Together with its sister city Surakarta (Solo), Yogyakarta is the origin of civilization in Java. The city was once the throne that produced the magnificent Borobudur and Prambanan temples in the 8th and 9th centuries and the seat of the Mataram kingdom in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Yogyakarta was once known for its catchphrase "Jogja The Neverending Asia" thanks to its incredible appeal. Today, the city is also known as "Jogja Istimewa" for its exquisitely embraced values.
The city is one of the few cultural centers in Indonesia. Every visitor can explore it by strolling through the Keraton Museum (Sultan's Palace), chatting in the City Square, seeing the process of making jewelry in Kotagede, and shopping at Malioboro.
Many adventures can be done in this relatively small but lively city, one of which is chasing the sunrise at famous temples such as Prambanan and Borobudur in the neighboring city of Magelang.
Wonders of Historical Heritage
Charming friends can experience five wonders in this very "artsy" city. Starting from enjoying the wonders of nature by visiting the beach to adventuring to other beautiful landscapes. Parangtritis, Indrayanti, Pok Tunggal, Siung, Krakal, and Jogan beaches are some of the famous beaches in this city. Interesting viewpoints can be found at Becici Peak, Pengger Pine, and Tembelan Chasm. These are just a few of the many natural attractions that you can explore in Yogyakarta!
To enjoy its culinary wonders, don't forget to try Gudeg, a special blend of traditional Javanese recipes that has become the city's signature. Don't forget to try Bakpia, a traditional snack with many interesting flavors that is popular as a souvenir. For drinks, Pesona Pals can try Jamu, a traditional drink mixed with a variety of nutritious plants that are often used for natural remedies.
Batik is a national heritage whose name comes from the Javanese language, "amba" and "titik", which means writing dots. In essence, Batik is the art of decorating cloth using wax and dye. Yogyakarta has typical Batik patterns that are usually made on a bright white background. Some of them are the Parang Kusumo, Kawung, and Truntum motifs. Each pattern is made with a special philosophy that lies in each stroke.
There are several types of Batik based on the manufacturing technique, namely Batik Tulis, Batik Cap, Batik Print, and the combination of the three techniques. The most expensive Batik is Batik Tulis, which is 100% made with human hand skills. The price of Batik Tulis will be more expensive when it is made of silk fabric. Making Batik Tulis with brilliant quality can take from a whole day to months of production, depending on the size and difficulty of the design.
Wayang is also one of the historical heritages originating from Yogyakarta. There is Wayang Kulit, which is played on stage by a puppeteer on a white screen illuminated by light. There is also Wayang Orang, a drama performance staged by male and female actors who use costumes by displaying philosophical messages from ancient history.
Pesona friends can also enjoy the magic of recreation by visiting tourist villages in Yogyakarta. Tembi, Pentingsari, and Nglanggeran are three tourist villages that you can visit. Explore the beautiful village and see the local wisdom from the daily life of the residents while learning new skills, such as playing gamelan, making janur, and performing Javanese traditional dances!
There's also plenty of adventure to be had in Yogyakarta. From hiking the Mount Merapi National Park, the thrill of jeep rides along the hiking trails, and climbing Mount Nglanggeran, an ancient volcano located in a beautiful village.
At Siung Beach, you can also do rock climbing or explore Pindul Cave. You can also visit Jomblang Cave to experience the amazingly unique sensation of caving.
Yogyakarta is a city with many attractions that can be enjoyed. This makes Yogyakarta the second most visited destination by tourists after Bali.
Access to Destinations
Air
You can find many daily flights from Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali to Adisucipto Airport and Yogyakarta International Airport.
Land
You can also use regular train services to Yogyakarta from many other major cities on Java Island. The city of Gudeg is also easily accessible via highway by car or public bus service.
Access to Explore Destinations
When you arrive, there are many ways to explore Yogyakarta. Walking is the recommended way so that you can enjoy the scenery more closely and meet local residents. If you walk around the heart of the city, you will find many attractions located near the Malioboro area.
Try local modes of transportation such as becak, a small traditional three-wheeled car. Don't forget to bargain the price before you start your journey. Traditional horse-drawn carriages known as Andong can also be found in tourist areas in Yogyakarta. This is the most relaxing and romantic way to see the sights.
If you want to explore further, you can also rent a car with a driver while you are in Yogyakarta. Renting a motorcycle for the day is also an option to consider. Taxis can also be used and can even be called to the hotel. Buses are the most commonly found public transportation here. However, their operating hours and capacity can be very limited.
Also, try to enjoy the rural areas of Yogyakarta while cycling and find beautiful corners that can inspire you to fall deeper in love with Yogyakarta's specialty!
The closest cities you can visit from Yogyakarta are Magelang and Solo. You can stop by Punthuk Setumbu and see the majesty of Borobudur Temple from different vantage points at sunrise. Solo, also known as Surakarta, has a magnificent palace and is famous for its natural wonders, such as Grojogan Sewu Waterfall.