Binjai

Binjai – The city of 'rambutan'

According to oral tradition, the city now known as Binjai in North Sumatra province began as a small riverside village sheltered by a giant binjai tree (a type of mango). Over time, more homes were constructed around the tree, leading to the development of the bustling city we know today. Travelers through the years began referring to the village as Binjai due to its association with the prominent tree.

Today, Binjai boasts a diverse population of Javanese, Karo, Chinese, Batak, and Melayu people, totaling 303,000 residents. These communities are situated within a 90.45 square kilometer area bordered by the Mencirim, Bangkatan, and Bingai rivers. The presence of these waterways has endowed the city with numerous water-based attractions, such as Siluman Waterfall, Pantai Florida Binjai (which also features a waterfall), and the Arung Jeram Sungai Bingei rafting rapids. Additionally, the fertile land surrounding the rivers supports picturesque agricultural sites, including Sawah Lukis, a stunning rice field where visitors can unwind and savor a meal amidst a tranquil ambiance reminiscent of a beach escape.

Binjai's soil has also yielded the nation's largest rambutan fruit production, amounting to 2,400 tons per year across 425 hectares of rambutan orchards. Binjai's rambutan have gained widespread popularity, with their seeds even being distributed and cultivated in various other parts of Indonesia, such as Blitar, East Java.

No less interesting, Binjai is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, hosting annual festivals celebrating its diverse heritage and traditions. The city's rich tapestry of customs and rituals adds to its allure as a destination for both tourists and researchers alike.

The city's wealth and array of attractions are complemented by robust local industries. The leading contributor to its Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) in 2023, which was recorded at Rp 8.91 trillion, were the Wholesale and Retail Trade, Car and Motorbike Repairs industry, comprising 30.28 percent in 2023, followed by Construction (12.04 percent) and Processing industries (11.47 percent).