Discover the Hidden Gems: Why Yogyakarta, Indonesia, is a Surprising Adventure Awaits

Yogyakarta, one of the oldest cities in central southern Java, was my longest stop during my Indonesian adventure. The extended stay wasn’t due to a plethora of attractions, but rather the city’s laid-back charm.

Apart from a day trip to the magnificent Borobudur, the main sights in Yogyakarta are compact and easily manageable. A diligent traveler could likely cover them all in a single day.

✅ Sultan’s Taman Sari Water Castle
This enchanting royal garden of the Sultanate is a blend of European, Javanese, and Indian architectural styles. Despite its modest size, it captivates visitors with two small, picturesque pools at its center, once used by the Sultan’s concubines for bathing. Legend has it that if the Sultan fancied a particular concubine, he would toss a flower near her as a sign of his affection.
📍 Taman Sari
💰 5000 ⏰ 9:00-16:00

✅ Sultan’s Palace
Nestled in the heart of the city, this historic palace was constructed by the first Sultan of Yogyakarta. Even after Indonesia’s independence, the original royal family continued to reside here, and the staff still don traditional attire. I arrived at noon, but unfortunately, a guided tour was mandatory, and independent exploration was not allowed.

The experience was somewhat ordinary. For a more vibrant visit, try to arrive around 11:00 AM to catch the cultural performances.
📍 Sonobudoyo Museum, Unit II
💰 12500 ⏰ 8:30-14:30

✅ Yogyakarta Biennale
Visual art holds a significant place in Yogyakarta’s cultural scene, and this exhibition space, recommended by a Taiwanese student, is a must-see. Although the gallery is relatively small, it showcases works by local students, with a few intriguing pieces. It’s a great spot to drop by when you have some free time, as it often hosts engaging events.
📍 Biennale Jogja 17

✅ Malioboro Street
This bustling street is the epicenter of Yogyakarta’s activity. In the evenings, it comes alive with performances by local artists. However, the city’s economy is not highly developed, and the street resembles a commercial thoroughfare in a smaller Chinese city.
📍 Malioboro Yogyakarta

Despite my extended stay, I didn’t explore many other attractions. The intense heat made me feel like I was melting, and the small, unimpressive sites eventually lost their appeal. By the end, I found myself less inclined to visit places like the Puppet Museum.