Yogyakarta (Special Region of Yogyakarta) is the former capital of Indonesia, located on the island of Java.
While Jakarta is the economic and political center, Yogyakarta is the cultural and historical center.
There are three major features in particular.
In fact, Borobudur Temple was buried in the jungle for about 1,000 years and was discovered in 1814 by Thomas Stamford Bingley Raffles, a British colonial administrator.
Borobudur is a massive stone pyramid-shaped structure whose grandeur overwhelms anyone who sees it. The temple complex measures 120 meters on each side at the base and stands 33.5 meters tall, consisting of nine tiers of platforms topped by a series of large dome-shaped stupas (Buddhist shrines). These stupas are adorned with relief carvings depicting the figure of the Buddha and Buddhist teachings, and thousands of Buddha statues and relief carvings are preserved within.
Borobudur is known not only for expressing Buddhist religious symbols and teachings, but also as an architectural representation of Buddhist cosmology and philosophy. The design of the ruins shows influences from both Hinduism and Buddhism, expressing a fusion of the two religions.
Borobudur is also a masterpiece of skilled craftsmanship. The intricate carvings and reliefs on the stone, as well as the detailed sculptures, demonstrate the superb technical skills and aesthetic sensibilities of the skilled craftsmen of that era. These works of art beautifully express the connection between Buddhist faith and art.
Once a year, a lantern festival is held at the world heritage site of Borobudur.
With the World Heritage Site as a backdrop, the sparkling lanterns will undoubtedly provide a unique experience.
It is held every year during the Waisak holiday in May or June.
One of the most famous activities in Yogyakarta tourism is the tour to watch the sunrise from the top of Borobudur.
Instead, we recommend watching the sunrise from a nearby hill overlooking Borobudur.
2. Prambanan Temple: A World Heritage Site where you can enjoy the magnificent architectural beauty of Hinduism.
Prambanan Temple Complex | World Heritage Site in Yogyakarta, Indonesia Hindu temples Located in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, the Prambanan Temple Complex is a complex of Hindu temples built in the 9th century. Its scale and beauty are breathtaking, and it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. Established by the ancient Mataram Kingdom, this temple complex is dedicated to the three major Hindu gods, Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu.
Prambanan Temple Complex before sunrise | World Heritage Site in Yogyakarta, Indonesia Hindu temple The Shiva Temple, standing at a height of 47 meters, is the symbol of the Prambanan Temple Complex. Surrounding it are the Brahma Temple, Vishnu Temple, Nandi Temple, Wahana Temple, and various shrines of different sizes, creating a unique landscape. The walls of the temple are adorned with intricate carvings based on Hindu mythology, including scenes from the Ramayana epic and the Krishna story, captivating visitors with their beauty.
Recommended experience: Watch a play at Prambanan Temple
At Prambanan Temple, you can enjoy theatrical performances based on the ancient Indian epic poem known as the Ramayana and myths related to Prambanan Temple.
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With the World Heritage-listed Prambanan Temple as a backdrop, watching a play here is sure to be a wonderful experience.
“Roro Jonggrang” Theater Performance | World Heritage Prambanan Temple Complex Yogyakarta, Indonesia Recommended experience: Participate in an annual music festival
Prambanan Jazz Festival | Yogyakarta, Indonesia Music festival at a World Heritage Site Here in Prambanan, the Prambanan Jazz Festival is held every year around July.
With World Heritage sites as a backdrop, enjoying the music of famous Indonesian artists and world-renowned artists is an indescribably “amazing” experience.
If you have the opportunity, please consider attending the Prambanan Jazz Festival.
3. Kraton (Yogyakarta Palace): Experience the ongoing culture of the Yogyakarta Palace and Java
Kraton (Yogyakarta Palace) | Indonesia Yogyakarta Tourist Attractions This is the palace of the current king of Yogyakarta.
The king’s palace, where you can see ancient noble artifacts, is a must-see.
Recommended experience: Enjoy royal cuisine at a restaurant run by royalty!
Inside the restaurant | Bale Raos Yogyakarta Restaurant run by royalty Inside the restaurant | Bale Raos Yogyakarta Restaurant run by royalty Foods | Bale Raos Yogyakarta Restaurant run by royalty
Bale Raos serves the favorite dishes of former kings. The menu includes special dishes favored by Sultans VIII through X.
Beef tongue stew | Bale Raos Yogyakarta Restaurant run by royalty Java Beer | Bale Raos Yogyakarta Restaurant run by royalty
Sultan IX loved beef tongue stew, similar to beef tongue stew, and
Recommended experience: Watch Javanese dance at the Kraton (royal palace) in Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is the only region in Indonesia where the monarchy continues to this day.
At the palace, you can enjoy traditional Javanese dance performances. It is sure to be a wonderful experience where you can experience Javanese culture.
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You can enjoy traditional Javanese dance every Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
In addition to sightseeing at the royal palace, why not enjoy some Javanese dance?
4. Taman Sari (Water Palace/Detached Palace)
インスタ映えスポット タマンサリ ジョグジャカルタ 水の宮殿 Taman Sari is a royal retreat built by the Sultan of the Kingdom of Yogyakarta in the 18th century. “Taman Sari” means “flower garden” in Javanese, and it was once a place where the Sultan and his concubines spent their leisure time surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Today, ruins remain that evoke the prosperity of that era, and the unique structures and mysterious atmosphere of the waterways, bathing facilities, and underground mosques continue to fascinate visitors. The complex, maze-like structure was designed to prevent enemy intrusion, offering a glimpse into the wisdom and technology of the kingdom at that time.
5. Mount Merapi: Just like Big Thunder Mountain! Enjoy the spectacular natural scenery.
One of Yogyakarta’s tourist attractions is Mount Merapi.
Merapi Volcano Mount Merapi in Yogyakarta Recommended experience: Take a Jeep ride at Mount Merapi and take photos with the great outdoors as your backdrop.
We recommend taking a tour in a jeep around the middle slopes of Mount Merapi, visiting museums and enjoying the great outdoors.
Mount Merapi JEEP Tour Take Instagram-worthy photos! | Mount Merapi, Yogyakarta, Indonesia Contents of the Mount Merapi Jeep Tour
Spectacular water spray activity using the river
Photo shoot on the plateau with Mount Merapi in the background
Tour of the museum displaying materials from the 2010 eruption
Inspection of evacuation shelters in case of volcanic eruptions
6. Malioboro Street: Jogjakarta’s No. 1 bustling downtown area
Signboard on Malioboro Street | Malioboro Street, Yogyakarta
ジョグジャカルタの中心地にあるマリオボロ通りは、インドネシアでも有名な観光スポットのひとつ。
Marioboro Street is the most popular shopping district in Yogyakarta, attracting locals, tourists, and school trip students alike. The street is lined with numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes, and is always bustling with people.
Recommended experience: Shopping for batik and souvenirs on Jalan Malioboro
The center of tourism in Yogyakarta is Malioboro Street, an entertainment district lined with souvenir shops and cafes.
マリオボロ通りの看板 | ジョグジャカルタ マリオボロ通り Night scene on Malioboro Street | Jogjakarta Malioboro Street Massimo Gelato | Jogjakarta, Jalan Malioboro
Here, you can enjoy shopping, light meals such as gelato, and street food.
Cheap batik for children Souvenirs | Jogjakarta Malioboro Street Marioboro Street Batik Shop Souvenirs | Yogyakarta Marioboro Street Inside the store | Hamzah Batik Jogjakarta Malioboro Street
If you have small children among your friends or family, please consider purchasing batik clothing for them.
Recommended experience: Drink “Kopi Joss” on Malioboro Street
A popular item in Yogyakarta’s famous entertainment district, Malioboro Street, is Kopi Joss.
kopi jos とは | ジョグジャカルタ マリオボロ通り Kopi Joss is coffee with charcoal, and it is customary to spend time together while drinking this coffee.
Recommended experience: Ride a horse-drawn carriage on Marioboro Street
One thing you should definitely try on Malioboro Street is riding in a horse-drawn carriage called a delman.
Delman (horse-drawn carriage) Horse-drawn carriages on Marioboro Street
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7. Ratu Boko: Spectacular sunset at the ancient royal palace
Ratu Boko Ruins | Ratu Boko Yogyakarta, Indonesia Ruins Ratu Boko Ruins | Ratu Boko Yogyakarta, Indonesia Ruins Ratu Boko Ruins | Ratu Boko Yogyakarta, Indonesia Ruins Ratu Boko Ruins | Ratu Boko Yogyakarta, Indonesia Ruins Ratu Boko Ruins | Ratu Boko Yogyakarta, Indonesia Ruins
The “Ratu Boko” ruins are the remains of residences where royalty once lived. The name comes from the Javanese word “ratu boko,” which means “crane’s nest.” From these ruins on a hilltop, you can see the entire city of Yogyakarta spread out below, as if cranes were soaring high in the sky.
The ruins of the ancient Mataram Kingdom flourished from the late 8th to the 9th century and are believed to have been built during the same period as Borobudur and Prambanan. Unlike temples, which have a religious atmosphere, these ruins feature many structures that offer a glimpse into the lives of the royal family at that time, such as gates, bathing areas, and plazas.
8. Kotagede: Experience the history and townscape of the Mataram Kingdom
Retro-style café | Kotagede omahkalang coffee Yogyakarta Retro-style café | Kotagede omahkalang coffee Yogyakarta Retro Townscape | Yogyakarta Kotagede Kotagede Mataram Kingdom Royal Tombs | Yogyakarta Kotagede
Kotagede was the first capital of the Mataram Kingdom, which flourished from the late 16th to the 17th century. There are many historical spots scattered throughout the area, such as the ruins of the royal palace, mosques, and markets, allowing you to feel as if you have slipped back in time.
The retro townscape, with its maze-like alleys and old houses, is perfect for taking photos! Colorful walls and antique doors create picturesque scenes. We recommend taking a break at a fashionable café or taking photos of cute desserts. The town is also famous for its silverware, making it the perfect place to find souvenirs.
The charm of Kotagude
The capital of the Mataram Kingdom, which flourished from the late 16th to the 17th century.
The labyrinthine, retro streetscape is perfect for Instagram!
Traditional crafts and culture, such as silverwork, remain to this day as gifts to the king.
Best 4 gourmet selections to enjoy in Yogyakarta!
1. Eating Gudeg, a local delicacy in Yogyakarta
Gudeg is a traditional dish widely loved in central Java, such as the Special Region of Yogyakarta and Central Java Province. It is one of the most popular dishes in Javanese cuisine and is enjoyed by locals in various situations, such as home cooking and special events.
Gudeg ジョグジャカルタご当地グルメ | Gudeg Sagan Gudeg is made by simmering young jackfruit (nangka) in coconut milk, gura merah, teak leaves (daun jati), and sweet-smelling spices, along with chicken, eggs, tofu, and other ingredients. Gudeg made with young jackfruit can be enjoyed at food stalls and restaurants throughout Yogyakarta.
The local delicacy you absolutely must try in Yogyakarta is gudeg.
But…
For those who like spicy food, there is also Gudeg Pedas (Gudeg Mercon), which is Gudeg with a spicy flavor.
2. Experience Javanese culture and eat B-grade gourmet Bakmi Jawa at Bakmi Jowo Mbah Gito
Bakmi Jawa Mbah Gito is a very famous restaurant among locals and tourists.
Here you can eat Bakmi Jawa, one of Yogyakarta’s local delicacies.
The three most popular menu items are as follows.
bakmi goreng (fried noodles)
bakmi godog (soup noodles)
magelangan (fried rice and noodles mix)
bakmi jawa rebus Bakmi Jawa Local cuisine in Yogyakarta Inside the restaurants | Bakmi Jowo Mbah Gito Inside the restaurants | Bakmi Jowo Mbah Gito
3. Eating Sate Klatak, a local delicacy in Yogyakarta
One of Yogyakarta’s most famous local dishes is “Sate Klatak”, skewered goat meat with a simple salt-based seasoning.
Sate Klatak Local cuisine of Yogyakarta Please try it when you visit Yogyakarta.
4. Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at Mediterranea Restaurant
The most popular restaurant in Yogyakarta is a Mediterranean restaurant run by a French chef.
Foods | mediterranea restaurant by kamil Yogyakarta Indonesia Wine | mediterranea restaurant by kamil Yogyakarta Pizza | mediterranea restaurant by kamil Yogyakarta
Here, you can enjoy reasonably priced drinks and a wide variety of dishes.
8 Recommended Experiences and Activities in Yogyakarta!
1. Experience making batik, a specialty product of Yogyakarta
Indonesian batik is a world-famous traditional fabric that is dyed by hand and decorated with beautiful patterns. This fabric is one of Indonesia’s important cultural heritages and was recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage on October 2, 2009.
Tools used in Indonesia’s traditional batik culture Batik experience Creating a sketch with wax The process of making batik
The art of batik has been passed down for centuries and is still loved by many people today.
We highly recommend the batik-making experience, where you can make your own world heritage batik and take it home as a souvenir of your trip and a memento of your memories.
2. Experience making silver accessories, a specialty product of Yogyakarta
Due to the presence of the royal palace, Yogyakarta has a rich culture of craftsmanship, with various crafts being produced as gifts for the king, a tradition that continues to this day.
silver art jogja Yogyakarta Silver Art Ring Making Workshop Filigree Silverwork | Traditional Crafts of Yogyakarta
One of them is silver art.
We highly recommend trying your hand at making silver accessories, either as a souvenir for yourself or as a gift for someone else.
3. The enchanting world of cabaret shows
Yogyakarta is the place to see cabaret shows, which are rare in Indonesia!
You can enjoy performances that include lip-synching to popular Western songs, as well as performances that incorporate Indonesian songs and Javanese culture.
Cabaret Show | Hamzah Batik Yogyakarta Malioboro Street
The performers are also very enthusiastic, ensuring that you will spend a time filled with laughter.
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4. Experience art at art galleries and museums
Jogja National Museum Jogja National Museum
Yogyakarta is one of Indonesia’s leading cities for the arts.
There are many art galleries and museums in the city.
If you are visiting in July or August, we recommend participating in a large exhibition called ARTJOG.
Artjog 2023 | Jogja National Museum Artjog 2023 | Jogja National Museum Artjog 2023 | Jogja National Museum
5. Watching Wayang (shadow puppet theater) at Musium Sonobudoyo
Wayang, a shadow puppet theater, is registered as one of Indonesia’s intangible cultural heritage sites.
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This will undoubtedly be a wonderful experience where you can feel the culture of Java with your ears, eyes, and skin.
Performances are held every Tuesday from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Official Web Site is from here
6. View the nightscape of Yogyakarta from Bukit Bintang
Although it is located about 45 minutes away from the city center, there is an area with restaurants and food stalls in Gunung Kidul where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the nightscape of Yogyakarta.
This is a highly recommended spot for those who want to spend a slightly different kind of evening in Yogyakarta.
Bukit Bintang Night view of Yogyakarta
Here are the scenes captured in the video!
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7. Sunset at Pantai Timang, Jogjakarta’s scenic beach
Another attraction of Yogyakarta is its abundance of natural beauty on the island of Java.
Pantai Timang | Yogyakarta, Indonesia Pantai Timang Gondola Ride | Yogyakarta, Indonesia
One of them that offers a particularly appealing experience is Pantai Timang.
One of its attractions is that you can take a gondola to a remote island.The gondola is handmade, so you may feel a little scared…
8. Relax and unwind with a soothing massage surrounded by the atmosphere of Java.
At the end of a hard day of playing, how about a full-body shiatsu massage surrounded by the atmosphere of Joie?
It is one of our recommended massages with a very nice atmosphere.
Appearance | Griya Shiatsu Yogyakarta Massage ジョグジャカルタの中心エリアにあり、行きやすいところにあります。
Have you booked a hotel to stay at in Yogyakarta?
Grand Inna Malioboro | Yogyakarta Hotel Swiss-Belboutique Yogyakarta | Yogyakarta Hotel Swiss-Belboutique Yogyakarta Room View | Yogyakarta Hotel Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta Exterior | Yogyakarta Hotel Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta Heated Pool | Yogyakarta Hotel
When staying in Yogyakarta, we highly recommend booking a room near Yogyakarta Tugu Station or staying at the unique Hyatt Hotel!
あわせて読みたい
Best 5 Hotels in Yogyakarta Locals Recommend – July 2025 Update
Yogyakarta is packed with attractions, from historical sites to mountain and sea activities. However, these spots are relatively spread out, so getting a hot…
These are the perfect souvenirs from Yogyakarta! 10 souvenirs carefully selected by locals!
Bakpia 25 | Recommended souvenirs from Yogyakarta silver art jogja Yogyakarta Silver Art Filigree Cheap batik for children Souvenirs | Jogjakarta Malioboro Street Bakpia kukus | Recommended souvenirs from Yogyakarta Borobudur Stupa-shaped Chocolate | Monggo Chocolate Recommended Souvenir from Yogyakarta
Here is a list of souvenirs recommended by me, a resident of Yogyakarta. Don’t forget to pick them up at the end of your trip!
Bakpia kukus
Batik
Bakpia Pathok 25
Silver jewelry and accessories
Monggo chocolate from Borobudur
Wedang Uwuh
Wayang puppets
Gudeg Yu Djum canned food
Bakpiaku
Gula Aren
Finally
Thank you for reading to the end.
There are more things to do in Yogyakarta than I thought!
I wanted to stay in Yogyakarta longer!
Yogyakarta has many other attractions to offer.
