Java Travel Guide (Indonesia/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Java

Java, the most populous island in Indonesia, is a vibrant mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. Home to more than half of Indonesia’s population, Java offers travelers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, from ancient temples to bustling cities. Easily accessible by air or ferry, Java is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Southeast Asia. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, local culture, and safety and health tips for your trip to Java.

List of Places to Visit in Java

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or both, Java has plenty of options for every traveler. Here are the top places you should consider visiting during your stay:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Borobudur Temple
Prambanan Temple
Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat (Sultan’s Palace)
Taman Sari Water Castle
National Museum of Indonesia
House of Sampoerna

Natural Attractions of Java: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mount Bromo
Ijen Crater
Kawah Putih
Green Canyon
Madakaripura Waterfall
Mount Merbabu

Hiking/Biking Routes of Java

For outdoor enthusiasts, Java offers a range of hiking and biking routes for all skill levels. Here are some of the best ones:

Mount Rinjani Trekking, Lombok
Mount Bromo Sunrise Trekking
Merbabu Mountain Trekking
Kawah Ijen Blue Flame Trekking
Gedongsongo Hills

Best Things to Do in Java: Activities and Tours

Java has a variety of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Java:

Explore Borobudur and Prambanan temples
Rafting at Elo River
Sunrise Tours in Mount Bromo and Borobudur
Cooking Classes
Wildlife Tours in Ujung Kulon National Park
Dolphin Watching at Lovina Beach, Bali

Week-Long Itinerary for Java

If you’re planning on spending a week in Java, here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of your trip:

Day 1: Arrive in Jakarta Day 2: Explore Jakarta and visit National Museum of Indonesia Day 3: Take a train to Yogyakarta Day 4: Visit Borobudur and Prambanan temples Day 5: Trek Mount Bromo Day 6: Visit Ijen Crater Day 7: Return to Jakarta

Food and Drink Scene of Java

Java has plenty of delicious food and drink options for visitors. Here’s a list of some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Nasi Goreng
Gado-Gado
Sate
Rawon
Soto

Local Beverages

Kopi Luwak (Civet Coffee)
Tehbotol (Sweetened Ice Tea)
Jus Alpukat (Avocado Juice)
Bir Bintang (Local Beer)

Where to Stay in Java: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Java has a variety of accommodation options to choose from, whether you’re on a budget or looking for a luxury stay. Here are some of the best places to stay:

Jakarta

The Hermitage, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Fraser Residence Menteng Jakarta
Kosenda Hotel

Yogyakarta

Ayaartta Hotel Malioboro Yogyakarta
Greenhost Boutique Hotel Prawirotaman
Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort & Spa

What to Buy in Java: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Java has a diverse range of souvenirs and local products that are perfect for bringing back home. Here are some of the best items to buy:

Batik fabric and clothing
Wayang shadow puppets
Wooden carvings and sculptures
Paintings and prints
Indonesian coffee and tea

Local Culture and Customs of Java

Java has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Javanese and Islamic traditions. Here are some customs and practices that you should be aware of during your visit:

Dress modestly while visiting religious sites
Remove your shoes before entering a home or temple
Avoid pointing with your feet
Greet people using the polite term “selamat”, followed by the appropriate time of day

Best Time to Visit Java

The best time to visit Java is during the dry season, from June to September. However, some parts of Java such as the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park are best visited during the rainy season when the waterfalls are at their peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Java

Do:

Learn a few phrases in Bahasa Indonesia
Try the local cuisine
Respect religious customs and traditions

Don’t:

Get offended by bargaining in the markets
Touch or disturb wildlife
Disrespect local customs or religion

Safety and Health

Safety in Java

Java is generally a safe place to visit, but travelers should exercise caution when it comes to pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas and public transportation.

Health in Java

Visitors should be up-to-date on their routine vaccinations, hepatitis A and B, and typhoid. It is highly recommended to take malaria prophylaxis medication if you are visiting certain parts of Java such as Kalimantan.

Getting to Java: Transportation Options and Logistics

Java is well connected to other parts of Indonesia and the world. Here are the various transportation options available:

Airports Near Java

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Jakarta
Adisucipto International Airport, Yogyakarta
Juanda International Airport, Surabaya

Bus Stations Near Java

Pulo Gebang Bus Station, Jakarta
Giwangan Bus Station, Yogyakarta
Bungurasih Bus Station, Surabaya

Other Options

Train
Ferry

How to Get Around in Java

Java has various modes of transportation available for getting around:

Taxi
Bus
Train
Ojek (Motorcycle taxi)
Rental Car or Motorbike

Where to Go Next from Java: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Java’s central location makes it an excellent starting point to explore other parts of Indonesia. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can take:

Bali
Lombok
Komodo National Park
Gili Islands
Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia

Conclusion

Java is a fascinating destination with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or just soaking up the local culture, Java has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to plan your trip and make the most of your visit to Java.