Uniqueness of this attraction
Uniqueness of this attraction
The Kraton or the Palace of Yogyakarta is a grand complex that was meticulously planned to reflect the Javanese cosmos. This splendid example of traditional Javanese architecture has no equal. Designed and built in stages, it was completed back in the 70’s. It is also locally known as Keraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningra or simply Keraton Jogja. This elegant complex of pavilions was constructed entirely on ancient beliefs and each feature of the complex - from the courtyards to the trees, has a special symbolic meaning related to sophisticated Javanese worldviews.
A large part of Kraton Yogyakarta Palace is used as a museum and holds an extensive collection from the past including gifts from European monarchs, gilt copies of the sacred ‘pusaka’ (possessions) and traditional instruments like the Gamelan. One of the most interesting rooms houses the royal family tree, old photographs of grand mass weddings and portraits of the former sultans of Yogyakarta.
Outside the Kraton Yogyakarta in the centre of the northern square, there are two sacred banyan trees, where in the days of feudal Java, white-robed petitioners would patiently sit hoping to catch the eye of the king. In the Alun-Alun Kidul or at the southern square, two similar Banyan trees are said to bring great fortune if you can walk between them without mishap blindfolded; on Friday and Saturday nights, you can see the youth of Yogya attempting the feat to a chorus of laughter from friends!
A large part of Kraton Yogyakarta Palace is used as a museum and holds an extensive collection from the past including gifts from European monarchs, gilt copies of the sacred ‘pusaka’ (possessions) and traditional instruments like the Gamelan. One of the most interesting rooms houses the royal family tree, old photographs of grand mass weddings and portraits of the former sultans of Yogyakarta.
Outside the Kraton Yogyakarta in the centre of the northern square, there are two sacred banyan trees, where in the days of feudal Java, white-robed petitioners would patiently sit hoping to catch the eye of the king. In the Alun-Alun Kidul or at the southern square, two similar Banyan trees are said to bring great fortune if you can walk between them without mishap blindfolded; on Friday and Saturday nights, you can see the youth of Yogya attempting the feat to a chorus of laughter from friends!
Other things to do here?
Other things to do here?
The Kraton Yogyakarta is located in the heart of Yogyakarta city center. From the palace, you can also explore other heritage attractions such as Tamansari Water Castle, Sonobudoyo Museum or choose to stop by Malioboro Street for some shopping as well as local food hunting.
What to bring home?
What to bring home?
There isn’t much that you can buy in Kraton Yogyakarta but you can surely take plenty of photos to bring home as memories. However, if you wish to get some gifts or shop for souvenirs, head to outside of the palace where there are plenty of local stalls and shops selling various items to purchase.
Who should I travel with?
Who should I travel with?
Solo , Couple , Friends , Family , Group
Getting around
Getting around
The Kraton Yogyakarta is located in the centre of Yogyakarta, specifically in Jl. Rotowijayan and can be reached easily via a taxi and public bus. Alternative, opt to try traditional transportations like Beca (trishaw) and Andong (horse cart) for a more touristy feel!
Insiders’ tips
Insiders’ tips
- In the afternoon; usually past 12.30pm, the palace is closed to visitors.
- During the closing, women in traditional costume can be observed respectfully sprinkling water and flowers on the pillars, lighting incense to “cleanse” the palace grounds from evil spirits.
- There is an additional charge of Rp. 1,000 to bring in a camera or video recorder.
- If you wish to see cultural performances, head to the inner pavilion of Kraton Yogyakarta. From 10am on Monday, Tuesday & Thursday you can check out the Gamelan show. On 10am to noon on Wednesday and 9am to noon on Saturday, a puppetry show known as Wayang Golek will be performed. To listen to Javanese poetry readings, head there on Friday from 9am. On Sundays, you will get to see a Javanese cultural dance from 11am.
For the original people of Yogyakarta, the Kraton Yogyakarta or Sultan’s Palace has been the cultural and mystical soul of the city since the mid-1700s.
Opening hours
| Monday | 08:30 am to 12:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 08:30 am to 12:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 08:30 am to 12:30 pm |
| Thursday | 08:30 am to 12:30 pm |
| Friday | 08:30 am to 11:00 am |
| Saturday | 08:30 am to 11:00 am |
| Sunday | 08:30 am to 12:30 pm |
For the original people of Yogyakarta, the Kraton Yogyakarta or Sultan’s Palace has been the cultural and mystical soul of the city since the mid-1700s.
Opening hours
| Monday | 08:30 am to 12:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 08:30 am to 12:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 08:30 am to 12:30 pm |
| Thursday | 08:30 am to 12:30 pm |
| Friday | 08:30 am to 11:00 am |
| Saturday | 08:30 am to 11:00 am |
| Sunday | 08:30 am to 12:30 pm |
Uniqueness of this attraction
Uniqueness of this attraction
The Kraton or the Palace of Yogyakarta is a grand complex that was meticulously planned to reflect the Javanese cosmos. This splendid example of traditional Javanese architecture has no equal. Designed and built in stages, it was completed back in the 70’s. It is also locally known as Keraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningra or simply Keraton Jogja. This elegant complex of pavilions was constructed entirely on ancient beliefs and each feature of the complex - from the courtyards to the trees, has a special symbolic meaning related to sophisticated Javanese worldviews.
A large part of Kraton Yogyakarta Palace is used as a museum and holds an extensive collection from the past including gifts from European monarchs, gilt copies of the sacred ‘pusaka’ (possessions) and traditional instruments like the Gamelan. One of the most interesting rooms houses the royal family tree, old photographs of grand mass weddings and portraits of the former sultans of Yogyakarta.
Outside the Kraton Yogyakarta in the centre of the northern square, there are two sacred banyan trees, where in the days of feudal Java, white-robed petitioners would patiently sit hoping to catch the eye of the king. In the Alun-Alun Kidul or at the southern square, two similar Banyan trees are said to bring great fortune if you can walk between them without mishap blindfolded; on Friday and Saturday nights, you can see the youth of Yogya attempting the feat to a chorus of laughter from friends!
A large part of Kraton Yogyakarta Palace is used as a museum and holds an extensive collection from the past including gifts from European monarchs, gilt copies of the sacred ‘pusaka’ (possessions) and traditional instruments like the Gamelan. One of the most interesting rooms houses the royal family tree, old photographs of grand mass weddings and portraits of the former sultans of Yogyakarta.
Outside the Kraton Yogyakarta in the centre of the northern square, there are two sacred banyan trees, where in the days of feudal Java, white-robed petitioners would patiently sit hoping to catch the eye of the king. In the Alun-Alun Kidul or at the southern square, two similar Banyan trees are said to bring great fortune if you can walk between them without mishap blindfolded; on Friday and Saturday nights, you can see the youth of Yogya attempting the feat to a chorus of laughter from friends!
Other things to do here?
Other things to do here?
The Kraton Yogyakarta is located in the heart of Yogyakarta city center. From the palace, you can also explore other heritage attractions such as Tamansari Water Castle, Sonobudoyo Museum or choose to stop by Malioboro Street for some shopping as well as local food hunting.
What to bring home?
What to bring home?
There isn’t much that you can buy in Kraton Yogyakarta but you can surely take plenty of photos to bring home as memories. However, if you wish to get some gifts or shop for souvenirs, head to outside of the palace where there are plenty of local stalls and shops selling various items to purchase.
Who should I travel with?
Who should I travel with?
Solo , Couple , Friends , Family , Group
Getting around
Getting around
The Kraton Yogyakarta is located in the centre of Yogyakarta, specifically in Jl. Rotowijayan and can be reached easily via a taxi and public bus. Alternative, opt to try traditional transportations like Beca (trishaw) and Andong (horse cart) for a more touristy feel!
Insiders’ tips
Insiders’ tips
- In the afternoon; usually past 12.30pm, the palace is closed to visitors.
- During the closing, women in traditional costume can be observed respectfully sprinkling water and flowers on the pillars, lighting incense to “cleanse” the palace grounds from evil spirits.
- There is an additional charge of Rp. 1,000 to bring in a camera or video recorder.
- If you wish to see cultural performances, head to the inner pavilion of Kraton Yogyakarta. From 10am on Monday, Tuesday & Thursday you can check out the Gamelan show. On 10am to noon on Wednesday and 9am to noon on Saturday, a puppetry show known as Wayang Golek will be performed. To listen to Javanese poetry readings, head there on Friday from 9am. On Sundays, you will get to see a Javanese cultural dance from 11am.
