Yogyakarta is not only the capital of Java but also one of the most important cultural hubs in the region. The metropolis that stretches from Mount Merapi all the way to the Indian Ocean serves as the primary access point to Central Java. During the 16th century, Yogyakarta had the prestigious position of serving as the capital of the Mataram Empire. The majority of Yogya’s long-held customs were passed down from its ancestor city to the more contemporary metropolis.
Yogyakarta has a certain allure that never fails to enthral those who pay the city a visit. As a result of it having served as the primary capital of a number of different empires in the past, it has a significant cultural legacy. The city is widely recognised as the cradle of Javanese culture and is renowned for its old arts, as well as its traditional dance forms, puppetry, theatre, and other artistic endeavours. The city also has a lot of skilled artists who are experts in a variety of different types of artwork, such as leatherwork and batik.
Main Tourist Attractions in Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Kraton Complex
This location is in the Kraton region. As the home of the Sultan, it was constructed in the 18th century. The northern and southern halves of the complex each include their own separate grounds. The Sultan’s servants made their home in the enormous portion of the complex that was specifically designated for that purpose. Elegant Javanese architecture was used in the construction of the compound. You are welcome to come to the facility on the weekends to see puppet acts that are put on there. Traditional dancing, symphony performances, and a great many other things are also very popular draws. In modern times, the complex is also used for the performance of a variety of traditional rites.
Sultan’s Palace
This structure was constructed in the 18th century and served as the royal home of Sultan Hamangkubuwono. The layout of the palace was reminiscent of the Javanese universe. There was significant significance attached to each display space, entryway, and courtyard. This palace is comprised of two large courtyards, each of which has ceremonial halls. The Javanese and Jogyan forms of architecture may be seen in a variety of the structures in this area. The palace is still in use as the primary home for members of the royal family. You may also see the dancers do their warm-up routines on the weekends for your entertainment.
Taman Sari
In the year 1758, construction began on Taman Sari, also known as the Water Castle. It was a place of pleasure that was constructed by the monarchs of Mataram and had a number of chambers, fountains, pools, and halls. This location is home to a sizable swimming pool that was built by Sultan Hamengkbuwono I for the use of his many concubines. The only thing that has survived to the present day, however, are the many vivid tales that the monarch told. The influence of Javanese and Portuguese architecture can be seen throughout the palace, which is visited by tourists. Along the walkway, there are also a number of art galleries where customers may go shopping.
SonoBudoyo Museum
In 1935, Dutch architect Kersten was the one responsible for building the Sonobudoyo Museum. Javanese architecture served as the inspiration for its construction. The museum has a significant cultural artefact collection, including a variety of fascinating masks and keris. The Javanese culture can be studied in more depth thanks to the library that is housed inside the museum. In addition, there are also stunning woodcarvings and gamelan instruments can be seen in the museum. In addition to that, you may also look at batik dresses that include clashing designs.
Museum Kereta Kraton
In addition to its other name, the Sultan’s Carriage Museum, this museum may be found on the western side of the Sultan’s Palace. It features a significant collection of artefacts that were left behind from the Sultan family. You may locate carts belonging to the Sultan, which at the time were often referred to as Golden Carts. You may also observe Sultan carriage named Kyai Jaladara and Kyai Kanjeng Jimat here.
Benteng Vredeburg Fort
This fort is situated in front of Gedung Agung. In 1765, at the time when the Dutch were colonising the area, it was built. The layout of the fort is rectangular, with bastions at each of the four corners, and the walls themselves have bastions. The Dutch forces utilised these bastions as a base of operations for moving about and firing their weapons. The museum within this fort has artefacts that pertain to the liberation struggle that took place in the nation. For those with an interest in history, the fort is a fascinating place to visit.
Affandi Museum
The Affandi Museum may be found on the GajahWong riverbanks, midway between the airport and the main city. It was constructed in the latter half of the 20th century by the well-known painter Affandi. He created this museum to showcase not just his own work but also that of his daughter Kartika. The museum has a distinctive architectural design and is separated into three sections, each of which has its own set of distinguishing characteristics. In the museum, you will find a wide variety of paintings, including watercolour paintings, oil paintings, abstract paintings, and realistic paintings, in addition to countless sketches.
Perjuangan Museum
This museum was established in 1959 as a memorial to the armed fight for independence that took place in the nation. It is located on Kolonel Sugiono Street. The museum is in the form of a cylinder, and the roof is topped with a crown, much like the crown on an American helmet. The stories of the country’s fight for freedom are depicted on the walls that are visible from the outside. The museum is home to a significant collection of items and papers that are connected to the fight for liberation.
Kota Gede
This location may be found in the southern part of Yogyakarta. The city is said to have been established in the 16th century and served as the capital of the Mataram Empire for a while. During this time, King Panembahan Senopati was in control of the kingdom. The Royal Mosque, Hastarenggo, and Royal cemetery have all contributed to the city’s status as a prominent tourist destination in modern times. The city has several fascinating relics that date back to the reign of the royal family. It is also the regional hub for silverwork, making it an essential destination for anybody interested in silver ornaments.
Prambanan Temples
In the 9th century, the monarchs of Mataram were responsible for the construction of these temples. The distance between the main city and the temples is about 17 kilometres. The gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, the supreme deities of the Hindu faith, are honoured by the temples’ worship. You will see a sculpture of Roro Jonggrang as you are entering the temples. In addition, there are substantial sculptures that detail the whole of the Ramayana. You may also take in the traditional dance display that is put on in the area close to the temple on a stage that is set up outside.
Imogiri Royal Cemetery
This cemetery was established by Sultan Agung about the middle of the 17th century and is located 20 kilometres to the southeast of Yogyakarta. It is the burial ground for imperial family members that resided in that area. The tombs of Sultan Agung Hanyokrokusumo, the monarchs of the Mataram Kingdom together with their family, and the kings of the Surakarta kingdoms may all be found inside the cemetery. Visitors are required to dress in traditional Javanese garb while they are on the site.
Mount Merapi
Mount Merapi is located in the northern part of Yogyakarta and stands at a height of roughly 2,920 metres. The name “Merapi” refers to a mountain that is said to be burning with lava. It is considered to be one of the most active volcanoes that can be located in the nation. You are able to get a good look at the molten rocks erupting at regular intervals from the adjacent location. As a direct consequence of this, a great deal of smoke is produced. The inside of the volcano may reach temperatures of up to 3,000 degrees Celsius.
