First Time in Jogjakarta

My First Time in Jogjakarta: How This City Stole My Heart

By Elena Moretti

There are certain places in the world that seem to wrap around you like a warm blanket the moment you arrive — places that feel familiar even if you’ve never set foot there before. For me, Jogjakarta (or Yogyakarta, as it’s officially spelled) in Indonesia was one of those places.

When I landed at Adisutjipto International Airport, I had no idea that this city — with its mix of ancient history, artistic energy, and heartwarming hospitality — would charm me so completely. Over the days that followed, I wandered through centuries-old temples, got lost in colorful alleyways, devoured street food like a local, and met some of the kindest people I’ve ever encountered.

This is the story of my first visit to Jogjakarta — the city that stole my heart — and a guide to experiencing it through the eyes of a curious traveler.

The First Impressions: A City That Feels Alive

Image suggestion: A panoramic shot of Malioboro Street at dusk, filled with neon lights, rickshaws, and street vendors.

When I stepped out of the airport, the air was warm and slightly humid, carrying the scent of fried snacks and clove cigarettes. Jogjakarta is often described as the cultural heart of Java, and within minutes of being here, I understood why.

The streets bustled with life — from batik shops displaying intricate patterns to becak (cycle rickshaw) drivers waiting for passengers. Street musicians played gamelan instruments, while students zipped past on scooters, their laughter echoing down the road. It was sensory overload in the best possible way.

Discovering Malioboro Street: Jogja’s Beating Heart

Image suggestion: Close-up of batik fabrics hanging in market stalls.

My first stop was Malioboro Street, the city’s main commercial hub. This is where Jogjakarta’s spirit comes alive — a stretch of markets, food stalls, and quirky souvenir shops.

I walked slowly, stopping every few steps to admire handmade crafts. The batik fabrics here were stunning, each pattern telling a story through delicate lines and earthy colors. Local vendors greeted me with warm smiles and friendly bargaining (a skill I quickly had to learn).

What I loved most wasn’t the shopping, but the atmosphere — a blend of tradition and modern energy. One moment I’d see a traditional shadow puppet maker, the next, a trendy coffee shop filled with students discussing art projects.

The Magic of Borobudur at Sunrise

Image suggestion: Borobudur temple at sunrise, with misty mountains in the background.

If there’s one place you can’t miss in Jogjakarta, it’s Borobudur Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the world’s largest Buddhist monument, and seeing it at sunrise is an experience that words can hardly capture.

I woke up at 3:30 AM to join a small tour. The drive was quiet, and by the time we arrived, the sky was a soft pre-dawn blue. Climbing to the top, I watched as the first rays of sunlight broke over the mountains, bathing the ancient stupas in golden light.

It was humbling to think that this massive structure was built in the 9th century, without modern machinery, and still stands in remarkable condition. The carvings along the walls depict Buddhist teachings, each detail meticulously crafted.

A Walk Through Prambanan’s Hindu Elegance

Image suggestion: Prambanan temple complex with blue skies and scattered clouds.

While Borobudur celebrates Buddhist heritage, Prambanan Temple showcases the grandeur of Hindu architecture. Built around the same era, Prambanan’s towering spires rise dramatically against the sky.

I spent hours wandering among its temples, marveling at the intricate reliefs telling stories from the Ramayana. In the late afternoon, the site takes on a romantic glow, especially as the setting sun lights up the grey stone.

If you visit in the evening, you can catch the Ramayana Ballet, performed outdoors with the illuminated temples as the backdrop — a magical fusion of dance, music, and storytelling.

Street Art and Soul in Prawirotaman

Image suggestion: A mural of colorful street art in Prawirotaman neighborhood.

Prawirotaman is known as Jogjakarta’s bohemian neighborhood — a place where art spills from every wall, and travelers mingle with local creatives in cozy cafés.

Here, I found vibrant murals tucked into alleyways, handmade jewelry stalls, and small art galleries. I spent an afternoon café-hopping, sipping strong Javanese coffee while chatting with local artists about their work.

It’s also a great base for travelers, with boutique guesthouses, yoga studios, and restaurants serving everything from traditional nasi goreng to vegan smoothie bowls.

The Flavors of Jogja: My Street Food Adventures

Image suggestion: A steaming plate of Gudeg with rice, jackfruit, and chicken.

Jogjakarta’s culinary scene is irresistible, especially if you love street food. I tried:

• Gudeg – A sweet and savory jackfruit stew, served with rice and chicken.

• Bakpia Pathok – Sweet mung bean pastries, perfect for snacks.

• Wedang Ronde – A warm ginger drink with glutinous rice balls.

One evening, I joined a local street food tour, hopping between vendors in the Alun-Alun Kidul (South Square). The highlight? Sitting on mats under the night sky, eating satay while listening to street performers.

Meeting the People: Jogja’s Greatest Treasure

Image suggestion: A candid shot of a smiling becak driver in traditional clothing.

As much as I adored the sights and food, it was the people who truly made Jogjakarta special. From market vendors who taught me a few words of Javanese, to the becak driver who proudly showed me his favorite batik workshop, every interaction was warm and genuine.

There’s a deep sense of community here. People take pride in their culture and are eager to share it — not in a touristy, rehearsed way, but with genuine enthusiasm.

Tips for First-Time Visitors to Jogjakarta

Image suggestion: A flat lay of travel essentials for Jogjakarta — hat, sunscreen, camera, batik scarf.

• Best Time to Visit: May to September (dry season).

• Getting Around: Use Grab for short trips, or hire a becak for slower, scenic rides.

• Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples.

• Language: Bahasa Indonesia is widely spoken, but English is common in tourist areas.

• Stay Duration: 4–5 days lets you explore the highlights without rushing.

My Last Night: Why I Didn’t Want to Leave

Image suggestion: A night market scene with glowing lanterns.

On my final night, I returned to Malioboro Street, letting the sounds and smells wash over me one last time. I bought a final piece of batik — not just as a souvenir, but as a reminder of the city that welcomed me so warmly.

As I sat in a small café sipping kopi tubruk, I realized Jogjakarta wasn’t just a destination for me. It was a feeling — of being embraced by history, art, and kindness.

Leaving was hard, but I knew I’d return. Because once Jogja steals your heart, it doesn’t give it back.