In the past, Tanjung Priok was a dangerous forest and swamp, so a safe means of transportation was needed at that time (railway).

[10] SS then contracted a steel company named Machinefabriek Braat Soerabaia-Djokja-Tegal located in Ngagel, Surabaya to manufacture its overcapping roof frame.

[9] This new station was opened to the public on 6 April 1925 which coincided with the launch of the first KRL route from Tanjung Priok to Meester Cornelis (Jatinegara).

[13] This station is also equipped with temporary accommodation on the left wing of the building for passengers who will continue their journey by ship.

With the opening of Kemayoran Airport which serves general flights, SS experienced a tough challenge considering that many passengers switched to airplanes.

The location of Tanjung Priok Station which is far from the port makes passengers reluctant to use the train, even though feeder buses are available.

Nonetheless, the elegance of this neoclassical, art deco and contemporary building has proven that in the 20th century, this station triumphed in its time.

In order to "patch up" the leaking revenue due to stowaways and losses due to the lack of revenue from platform tickets, PT Kereta Api leased out its station space as a warehouse for expeditions, ticket agents, and money exchange services.

Stained glass and ceramic profile ornaments give a grandiose effect and are strengthened by large and strong columns on the main porch and supported by stairs along the building.

[17] Tanjung Priok Station is often used as a shooting location for music videos, movies, soap operas, and commercials.

[20] Several titles of soap operas and songs whose music videos have used filming locations at this station include Dia Bukan Anakku (RCTI, SinemArt), "Menunggumu" sung by Chrisye featuring Peterpan (now named Noah),[21] "Ku Tetap Menanti" created by Eka Gustiwana sung by Nikita Willy, and "Dengan Nafasmu" by Ungu.

[22] Since the commercialization of Tanjung Priok Station through commercials, television shows, and music videos filming, this station is now a very strict place for novice and experienced photographers because this place is prohibited as a photographing area, even though there are absolutely no signs prohibiting taking pictures.

The reason for the cultural heritage status of this station is "never implemented" at other sites managed by the local government or BPCB.