Discover Jakarta
Jakarta Skylines: An Open-Top Tour of Jakarta
Transjakarta presents the Open Top Tour of Jakarta, a captivating new way to explore the capital. This open-air, double-decker bus experience takes passengers along the iconic Sudirman–Bundaran HI corridor, offering panoramic views of Jakarta’s landmarks and a fresh take on urban sightseeing that blends culture, history, and modern city life. The bus offers an exhilarating
Sweet Betawi Bites
The northern Javanese coastline that Jakarta calls home was once rich with coconut trees, which has become reflected in traditional Betawi cuisine. For centuries, the Betawi people used what was abundant in their surroundings for nourishment, finding many ways to use but a handful of ingredients in creative and resourceful ways. With simple ingredients like
11 Best Museums in Jakarta: Discover History & Heritage of the City
With a history and heritage as rich as Indonesia’s, it is the responsibility of the country’s capital to showcase and share this with the world. Indeed, there are a fabulous variety of museums in Jakarta, open to locals, expats and visitors alike. Each of these distinct destinations share different insights into the culture and history
6 Best Theatres in Jakarta: Beautiful Concert Halls and Performance Venues
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 do you go to witness it
6 Best Art Galleries in Jakarta: Art Spaces, Museums and Galleries
Jakarta’s art scene, contrary to popular belief, is thriving. Over the last decade or so, galleries in Jakarta have been democratised, with 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 like Art Moments and ART Jakarta have
Best Animal Parks in Jakarta: Wildlife Adventures in the Concrete Jungle
Jakarta may be a concrete jungle, but the city has no lack of opportunities for its residents to engage with the wonders of nature, especially children and families. NOW! Jakarta has come up with a list of immersive attractions that connect visitors with a range of flora and fauna. From exploring five distinct ecosystems to
Istiqlal Mosque: A Symbol of Pluralism in Jakarta
A stone’s throw from Jakarta Cathedral, deliberately placed as a symbol of pluralism, the colossal Istiqlal Mosque (Masjid Istiqlal) matches the magnificence of its predecessors. Built by the post-colonial government, the ‘fervour of independence’ certainly comes through in the design of mosque, much as it did with Monas: visions of buildings exuding symbolism and monumentalism.
Jakarta Cathedral: A Neo-Gothic Masterpiece in Indonesia
A vision of towering spires and intricate stonework, the Jakarta Cathedral, officially named Gereja Santa Perawan Maria Diangkat ke Surga (The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption), is a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic architecture. Completed in 1901, its construction followed almost 70 years after Willemskerk (Immanuel Jakarta), owing to the Netherlands’ allegiance to Protestantism prior
Immanuel Church Jakarta: One of Indonesia’s Oldest Churches
Standing opposite Gambir train station is one of Indonesia’s oldest churches, Immanuel Church Jakarta, built in 1839 during Dutch occupation. Originally it was named Willemskerk, after then-monarch King Willem I of Netherlands, and was thus aptly placed beside what was then called Koningsplein, King’s Square, or Merdeka Square today. The construction of the church was
Monumental Places of Worship: Religious Diversity in Jakarta
A trio of unique but equally astounding places of worship stand on the borders surrounding Merdeka Square, their shared presence symbolic of Indonesia’s mission to uphold religious diversity. The Immanuel Church, Jakarta Cathedral and the Istiqlal Mosque are destinations in their own rights; even for non-worshipping guests, the architecture and history of each of these
Guide to Taman Mini Indonesia Indah: Jakarta’s Cultural Theme Park
Located in East Jakarta, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) is a cultural theme park that encapsulates the rich diversity of Indonesia’s heritage. Envisioned by the wife of Suharto, Siti Hartinah (better known as Ibu Tien Suharto), it was inaugurated in April 1975. Taman Mini certainly followed the ethos of President Suharto’s government, one focused on
Guide to Museum Nasional Indonesia: Jakarta’s Institution of Culture & History
Standing regally on the western edge of Jakarta’s Merdeka Square, Museum Nasional Indonesia is an institution of immense cultural and historical significance. Established in 1868, it is the country’s oldest and largest museum, often referred to as “Museum Gajah” or the “Elephant Building” due to the bronze elephant statue gifted by King Chulalongkorn of Thailand
Guide to Istana Merdeka: Indonesia’s Presidential Palace in Jakarta
Driving down Jalan Merdeka Utama, it is impossible not to catch a glimpse of Indonesia’s presidential palace, Istana Merdeka, commanding and elegant. All in white, with its grand colonnaded façade and towering archway wings, it is a marvellous display of neoclassical architecture, boasting 30 rooms and halls. As such, it makes for a fitting residence
