YOGYAKARTA : THE CULTURAL CITY
Yogyakarta, the capital of the Yogyakarta Special Province is a city of liveliness and affability. It is the focal point of regional development within Central Java and home to diverse art and culture. With close proximity to the nation’s international gateways of Jakarta and Bali, Yogyakarta with its half-million population is a relaxed, friendly and extrovert municipality that is big enough for every facility and small enough to be easy for newcomers. With its warm tropical climate and rich cultural heritage of the Sultanate of Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat, the city presents unwind nature surroundings, vibrant cultural life, and stimulating touristy atmosphere. It is safe, and inexpensive; and most significantly it offers a wide range of modern educational opportunities including first-rate art and craft centers. All together, they made Yogyakarta an exciting place to live.
HISTORY
The city of Yogyakarta is situated on Java Island, about 500 km southeast of Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia. As the capital of Yogyakarta Special Region Province, the city has about 32.5 km2 area with a total population in 2004 of around 398,004 and population density of 12,246.28/km2 (National Socio Economic Survey, 2004).
The city of Yogyakarta has a long and rich history, documented in Indonesian literature. It was founded in 1755, when the Sultanate of Mataram, which had been in existence since the 8th century, was divided by the Dutch East India Company (VOC) under the Treaty of Giyanti into two parts: the Sultanate of Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat, with Yogyakarta as its capital, and Surakarta Hadiningrat, with Surakarta as its capital. During the Indonesian National Revolution (1945-1950) Yogyakarta played an important role in countering the aggression of the Dutch after World War II.
CLIMATE
Yogyakarta enjoys a tropical climate, with warm sunshine and correspondingly high temperatures for the best part of the year. The average daily temperature is between 26oC and 28oC, with highs not exceeding 35oC and lows rarely dipping below 18oC. Humidity is relatively high, which can give the city a sticky feeling, especially in the rainy season when humidity can be as high as 75 per cent.
Important places in Yogyakarta
Hotels (around campuss)
The Cube Hotel Jl. Parangtritis No 16, Jogjakarta Indonesia,
Hotel Gallery Prawirotaman Jl. Prawirotaman II No. 839B Yogyakarta. +62 274 4580008, +62815 75742246/56.
Hotel Pandanaran Jl. Prawirotaman no 38, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55153
Hotel Harper Jl. Mangkubumi No. 52, Yogyakarta.
Duta Garden Hotel & Boutique Hotel, Timuran MG III/103, Prawirotaman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia 55153
D’ Talents Suites Guest House, Prawirotaman III / 669A, Yogyakarta 55153, Indonesia Phone: (0274) 378 669, 383 505
Dusun Jogja Village, Jl. Menukan 5, Karangkajen, Yogyakarta, Java, Indonesia. Phone: +62 274 373031; 384438 & Fax +62 274 382202. website:http://www.jvidusun.co.id. e-mail: jvigecko@indo.net.id
Hotel Winotosastro. Jl.Parangtritis No.92A, Jl. Sastono Mj III No.825,Yogyakarta Telp.0274-387110, 387330 Fax.0274-371632, 372133 www.winotosastro.com email:hotel@winotosastro.com
Ros in Hotel, Jl. Lingkar Selatan No.110, Parangtritis, Yogyakarta, Indonesia 55187
D’Omah Yogya Hotel, Jl. Parangtritis Km 8.5, Bantul, 55186 Yogyakarta
Tembi Rumah Budaya, Jl. Parangtritis Km 8.4 Tembi, Timbulharjo, Sewon Bantul, 55186 Yogyakarta
Hospitals
Panti Rapih Hospital, Jl Teuku Cik Ditiro 30 RT 033/07 YOGYAKARTA telp: +62-274-563333, 515709
PKU Muhammadiyah General Hospital. Jl KH Akhmad Dahlan 20 YOGYAKARTA. telp: +62-274-512653
Dr. Sardjito Public Hospital. Jl Kesehatan 1 YOGYAKARTA. telp: +62-274-587333
Bethesda Hospital, Jl. Jenderal Soedirman No. 70 Yogyakarta, telp: +62-274-562246, 586688
Ludira Husada Tama Hospital, Jl Wiratama 4 YOGYAKARTA,Tel: 0274-620333 – 0274-620373.
Wirosaban Hospital Yogyakarta, Jl. Wirosaban No. 1 Yogyakarta INDONESIA 55162, telp: +62-274-371195, 386691, 386692 fax: +62-274-371195
Jogja International Hospital, JIH (Jogja International Hospital) Condong Catur, Sleman, Yogyakarta 55283 Telp. 0274-446 3535 (Hunting)
Business Hours
Banks : Mon-Fri 8 am-3 pm & Say 8 am-1 pm
Embassies : Mon-Fri 8 am-2 pm, Fri 8-11 am & Sat 8 am-12.30 pm
Mall/shopping centers : Mon-Sun 10 am – 10 pm
Post offices : Mon-Thu 8 am – 2 pm, Fri 8 am – 11 am & Sat 8 am – 12.30 pm
Airline offices : Mon – Fri 8 am – 4 pm & Sat 8 am – noon
Other points of interest include:
Malioboro
Coming from the Sanskrit language which means bouquet of flowers, Malioboro becomes flower that its charm is able to attract tourists. Not only full of stories and memories, Malioboro also becomes souvenir paradise in the heart of Jogja.
Archaelogical site
BOROBUDUR TEMPLE
The glorious ninth-century Buddhist stupa of Borobudur-the largest Buddhist monument in the world-stands in the midst of the lush Kedu Plain of Central Java in Indonesia, where it is visited annually by over a million people. Borobudur contains more than a thousand exquisitely carved relief panels extending along its many terraces for a total distance of more than a kilometer. These are arranged so as to take the visitors on a spiritual journey to enlightenment, and one ascends the monument pas scenes depicting the world of desire the life story of Buddha, and the heroic deeds of other enlightened beings-finally arriving at the great circular terraces at the top of the structure that symbolized the formless world of pure knowledge and perfection.
PRAMBANAN TEMPLE
Prambanan temple is an officially listed UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the biggest temple complex in Java. There are 224 temples in this Hindu complex originating from 9th century with three towering temples on the central terrace dominating the complex.
Situated about 15km from Yogyakarta, Prambanan attracts many admirers each year from abroad. The top of the main shrine is visible from a great distance and raises high above the scattered ruins of the former temples. In addition to the Prambanan temple the site offers the Outdoor Ramayana Performance Theatre. This wonderful open space offers evening dance and music performances with a cast of hundreds, showing various sections of the Hindu epic, the Ramayana, in the open air performed in a Greek-style theatre setting. The program is offered during the dry season(May-Sept) with the dramatic Prambanan temple itself floodlit behind it every evening.
IJO TEMPLE
Ijo (in Javanese language, this word means ‘Green’) temple is a temple located at the highest place in Yogyakarta that presents natural and cultural enchantment with additional view of taking off and landing airplane.
KING BOKO PALACE
King Boko Palace is a luxurious palace complex that was built in the eighth century. The most luxurious building during its time was built by one of the relatives of Borobudur founder.
SAMBISARI TEMPLE
After being buried under the earth for hundreds of years, the first slab of the stone was discovered in 1966. It took 21 years to excavate and construct hundreds of “puzzle” pieces of the stones before Sambisari temple finally stands firmly.
PLAOSAN TEMPLE
Plaosan Temple that was built by Rakai Pikatan has some uniqueness compared to other temples, namely its twin main temple and the terrace with smooth surface. In this temple, there are Vajrapani, Amitbha, and Prajnaparamitha figures.
TARA TEMPLE
Tara Temple is the oldest Buddhism temple in Yogyakarta that was built by Rakai Panangkaran, the king of Syailendra dynasty who also conceptualized the construction of Borobudur Temple.
GAMPINGAN TEMPLE
Gampingan Temple that was discovered in 1995 was predicted to be part of Gampingan archeological site. The foot of the temple is decorated with various kinds of animals; one of them is a bird that was believed to be able to bring messages from nirvana.
KEDULAN TEMPLE
Kedulan Temple was discovered in 1993. The finding of this temple and two inscriptions in the excavating location raises a question on the existence of an old village named Pananggaran and a dam nearby.
MENDUT TEMPLE
Mendut Temple is older than Candi Borobudur. There are stories for children on its walls.
PAWON TEMPLE
Pawon Temple is not a grave but as a place to keep King Indra’s weapon namely Vajranala.
Architectural Site
Colonizing Indonesia for hundreds of years, including Yogyakarta, Dutch left some historical buildings with European-style architecture which you can enjoy it’s beauty.
LOJI
Some Dutch great buildings or often called as loji with various functions can be enjoyed its grandeur now. Loji Kecil, Loji Besar, Loji Kebon even Loji Setan, all of them presents its historical story.
BINTARAN
Bintaran developed parallel with the coarse of time. Starting from a dwelling place of Prince Haryo Bintoro during the rule of Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono, this area became an Indische housing area in 1930s.
KOTABARU
It is an Indische town worth mentioning as one of the most advanced areas by its time. Built with garden-city concept with radial pattern, Kotabaru becomes an area that is parallel to Menteng, an Indische area in Jakarta.
Beaches
At the south of Yogyakarta, you will meet beaches. The closest beach is Parangtritis which offers the fun of riding along the beach by horse cart or ATV. There are also natural beaches in the Gunungkidul region; like Siung, Sadeng, and Sepanjang Beach.
Although we cannot expect a mature beach resort like Bali or blue-blooded such as Thailand, the natural beaches in Gunung Kidul – Yogyakarta still worth a visit, especially for travelers with special interests.
INDRAYANTI BEACH
Besides offering the charm of white sandy beaches with crystal clear sea water, Indrayanti also offers the sensation of starry romantic dinner at the restaurant located by the beach.
PARANGTRITIS BEACH
The Most Popular Beach in Yogyakarta
SEPANJANG BEACH
Located in Desa Kemadang, Tanjungsari, Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. If you want to enjoy the nostalgia of Kuta Beach in the past time, Sepanjang Beach is the right place. Sepanjang has long coastal lines, clean water sands, and medium waves. You can just choose: sun bathing under the bright sun, surfing, or just enjoy the beach beauty. You can enjoy all the things when you come to the beach that lies some kilometers from Sundak Beach.
NGOBARAN BEACH
Ngobaran Beach is rich of cultural enchantment; ranging from the temple, the mosque directing to the south, to the hidden culinary potential of fried sea urchin. Located in Desa Kanigoro, Saptosari, Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
SADENG BEACH
Girisubo, Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The line and the estuary of the Ancient Bengawan Solo can be seen when you come to Sadeng Beach. Looking at the present condition while imagining the past time is like witnessing the evolution process. Our eyes will see in astonishment.
GLAGAH BEACH
Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Glagah Beach offers complete beach tourism, ranging from the beautiful lagoon scenery, biking and motocross facilities to coastal agro tourism.
WEDIOMBO BEACH
Jepitu, Girisubo, Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Fishing at the height of a coral hill to get big fish is certainly extraordinary tour. In Wediombo Beach, you can get not only such an experience but you can try to eat Panjo fish and see the Ngalangi ceremony.
CONGOT BEACH
Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Congot Beach presents strong fishermen beach nuance. The activity of the fishermen going fishing on motorboats, fish trading and fishing at the seaside are done in this beach.
Historic and Heritage site
What is now Yogyakarta was the witness to the rise and fall of once glorious kingdoms in Java. Not surprisingly easy to find the ruins of old buildings here.
Heritage temples of Old Mataram Kingdom (8th – 10th century) can be found in Archaeological Sights directory. The ruins and relics of the Islamic Mataram Kingdom (16th – 17th century) is in Kotagede. While the Kingdom of Yogyakarta, which lasted until the mid-20th century, left the kraton / palace which is still functioning today.
KOTAGEDE
Kotagede is a silent witness of the rise of the Islamic Mataram Kingdom that ruled almost the entire Java. The cemetery of Islamic Mataram Kingdom forefathers, the fort’s ruins, and the other historical remains can be found in Kotagede.
YOGYAKARTA PALACE (KRATON)
Kraton or the Palace where Sultan and his family of Yogyakarta live is located in the center of the axis stretching from the north to the south, and in the secondary axis from the east to the west. It is encircled by row of the mountains called the Horizon as the border of the universe.
TAMANSARI
Formerly Taman Sari was a recreation garden or a resting house for the Sultan and Family. The other resting houses including Warungboto, Manukberi, Ambarbingun, and Ambarrukmo functioned for the vacation and meditation for the royal family. The other function is used as hiding place for royal family to defend against the enemy assault.
GUA SILUMAN
This is one of the mysteries of the pesanggrahan that is more often called as Gua Siluman that means the Cave of the Invisible (mysterious) powers. Visit and enjoy this historical site having underground tunnel.
PANGGUNG KRAPYAK
It was told that Krapyak area, which is now located to the south of Yogyakarta Kingdom, was a dense forest. There were various kinds of wild animals, one of them was deer or in Javanese language it is called menjangan. It is not surprising that this area was used as a place to go hunting by the kings of Mataram
WARUNGBOTO
A very beautiful ancient water garden that was designed privately is found in Warungboto area. The water garden is located amidst the Pesanggarahan Warungboto that had ruined now.
Monuments and Museums
AFFANDI MUSEUM
Visiting the Palace of a Maestro
KEKAYON MUSEUM
Turning On the Record of Indonesian History
MONUMEN JOGJA KEMBALI (MONJALI)
The Track of Six-Hours Occurrence in Yogyakarta
SASANA WIRATAMA
Commemorating the Struggle of Prince Diponegoro
SASMITALOKA MUSEUM
Visiting The Home of a Guru
SONOBUDOYO MUSEUM
Admiring the Keris Collection
TUGU JOGJA
The Most Popular Landmark in the center of Yogyakarta
Cultural Performances
As the cradle of Javanese culture, Yogyakarta shows its importance as a cultural and art center especially in the art of performing and dancing. The following art and cultural performance can all be found in and around Yogyakarta.
GAMELAN SHOW
Gamelan is the music created by integrating voices of gong, kenong and other Javanese music instruments. Soft music that reflects the life harmony of Javanese people will soon greet and calm the soul down once someone is listening to it.
RAMAYANA BALLET
This dance-drama is a marvelous visualization of legendary epos in Javanese culture, Ramayana. Performed in an open stage, Ramayana ballet invites you to enjoy the story in a set of typical Javanese dance accompanied by gamelan music.
WAYANG KULIT (LEATHER PUPPET) SHOW
This performance art has been more than five centuries of age. Presenting the story of Ramayana and Mahabharata, this overnight performance serves the proper space to spend the night, reflect and understand Javanese life philosophy.
Nature and Outdoors
Yogyakarta has both, beaches and mountain. In the north, you can relax with your family at Kaliurang or play golf at Merapi Golf. Both have the cool mountainous breeze and beautiful scenery in the direction of Mount Merapi.
Meanwhile at Puncak Suroloyo, you can see the peak of Mount Merapi, Merbabu, Sumbing and Sindoro at once. Travellers with special interest of ecotourism should not miss Wanagama Forest which once also visited by Prince Charles, Prince of Wales.
Sport and adventures
Discover the sports and adventure tourism in Yogyakarta. The challenges of Siung Beach which has 250 rock climbing routes, Progo River which is challenging for rafting, and golf course in the cool mountains will not let you stay indoor.
KALISUCI CAVE TUBING
Semanu, Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Wading across the river that cuts across the karst slope on a floating tube will serve special sensation. The real adventure will begin when the stream enters the dark cave, so prepare yourself for this unforgettable exotic adventure.
CAVE TUBING GUA PINDUL
Karangmojo, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Feel the sensation of an adventure in the river inside a cave using a lifebelt. While going through the dark valley in the cave with stalactite and stalagmite, you will also have a story about the journey of Joko Singlulung looking for his father.
CITRA ELO
Jalan Raya Mendut – Sendangsono km 0,2 Progowati, Mungkid, Magelang Phone: (0293) 788 435. Need cool and exciting tour to share with your family and colleagues? Come and enjoy CitraElo’s adventour sensation! Whitewater rafting, outdoor games (airsoft games, paintball and flying fox), management training and riverside restaurant.
JOMBLANG CAVE
Semanu, Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. omblang cave is a vertical cave with dense ancient forest below. A 300 meter alley with its beautiful natural ornament will bring you to the edge of Gua Grubug (Grubug Cave), a place where you can see light from heaven.
MERAPI GOLF
Jl. Golf 1, Cangkringan, Sleman, Yogyakarta 55281, IndonesiaPhone: (0274) 896 176, 896 177. Merapi Golf: A Golf sitting on 800 meters above sea level, with just the perfect climate and the most breathtaking panoramic view of Mount Merapi with the hinterland of Yogyakarta and the Indian Ocean, is worth trying to play on.
SELOKAN MATARAM
Cycling along the Historic Ditch. If you were raised as “city people”, going along the Mataram ditch can be a minor yet pleasant adventure to enjoy the sceneries of green rice fields and shepherds, and to go off road by crossing Krasak River while carrying our mountain bike.