Discover Jakarta
Guide to Kota Tua & Fatahillah Square: Jakarta’s Historic Centre
Quite literally named ‘Old Town’, Jakarta’s historic centre is found at Kota Tua, where remnants of a colonial past stand as reminders of the city’s past life as the Dutch-run Batavia. At the very heart of Kota Tua is Batavia’s old city hall, an imposing-yet-impressive building that epitomises colonial architecture at the time, in front
Guide to Monas: Indonesia’s National Monument in Jakarta
The heart of Jakarta lies in Medan Merdeka, a sprawling, 75-hectare open square; the third largest in the world. It is an oasis in the very centre of the city, where the parks and fields spread generously across the area, accentuating the plaza’s epic centre piece: Monas, or Monumen Nasional, Indonesia’s towering monolith in honour
Kembang Kelapa: Betawi’s Token of Prosperity
Literally translating to “coconut flower,” kembang kelapa is a classic Betawi decorative element, a symbol of blessings, prosperity, and respect for tradition. Jakarta residents might frequently encounter this decorative item without knowing its name. Brightly coloured and crafted from paper or other lightweight materials, it is shaped to resemble the blossoming of a coconut flower.
Books and Beyond: A Reader’s Guide to Jakarta’s Independent Bookstores
Jakarta is home to a diverse range of independent bookstores catering to readers with differing tastes and preferences — from foreign language titles and best sellers to second-hand books and niche genres. The result is a contrasting literary scene where legendary bookstores have stood against the test of time to thrive alongside their emerging peers
Celebrating Love, Intellectualism, and Democracy at Wisma Habibie and Ainun
The home of Indonesia’s third president, known affectionately as B.J. Habibie, is now open to the public. Named Wisma Habibie and Ainun (WHA), Jakarta’s newest historical landmark showcases the legacy of the former president and his wife Ainun, who immortalized the values of love, intellectualism, and democracy through their life’s journey together. NOW! Jakarta had
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
