Yogyakarta Culture

Yogyakarta Culture – Travelling is a way to find yourself by meeting a lot of people around the world. As much as you do, you will find a better you. How travel can make you more comfortable with yourself. You can meet people whose different lifestyles, Languages, and cultures. As the biggest country which is rich in cultures, tourist attractions, Traditions, and local culinary spots, Indonesia is interesting to visit.

Yogyakarta is the heart of culture, art, and tradition in Indonesia. Its status as a special region lies in the southern part of Central Java, in the heartland of Javanese culture. As the former capital and the center of several kingdoms in the past, this region and its people are very rich in a variety of cultures.

Cultural heritage in Yogyakarta includes the magnificent temples, the ruins of palaces and monasteries, the various kinds of traditions and cultural events, traditional folk performing arts, traditional ritual ceremonies, customs, traditional handcrafts, traditional architecture, and other traditional activities. You aren’t only getting travel experience but, you will get spiritual experience too.

• The everlasting Hindu-Buddhist culture site
  The most attractive Hindu-Buddhist place in Yogyakarta is the Borobudur Temple and Prambanan Temple. Borobudur Temple is the largest Buddhist Sanctuary in the world. Despite the Yogyakarta sultanate being officially Muslim now, the region still testifies to the height of influence of Buddhism and Hinduism during its earlier civilizations.
  
  First is Borobudur Temple, for a memorable Borobudur Temple tour, start by reaching Magelang, Central Java, preferably via the International Airport in Yogyakarta. Once there, consider hiring a local guide to delve into the temple’s rich history and significance. Explore the vast structure with its intricate carvings, and if possible, opt for a sunrise tour to witness the breathtaking dawn over the temple. Dress modestly as a sign of respect and bring essentials like a hat and sunscreen. Take time to climb to the top for panoramic views, and explore nearby attractions like Pawon and Mendut Temples. Photography is permitted, but be considerate of the sacred nature of the site. Check for cultural events during your visit, and savor local Javanese cuisine at nearby restaurants. Remember to respect local customs, remove your shoes when required, and consider staying in the Borobudur Temple area, where various accommodations are available and you can support the local business there by buying local food or buying some handmade souvenirs.

  Ensure you check current entrance fees, be aware of any travel advisories, and plan your visit during the dry season from May to October for optimal weather. Borobudur’s cultural and historical significance is best appreciated with a thoughtful and respectful exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  The second is the Prambanan Temple. It is Indonesia’s Largest Hindu site and one of Southeast Asia’s major attractions. This is the largest temple compound dedicated to Shiva in Indonesia. Rising above the center of the last of these concentric squares are three temples decorated with reliefs illustrating the epic of the Ramayana, dedicated to the three great Hindu divinities (Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma) and three temples dedicated to the animals who serve them.

Between May and October will be staged Ramayana Ballet show in Prambanan temple. Ramayana stories based on Hindu epics adapted to Javanese culture make Ramayana Prambanan a unique dance. More than 200 professional dancers and gamelan musicians participated in this Ramayana Ballet which took place on an open stage with Prambanan Temple as a backdrop.

Prambanan Temple is located in Jl. Raya Solo – Yogyakarta No.16, Kranggan, Bokoharjo, Prambanan, Kabupaten Sleman, Yogyakarta. We can go there by using the Bus and stopping at the Bus Station near the Prambanan Area, then taking a walk for 15 minutes to Prambanan Temple gate.

• Culture center in Yogyakarta
  The center of Yogyakarta is Keraton or Kraton usually named Yogyakarta Hadiningrat Palace. The royal palace of Yogyakarta remains at the core of traditional life. The location marks the focal point of the Sultan’s entire territory, as it creates an imaginary line with Mount Merapi at its north, the Yogyakarta monument, and the mystical South Sea.

The Royal Family still stays in this Palace, and parts of it are open to tourists. Different ceremonial rites are still carried out within its walls, some daily, others according to the traditional almanac. Even the architecture of this grand palace reflects the philosophy of the Javanese in every little detail. At times you may spot Abdi Dalem, the loyal servants and caretaker to the kingdom, with their meticulously regulated manners and attire.

• The Sacred Ceremony
  Safe the date of ritual tradition which runs throughout the year. Witness the glamour of every single ritual. Feel the atmosphere like a local people and know deeply the history.

  

  – Heirloom Ceremony is held every Tuesday or Friday Kliwon in Sura Java, the palace held this event to clean the sacred objects belonging to the palace and also scrub clean the palace trains vehicle. According to the Javanese society norms when one is drinking this water then we will avoid from calamity or distress, preventing disease and given youthful radiance.

  – Sekaten Ceremony, Javanese tradition event commemorating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad SAW (the Muslim’s prophet). The people must chew betel leaves in the yard of the great Mosque from the beginning of the event started till finish.

  – Grebeg Maulud Ceremony, The culmination of the birth ceremony of the Prophet Muhammad SAW on 12 Maulud months (In Islamic calendar). They bring food condiment shaped like a mountains to the great Mosque and distribute it to the community after prayer. Then this food mountain will be planted in the agriculture area to fertilize the soil for the next harvest.

  – Cupu Panjalo Ceremony, Cupu Panjolo has three items, found in the sea by Kyai Panjolo who was fishing in the sea; they are believed to be able to give symbols and prediction about the future of the village. And still many rituals around Yogyakarta which interested to visit.

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• Endless Heritage Stuff
  Yogyakarta people always hold tight their heritage, even their culture, Arts and stuff. They very keep well the stuffs, even the modern technology involve their live.
  

  

  KERIS or Kriss is ancient weapon and the famous traditional weapon in the world. The Kris was also given honorary titles as ‘Kanjeng Kyai Kpek’ and so on.They are highly respected and honored.

  Java Art Puppet or WAYANG, the art of wayang is a cultural creation of Central Java society which in each story has philosophy of life Javanese people, such as stories of heroism, previous king and Javanese mythology.
  

  Batik Jogja is the famous Batik in Indonesia, they has million batik patern which spread in every Yogyakarta corner. The process Batik making is favorite tourist attraction, they can learn how draw on the Fabric by using candle and Canting.

  Ullen Sentalu is a private museum in Yogyakarta dedicated to conserving and showcasing Javanese culture. With authentic collection acquired from the sultanate itself grand, well maintained buildings, this award winning museum is also and unmissable tourism highlight of Yogyakarta. You can see all of Heritage stuff in this museum.

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• Local Food
  The character Javanese cuisine is the sweet taste, but many people have been longing for good Javanese food after trying it once. GUDEG known as local food made from young jackfruit cooked with santan (coconut milk) and kluwak for 2 hours in a big pot. Every Gudeg cookers have their secret recipes that have passed down from generation to generation. The tradition Gudeg meal is now served in big Fancy restaurant in addition to traditional Warung.
  

  

  Bakpia, the food which show the certain culture, Bakpia is meal made of green beans and flavors. If you visit Yogyakarta you will find Bakpia everywhere. And ask your tour guide to choose the best one.

Actually, Yogyakarta is very huge. Need more days to explore all about thing Javanese culture in Yogyakarta. From the history, heritage, architecture, and ritual. Enjoy in every moment and Yogyakarta, make sure you will come back here.

Yogyakarta Culture