Best things to do in Java: what to see and how to spend your time on the island

Java - the heart of Indonesia and the most populated island on the planet. Here you will find ancient UNESCO temples, active volcanoes, tropical forests, waterfalls, caves, and some of the most unusual natural landscapes in Asia. It is on Java that you can see Ijen's famous "blue fire", watch the sunrise over Mount Bromo, and visit the largest Buddhist temple in the world.

We have gathered the best things to do and attractions in Java: from trekking to volcanoes to surfing, diving, and cultural excursions.

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See the "blue fire" of Ijen volcano

Indonesia is known for its majestic mountains, but one of the most impressive is Ijen, whose summit holds a mesmerizing crater with a turquoise-blue lake. It is the largest acidic lake in the world! Sulfuric acid rises to the surface and ignites. In the dark, this spectacle takes on a blue glow.

Before the ascent, you need to prepare personal protective equipment: non-slip shoes, warm clothing, a mask, and hand sanitizer. Sulfur fumes are dangerous after all. Tourists who want to climb Ijen should be in good health and should not suffer from asthma or cardiovascular disease. A doctor's certificate is required: it is not issued on site.

How to get there: from the nearest major city of Banyuwangi, you can get there by car, taxi, or public transport.

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Visit Borobudur Temple

Borobudur is one of Indonesia's most famous attractions and the largest Buddhist temple in the world. This ancient relic has been beautifully preserved since the 9th century. Climb to the central level to enjoy a stunning view of the whole temple complex. Find the 72 amazing Buddha statues and the unusual carvings that depict scenes from Buddhist teachings. It is especially beautiful here at sunrise and sunset: try to plan your visit so you can fully enjoy the play of light.

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Admire Prambanan Temple

Prambanan is often considered similar to nearby Borobudur, although there are noticeable differences between these two temple complexes. Both date back to the 9th century, but Prambanan is a Hindu temple, while Borobudur is Buddhist.

The temple complex is notable for its tall spires and intricate stone reliefs. It remains one of the largest religious sites in Southeast Asia. Visiting Prambanan allows you to immerse yourself in the past and discover the impressive architecture of ancient Java.

Borobudur and Prambanan are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

How to get there: the temple is just 18 kilometers from Yogyakarta, and you can get there by bus or by car.

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Relax on the beaches of Anyer

The seaside town of Anyer is a popular coastal resort on Java's west coast. It is known for its beautiful beach with views of the towering Krakatau volcano. In addition to snorkeling, you can go water skiing or parasailing here. Walk along the beach to the old Cikoneng lighthouse. After that, head shopping in the authentic city of Bandung, where you will find countless places for excellent shopping on Java.

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Hike to the Baturraden waterfalls

The Baturraden waterfalls are compared to the wild waterfalls of the Amazon. The hike is not that easy, but you will be rewarded with magnificent views of lush landscapes. Mighty waterfalls pour through the forest canopy into clear pools. There are many different waterfalls here, but one of the most beautiful and famous is Curug Belot. Be sure to visit it!

How to get there: the best option is by car from Yogyakarta. The journey takes about 5-6 hours, depending on traffic.

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Visit batik factories in Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is famous for its beautiful batik, made with wax and dyes. Batik is sold in shops throughout the city, but it is even more interesting to go on a tour of a factory where it is made.

Discover this long-standing craft, which was first invented in Indonesia. Take a workshop and make your own batik souvenir by hand.

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Climb Mount Bromo

One of Indonesia's many active volcanoes is named after the Hindu god Brahma. It is a sacred mountain for Indonesians. The volcano mostly sleeps, although it still erupts and smokes from time to time. You can still climb to the top and watch a breathtaking sunset over the edge of the crater. From the mountain, there is a magical view of the Tengger ridge. Most of the way to the summit can be covered by car. Tourists leave around 3 or 4 in the morning for the famous sunrise over the Tengger caldera. Bromo's landscapes are considered among the most recognizable on Java.

How to get there: from the cities of Malang or Surabaya, you can get there by car or bus.

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Enjoy the views from the Dieng Plateau

One of Java's main attractions is the Dieng Plateau, located at an altitude of about 2,100 meters above sea level. Many Indonesians come here to make a pilgrimage to the Buddhist temples scattered along the way. The plateau is home to a group of sanctuaries dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries. This amazing place is often called the "Land above the clouds". Here you can immerse yourself in the spirituality of ancient Javanese culture and experience the beauty of volcanic landscapes.

On the way to the plateau, you will come across clear spring-water pools and hot springs. The climb is rewarded with breathtaking views from the top of the plateau. Try to get there at sunset!

How to get there: the journey starts from the town of Wonosobo, where small buses depart. You can reach the town from Yogyakarta.

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Shopping and colonial architecture in Bandung

Enjoy the atmosphere of the old city of Bandung. This is the capital of West Java, a city where the beauty of nature blends organically with modern urban life.

Bandung is called the "Paris of Java" because of its colonial past and architecture that reflects a European base. It is surrounded by lush tea plantations and boasts picturesque scenery. The city is also known for its factory outlet stores, which offer excellent shopping opportunities.

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Explore Goa Jomblang cave

Getting to Goa Jomblang is not difficult, but you will have to descend on a rope with instructors. Once inside, it feels like you have entered a lost world. At the top of the rock, there is an opening through which sunlight enters.

Discover a kingdom of intricate stalactites and stalagmites, lush vegetation flooded with heavenly rays of sunlight. Fantastic beauty!

How to get there: this famous cave is about an hour's drive from the town of Jomblang, in the Gunung Kidul area.

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Go diving in the Karimunjawa Islands

Twenty-seven tropical islands are a real treasure off Java's northern coast. There are many beautiful beaches where you can head as a couple, because the islands are generally uninhabited. The excellent visibility makes it a great place to try snorkeling and diving.

The Karimunjawa Islands are part of the Karimun Jawa archipelago, known for its untouched white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and vibrant marine life.

The lush green landscapes of Karimunjawa also offer opportunities for hiking and scenic drives.

How to get there: your starting point can be the cities of Semarang or Jakarta.

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Take photos in the rainbow village of Kampung Pelangi

The rainbow village of Kampung Pelangi is an unusual attraction for curious tourists. Wanting to attract more visitors to the area, local residents decided to paint their houses in all sorts of bright colors. No part of the village was left untouched! Now many tourists come here to photograph this colorful sight.

This is a poor neighborhood of colorful slums that lives through hard work and tourists. Entry to the village costs symbolic money, and be sure to buy a souvenir to support local artisans.

How to get there: Kampung Pelangi is only 4-5 km from the center of Semarang. You can get there by bus or taxi.

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Surf in Pelabuhan Ratu

Pelabuhan Ratu in West Java attracts many surfers. Because of the strong surf, swimming is not recommended, but there is a long central beach with views of the Indian Ocean. Walking along the coast, you will find charming coves and bays. Among the most beautiful are Sunset Beach, Karang Sari, and Cimaja.

How to get there: the drive from Jakarta takes about 3-4 hours by car. By bus, you can get there with a transfer in Sukabumi.

Apri DAV, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Climb Mount Merapi

Merapi, located in Central Java, is one of the most active and iconic volcanoes in the world. Known as the "Mountain of Fire", Merapi has been both a source of destruction and a symbol of the power of nature. Its frequent eruptions have had a lasting effect on the surrounding landscape. Merapi's dramatic silhouette attracts travelers who want to get close to the majestic forces of nature.

How to get there: Merapi is about 30 kilometers from the center of Yogyakarta. The drive takes about 1.5 hours.

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Zipline and viewpoints of Kalibiru

Kalibiru National Park is located in the Menoreh Hills of Central Java. This relatively unexplored park offers vivid scenery and adventure. You can explore dense forests, admire panoramic views from elevated viewpoints, and enjoy the peace of untouched nature. There is even a zipline over emerald tropical landscapes!

How to get there: the park is 40 kilometers from the center of Yogyakarta. The drive takes about 1 hour.

Java will give you many exciting adventures. Travel with us!

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