Explore the 10 best tourist attractions in Central Java, from historic temples to mountains and historic cities, that must be on your vacation list!
Central Java is one of the best tourist destinations in Indonesia, with an extraordinary wealth of nature, history, and culture.
From magnificent historic temples, charming green mountains, to old cities full of stories, this province offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
If you are planning a trip to Central Java, here are the 10 best tourist attractions that must be on your vacation bucket list!
1. The Heritage Palace
If you like historical tours with a modern feel, The Heritage Palace is an interesting destination. This place combines a museum and an amusement park, making it an educational and fun location.
Its main attraction is the collection of antique cars from various eras, which are displayed in a classic architectural building.
In addition, this museum also has an art gallery and instagrammable photo spots, which are perfect for tourists who want to capture unique moments.
2. Dieng Plateau
Located at an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level, the Dieng Plateau is known for its exotic volcanic scenery and refreshing cool air.
Dieng has various interesting destinations, such as the Candradimuka Crater, the Sibanteng Crater, and the Arjuna Temple, historical relics from ancient Hindu times.
One of the unique phenomena in this area is the upas dew, which is thin snow that appears in the dry season and creates an atmosphere like in a country with four seasons.
3. Mount Merapi
Mount Merapi is the most active volcano in Indonesia and is a major attraction for climbers. The favorite hiking trail is through Selo, Boyolali, which offers spectacular views along the way.
For those who don’t want to climb, the alternative is the Merapi Lava Tour, an off-road jeep adventure to explore the former lava flows and remnants of this volcanic eruption.
4. Borobudur Temple
As the largest Buddhist temple in the world, Borobudur Temple is a tourist destination that should not be missed.
Built in the 9th century by the Syailendra Dynasty, the temple has more than 2,600 reliefs and 504 Buddha statues, making it a masterpiece of world art and culture.
In addition, tourists can also visit Mendut Temple and Pawon Temple, which are still in the same complex as Borobudur.
5. Prambanan Temple
Located on the border of Yogyakarta and Central Java, Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia and a UNESCO world heritage site.
Built in the 9th century, this temple is dedicated to Trimurti, namely Brahma (creator), Vishnu (preserver), and Shiva (destroyer).
In addition to exploring its beautiful architecture, tourists can also watch the Ramayana Ballet performance which presents an epic story with the magnificent temple as a backdrop.
6. Banyutowo Beach
Banyutowo Beach has a uniqueness that other beaches do not have, namely its sea water which is not too salty. This happens because Banyutowo Beach is an estuary where sea water and fresh water from underground rivers meet.
This unique combination creates a different beach atmosphere, making it a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
7. Old Town of Semarang
Known as “Little Netherlands”, Old Town of Semarang is a historic area filled with European-style colonial buildings.
Once a trading center in the 19th century, Kota Lama has now transformed into an interesting historical tourist destination. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Blenduk Church, and enjoy Semarang’s culinary specialties around this area!
8. Keraton Surakarta Hadiningrat
Keraton Surakarta is a center of Javanese culture that is still active today.
Tourists can explore the classic Javanese architecture, and see the museum that houses historical collections, such as royal heirlooms, gamelan, and gifts from European kings.
9. De Tjolomadoe
Once a Dutch sugar factory that is more than 150 years old, De Tjolomadoe has now been revitalized into a modern museum and industrial tourism center.
Here, tourists can learn about the history of sugar plantations in Indonesia, as well as enjoy various vintage photo spots that are very instagrammable.
10. Kopeng Tourism Park
For nature and adventure lovers, Kopeng Tourism Park is the best choice.
Located at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level, this place offers cool air and various interesting activities such as trekking, camping, outbound, and beautiful flower gardens.
Conclusion
Central Java offers many interesting tourist destinations, ranging from historic temples, majestic mountains, unique beaches, to historic old cities. With extraordinary cultural and natural richness, this province is the perfect place for a vacation.
