Discover Yogyakarta: Indonesia’s Hidden Gem Beyond Bali for Cultural Exploration
📝April 3, 2025, in Yogyakarta.
Yogyakarta, a city that once served as the capital of a sultanate, holds a historical significance akin to Xi’an in China. English is not widely spoken here, and Chinese visitors are few and far between. The streets are still graced by horse-drawn carriages, and scooters vastly outnumber cars. Despite this, the locals are remarkably disciplined, adhering to traffic rules, and their warmth is truly heartwarming.
They often stop to ask if I need assistance when they see me looking lost, and they go out of their way to help. For instance, they informed me that renting a motorcycle for a day means I can use it until the next morning without extra charges, all for just 45 RMB. They also eagerly helped me find a luggage store.
Their greetings are always warm and welcoming, often asking where I come from. This might be the only English sentence they know, as the conversation usually continues with a simple “Yes” 😂
After just one day, I already feel a deep affection for the life here.
As night falls, groups of young people gather by the roadside to perform folk music, and even girls in headscarves and long skirts dance gracefully under the glow of streetlights. Friends sit on the ground, enjoying simple dinners and engaging in lively conversations. Some are busy, while others find contentment in the simplicity of their lives. Though their material possessions may be modest, their spirits are undoubtedly rich!
My first day’s itinerary was packed: I rented a motorcycle to explore Prambanan, wandered through the charming small town, and savored the local flavors at street stalls! It had been a while since I last rode a motorcycle, and my sore bottom was a testament to that. Yet, the wind brought a sense of freedom and joy that made every moment worthwhile!
