An ideal way to learn more about Indonesia’s culture and history is to visit the museums in Jakarta and here are some of the city’s best.
Jakarta History Museum
Located at Fatahillah Square in Kota Tua (Old Town), the Jakarta History Museum can be reached by those staying at a North Jakarta hotel. It features a comprehensive collection of exhibits ranging from the prehistoric period to the modern era including wood and stone carvings, glass items, ceramics, paintings, historic maps, weapons and colonial furniture.
Puppet Museum
Also known as the Wayang Museum, this attraction in Kota Tua is within easy reach of properties like POP! Hotel Kelapa Gading Jakarta catering to budget business and leisure travellers. Expect to find plenty of traditional Indonesian shadow and wooden puppets (wayangs) here along with puppets from other parts of the world too.
National Museum
Situated opposite the famous National Monument (Monas), the National Museum has a fascinating array of exhibits and sculptures as well as prehistoric and archaeological artefacts. Amongst the highlights are the Hindu-Buddhist relics and sculptures from places like Bali and Java, the statue of Adityavarman and statues of the Buddha from Borobudur.
Museum of Fine Arts and Ceramics
Make time to also visit the Museum of Fine Arts and Ceramics where you can enjoy the creative artistic expression on diverse mediums including ceramics, paintings, sculptures and more. You can view works by local painters and traditional handicrafts, while there’s even a ceramic workshop where you can get a hands-on experience!
