
10000+ witnesses
Lawang Sewu is Indonesia’s most famous haunted building.
The Building
According to documented accounts:
Lawang Sewu:
- “Thousand Doors” in Javanese
- Dutch colonial building
- Built 1907
- Railway headquarters
- Became execution site
The Japanese Occupation
During WWII:
- Japanese used basement
- For executions
- Prisoners beheaded
- Blood flowed
- Mass death occurred
The Kuntilanak
Indonesia’s famous ghost:
- Female spirit
- Long black hair
- White dress
- Appears at Lawang Sewu
- Seeking revenge
The Headless Spirits
Also reported:
- Decapitated victims
- Walking the corridors
- Carrying their heads
- From basement executions
- Reliving their deaths
The Reputation
In Indonesia:
- Most haunted building
- Ghost hunting destination
- Featured in films
- Cultural landmark
- Tourist attraction
Modern Use
Today:
- Restored and open
- Ghost tours available
- Activity continues
- Very popular
- Respectful visits encouraged