Retno Poernomo

"Every year, thousands of people gather at the ancient Borobudur Temple in Java to witness one of the most magical spiritual events in Southeast Asia — Waisak. The sky fills with lanterns, prayers echo through the night, and for a moment, the world feels still. Here's everything you need to experience it."

There is one piece of clothing that has always lived in every Indonesian woman's wardrobe — passed down from generation to generation. Not an evening gown. Not a formal work blouse. But a daster. In the world of fashion, daster belongs to a category known as homewear — clothing designed specifically for the comfort and intimacy of home. But in Indonesia, a daster is so much more than a category. It is a mother tongue we never speak aloud, yet always feel. It greets us in the morning before the coffee is finished, wraps us through quiet afternoons, and holds us at the end of a long day when the body asks for rest. A daster is not just homewear. It is a safe space that takes the shape of fabric. But what if that comfort came wrapped in the timeless motifs of Javanese batik — rich with meaning, rooted in heritage? What if your most relaxed moment at home could also be your most beautiful?

Have you ever seen the sky filled with glowing lanterns, floating peacefully over a thousand-year-old temple? Every year during Waisak at Borobudur, this breathtaking scene becomes reality. Thousands of monks, locals, and travelers gather to release lanterns in a sacred moment of hope, reflection, and unity. The night is quiet, the air filled with prayers, and the glow of lanterns lights up the sky—pure magic. In 2025, this moment will return… and it's expected to be even more beautiful.

Waisak (well known as Vesak worldwidely) is a day to celebrate Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death. It’s an important day for the Buddhist countries in Asia, celebrated in their own way on a chosen day which is based on their Buddhist philosophy. In Indonesia, it’s a public holiday called “Hari Raya Waisak“, usually a full-moon day in May is chosen every year. And the holiest and lively Buddhist festival is held on the day in Borobudur, a small town where has the world’s biggest ancient Buddhist temple.

Yogyakarta is more than temples and street food. For those seeking peace and reflection, it offers deeply soulful healing journeys. From pine forests to herbal rituals, every experience here invites you to slow down and reconnect—with yourself, with nature, and with something greater. Here are some of the most meaningful wellness experiences you can try in Yogyakarta—each rooted in Javanese tradition and designed to nurture your body, mind, and soul.

Looking for an unforgettable cultural escape in Southeast Asia? Yogyakarta is where Java’s heart beats strongest — in its royal palaces, mystical arts, ancient temples, and living traditions.

Batik is a very rich cultural heritage of Indonesia. This beautiful fabric is produced through a complicated manufacturing process.

Chocolate can be part of a healthy diet if consumed wisely. By choosing the right chocolate and consuming it in the right amount, you can enjoy the deliciousness of chocolate while getting health benefits.

Wellness tourism refers to travel aimed at maintaining or improving physical, mental, and spiritual health. In recent years, Indonesia has become one of the prominent wellness tourism destinations in Southeast Asia. The country offers a variety of destinations rich in natural resources, traditions, and cultures that support the concept of wellness tourism.

Yogyakarta once again radiates its charm through the Jogja Cultural Wellness Festival (JCWF) which carries the theme Selarasing Urip or harmony of life. The festival not only presents a series of entertaining wellness activities, but also introduces the richness of local culture that is the foundation of the wellness concept.

Yogyakarta — or Jogja — isn’t just a city. It’s a feeling. A longing. A quiet call to come home. And a warm cup of tea shared with strangers at an angkringan (street food stall). Here are the things that make Jogja unforgettable:

Tourist villages in Yogyakarta offer learning experiences about rural life and traditional handicrafts. Some interesting tourist villages include:

Apart from beaches and mountains, many new spots have emerged with beautiful and instagrammable natural views, such as hills, tea gardens, or pine forests.

Indonesia has many destinations that are suitable for wellness tourism. Here are some areas that are famous for their superior wellness facilities and experiences:

Located just 20–30 minutes south of Yogyakarta City, Kasongan Tourism Village in Bantul is a hidden gem for travelers seeking authentic local culture. Known for its traditional pottery, this village has transformed into a must-visit destination for art lovers, cultural explorers, and souvenir hunters.

Modern batik encompasses a variety of styles and creative experiments that combine traditional elements with contemporary touches. Modern batik often adopts motifs and patterns from traditional batik, but with a freer and more creative interpretation.

Embrace the elegance of tradition with our exquisite collection of handcrafted batik from Yogyakarta. Each piece is a unique work of art, meticulously crafted by skilled artisans using ancient techniques passed down through generations. The vibrant colors and intricate patterns tell stories of cultural heritage, symbolizing the richness of Indonesian history.Our batik is made from high-quality natural fabrics, ensuring both comfort and durability. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a subtle touch of elegance, Yogyakarta batik offers the perfect blend of tradition and modern sophistication. Stand out with a garment that’s not only beautiful but also a true testament to the artistry of Indonesian craftsmanship.Own a piece of culture. Wear a story

Location: Yogyakarta, Indonesia Type of Tourism: History, Culture, Architecture Opening Hours: 06.00 - 17.00 WIB Ticket Price: IDR 50,000 (Domestic), IDR 350,000 (International)

Discover the best handcrafted souvenirs from Yogyakarta, each made with skill, tradition, and cultural meaning. From batik to silver jewelry, bamboo art to leather goods—these artisan creations are more than just souvenirs, they are stories you can bring home.

These unique souvenirs are not just items to bring back from a trip; they are pieces of Yogyakarta's cultural heritage, each with its own story and significance.

Yogyakarta was known with the slogan of “Jogja The Never ending Asia“ for its endless appeals. Today, it is also renowned as “ Jogja Istimewa “, a tagline that elaborates its special values.Yogyakarta is indeed a city with numerous attractions to enjoy. All of this and many more to explore has brought Yogyakarta as the second most visited destination in Indonesia after Bali.

Yogyakarta and its surrounding areas are filled with Instagram-worthy spots that offer stunning backdrops for photos. Whether you’re looking for natural beauty, cultural heritage, or unique art installations, here are some of the most Instagrammable destinations:

Batik patterns, or motifs, are central to the art and cultural significance of batik in Javanese society. Each pattern carries specific meanings, stories, and cultural values, often linked to social status, nature, mythology, or spiritual beliefs.

Yogyakarta is a treasure trove of unique souvenirs that reflect its rich cultural heritage.These souvenirs not only make for great gifts but also serve as lasting memories of your time in Yogyakarta.

Here's a detailed itinerary for "A Day in Malioboro," perfect for those who want to explore the cultural and vibrant heart of Yogyakarta:

I used to travel to escape. Chasing new places, new photos, new stories — but deep down, I still felt empty. Until one day, I paused. Not for a vacation, but to return to myself. And in that pause, I found two places — Bali and Labuan Bajo — that gently helped me begin to heal.