last edited Dec 11, 2019
Introduction to Java
Overview
The island of Java is the most populous in Indonesia—and even overpopulated in some areas—with over 145 million inhabitants (60% of Indonesians on 7% of the country's land). It is also home to the capital, Jakarta (10 million inhabitants), located in the west of the long coastal plain that lines the northern coast with its many rice paddies. In the center of the island rises a mountainous massif composed of countless volcanoes (up to 3,676 m), leaving little room on the southern side for a zone of hills and alluvial plains. Highly fertile, Java is Indonesia's breadbasket (rice, tea, coffee, etc.) but is also heavily dependent on nature's whims, with frequent risks of flooding or volcanic eruptions.
Key Facts
- Local time:
- Main cities: Bandung, Jakarta, Semarang, Surabaya, Yogyakarta...
- Population: 145,000,000 inhabitants (2015).
- Area: 128,297 km².
- Density: 1,130 inhabitants/km².
- Highest point: Mount Semeru (3,676 m).
- Lowest point: sea level.
- Coastline: 2,884 km.
Tourism
Despite its high density and nearly 150 million inhabitants, the island still boasts stunning natural areas that will delight nature and adventure lovers. Its central mountain range, numerous volcanoes such as Bromo or Kawah Ijen, its tropical forests, and its many parks—of which Ujung Kulon remains the most interesting—as well as a coastline with scattered beautiful beaches, all combine to create a remarkable landscape. But Java is also a cultural heritage, with two recognized gems: the sites of Borobudur and Prambanan, each with their share of Hindu or Buddhist temples.
Travel Essentials
- Destination: for beginner travelers.
- By air: France-Jakarta.
- Backpacker daily budget:
- Best for accommodation:
- Best for getting around:
- Risks:
- Best time for climate/crowds/prices:
- Interests (out of ): Nature /; Adventure ; Culture ; Relaxation/Holidays /
- Website: