Explore Jakarta
About the City of Jakarta
Jakarta is the capital city of Indonesia and the country’s largest economic, political, and cultural center. Located on the northwest coast of Java, it is home to more than 10 million people, making it one of the most populous urban areas in the world. The city is known for its dynamic urban lifestyle, diverse culture, and fast-growing economy.
Historically, Jakarta was known as Sunda Kelapa, Jayakarta, and later Batavia during the Dutch colonial era. Today, Jakarta blends modern skyscrapers with historical landmarks such as Kota Tua, the National Monument (Monas), and Istiqlal Mosque. As a major commercial hub, Jakarta faces challenges such as traffic congestion and flooding, but it remains an important gateway to Indonesia with advanced infrastructure, busy ports, and one of Southeast Asia’s busiest airports.
Public Transportation
The Jakarta MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is a modern urban rail system designed to improve mobility and reduce traffic congestion in Indonesia’s capital city. The first phase, which opened in 2019, runs from Lebak Bulus in South Jakarta to Bundaran HI in Central Jakarta. It features both underground and elevated tracks, offering fast, clean, and efficient transportation for daily commuters.
Pedestrian-Friendly
edestrian-friendly sidewalks in Jakarta refer to walking paths that are designed to be safe, comfortable, and accessible for people traveling on foot. Over the past few years, the Jakarta city government has made significant improvements to create better public spaces and encourage walking as an alternative mode of transportation.
Monas, short for Monumen Nasional or the National Monument, is a famous landmark located in Jakarta, Indonesia. It was built to commemorate the struggle for Indonesian independence. The monument stands 132 meters (433 ft) tall and is topped with a flame covered in gold foil, symbolizing the spirit of freedom and the burning passion of the Indonesian people.
Jakarta’s Culinary Delights
SATE
Satay is a popular Southeast Asian dish made of skewered and grilled meat, commonly associated with Indonesia but also found in Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore. In Indonesia, satay is considered one of the country’s most iconic traditional foods.
SOTO BETAWI
Soto Betawi is a traditional Indonesian soup that originates from Jakarta (formerly Batavia). It is known for its rich, creamy broth, which is made using a combination of coconut milk and sometimes fresh milk. The soup typically contains beef, beef offal, or a mix of both, cooked with aromatic spices.
ES CENDOL
Es Cendol Jakarta is a traditional Indonesian iced dessert drink popular in Jakarta. It consists of green rice-flour jelly (cendol), served with sweet coconut milk, palm sugar syrup (gula aren), and shaved ice. The drink is refreshing, sweet, and often enjoyed in hot weather.
MARTABAK
Sweet martabak is a thick, fluffy pancake filled with various toppings. Traditionally, it contains butter, sugar, crushed peanuts, and chocolate, but modern versions include cheese, Nutella, Oreo, green tea, and more.