Traditional Performing Arts

Visiting Kraton  (Royal Palace) in the morning to coincide with one of the following traditional performing arts:

Monday: CLOSED

Tuesday Uyon Uyon (Gamelan performance)

Wednesday Wayang  Golet (Puppet show)

Thursday,  Wayang  Kulit (Shadow puppetry)

Friday Mocapat  (Poetry reading)

Saturday Wayang  Orang  (Dance Theater)

Sunday Wayang  Orang  (Dance Theater)

The Keraton Complex of Yogyakarta is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and spirituality. It provides an unparalleled insight into the Javanese royal heritage and the enduring traditions that thrive in modern Indonesia. Whether you are a history buff, culture enthusiast, or simply curious about the world, the Keraton Complex is a compelling site that promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.

Within the grand walls of the Keraton Complex lie numerous courtyards, royal buildings, and pavilions, each with its unique function and history. The central courtyard houses the Keraton's main palace, which serves as the sultan's and his family's residence. This area is adorned with intricate Javanese designs, symbolizing the royal family's power and divine right to rule.

Museum

Visitors can explore several museums inside the complex, displaying a vast collection of regalia, royal carriages, and gifts from other states, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Javanese royalty.

Another highlight is the Taman Sari Water Castle, a former royal garden located within the complex, designed for rest, featuring baths, pools, and waterways that showcase the ingenuity of ancient Javanese architecture and engineering.

Throughout the complex, Javanese artistic elements are integrated with Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic influences, reflecting the cultural diversity and religious tolerance that characterize Yogyakarta and Indonesia as a whole. These elements are most evident in the decorative motifs, architectural styles, and regular performances of traditional music and dance that breathe life into this historic site.