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Indonesian Wonder (653)
December
Photo credit: kompasiana
Batujajar Bunker is a relic site found during the Dutch colonial era. It stands in a green area, namely on the banks of the Saguling Reservoir in the Manglid area, Cangkorah, Batujajar district, West Bandung regency, West Java province. This building is right in the middle of the green area of the Saguling reservoir area. Visitors can visit the historical site, while enjoying the view of the beautiful lake that irrigates the reservoir. This tourist area offers stunning natural scenery and an unforgettable travel experience. The clear turquoise-coloured water, surrounded by lush green trees, makes the lake an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers. The trail also allows you to enjoy and see the diversity of local flora and fauna while feeling the cool mountain air.
According to local residents, the bunker located in the Army's military area has existed since the Dutch and Japanese colonial times. The function of the bunker at that time was as a storage place for Army goods such as weapons and so on. The panoramic view of the Saguling reservoir with the Bandung mountains in the background will spoil your eyes. You can also feel the sensation of travelling around the Saguling reservoir on a fishing boat by paying Rp15,000 to Rp20,000 or 1 to 1.5 US dollars. The facilities here are also quite complete with toilets, stalls, and prayer rooms.
To get to Batujajar Bunker, which is about 21 km from the centre of Bandung, it takes about 1.5 hours by car. The location of this bunker is still a hidden gem. Some of the access roads are unpaved and challenging because they are dirt and rocky. The route can only be travelled by two-wheeled vehicles. However, these obstacles can be overcome because along the way to the bunker you will enjoy views of plantations and rice fields. The dry season is the best time to visit this excellent destination in West Bandung. There is no entrance fee for visitors who come to Batujajar Bunker. All the natural beauty of the lake and this exotic old bunker building can be enjoyed for free. Around the lake there are also many trekking trails that make it easy for you to explore the natural beauty around.
December
The Charm of Indonesian Angklung at the Chigasaki Cross-Cultural Festival, Japan
Written by rahma
Photo credit: Antara
Indonesian traditional musical instrument angklung mesmerises visitors at the Chigasaki Cross Culture Festival in Chigasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Sunday (8/12/2024).
The festival featured Sri Lestari Dewi Susilowati, who introduced angklung to Japanese people, most of whom had just seen the instrument. During the Cross-Cultural Festival, Sri Lestari said that this way angklung could be better known and attract attention.
Not only introducing the instrument, Sri Lestari also demonstrated how to play angklung and invited visitors to try the instrument themselves.
Not only adults, but children also took to the stage to play along. Each held one angklung with a certain note, playing the harmony of sounds according to instructions.
To encourage more enthusiasm, Sri Lestari also distributed Indonesian snacks, including nastar cookies and candies for those who had tried playing angklung.
According to Sri Lestari, Japanese people should get to know more about Indonesia, not just Bali, which is the most popular among them. She hopes that not only angklung, but musical instruments and cultures from various regions in Indonesia can be recognised among Japanese people.
Indonesian cuisine was also one of the favourites at the Chigasaki Cross Culture Festival, including chicken satay, curry rice and fried noodles. There were long queues as customers waited for their turn to order and taste the culinary delights.
The festival features a variety of cuisines and cultures from various countries, including Indonesia, Spain, Brazil, France and others.
December
Photo credit: djkn.kemenkeu.go.id
Kolintang, the traditional musical instrument typical of Minahasa, North Sulawesi, is officially recognised as part of the intangible cultural heritage or ‘Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’ by UNESCO. This was announced at the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Paraguay on Thursday (5/12) at 12.20 local time, or on Thursday (5/12) at 22.00Western Indonesia Time (WIB).Today’s Indonesian Wonderwill introduce youmoreto this Minahasa musical instrument.
The name Kolintang comes from the sound ‘Tong’ produced on the low notes, ‘Ting’ on the high notes and ‘Tang’ on the middle notes. In the past, Minahasa people used to invite people to play Kolintang by saying ‘Let's do tong-ting-tang’ or in Minahasa local language ‘Maimo Kumolintang’. That's where the term ‘Kolintang’ came from. In ancient times, Kolintang music was used to accompany traditional ritual ceremonies related to the worship of ancestral spirits. But over time, this musical instrument is present in various activities, such as traditional parties, choirs, weddings and other events.
Kolintang consists of wooden slats arranged in a row and mounted on a wooden tub. The way to play Kolintang is quite easy. This musical instrument is played by beating using a small stick or called mallet. This small stick is generally wrapped in cloth or yarn pads at the end. The mallets used usually consist of three and are numbered separately. Mallet number one is used in the left hand, while mallet number two and three are held in the right hand, precisely between the fingers according to the accord being played.
December
Photo credit: jadesta.kemenparekraf.go.id
East Nusa Tenggara has unique destinations that are full of history. One of which is Liang Bua Cave located in the karst hilly area in the Manggarai Regency, Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The name ‘Liang Bua’ comes from the Manggarai-Flores language, ‘Liang’ means cave and ‘bua’ means cold, so Liang Bua can be interpreted as ‘cold cave’.
The cave became known to the world thanks to the discovery of fossils of Homo floresiensis, often called the ‘Hobbit,’ in 2003. This discovery revealed the life of early humans who lived in this area around 60,000-100,000 years ago.
In addition to ancient human fossils, scientists have also found fossils of ancient animals, such as stegodons (pygmy elephants), large monitor lizards and giant birds, making this cave one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
Liang Bua Cave not only holds history, but also incredible beauty. The cave is majestic in size, with a length of about 50 metres, a width of 40 metres, and a ceiling height of 25 metres.
Stalactites and stalagmites adorn the cave walls made of limestone, creating a mesmerising atmosphere.
For those who love photography, the natural lighting inside the cave offers unmissable moments.
Travelling to Liang Bua Cave is easy. The cave is about 14 kilometres from Ruteng, the capital of Manggarai Regency, and can be reached within 45 minutes by motor vehicle. At the location, local guides are available to explain various interesting stories about the history of the cave.
For those of you who want to visit, the best time is early morning to enjoy the beautiful and calm atmosphere of this cave. Liang Bua Cave offers a tourism experience that combines education, history and natural beauty.
November
Photo credit: Go Mandalika
Lombok Island is renowned for its beautiful, captivating beaches, anditis a favorite spot for surfers due to its waves. One of the stunning beaches in Lombok, popular among surfers, is Gerupuk Beach. Also known as Gerupuk Beach, it is located to the east of Kuta Beach in Lombok, specifically in Gerupuk Village, Pujut District, Central Lombok. Gerupuk Beach is a well-loved destination for surfers who come to test their skills on its challenging waves. With high waves and a strong breeze, the beach offers a unique thrill for surfers as they ride the waves.
There are five main surf points at this beach: Prigi or Inside, Giligoleng or Outside, Terasaq or Outside Left, Batu Teong or Dondon, and Batu Lawang or Kids Point. These five surf spots are known for their wild waves, although Batu Lawang is safe for children. Surfing enthusiasts are certainly familiar with these spots where waves can reach up to three meters high. Gerupuk Beach is also located close to the Mandalika Special Economic Zone, about 8 km from Kuta Beach Lombok and 4 km from Tanjung Aan. From Mataram City, it is approximately 52 km away, a journey of nearly an hour. The distance from Lombok International Airport (Zainuddin Abdul Madjid Airport) is 23 km, which takes about 30 minutes by car.
Apart from surfing, there are many other activities you can do at this beach. You can just relax on the soft white sand. Stare at the sun as it slowly descends and disappears behind the water. Or take a challenging hike up the small hill to the east of Gerupuk Beach. You can also join the locals in harvesting seaweed. Visiting the Marine Conservation Centre orstaying in a homestay near the beach is the right choice for those who want to enjoy and explore the beauty of Gerupuk Beach.
November
Photo credit: Baubau city government/RRI
Indonesia is rich in tradition and culture. One of them is called Batu Poaro Traditional Tradition in Bau-Bau city, Southeast Sulawesi. This tradition emerged since the cleric Sheikh Abdul Wahid spread Islam on Buton Island in 936 Hijri or 1526 AD. The locals believe that Batu Poaro was the footing stone of Sheikh Abdul Wahid when he was expelled and crossed the sea with a turban on his head as a sail. The community believes that by holding the traditional ritual of Batu Poaro, they can bring back the glory of Sheikh Abdul Wahid in the mid of his success in Islamising the Buton Kingdom.
In addition to commemorating the entry of Islam into Buton, Batu Poaro is also a momentum to offer prayers to the Creator so that the lives of residents are abundant in sustenance and avoid disasters. Batu Poaro traditional ritual process begins with prayers to God Almighty at the Al-Mukarabin Mosque, Wameo Village by traditional officials. When the prayer procession begins, in the middle of them is a gutter wrapped in white cloth. In this gutter there are a number of traditional foods of the Buton people, such as Lapa-lapa, Cucur, Banana and others.
After the prayer, Talang is then paraded to the location of the Poaro Stone Site by four young men wearing blue robes and a white turban on their heads. Arriving at the Poaro Stone Site on the Wameo seaside, the leaders then descended to the seaside near the stone while holding the stone. They then offered prayers there. After reading the prayer, the money on the stone is then contested by dozens of small children. The traditional ritual of Batu Poaro is now not only a tradition, but has also become a tourist attraction for the city of Bau-Bau, Southeast Sulawesi.
November
Photo credit: Nias Heritage Museum
Maena dance is a traditional dance of Nias tribe. This dance is performed as part of the traditional ceremonies of the Nias tribe, such as welcoming guests, weddings and others.
Maena is an entertainment dance. For Nias tribe, this dance has a special meaning, such as for unity and togetherness. This can be seen from how they dance and do it together with great joy.
Maena dance is performed en masse. The dancers can be male or female. The more dancers, the more lively the dance. Dancers usually wear traditional Nias clothing. However, the use of this costume is also adjusted to the event, so there are also those who use casual clothing. Since Maena Dance is a dance of joy, the audience who do not wear traditional clothing are also allowed to join dancing.
Maena Dance performances are basically only accompanied by songs or poems, which are chanted by the dancers. Then the dancers dance with movements that are adjusted to the tempo or rhythm of the song. But there are also some Maena dance performances that are accompanied by traditional Nias musical instruments to make it look more festive and interesting.
Maena Dance performances usually begins with rhymes performed by Sanutuo Maena (traditional elders or tribal elders). The rhymes are usually adjusted to the theme of the event. Then proceed with the Maena lyrics (fanehe maena) which are chanted by all dancers while dancing.
The movements in Maena Dance are actually quite simple and repetitive. The movements are dominated by a combination of hand and foot movements that are moved rhythmically back and forth, as well as left and right.
Maena dance movements consist of Maena Gaolo or forming a circle, and also a rectangle with footsteps consisting of Maena Garagazi (Maena Gergaji) whose footsteps go forward then backward. There is also a movement with a triangular shape. But what is often used, is the movement of footsteps with a rectangular shape.
November
Photo credit: Airlangga University
Every November 10, the Indonesian people commemorate Heroes' Day. The city of Surabaya is often called the City of Heroes because of the long history of Indonesian heroes in fighting against colonialism in this city, especially in the battle of Surabaya in November1945.
Kalisosok Prison is an old prison located in the city of Surabaya and has been standing since the early 19th century. It was built during the Dutch colonial government led by Governor General Herman Willem Daendels, on September 1, 1808.
The name Kalisosok prison is taken from the name of the place where it is located, which is in Kalisosok village in the north of the city of Surabaya.
Kalisosok Prison has been standing since the Dutch colonial era and continued to be used until the Republic era. The Prison has gone through many series of historical events of the nation, especially the Surabaya residences in the effort for Indonesian independence.
Kalisosok Prison is also a place of detention for important figures of the Indonesian nation who fought for the country’s independence . Such as K.H. Mas Mansyur (1896-1946), a Muhammadiyah figure who along with Sukarno, M. Hatta and Ki Hajar Dewantara were known as Empat Serangkai or the Four Figures of Indonesian independence.
Mas Mansyur had to go to Kalisosok prison, because he actively helped the Surabaya youth movement in resisting the Dutch, and made the Dutch felt the need to get rid of Mas Mansyur by imprisoning him in Kalisosok prison, and finally Mas Mansyur died there in 1946.
Over time, several parts of Kalisosok prison began to show signs of declining. The impact of weather and the age of the building naturally caused damage to the original architecture.
The Surabaya city government finally made this building a cultural heritage that aims to maintain historical values and local wisdom. This is important so that later and future generations can appreciate and understand the roots of the nation's history, and be inspired by the spirit of struggle that was once embedded in this building.
If you are in the City of Heroes, Surabaya, find time to visit the cultural heritage of Kalisosok prison which is also part of the history of Indonesian Independence.
November
Photo source: visitjawatengah.jatengprov.go.id
Borubudur Temple is not the only tourist attraction in Magelang, Central Java. There are still other interesting attractions that you can visit. For example, Kedung Kayang Waterfall. This waterfall flows between the foot of Mount Merapi and Mount Merbabu, so you can enjoy the panoramic view of the mountains with a beautiful waterfall background. The atmosphere is also calming with fresh air. This waterfall flows beautifully between the foothills of Mount Merapi and Mount Merbabu, so visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the mountains with a charming waterfall background. The location is in Ngagrog Hamlet, Magelang. From Magelang city centre, it is about 34 kilometres with a travel time of 1 hour.
To enter Kedung Kayang waterfall, you must pay an entrance ticket of 5000 rupiah or less than 1 US dollar. To get to the waterfall, you still have to walk along the path and through the river for 10 minutes. Upon arrival in front of the waterfall, you will be mesmerised by the rushing water that looks like a giant curtain. Taking pictures with the waterfall in the background is a favourite tourist activity. You can also swim or play in the clear and fresh water pool.
For those of you who are adventurous, you can go trekking around the waterfall. There are various hiking trails that offer natural views of green forests and small rivers. For those of you who want to spend the night, you can camp at the location of this waterfall. The facilities are complete, with toilets, prayer rooms, a car park, a dining area, a camping site, and a viewing post to enjoy the surrounding scenery.
October
Photo credit: faktakita.com
When you visit Magetan Regency in East Java, Sarangan Lake is a must-visit destination. In the area, there is the Geniangit tourist village, which has become a new icon of tourism in Magetan. The village offers stunning natural views of Magetan. After exploring and visiting various interesting tourist spots in Magetan, don't forget to buy some local souvenirs before you leave. One of them is Jerangking. Jerangking is a traditional snack from Magetan known for its savory and crispy taste.
Jerangking is made from simple ingredients: glutinous rice, grated coconut, salt, and tapioca flour. The process begins by mixing all the ingredients, and then cutting them into thin squares. These pieces are then dried in the sun. After that, Jerangking is grilled over charcoal until it is dry and turns brownish.
Jerangking has a crispy texture with a savory flavor. The snack is perfect to enjoy with coffee or hot sweet tea. If you're interested in buying Jerangking, you can find it at souvenir shops or traditional markets in Magetan. It's relatively affordable, priced at about 20,000 to 25,000 rupiahs, or about 1.3 to 1.6 US dollars per package.