Jepara is a regency and city in Central Java, located along the coast of the Java Sea, about 80 km from Semarang.
Jepara is world-renowned for its exceptional teak wood craftsmanship. The town produces a wide range of high-quality products—from furniture and home décor to intricately carved art panels and doors. Skilled local artisans and established factories not only supply markets across Indonesia but also export their creations internationally. It’s no surprise that Jepara has earned the reputation as the global hub of wood carving.
Jepara is famously known as “Bumi Kartini” or Kartini’s Land, as it is the birthplace of Raden Ajeng Kartini—Indonesia’s national heroine and pioneer for women’s education and rights. Born in 1879, Kartini dedicated her life to advocating for gender equality, particularly in education, during a time when women had limited access to formal schooling. Her powerful writings and vision for women’s emancipation are still celebrated today, especially every April 21st on Kartini Day.
Just outside the town, about 45 km northeast of Jepara, lies Benteng Portugis (Portuguese Fort), a historic site built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Strategically perched on a rocky hill by the sea in Donorojo District, the fort served as a coastal defense outpost during the height of colonial maritime trade. Though small and partially in ruins, the fort offers sweeping ocean views and insights into Indonesia's early colonial interactions.
How to Get There
- From Bali by Bus: You can take a bus from Bali to Jepara for around 400,000 IDR. The journey takes approximately 15 hours. Buses also operate from major cities across Java. Tickets can be purchased online (check local travel platforms or booking websites, such as redbus).
- By Car: Travel independently by renting a car or hiring a private driver. This option offers the most flexibility, especially for groups or families.
- By Air: Take a flight from Denpasar (Bali) to Semarang—a trip of about 1.5 hours. There are usually two flights per day, with ticket prices around 1.2 million IDR. From Semarang, continue by car to your destination (approx. 2–3 hours, depending on traffic).
Accommodation
• Coconut Lodge Resort: A charming resort by the Java Sea, offering a secluded atmosphere with comfortable rooms, often featuring traditional Indonesian designs. Rooms start from 550,000 IDR per night.
• The Palm Beach Resort Jepara: A luxury resort combining natural beauty and modern comfort, with spacious rooms overlooking the ocean or gardens. Facilities include a pool, spa, fitness center, and restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Rooms start from 600,000 IDR per night.
• Rimba Desa Resort: A cozy, “village-style” retreat surrounded by lush nature, with a pool, playground, BBQ area, and restaurant. Rooms start from 400,000 IDR per night.
Places to Visit
Furniture Showrooms
If you live in Indonesia long-term or work in import/export, visiting Jepara’s furniture showrooms is a must. You’ll find an impressive selection of wooden furniture and intricately carved interior décor, including statues, vases, large panels, doors, and room dividers—perfect for both personal use and business sourcing.
Karimunjawa National Park
A favorite attraction, this park comprises 27 islands with white sandy beaches, clear waters, and beautiful coral reefs. Activities include diving, snorkeling, and fishing.
How to Get There:
You can reach the island by hiring a private boat (a 2–3 hour journey from Kartini Harbor in Jepara) or by taking a public ferry for a more budget-friendly option.
- Ferry KMP Siginjai: Tickets – VIP Adult: 150,000 IDR, Adult: 130,000 IDR, Child: 20,000 IDR, Motorcycle: 125,000 IDR, Car: 1,015,000 IDR.
- Ferry KMC Express Bahari: Executive: 220,000 IDR one-way, VIP: 250,000 IDR one-way, Child: 50,000 IDR one-way.
Kartini Kura Beach
A famous beach with white sand and clear water, also home to Turtle Ocean Park with various species of turtles.
Entrance fee: 5,000 IDR on weekdays, 7,000 IDR on weekends.
Jepara Ourland Park
Jepara is celebrated not only for its natural beauty but also for its vibrant leisure attractions. One standout destination is Jepara Ourland Park, a family-friendly waterpark that offers fun for all ages. The park features uniquely themed water slides inspired by European and Middle Eastern architecture, setting it apart from other waterparks in Indonesia. Beyond water-based fun, visitors can also enjoy go-karting, ATV rides, and a variety of other exciting activities.
Ticket prices:
• Adults (12 years and older): around 70,000 IDR
• Children (3–11 years): around 60,000 IDR
• Seniors (60 years and older): around 50,000 IDR
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Songgo Langit Waterfall
Located about 30 km from Jepara city, this 80-meter-high waterfall is surrounded by a lush tropical forest.
Entrance fee: 10,000 IDR per person.
Kartini Museum
A museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Raden Ajeng Kartini, featuring photos, clothes, books, and letters.
Entry fee: Adults 15,000 IDR, Children 5,000 IDR.
Portuguese Fortress
Another notable historical attraction in Jepara is the Portuguese Fort (Benteng Portugis), which dates back to the 17th century. Built by the Portuguese around 1632 in collaboration with the Mataram Kingdom, the fort served as a strategic military outpost along the northern coast of Java. Today, it stands as a silent witness to the region's colonial-era conflicts, including skirmishes between the Mataram Sultanate, the Portuguese, and later the Dutch East India Company (VOC).
Built on a rocky hill by the sea, the fort offers stunning ocean views from its summit.
Entry fee: 5,000 IDR per person.
Banyu Anjlok Waterfall
A perfect escape from the daily routine, Banyu Anjlok Waterfall offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Located in Somosari Village, Batealit District, Jepara Regency, this stunning 25-meter-high waterfall is nestled within untouched forest, creating a cool, serene, and calming atmosphere. Reaching the waterfall requires a bit of adventure—a steep and challenging trail awaits, but the refreshing beauty at the end is well worth the effort.
Entrance fee: 5,000 IDR per person.
With its serene coastlines, forested mountains, rich craftsmanship, and cultural heritage, Jepara is more than just a getaway—it’s a journey into the heart of Java’s beauty and soul.
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