Culture
A lot of people think of Jakarta when they think about Java, with its international airport and busy city. But Java is a very large island with so much to offer with regards to culture, they have a large selection of crafts, from batic, to wood calving, instrument making and puppet making. Puppets feature all over Java with shows, displays and even museums, all telling stories of Javanese history. Gamelan music can often be heard throughout villages and in towns, with its unique melodic tunes. Local food is delicious and highly recommended, you cant beat street food for giving you a true taste of Javanese culture.
Highlights
Jodipan
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Located near Melang in east Java this village is a must see. This slum area was due to be demolished by the city with all the residents relocated. A group of university students had an idea to paint the town to bring in tourists, with the help of the army the area was transformed. This has allowed the locals to charge a small entry fee and sell food and drink making the area profitable.
Food
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Food in Java is always a great part of your holiday, with so many delicious flavours. There is a lot of seafood served as Java has a good network from the coastline. Street food is very much worth trying as there is so much to offer and it tastes great, try the stalls on beach fronts for fresh grilled seafood.
Gamelan Music
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Gamelan is a traditional form of Indonesian music that is mostly performed in Java and Bali. A group perform on brass and bamboo instruments. The sound is melodic and hypnotising.
Puppets
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Wayang is a traditional puppet show, created in Java. It is a story from history that celebrates Indonesian history and arts. The shows are often accompanied by gamelan orchestras. The puppets are made out of leather or wood. Some shows use the puppets to create shadows.
Batik
Batic in Java is beautiful and all handmade, they use their own cotton, bees wax and dyes made from local products. It is worth going to watch them being created or even have a go yourself.
Wood Carving
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Wooden furniture is made all over Java with intricate designs. All left over pieces of wood are also carved into ornate figures. These are great to take home as souvenirs. If only there was room in our suitcases for the furniture too!
Sulfur Mining
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Mount Ijen in Java is one of the last remaining sulpher mines in the world. It is dangerous for the miners as the air is toxic, so they have to wear face masks and gloves. They also have to climb 9,000ft to the crater edge, then go 3,000ft down into the crater itself, so workers are very physically fit. Workers are paid well and are highly respected in their villages for the work they do. However miners often don’t stay in the job for long due to the strains on the body.