Yogyakarta, often referred to as simply "Jogja," is a city located on the island of Java in Indonesia. It's known for its rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and vibrant arts scene. Here are some key details about Yogyakarta:

• Geography and Location: Yogyakarta is situated in the southern part of Central Java, Indonesia. It's known for its proximity to the majestic Mount Merapi volcano and its beautiful beaches along the southern coast.
• Cultural Center: Yogyakarta is considered the cultural heart of Java. It is the only Indonesian royal city still ruled by a monarchy, the Sultanate of Yogyakarta. The city has a strong connection to Javanese traditions, and you can experience its rich culture through art, music, dance, and local festivals.
• Tourist Attractions: Yogyakarta offers a plethora of attractions for visitors. Some of the most popular ones include:
  • The Kraton (Sultan's Palace): This is the royal palace and cultural epicenter of Yogyakarta.
  • Borobudur and Prambanan Temples: These ancient Buddhist and Hindu temples are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are among the most impressive in Southeast Asia.
  • Taman Sari Water Castle: A historic palace complex featuring beautiful gardens, bathing pools, and underground tunnels.
  • Malioboro Street: A bustling shopping street where you can find traditional handicrafts, batik clothing, and street food.
• Art and Craft: Yogyakarta is famous for its batik textiles and traditional Javanese arts. You can visit local workshops to see how batik is made and purchase exquisite handcrafted items.
• Education: The city is home to several prestigious universities, including Gadjah Mada University (UGM), one of Indonesia's top institutions.
• Cuisine: Yogyakarta offers a diverse range of delicious Indonesian dishes. Don't miss trying specialties like gudeg (a jackfruit stew), nasi kucing (small portions of rice with various side dishes), and bakpia (sweet pastries).
• Nature and Adventure: The region around Yogyakarta offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking Mount Merapi, exploring the Jomblang Cave, and enjoying the beaches in nearby Gunung Kidul.
• Transportation: Yogyakarta has an international airport (Adisutjipto International Airport) and is well-connected by rail and road to other major cities in Java.

Yogyakarta's unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the richness of Indonesia's heritage. Whether you're interested in history, the arts, or outdoor adventures, Yogyakarta has something to offer every traveler.

Interesting Facts

• Sultanate Rule: Yogyakarta is the only Indonesian city still ruled by a Sultan. The Sultan of Yogyakarta is considered a governor with special privileges, and the Sultanate plays a significant role in local culture and traditions.
• Cultural Capital: Often called the "Cultural Capital of Indonesia," Yogyakarta is known for its preservation of Javanese culture, traditional art forms, and classical Javanese dance and music.
• Borobudur Sunrise: The Borobudur Temple complex, located near Yogyakarta, is a famous spot to watch the sunrise. It's an awe-inspiring experience to see the world's largest Buddhist temple emerge from the morning mist.
• Prambanan Temple: Yogyakarta is also home to the Prambanan Temple, a stunning Hindu temple complex with towering spires and intricate stone carvings.
• Becak Transportation: Becak, or cycle rickshaws, are a common mode of transportation in Yogyakarta. They are a great way to explore the city's streets at a leisurely pace.
• Batik Capital: Yogyakarta is renowned for its batik textiles. Batik is a traditional Indonesian art form of dyeing cloth with intricate patterns, and you can find a wide variety of batik products in the city.
• Volcano Proximity: Yogyakarta is located near Mount Merapi, one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes. Despite its occasional eruptions, the area around Merapi is densely populated due to its fertile soil.
• Ramayana Ballet: The Prambanan Temple hosts the Ramayana Ballet, a traditional Javanese dance performance that tells the epic story of the Ramayana. It's a must-see cultural show in Yogyakarta.
• Kraton's Architecture: The Kraton, or Sultan's Palace, is a prime example of Javanese palace architecture. Its layout reflects Javanese cosmology and culture.
• Gudeg: Gudeg is Yogyakarta's signature dish, made from young jackfruit stewed with palm sugar, coconut milk, and spices. It's often served with rice and chicken. A visit to Yogyakarta is incomplete without trying this local delicacy.

Tourism Destionations

Yogyakarta, Indonesia, offers a wide range of tourist destinations, blending rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance. Here are some of the top tourist destinations in Yogyakarta:

• Borobudur Temple: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world's most magnificent Buddhist temples. It features a massive stupa and intricate stone carvings, making it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
• Malioboro Street: Yogyakarta's bustling shopping street is a vibrant place to explore local culture. It offers a wide variety of traditional handicrafts, batik shops, street food, and a lively atmosphere.
• Parangtritis Beach: This popular beach is known for its black sand, scenic landscapes, and strong cultural significance. It's a great place to watch sunsets and experience local beach culture.
• Prambanan Temple: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Prambanan is a stunning Hindu temple complex. It is renowned for its towering temples, intricate reliefs, and vibrant cultural performances, including the Ramayana Ballet.
• Kaliurang: Located on the slopes of Mount Merapi, Kaliurang is a popular destination for those interested in volcano tourism. You can hike, take a lava tour, and learn about the volcano's activity.
• Kali Adem: Visit this viewpoint on the slopes of Mount Merapi to witness panoramic views of the volcano and the surrounding landscape.
• Sultan's Palace (Kraton): Explore the heart of Yogyakarta's cultural and historical heritage at the Kraton, the Sultan's Palace. Visitors can learn about the Sultanate's history and view its unique Javanese architectural design.
• Taman Sari Water Castle: This historic royal garden and bathing complex is famous for its underground tunnels, scenic pools, and lush gardens. It's an intriguing blend of architectural marvels and natural beauty.
• Jomblang Cave: Adventure seekers will enjoy exploring Jomblang Cave, known for its vertical cave system and breathtaking beams of light that penetrate into the underground cavern.
• Ullen Sentalu Museum: This museum provides an in-depth look into Javanese culture and history. It houses a vast collection of artifacts, art, and historical exhibits.
• Kota Gede: This historic district is known for its silver industry. Visitors can explore old Dutch colonial architecture, visit traditional silver workshops, and taste local snacks.
• Tamansari Underground Mosque: Located within the Taman Sari Water Castle complex, this mosque is unique due to its underground location and historical significance.
• Indrayanti Beach: This picturesque beach is situated in Gunung Kidul, offering white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. It's a peaceful escape from the city.

Must Eat / Try

Yogyakarta, Indonesia, is a culinary paradise with a wide array of delicious dishes that showcase the rich flavors and traditions of Javanese cuisine. Here's a must-eat list of dishes and street foods to try when visiting Yogyakarta:

• Nasi Kucing: Translating to "cat rice," this dish consists of small portions of rice served with a variety of side dishes such as sambal (chili paste), tempeh, and fried chicken. It's a unique and affordable way to sample a range of flavors.
• Mie Ayam: Indonesian chicken noodle soup with seasoned chicken, noodles, and a flavorful broth. It's often garnished with fried shallots, scallions, and sambal.
• Nasi bakar: Steamed rice seasoned with spices and ingredients and wrapped in banana leaf secured with lidi semat (small needle made of central rib of coconut leaf) and later grilled upon charcoal fire.
• Ayam Goreng Kalasan: This is a famous fried chicken dish with a sweet and slightly spicy marinade. It's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
• Sambal: Sambal is a spicy chili paste that accompanies almost every Indonesian meal. Each region has its own variation, but Yogyakarta's sambal often features a balanced blend of heat and sweetness.
• Lapis Legit: A rich, layered cake made with butter, sugar, and spices. It's often given as a gift or enjoyed with coffee.
• Gudeg: Yogyakarta's signature dish, gudeg is a sweet stew made from young jackfruit cooked with palm sugar, coconut milk, and spices. It's typically served with rice and various side dishes, including chicken, tofu, and krecek (crispy cow skin).
• Bakpia: These sweet pastries come in various flavors, including mung bean and chocolate. They make for great souvenirs and snacks.
• Sate Klathak: A specialty of Yogyakarta, sate klathak is made from skewered and grilled goat meat, typically seasoned with a blend of spices. It's often served with lontong (compressed rice cake) and a flavorful peanut sauce.
• Soto Betawi: A hearty beef soup with coconut milk, herbs, and spices. It's a popular comfort food and can be found at local eateries.
• Bakso: Indonesian meatball soup, usually made from beef, served with noodles and a flavorful broth. It's a satisfying and popular street food.
• Klepon: These sweet rice cakes are filled with palm sugar and coated with grated coconut. They have a unique, sweet, and slightly chewy texture.
• Kupat Tahu: A dish consisting of rice cakes, tofu, bean sprouts, and peanut sauce. It's a flavorful vegetarian option.
• Kerak Telor: A traditional Javanese snack made from glutinous rice, duck eggs, and a mixture of coconut, shrimp, and fried shallots. It's known for its unique flavor and crispy texture.
• Es Dawet: A refreshing drink/dessert made with coconut milk, rice flour jelly, and palm sugar syrup. It's perfect for cooling down on a hot day.
• Sego Wiwit: This dish features rice served with a variety of side dishes and condiments. It's a local tradition and a delightful way to sample different flavors in one meal.

Must Drink / Try

Yogyakarta, Indonesia, offers a variety of delightful beverages that complement its rich culinary culture. Here's a must-drink list of refreshing and unique drinks to try when visiting Yogyakarta:

• Es Kelapa Muda: Young coconut water is a popular and refreshing choice. You can often find vendors selling whole young coconuts, allowing you to drink the water straight from the source.
• Kopi Joss: This unique coffee beverage is made by adding a piece of burning charcoal to a cup of strong black coffee. It's believed to reduce acidity and add a smoky flavor.
• Teh Poci: Enjoy a traditional Javanese tea ceremony with Teh Poci, which is typically served in small clay teapots. It's a simple, yet charming way to savor a cup of tea.
• Es Cendol: This sweet and refreshing drink features green rice flour jelly served with coconut milk, palm sugar, and shaved ice. It's a popular choice on hot days.
• Wedang Uwuh: A traditional Javanese herbal drink made from a blend of aromatic spices such as clove, cinnamon, lemongrass, and ginger. It's both soothing and aromatic.
• Sekoteng: A warm and comforting drink, sekoteng consists of ginger-based broth with peanuts, sticky rice balls, and a hint of sesame seeds. It's often enjoyed in the evenings.
• Jamu: This traditional Indonesian herbal medicine comes in various formulations and is believed to have health benefits. It's usually a mixture of herbs and spices.
• Susu Jahe: A warming and comforting drink made from ginger and sweetened condensed milk. It's soothing, especially during cool evenings.
• Es Dawet Hitam: A variation of Es Dawet, this drink features black jelly made from grass jelly and is served with coconut milk and palm sugar syrup.
• Jus Alpukat: Avocado juice is a creamy and sweet treat. It's often blended with condensed milk or chocolate syrup for added richness.
• Jeruk Nipis: Lime juice is a popular choice for a tangy and zesty refreshment. It's often mixed with sugar and ice to create a thirst-quenching drink.
• Jamu Gingseng: A variation of jamu, this herbal drink contains ginseng, believed to have revitalizing properties.
• Klepon Shake: A creative fusion of traditional klepon (sweet rice cake) with modern flavors. It's a sweet and creamy shake with the essence of coconut and palm sugar.
• Jamu Kunyit Asam: A traditional Javanese drink made from turmeric and tamarind. It's known for its potential health benefits and is both tangy and earthy in flavor.

Notes

``

Kalau sampai waktuku

'Ku mau tak seorang 'kan merayu

Tidak juga kau

Tak perlu sedu sedan itu

Chairil Anwar

``

Heart of the city tempered with art.

Internet access may be an issue, so ask to your host before renting.

Air is pure, the scents divine, and smiles abundant, as if it were a poem brought to life.”

From the airport, take the train to the city center.There will be some fraudsters on Malioboro who will invite you to their art gallery; this is a waste of time; do not go with them.

If you want rent motorcycle ,rent at least nmax or better one. Old ones or the cheap ones can be dangerous.

You should go to hiking trip to merapi. (If you want a clear view, go early in the morning and, of course, check the weather.)

Giving money or anything else with the right hand is a nice gesture.

Don’t stick on Prawirotaman especially north part of the city is so unique.

University Town is the finest spot to relax and work.There are several 7/24 open coworking spaces in Jogja, making it a haven for timezone victims.

One of the best friendly people in all over south east asia.

People in the city are particularly interested of outdoor sports, and there are several distinctive outdoor stores and outdoor activities.