Why Yogyakarta should be your next Indonesia trip

Known as Indonesia’s cultural capital, Yogyakarta holds a special place on the country's tourist map. But with the rise of social media, a visit to some of its most popular attractions, such as Unesco World Heritage sites Borobudur or Prambanan and active volcano Mount Bromo, increasingly became an opportunity to capture the perfect Instagram photo, with many travellers spending only a brief moment at these places before moving on to their next destination. 

To address this, in early 2026, the local provincial government announced plans to place greater emphasis on experiential tourism, encouraging visitors to spend more time engaging with the region rather than simply passing through its most famous landmarks.

Destinations that were once primarily known as sightseeing spots are increasingly being complemented by cultural performances, wellness activities, spiritual journeys and community-based experiences designed to encourage visitors to stay for several days rather than just a few hours. The aim is not simply to increase visitor numbers, but to encourage longer stays that bring greater benefits to local communities.

While Borobudur and Prambanan temples remain the most recognisable attractions on a trip to Yogyakarta, the region offers far more than just temple sightseeing. From witnessing cultural performances and joining wellness experiences to learning traditional crafts, travellers today have countless opportunities to engage more deeply with Yogyakarta's living heritage.

Borobudur sunrise and sunset

A must-try experience at Borobudur is watching the sun rise and set among the stupas. From the heights of this temple complex – the largest Buddhist temple in the world – you can witness the surrounding hills gain their vivid colours and natural light begin to dance across the temple carvings. To enhance the ambience at Borobudur's summit, visitor numbers are limited to just a hundred people per day, with ticket prices ranging from IDR750,000 (HK$330) to IDR1 million (HK$440).  

Wellness and spiritual experiences at the temple 

Visitors to Borobudur also have plenty of wellness options to choose from. In the Borobudur Samadhi programme, for example, you can escape the noise of the outside world and cultivate tranquillity through meditation. Guided by experienced instructors, participants are invited to slow down, reflect and reconnect with themselves in a peaceful setting, inspired by Borobudur’s mandala form and spiritual heritage.  

A night of lights at Borobudur 

One of the most memorable experiences at Borobudur takes place during the festival of Vesak, when thousands of lanterns  are released into the night sky as part of the annual Buddhist celebration. In the darkness, crowds gather with paper lanterns ready to launch them into the sky, representing hopes and prayers released into the universe. As the lanterns rise, their soft glow illuminates the grandeur of Borobudur Temple. 

Watching the Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan 

Dating back to the ninth century, the majestic Prambanan Temple is steeped in rich lore, from the mythical romance of Bandung Bondowoso to ongoing archaeological debates about its original purpose.

At night, you can watch the Ramayana Ballet . Performed on an open-air stage, this traditional Javanese dance chronicles Rama’s quest to rescue Shinta from the clutches of Rahwana, with the illuminated Prambanan Temple serving as the backdrop. The glow of the temple lights accentuates every graceful movement, while the traditional music invites you to follow the epic love story, transporting you into ancient Java through the spectacle on stage.

Spiritual journeys beyond the temples 

The shift toward experiential tourism is also reflected in Yogyakarta's hospitality sector. Rather than offering accommodation alone, some hotels now curate immersive cultural and wellness experiences that help visitors engage more deeply with the region.

One example is Amanjiwo's Grounding Spiritual Journey , a comprehensive three-day wellness reset. The programme features traditional Javanese massages and meditation sessions inspired by the padmasana, or the “seated lotus” position. On top of that, you’ll enjoy a private tour of Prambanan and participate in the tolak balak cleansing ritual, designed to help you embrace a new beginning. 

Learning the art of batik

For travellers drawn to the local art scene and traditional craftsmanship, Yogyakarta’s batik is an experience not to be missed. In both Prambanan and Ratu Boko, you can join a weaving programme in a batik workshop that’s suitable for all ages. Experienced artisans will teach you every step of the batik process, while also helping you understand the meaning behind each motif. And, of course, you can take your custom creation home as a souvenir.

Exploring the charm of Tembi and Krebet tourism villages

After connecting with some of the deeper culture surrounding Borobudur and Prambanan, you can continue your experiential tourism journey to the southern part of Yogyakarta, specifically Bantul. Exemplifying this region’s traditional charm are two well-known tourist-accessible villages, Tembi  and Krebet . 

Many local homes, such as Yukke Tembi Homestay , have been converted into homestays, allowing visitors to wake up to the sound of birds, enjoy views of surrounding rice fields and experience daily life in the village at a slower pace. Visitors can join farming activities alongside local residents , learn traditional crafts such as pottery and batik , or explore the surrounding countryside on foot.

If you’re there during the harvest season, you can witness a traditional ceremony called Merti Dusun, an expression of gratitude for a bountiful harvest. The ceremony sees villagers in traditional Javanese dress parading through the village while carrying gunungan, large offerings crafted from fruits and vegetables. 

Exploring this region doesn’t have to involve capturing every moment with your camera. Take a little more time to immerse yourself in local life, and you’ll gain a deeper experience of the real Yogyakarta.