Introduction to East Java
By: Emma Kwee
East Java (Java Timur in Bahasa Indonesia) is the easternmost part of the island of Java. it includes the island of Madura and some other smaller islands in the region. The capital of East Java is Surabaya, the second largest city in Indonesia and a major industrial center and port. East Java is the second most populated province in Indonesia, after West Java. The population consists of Javanese, Madurese and a sizeable Chinese community.
East Java's Star Attraction: The Bromo
Most visitors to East Java only see the Bromo volcano, the star attraction in the region, located around 70 kilometers from Surabaya. The Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park it sits in is a popular hiking destination. Typically, people will stay near the bromo overnight and hike or ride on horseback to the volcanoe at sunrise. While its views are indeed spectacular, East Java has a lot more to offer.
1 Comment
Kasada, a Celebration Involving a Volcano & lots of People Throwing Stuff in it!
By: Jack Lato
People are divided into two categories in regards to their position in time. People that hang on to the past and those that live for the future; the first tend to live as men did decades or possibly centuries ago. The latter focus more on the present and the future. The Tenggerese at the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, Indonesia possibly belong to the first category. They live the same way as their ancestors; observing cultural traditions, according to the rules set by those before them. One of the rituals they still observe is Yadnya Kasada, an annual sacrificial festival taking place at the crater rim of the Bromo.
Kasada: More than Chickens in a Volcano
Celebrated last Sunday evening to Monday midnight, August 14 – 15 this year, the event actually lasts for a month. This special holy day involves a volcano, the tourist hot spot Bromo, and lots of people throwing stuff in it. Chief of Tourism and Culture of Pasuruan Sub-disctrict, Agung Maryono last Thursday, August 11, 2011 explained some activities and rituals preceded the event.
Indonesia
Indonesia Travel Guide
With 17,508 islands Indonesia has it all: bustling cities, green rice paddies & glorious beaches. Read all about it in our Indonesia travel guide.
Malaysia
Malaysia Travel Guide
Malaysia, truly Asia! Read about multicultural Malaysia, the people, the culture & the food in our Malaysia travel guide.
Singapore
Singapore Travel Guide
The city state of Singapore is an eclectic metropolis. Get to know the hot spots & explore the urban jungle with our Singapore travel guide.
