Jakarta Old Town, or Kota Tua, is a historic area in the heart of the Indonesian capital city of Jakarta. It is the oldest part of the city, with a history dating back to the 16th century when it was an important port for the Dutch East India Company. Today, the area is a popular tourist destination, with many attractions and activities to explore. From historical sites and museums to markets and street food, here are 10 things to do in Jakarta Old Town.
1. Visit Fatahillah Square
Fatahillah Square is the main square in the Old Town and the center of activity. It is located in the heart of the area and is a great place to start exploring. Here you can find a number of attractions, including the Jakarta History Museum, Wayang Museum, and the old City Hall. The square is also home to the old Town Hall, which was built in the 18th century and is now used as an art gallery.
2. Explore the Glodok Market
The Glodok Market is a bustling shopping area located in the heart of the Old Town. It is the largest and oldest Chinese market in Indonesia, and it is a great place to find a variety of goods, from traditional Chinese medicines to electronics and more. The market is also a great place to sample some of the local street food.
3. Visit the Sunda Kelapa Harbor
The Sunda Kelapa Harbor is one of the oldest ports in the world and is still in use today. It was once the main port for the Dutch East India Company and is now a great place to explore the history of Jakarta. Here you can find a number of historical sites, including the old warehouses and the Maritime Museum.
4. Check out the Puppet Museum
The Puppet Museum is a great place to learn about the traditional art of puppetry in Indonesia. It is located in the Old Town and features a number of puppets from different parts of the country, as well as a theater where you can watch puppet shows.
5. Take a Stroll Through Pasar Ikan
Pasar Ikan is a bustling fish market located in the Old Town. Here you can find a variety of fresh seafood, from fish and shellfish to crabs and squid. It is also a great place to sample some of the local street food.
6. Visit the Wayang Museum
The Wayang Museum is located in the Old Town and is dedicated to the traditional art of shadow puppetry in Indonesia. Here you can find a number of puppets from different parts of the country, as well as a theater where you can watch puppet shows.
7. Explore the Jakarta History Museum
The Jakarta History Museum is a great place to learn more about the history of the city. It is located in the Old Town and features a number of exhibits, from artifacts to photographs and more.
8. Take a Boat Ride on the Ciliwung River
The Ciliwung River is a great place to explore the Old Town from a different perspective. You can take a boat ride along the river and get a unique view of the area.
9. Visit the Cafe Batavia
The Cafe Batavia is a historic cafe located in the Old Town. It was once a popular hangout spot for Dutch colonialists and is now a great place to sample some of the local cuisine and enjoy a cup of coffee.
10. Explore the Old Town Streets
The streets of the Old Town are a great place to explore. Here you can find a number of shops, restaurants, and other attractions. It is also a great place to sample some of the local street food.