Discover Jakarta
Art in Jakarta: Museums, Spaces, and Galleries
Jakarta’s art scene, contrary to popular belief, is thriving. Over the last decade or so, art in Jakarta has been democratised, with galleries, art spaces and art fairs encouraging a wider audience to enjoy, appreciate and engage with a diverse array of artists and their works. Annual art events have certainly been significant in increasing
Jakarta’s Finest Venues for Cultural Performances, Events and Experiences
Jakarta is not on the global map for arts and culture events, but it should be. With its mix of historical and modern venues, its immensely talented people, and a rich history of performing arts, music, dance and cultural expression, it could easily rival its Asian competitors. But where to go to witness it all?
Roti Buaya: A Symbol of Loyalty
In the traditional Betawi wedding ceremony, it’s mandatory for the prospective groom to bring roti buaya (crocodile-shaped breads) to the prospective bride as a symbol of everlasting love and marital fidelity. The existence of this symbol was influenced by Batavia’s topography and European culture. The Europeans who settled in Batavia (Jakarta) undoubtedly influenced the local
Enter the House of Tugu, Old Town Jakarta
Transcending the very notion of a hotel, House of Tugu, Old Town Jakarta invites guests to explore an almost other-wordly realm, defined by timeless artefacts, art pieces and antiques rooted in Jakarta’s own rich history. Standing across the banks of Kali Besar, in the true historical heart of the city, House of Tugu, Old Town
The History Beneath Our Feet
The intriguing historical discoveries uncovered during MRT Jakarta construction Phase 2A. Remnants of Jakarta’s colonial history, from when it was known as Batavia, have been hiding beneath the surface of the megacity we know today. Dutch infrastructure and historic artefacts from 300 years ago have been rediscovered during the excavation process for the MRT Jakarta
Museum Nasional Indonesia Rises from the Ashes
After a year-long closure, Museum Nasional Indonesia (MNI) was officially reopened on 15 October 2024. Having undergone substantial renovations, the museum reopens with modern appeal, complete with fresh new archives and displays, as well as interactive and educational programmes promising an engaging experience for visitors. On 16 September 2023 at 7:58 pm, a fire caused
The Charm of Cikini, Where Jakarta’s Past and Present Co-Exist
Originally built as part of Weltevreden, an elite residential area on the outskirts of Batavia, what we know now as Cikini is certainly one of Jakarta’s important historical areas. Many stories are found here, from the birth of Indonesia’s first zoo to the attempted assassination of President Soekarno. Despite experiencing rapid development, many heritage buildings
Tanjidor: The Betawi Folk Orchestra
Tanjidor is a traditional Betawi musical orchestra largely composed of brass and wind instruments and drums. This modest ensemble was played by the slaves during the Dutch colonial era. From its name, the most common theory says that tanjidor derived from the Portuguese words, tanger (to play music) and tangedor (playing music outdoors). In Portugal, the
Exploring Jakarta’s Own “Rumah Batik”
Unlike Solo, Pekalongan, Yogyakarta, Cirebon or Lasem, Jakarta is not on the radar when we think of batik-producing regions. At least, it’s no longer on the radar, as Jakarta was once one of the main hubs for batik-making, complete with its own motifs and styles. / Photos by Begies Imanda. Having almost gone completely extinct within
Barnyard Jakarta: An Urban Nature Reserve in the Heart of Kemang
Experience the perfect harmony of nature and creativity at Barnyard Jakarta, an Urban Nature Reserve nestled in the vibrant neighbourhood of Kemang, South Jakarta. Once a bustling hub of activity, Kemang has lacked engagement in recent years, but the newly opened Barnyard aims to revitalise the area’s sense of community and creativity by offering a
Glodok, Jakarta’s Historical Chinatown
The Glodok Pancoran area in West Jakarta is a window into the Chinese culture beyond its homeland. Against a vibrant backdrop of cultural diversity, this bustling area offers a paradise of luscious food, heritage sites, colourful temples filled with incense, encounters with intriguing personalities, and enticing bargain hunts. Delving into the old buildings reveals the
Gigi Balang: A Classic Betawi Ornament
Gigi balang is a traditional Betawi pattern often used in vernacular architecture. Beyond simple decoration, this ornamental pattern is symbolic of a Betawi philosophy on life. The term gigi balang comes from gigi belalang, or ‘grasshopper teeth’. This comes from the idea that grasshoppers, on their pursuit to bite their way through wood, can only do
Independence Day Sites and Monuments in Jakarta
It was a long journey for Indonesia to declare its independence from colonial rule on 17 August 1945, when the Proclamation of Independence was read by Soekarno and Mohammad Hatta on behalf of the Indonesian people. That moment was a clear mark that the nation of Indonesia was established and indeed sovereign. Commemorating this historic
