Jakarta Old Town(Old City of Jakarta)

From the bustling Jakarta🌆 to the romantic Bali🏖️, and then to the mysterious Komodo, this guide will take you on a vibrant and colorful journey! ❤️ Jakarta: - **National Monument**: As a landmark of Jakarta, it records Indonesia's independence history. - **Old Town**: Experience colonial architecture, wander through narrow streets, and feel the local life atmosphere. ❤️ Bali: - **Ubud Palace**: Explore the cultural heart of Bali; Ubud Palace is a must-visit. - **Tanah Lot Temple**: The sunset view at Tanah Lot Temple is breathtaking. - **Kuta Beach**: Enjoy the sunny beach; this is a paradise for surfing enthusiasts. ❤️ Surabaya: - **Submarine Museum**: Learn about the history of the Indonesian Navy and explore the interior structure of a submarine. - **Chinatown**: Taste authentic Indonesian cuisine and experience multicultural vibes. ❤️ Yogyakarta: - **Borobudur**: As a world cultural heritage site, the sunrise here is stunning. - **Prambanan**: Explore Indonesia's oldest Hindu temple complex. ❤️ Komodo: - **Komodo National Park**: Get up close with Komodo dragons and experience the wildness of nature. - **Pink Beach**: Enjoy peaceful island time on this dreamy pink sand beach.

12-Day In-Depth Jakarta Tour, Discover the Unique Charm of the Thousand Islands City! A Must-Do Itinerary to Explore Every Corner of Indonesia's Capital! -------------------- 🌴 Route Overview: Day 1: Arrive in Jakarta, visit the National Museum of Indonesia, experience culture at the Miniature Park, and stroll through Chinatown. Day 2: Dive into Jakarta’s Old Town, visit Istiqlal Mosque, the Cathedral, and Independence Square. Day 3: Fly to Yogyakarta, tour Borobudur, the Sultan’s Palace, Water Castle, and Prambanan. Days 4-5: Head to Solo, Trowulan, and Bromo, explore the Ratu Boko ruins and the ancient palace; proceed to Surabaya to catch the Bromo volcano sunrise. Days 6-7: Visit Surabaya’s Akbar Mosque, fly to Komodo Island, enjoy the pink sand beach and snorkel with manta rays. Days 8-12: Transfer to Bali, experience Uluwatu Temple, the cliff road, visit Ubud Palace and rice terraces, then head to Nusa Lembongan; explore the Mother Temple, Water Temple, and finally return. -------------------- Travel Tips: 🍉 Local Prices: Jakarta’s fruits are super cheap, like snake fruit and papaya, enjoy to your heart’s content without hurting your wallet! 🍽️ Must-Try Foods: Dirty Duck, Roti Bakar, and don’t miss the delicious Indonesian fried rice! 💸 Currency Exchange: The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah; keep an eye on the exchange rate with RMB for smoother shopping. 👀 Safety Reminder: Be cautious when going out at night, choose official taxis, and keep your belongings safe. -------------------- Friends who love Jakarta, don’t forget to follow me for more exciting guides waiting for you to discover. Let’s explore the charm of this city together!

🌴 Jakarta: The Tropical Heartbeat and Civilized Symphony of the Nanyang Capital 🏛️ Echoes of History and Faith - Stroll through Jakarta Old Town (Kota Tua), where cobblestone streets connect Dutch colonial red-roofed buildings and the Indonesian traditional shadow puppet museum. Enjoy a cup of Javanese coffee at the century-old Cafe Batavia in Fatahillah Square, listening to the whispers of time. Southeast Asia’s largest mosque, Istiqlal, stands across the street from the Gothic-style Jakarta Cathedral. The dome of the mosque and the cathedral’s spire together sketch a skyline of faith for 120,000 worshippers. 🌊 The Blue Allure of the Thousand Islands - Depart from Ancol Pier and reach Bidadari Island in 30 minutes, where you can snorkel over coral reefs in crystal-clear waters or participate in ecological conservation at the sea turtle conservation center on Pramuka Island. Return at dusk on a traditional sailboat as the sunset over the Thousand Islands paints the sea golden-red, like stepping into a postcard. 🍜 The Empire of Spices on Your Palate - West Java-style satay with peanut sauce, Betawi sticky rice omelet Kerak Telor, and the rich coconut-flavored Gado-Gado salad—start your taste adventure amid the lively atmosphere of Pasar Baru market. When night falls, the aroma from charcoal-grilled seafood stalls on Jalan Sabang fills the air, paired perfectly with a refreshing Es Campur shaved ice dessert, savoring the tropical night’s delight. 🎨 The Collision of Tradition and Modernity - At Taman Mini Indonesia, a miniature park representing Indonesia, you can see traditional houses from 27 provinces in one day, showcasing the archipelago’s culture; meanwhile, the 1905 Art Space, like a cultural and creative park, transforms old factories into avant-garde galleries and independent bookstores. For contemporary art experiences, the installations at the MACAN Museum and street graffiti in the Kemang district will captivate you endlessly. ✨ One-Sentence Guide - From colonial red walls to the turquoise waves of the Thousand Islands, from spice markets to avant-garde galleries, Jakarta invites you to a multicultural melting pot and a tropical dream at 6° north latitude!

Embraced warmly by the equator, there is a city full of charm—Jakarta. It is the heart of Indonesia, where ancient and modern intertwine, and tradition dances with fashion. Today, let’s take you into Jakarta for a unique journey. Climate and Best Time to Visit Jakarta has a tropical rainforest climate, warm and humid all year round, with an average temperature between 26-30°C🌡. You could say it’s suitable for travel in all seasons, but May to October is the relatively dry season with less rainfall, making travel more convenient. Must-Visit Attractions National Monument (Monas): Jakarta’s iconic building, standing 132 meters tall, with a flame-shaped top that shines brilliantly under the sun. Standing beneath it, you can feel the weight of Indonesia’s history. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah: This is a miniature park of Indonesia, with a new scene at every step, allowing you to appreciate the architecture, culture, and natural scenery from all over Indonesia. Perfect for photo ops📸 Jakarta Old Town (Kota Tua): Once a Dutch colony, strolling here you’ll see a collision of European architecture and Indonesian charm, with various unique shops and street performers around every corner. Istiqlal Mosque: One of the largest mosques in Southeast Asia, its grand white architecture is solemn and majestic. Remember to observe visiting etiquette. Jakarta Cathedral: Located just across from Istiqlal Mosque, this Gothic-style building features stunning stained glass windows. Food Exploration Nasi Goreng: Indonesia’s national dish, golden fried rice mixed with various spices, vegetables, meats, and topped with a half-cooked fried egg—super satisfying with every bite. Satay: Grilled meat skewers sizzling with oil, dipped in rich peanut sauce, served with cucumber and rice—fragrant without being greasy. Black Pepper Crab: Crab meat is plump and delicious, fully infused with the aroma of black pepper, every bite tender and juicy. Gado-Gado: A mix of various vegetables, tofu, and fried items, drizzled with a unique peanut sauce—refreshing and healthy. Notes Religious Etiquette: Indonesia is a Muslim country; respect local religious beliefs and customs. Dress appropriately when entering mosques, and women should wear headscarves. Transportation: Jakarta’s traffic is congested; you can choose to use the Grab ride-hailing app or take TransJakarta (buses with dedicated lanes). Currency Exchange: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the local currency. Exchange counters are available at airports and malls, and UnionPay cards can be used at ATMs. Food Hygiene: Try to dine at reputable restaurants and avoid street food with uncertain hygiene to prevent stomach discomfort. Language Communication: Indonesian is the main language, but English is generally understood in tourist areas. If worried about communication, you can download translation apps.

Jakarta, as the capital of Indonesia, is a vibrant city full of unique charm. It has a tropical rainforest climate, with high temperatures and frequent rain throughout the year. The average annual temperature is around 26°C, making it suitable to explore the city's diverse attractions in all seasons. Now, let's step into Jakarta and start an exciting journey together! Must-Visit Attractions 1. National Monument: The iconic landmark of Jakarta, standing tall at 137 meters in the center of Merdeka Square. The flame sculpture at the top of the monument is made of 35 kilograms of pure gold, shining brilliantly under the sun. Climb up to the observation deck to overlook the entire city and feel the blend of historical heritage and modern vibes. The surrounding square is spacious and serves as an important place for locals to relax and hold events. Taking photos here is truly meaningful📸 2. Thousand Islands: Located not far from Jakarta, the Thousand Islands consist of over 1,000 islands. Each island has its unique scenery; some have fine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving, allowing you to get close to colorful corals and tropical fish🐠; others are covered with dense tropical rainforests, full of mysterious atmosphere. You can choose to take a boat tour to visit several islands and enjoy the leisurely time of sunshine, sandy beaches, and blue seas🌊 3. Istiqlal Mosque: The largest mosque in Southeast Asia, with a grand and magnificent architectural style, capable of accommodating 200,000 worshippers at the same time. The mosque’s exterior is solemn and majestic, while the interior is exquisitely decorated, with a huge dome and beautiful murals that are breathtaking. Proper attire is required to enter, and women need to wear headscarves. Here, you can experience a strong religious atmosphere and cultural charm🙏 4. Jakarta Old Town: Also known as Kota Tua, it preserves many Dutch colonial buildings, such as Fatahillah Square and the Jakarta History Museum. Walking through the old town feels like traveling back in time, with ancient buildings and narrow streets full of historical charm. The square hosts many street performers, and you can also taste local specialty snacks, experiencing a rich local lifestyle🏰 Taste of Jakarta 1. Satay: A signature Indonesian dish, marinated meats (such as chicken, beef, or lamb) are skewered on bamboo sticks and grilled over charcoal, then served with a special satay sauce. The flavor is sweet and savory, and the meat is tender and juicy🥩. Satay stalls can be found everywhere in Jakarta’s streets and alleys. 2. Gado-gado: An Indonesian-style salad made of various vegetables (such as bean sprouts, cucumber, lettuce), tofu, boiled eggs, and other ingredients, topped with rich peanut sauce. It has a rich texture and balanced nutrition🥗. 3. Indonesian Fried Rice: A traditional Indonesian dish where rice is stir-fried with chicken, shrimp, eggs, vegetables, and various sauces and spices. It tastes delicious and aromatic🍚. Many restaurants offer different flavors of Indonesian fried rice to choose from. 4. Fried Banana: Bananas coated in batter and deep-fried until the outside is golden and crispy, while the inside is sweet and soft. It is a common street snack in Jakarta and perfect as a dessert after meals🍌 Important Tips 1. Climate and Protection: Jakarta is hot and rainy all year round, so remember to bring rain gear and sun protection items such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Also, due to the hot weather, stay hydrated to prevent heatstroke🥵 2. Religious Customs: Indonesia is a predominantly Islamic country, so respect local religious customs. When entering mosques or other religious places, follow the rules such as dressing appropriately and removing shoes. 3. Food Hygiene: When trying local food, choose restaurants and stalls with good hygiene to avoid stomach discomfort from unclean food. Drink bottled water as much as possible and avoid raw or cold foods🍜 4. Transportation: Jakarta’s traffic is quite congested, so plan your routes in advance. You can take taxis, ride-hailing cars, or public transportation such as buses and the metro. When taking taxis, make sure to use official taxis and ask the driver to use the meter for fare calculation🚕 5. Safety: In crowded places, keep your belongings safe to prevent theft. Avoid going out alone at night, especially in remote areas. In case of emergency, call the local emergency number📞 Jakarta, this charming city, offers rich history and culture, beautiful natural scenery, and tempting cuisine. Come here and start your own Nanyang-style adventure!😉

Before Indonesia 🇮🇩 moved its capital to Nusantara on the island of Kalimantan, Jakarta was the capital of Indonesia. Although it is no longer the capital, it remains the economic and cultural center of Indonesia 🇮🇩. Jakarta is an ancient port city that was already a famous pepper export port in the East by the 14th century. In 1619, Dutch colonizers captured Jakarta on the island of Java, and from then on, the Dutch made it the central base for their colonial rule over Indonesia. During the Dutch colonial period, Jakarta was known as Batavia. The buildings in the Old Town were mostly constructed during the Dutch 🇳🇱 colonial period, so they differ significantly from the local Southeast Asian style, featuring a very European look, even with a bit of a Caribbean vibe [Cute]. 🌟 Highlights: Jakarta’s must-visit tourist spot ✅ The tour lasts about 3 hours or less, and you can choose to dine at Batavia Cafe to experience the most authentic old town atmosphere from the past～ 📝 Tips: It can get crowded, so please stay safe. There are many people in traditional costumes on the square offering photo opportunities 📸, but you need to pay if you want to take pictures with them [Chin].

🔥Explore Jakarta: Unlock the Tropical Charm Code of Indonesia's Capital🗝️ [Airplane]Hey friends! 👋 Today, we're flying across mountains and seas straight to the heart of Indonesia—Jakarta! 🌟 [Airplane]When you think of Jakarta, do exotic images immediately come to mind? 🌍 This city is not just the capital of Indonesia; it’s a dreamland where history and modernity intertwine! 🏙️ [Airplane]Walking the streets of Jakarta, you'll be amazed by the towering skyscrapers, but just around the corner, you might encounter ancient Dutch colonial buildings. The Old Batavia district awaits you for a time-travel adventure! 🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️ [Airplane]Want to escape the urban hustle? The Thousand Islands are calling! 🏖️ Crystal-clear waters, soft sandy beaches, and colorful marine life will keep your camera shutter clicking nonstop! 📸 [Airplane]Foodies, pay attention! Indonesia’s culinary feast is about to begin! From authentic street snacks to exquisite dishes in upscale restaurants, every bite is a supreme treat for your taste buds! 🍲🍛 [Airplane]Shopaholics, don’t worry—Jakarta’s shopping malls and markets are ready for your spree! From traditional handicrafts to modern fashion items, you’ll find everything here and leave fully loaded! 🛍️ [Airplane]Don’t forget your camera, because every corner of Jakarta could be your next Instagram hotspot! 📷 [Airplane]Accommodation? Jakarta never disappoints! Whether it’s luxurious five-star hotels or cozy guesthouses, there’s always one that suits you! 🛌 [Airplane]Travel tip: Although Jakarta’s traffic can be busy, local buses and taxis will definitely help you experience the city’s vibrant pulse more deeply! 🚌🚕 [Airplane]Come to Jakarta and start your tropical charm exploration journey now! 🎉

Complete Travel Guide to Jakarta 1. Preparation Before the Trip Visa - Visa on Arrival: Available at entry points such as Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, valid for 30 days, costing about 35 USD. - E-Visa: Apply in advance on the Indonesian Immigration official website, processing time is about 3-5 working days. Air Tickets Book tickets early by checking major airline websites or online travel platforms to choose suitable flights. It is recommended to select direct flights to reduce travel fatigue. Hotels - City Center: For example, Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta, convenient transportation, with abundant shopping and dining options nearby. - Near Attractions: Such as Ancol Hotel near Merdeka Square, convenient for sightseeing. 2. Attractions Introduction Merdeka Square - National Monument: A landmark building of Jakarta, topped with a torch made of pure gold, symbolizing the independence spirit of the Indonesian people. - Surrounding the Square: Includes the National Museum, Istiqlal Mosque, and other buildings. Jakarta Old Town - Kota Tua: Preserves Dutch colonial architectural style, narrow streets full of historical atmosphere. - Fatahillah Square: Many street performers perform here, surrounded by unique cafes and souvenir shops. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah Park - Cultural Miniature: Showcases the cultural features of various Indonesian ethnic groups, including traditional buildings and handicrafts. - Large Amusement Park: Offers various amusement facilities suitable for family fun. 3. Food Recommendations Satay - Grilled Chicken Skewers: Served with special satay sauce, rich in flavor. - Satay Fish: Tender fish grilled with spices, uniquely flavorful. Gado-gado - Indonesian Salad: Made with vegetables, tofu, peanut sauce, and other ingredients, nutritious and rich. - Fried Spring Rolls: Crispy on the outside, with rich fillings. Nasi Goreng - Indonesian Fried Rice: Each grain of rice is distinct, stir-fried with egg, chicken, vegetables, etc. - Shrimp Crackers: Crispy and tasty, can be enjoyed as a snack. 4. Shopping Guide Jakarta Old Town - Traditional Handicrafts: Such as wood carvings, batik, featuring strong Indonesian characteristics. - Souvenirs: You can buy Indonesian specialty souvenirs like coffee, spices, etc. Modern Shopping Centers - Grand Indonesia: Combines shopping, entertainment, and dining, with many international brands. - Plaza Indonesia: Focuses on high-end brands, suitable for purchasing luxury goods. 5. Transportation Guide Public Transport - Public Buses: Routes cover the entire city, but buses are crowded and it’s easy to get lost if unfamiliar with the routes. - Metro: Convenient and fast, reaching major attractions. Taxis - Regular Taxis: Relatively cheaper but may encounter detours. - Ride-Hailing Cars: Such as Grab, Go-Jek, etc., convenient and with transparent pricing. 6. Notes - Climate: Jakarta has a tropical monsoon climate, hot and rainy all year round, remember to bring rain gear. - Cultural Customs: Respect local religious beliefs and customs, pay attention to etiquette. - Safety: Be mindful of personal belongings and avoid staying in crowded places.

#jakartatrips 📍Address: Jakarta, Indonesia Jakarta, Indonesia's vibrant capital, offers a captivating blend of modern skyscrapers and historic cham. In addition, Jakart offers a variety of attractions for visitors. Here are some must-see places: National Monument (Monas): This iconic tower stands at 132 metres and is a symbol of Indonesia's independence. Visitors can go to the top for panoramic views of the city. Old Town (Kota Tua): This historic area features colonial buildings, museums, and cafes. It's a great place to explore Jakarta's history and enjoy a leisurely stroll. Ancol Dreamland: A large recreational park that includes a theme park, water park, and beach. It's perfect for families looking for a fun day out. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah: A cultural park showcasing Indonesia's diverse cultures through traditional houses, museums, and performances. Jakarta Cathedral: An impressive neo-gothic cathedral located near the Istiqlal Mosque, representing the religious diversity of the city. Istiqlal Mosque: The largest mosque in Southeast Asia, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy your visit to Jakarta, and be prepared for an unforgettable adventure!

Standing at the crossroads of faith, the dramatic sight is that Jakarta Cathedral is right opposite the mosque 🕌️ These two distinctive buildings representing different religions face each other across the street, giving visitors a cultural shock from different backgrounds. This is the magical Jakarta! Here are the must-visit attractions in Jakarta to experience Indonesia's unique historical charm and religious allure. 🏛️ Jakarta Old Town 📍 Kota Tua It feels like traveling back in time to the Dutch colonial era, with many old buildings left by the Dutch, full of the city’s Dutch-era charm. Don’t miss the National History Museum and the century-old BATAVIA café, where you can taste authentic Indonesian cuisine 🍲🍹 and leisurely enjoy the riverside scenery. 🏞️ Independence Square 📍 Jakarta Center The vast Independence Square features the towering National Monument, surrounded by a musical fountain and galloping horse statues. The little train running around makes it a great place for family outings. 🚂👨👩👧👦 There are authentic local foods and drinks, performances to watch, and you can sit in the square to learn about the daily life of locals. It’s a very nice place. 🏺 National Museum of Indonesia 📍 Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat No.12 Also known as the "Elephant Museum," it houses a rich collection of Indonesian artifacts, including many stone carvings, wood carvings, ornaments, and a very extensive display of Chinese porcelain. Definitely worth a visit. 🐘🏺 ⛪ Jakarta Cathedral 📍 Jl. Katedral No.7B European Neo-Gothic architectural style, elegant and solemn. Weddings are often held here, witnessing romantic moments. 💒💑 Friendly reminder: Please keep quiet inside the cathedral and do not disturb worship or ceremonies. 🏮 Chinatown 📍 Jl. Pancoran No.4 Home to many Chinese people, with numerous Chinese restaurants. You can stroll around, take photos, and experience the daily life of locals. 🍜📸 Friendly reminder: Don’t forget to bargain and enjoy the fun of haggling in the local market. 🕌 Istiqlal Mosque 📍 Jl. Taman Wijaya Kusuma The largest mosque in Southeast Asia, with a white large dome visible from afar. 🌙✨ This mosque is claimed to be the largest in Southeast Asia and is indeed magnificent. Friendly reminder: Registration is required before entering, you need to wear a robe to cover exposed hands and legs, and shoes must be removed before entering. #Indonesia #Jakarta #IndonesiaTravel #IndonesiaAttractions #IndonesiaFreeTravel #JakartaCathedral #IstiqlalMosque

1. Basic Information Location: Jakarta is the capital of Indonesia, located on the northwest coast of Java Island. Features: Jakarta is Indonesia’s political, economic, and cultural center, with rich historical sites, modern cityscapes, and a diverse cultural atmosphere. 2. Best Time to Visit Dry season (May–October): Clear weather, ideal for outdoor activities. Rainy season (November–April): More rainfall, but cooler temperatures. 3. Main Attractions National Monument (Monas): Jakarta’s landmark building, 132 meters tall, topped with a gold-plated flame symbolizing Indonesia’s spirit of independence. Istiqlal Mosque: The largest mosque in Southeast Asia, grand architecture, can accommodate over 100,000 people. Jakarta Cathedral: Located opposite the mosque, it is Indonesia’s largest Catholic church with a unique architectural style. Old Town (Kota Tua): Dutch colonial buildings, great for photography and learning history. Ancol Dreamland: A large amusement park including a beach, aquarium, and rides. 4. Transportation Guide Airport: Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) is Jakarta’s main airport, about 20 km from the city center. City Transport*: Taxi: Blue Bird Taxi is a reliable taxi company. Bus: TransJakarta is Jakarta’s rapid bus system covering major areas. Ride-hailing: Grab and Gojek are commonly used ride-hailing apps. 5. Accommodation Recommendations City Center: Many international chain hotels and boutique hotels, suitable for business and leisure travelers. Old Town: Ideal for visitors who enjoy historical ambiance, with several unique hotels and guesthouses. 6. Food Recommendations Satay (Sate): Indonesian grilled skewers served with peanut sauce. Indonesian Fried Rice (Nasi Goreng): Indonesian fried rice with a distinctive flavor. Padang Rice (Nasi Padang): Dishes from West Sumatra, with a wide variety. Gado-Gado: Indonesian salad served with peanut sauce. 7. Shopping Recommendations Grand Indonesia: Large shopping mall with many international brands and dining options. Plaza Indonesia: High-end shopping mall, perfect for luxury goods. Mangga Dua Mall*: Known for electronics and small goods, affordable prices. 8. Important Notes Safety: Keep your personal belongings safe, especially in crowded places. Traffic: Jakarta has severe traffic congestion; it is recommended to avoid peak hours. Language: Indonesian is the official language, but English is widely used in tourist areas and hotels. 9. Nearby Attractions Thousand Islands (Pulau Seribu): Located in Jakarta Bay, suitable for day trips or short vacations. Bogor: About 60 km from Jakarta, famous for its botanical gardens and cool climate. 10. Travel Tips Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the local currency; it is recommended to exchange money at the airport or banks. Visa: Chinese citizens can obtain a visa on arrival or enter Indonesia visa-free. Internet: Purchase a local SIM card or use international roaming services. Go bravely love this world! Love and peace❤️

Jakarta, as the capital of Indonesia, blends historical charm with modern vitality, making it a captivating Southeast Asian city. Here, you’ll find ancient colonial architecture alongside bustling urban streets; a devout religious atmosphere coexists with lively local life. Whether you are a history and culture enthusiast or a traveler seeking new experiences, Jakarta can meet your expectations. 1. Preparation Before Travel 1. Visa: Visa on arrival, fee is 50 USD / 500,000 Indonesian Rupiah / 250 RMB, some counters only accept Visa payment. 2. Transportation: Download the Grab app for ride-hailing with fixed pricing; toll and parking fees are extra; cash payment is also an option. 3. Communication: For short trips, it’s recommended to buy the “Belt and Road” data package via the App Wuyouxing; for longer trips, purchasing a local SIM card is more cost-effective. 2. Best Time to Visit Jakarta has a tropical climate. The dry season from May to September offers relatively cooler weather and less rainfall, ideal for travel. You can fully enjoy outdoor adventures and city sightseeing. 3. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Jakarta Old Town: One of the best-preserved Dutch colonial architectural complexes in Southeast Asia. The core area is Taman Fatahillah Square, surrounded by the Maritime Museum, Wayang Museum, Puppet Workshop, Textile Museum, and the century-old Cafe Batavia. You can leisurely explore it in half a day, perfect for photos. 2. Masjid Istiqlal: The largest mosque in Southeast Asia and the third largest in the world, accommodating 120,000 people. “Istiqlal” means “independence,” built to commemorate Indonesia’s independence struggle. The exterior looks ordinary, but the interior is grand and impressive, with 12 huge pillars supporting a 45-meter diameter dome that emits a soft green glow. Shoes must be removed before entering, and dress code follows “not tight, not transparent, not revealing.” Admission is free. After registering at the visitor center, a guide will provide a half-hour tour. 3. National Monument (Monas): Built in 1975, the tower is 137 meters tall with a golden flame sculpture on top. Tickets are available to go up the tower. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the mosque. The plaza is large; it’s best to avoid the midday sun. The site often hosts military parades and processions and is a landmark of Jakarta. Horse-drawn carriages are available at the entrance for a plaza tour. 4. Jakarta Cathedral: Located directly opposite the mosque, this Gothic-style building features three iron spires on top, resembling twin towers from afar. Inside, there are stained glass windows depicting Jesus Christ on the cross, wooden vaulted ceilings, Baroque-style statues, and a huge neo-Gothic pipe organ. Mass is held daily except Wednesdays and public holidays. Admission is free. 5. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah: Tickets cost about 15 RMB, open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. This park showcases the culture and architectural features of Indonesia’s 27 provinces, allowing you to experience the country’s customs and natural and cultural landscapes in one place. It’s great for photo opportunities. 4. Signature Foods 1. Sate: Marinated chicken, beef, or lamb skewered on bamboo sticks and grilled over charcoal, served with a special sweet and spicy satay sauce. It’s a representative Indonesian snack. 2. Nasi Goreng: Fried rice seasoned with soy sauce, shrimp paste, and other spices, mixed with chicken, eggs, shrimp, vegetables, and more, offering rich flavors. 3. Gado-gado: An Indonesian salad mixing various vegetables, tofu, and fried tofu puffs, topped with a rich peanut sauce. Refreshing and filling. 4. Rujak: A type of fruit salad with mango, papaya, pineapple, and other fruits cut into pieces and mixed with a special sweet and spicy sauce, offering a unique taste. 5. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Luxury: ◦ The Langham Jakarta: Rated 4.8, excellent location surrounded by skyscrapers, top-notch service and facilities. ◦ The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place: Rated 4.7, close to food stores and transportation, convenient for travel and dining. 2. Budget: ◦ Ibis Styles Jakarta Kemang: Affordable, clean and tidy rooms, basic amenities, great value for money. ◦ RedDoorz Plus near Bundaran HI: Convenient location near public transport, easy access to attractions. 6. Shopping Spots 1. Traditional Markets: Such as Tanah Abang Market, the largest textile market in Southeast Asia, where you can buy various unique clothing, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Bargaining is encouraged, offering an authentic local shopping experience. 2. Modern Shopping Malls: Like Grand Indonesia and Plaza Indonesia, featuring numerous international and local brands, food courts, cinemas, and entertainment facilities, fulfilling all your shopping and leisure needs in one place. 7. Important Tips 1. Respect local religious customs; pay attention to dress code and etiquette when entering mosques. 2. Jakarta’s traffic is congested; allow enough travel time. When using ride-hailing apps like Grab, double-check your destination and fare. 3. In crowded places such as markets and tourist spots, keep your personal belongings safe.