PROGRES.ID – Yogyakarta, also known as Jogja, is one of the most popular cities in Indonesia due to its many intriguing features that make it a popular tourist destination. Here are some unique facts about Yogyakarta:
Special Region
Yogyakarta is the only region in Indonesia that still maintains a monarchy and has a governor with the title of Sultan. It is also known as the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY), politically autonomous.
Yogyakarta Palace (Keraton Yogyakarta)
The Yogyakarta Palace is the official residence of the Sultan of Yogyakarta and is one of the oldest palaces in Indonesia. The palace holds high historical and cultural value and is often a venue for cultural events such as wayang (shadow puppetry), dance, and music.
Gudeg
Gudeg is a traditional dish unique to Yogyakarta, made from young jackfruit cooked with special spices like palm sugar and coconut milk. It is typically served with rice, free-range chicken, eggs, and sambal krecek (spicy crispy beef skin).
Oldest University in Indonesia
Yogyakarta is home to Gadjah Mada University (UGM), the oldest university in Indonesia known internationally for its education quality and research.
Zoo
Yogyakarta also features a unique zoo called Gembira Loka Zoo, which houses a diverse collection of animals including komodo dragons, orangutans, tigers, and elephants. The zoo offers both scenic views and fresh air.
City of Culture
Yogyakarta is a city of arts and culture, particularly performing arts like wayang, dance, and music. The city boasts numerous art galleries, museums, and performance venues.
Parangtritis Beach
Parangtritis Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Yogyakarta. Aside from its beautiful white sand, the beach has a legend of a sea king believed to be the origin of the name “Parangtritis”.
Taman Sari
Taman Sari is a complex of pools and historical buildings once used as a recreational and resting place for the Yogyakarta royal family. Taman Sari features three beautiful bathing pools.
Batik
Yogyakarta is also known as a city of batik. Yogyakarta batik is characterized by diverse motifs often inspired by nature, plants, and animals.
Culinary Hub
Yogyakarta is renowned for its delicious and famous culinary offerings such as sate klathak (grilled meat skewers), bakpia (sweet pastries), nasi liwet (rice cooked with coconut milk and spices), and more. With a wide range of traditional and modern foods to discover, Yogyakarta is truly a paradise for food lovers and culinary enthusiasts. Notable culinary areas include Malioboro Street, Beringharjo Market, and Prawirotaman Street.
Indonesian Language Learning Center
Yogyakarta is also recognized as a hub for international students learning the Indonesian language. Many language schools and universities offer Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) programs in the city.
Yogyakarta Monument (Tugu Yogyakarta)
The Yogyakarta Monument, also known as the White Pal Monument, is a famous landmark in the city. It was built to commemorate the successful unification of the Yogyakarta region by Sultan Hamengkubuwono I in 1755.
Distinctive Transportation
The distinctive transportation mode of Yogyakarta is the becak, a three-wheeled vehicle operated manually by a human driver. The becak provides a unique and enjoyable way to explore the city.
Night Market
The Night Market, known as “Malam Selasa Legi”, is a traditional night market held every Selasa Legi (one of the Javanese days) around the Yogyakarta Palace complex. The market offers a variety of traditional foods and handicrafts.
Mount Merapi
Mount Merapi, Indonesia’s most active volcano, is located near Yogyakarta. While not within Yogyakarta’s territory, Mount Merapi is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts who want to experience the natural beauty and unique volcanic phenomena around the mountain.
Yogyakarta is a city with exceptional uniqueness and appeal. Its historical richness, culture, cuisine, art, and natural beauty make it a popular tourist destination for both local and international travelers. From the Yogyakarta Palace to Mount Merapi, there are many fascinating places to explore in Yogyakarta.(kk)
