Explore Yogyakarta’s Hidden Gem: Indonesia’s Thrilling Heavenly King Island Adventure

Tianwang Island, a rugged gem nestled off the coast of Yogyakarta, offers a unique and adventurous experience.

The journey begins with a scenic two-hour drive from the city to the meeting point. From there, you’ll need to switch to a sturdy off-road vehicle for a thrilling 30-minute ride across a rocky, undulating terrain. Be warned: this bumpy path might not be for the faint of heart or those prone to motion sickness.

Upon reaching the seaside, you have two exciting options to get to the island. You can either walk across a swaying suspension bridge or take a vibrant yellow manual cable car, each operated by different companies.

Here’s where things get interesting: the island is divided into two distinct sections, and your access depends on how you choose to cross. For instance, if you opt for the suspension bridge, you won’t be able to explore the lower level or the rooftop on the other side, which can be a bit of a letdown.

Once on the island, the panoramic views of the sea are truly breathtaking, but the edges can be quite perilous. Some daring visitors, especially a few brave Chinese girls, were seen taking photos right at the edge, which was both impressive and nerve-wracking. Always remember, safety first!

After soaking in the island’s beauty, the return trip is just as adventurous, retracing the same bumpy path. Upon your return, treat yourself to a feast at a renowned seafood restaurant in the village. The lobster set meal costs 6.5 million Indonesian rupiah, and we indulged in a full set that included crabs, squids, and fish, totaling 8 million (around 400 RMB).