Participants Guide

Yogyakarta

Located in the central part of Java Island, Yogyakarta is the capital of the Yogyakarta Sultanate. During the Indonesian National Revolution, Yogyakarta functioned as the Indonesian capital from 1946 to 1948, housing the president’s office, Gedung Agung. Yogyakarta holds significant importance as a centre for traditional Javanese fine arts and culture, including ballet, wayang puppetry, drama, music, literature, poetry, silversmithing, and batik textiles.

Attraction at Yogyakarta

Cultural

Yogyakarta, founded in 1756 as the center of the Sultanate of Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat, is a historically significant Javanese city with a unique city center design based on Javanese cosmology and philosophy. The area and pathway of the historical city center, which encompasses Tugu Pal Putih, Kepatihan, The Complex of Kraton (including Taman Sari), and Panggung Krapyak, offer profound philosophical insights for the participants seeking a deeper understanding. Yogyakarta and its surrounding areas also offer a rich cultural experience with iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Prambanan and Borobudur Temple Compounds.

Natural

Participants can explore Gunung Merapi and scenic Kaliurang area, indulge in the beauty of southern coast beaches among others Pantai Parangtritis, Timang, Wediombo, Ngobaran, Baron, and Kukup, and venture into the captivating caves of Goa Pindul and Jomblang.

Culinary

Culinary: The city offers iconic local specialties like gudeg, a traditional Javanese dish from young jackfruit in coconut milk and spices; nasi kucing (cat rice), a mini serving of rice accompanied by various small side dishes; bakmi Jawa (Javanese noodle); and sate klathak (grilled skewers). Participants can also enjoy beverages i.e. the legendary Javanese coffee, kopi joss (charcoal coffee), wedang ronde (glutionous rice balls in ginger syrups), es dawet, as well as bakpia, a traditional Yogyakarta pastry.

Shopping

Shopping: The city is renowned for its bustling traditional markets, such as Malioboro Street and Pasar Beringharjo, where participants can find a wide array of batik clothing, traditional crafts, and souvenirs. For a modern shopping experience, visit shopping malls like Malioboro Mall, Ambarukmo Plaza, and Pakuwon Mall

Essential information for travellers

  • Visa: Check our Visa Information page to ensure the process of entering Indonesia is as smooth as possible.
  • Travel Information: To travel to and from Yogyakarta, check our Travel Information page. To travel within the city, we suggest you to go local, using online transport apps (Gojek or Grab) for getting around the city. 
  • Accommodation: Haven’t booked where to stay? Check our Accommodation page to see several recommended hotels near the conference venue. 
  • Payment Methods: Bring cash for smaller transactions, but we suggest to also download and install apps for digital payments (GoPay or OVO). Credit cards payment is only available in large stores or merchants. 
  • Weather: Yogyakarta is typically hot and humid and January is usually raining, so we suggest to bring an umbrella, pack lightweight clothing, and stay hydrated. Be kinder to earth and don’t forget to bring your own water bottle!
  • Health Tips:
    • Tap water is generally not safe for drinking in Indonesia. However, refill stations for safe drinking water are available at certain spots on the UGM campus, although this is not common in other public places. 
    • Bring any personal medications you may need.
  • Road Safety: Indonesians drive on the left side of the road. Be cautious when crossing streets.