Jakarta is the capital city of
Indonesia, as well as one of the most populated cities. It is also Indonesia's largest city. Jakarta is located on the northwest coast of the island of Java. Java Island is the most populated island in the region. Jakarta is the current political, cultural, and economic hub of Indonesia.
Jakarta features a perfect cultural mixture. A blend of Chinese, Arabic, Javanese, Indian, Malaysian, and European histories and cultures has, over time, influenced many parts of Jakarta practices, including the language, the architecture, and the cuisines. Kota Tua, Jakarta's old town, hosts the colonial buildings of Dutch, Jakarta's Chinatown, which is referred to as Glodok, as well as the Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta's old port where ancient wooden boats still dock.
The National Monument, also called the Monas, features an intricate marble structure complete with an observation area, together with the iconic gigantic Istiqlal Mosque are both located within the Central Medan Merdeka Square. The architectural representations of the buildings are beautiful to tourists.
The history of Indonesia is pervasive. It has been traced through numerous archaeological artifacts, several mounted statues, beautiful jewelry, and attractive ceramic pieces, and has been stored away in the National Museum. More of the ancient feel is made possible at the Taman Mini Indonesia Indah cultural village via its recreation of the traditional houses, its intriguing stage performances, and its numerous museums with more history and artwork.
Shopping options are many, but the main one is the Jalan Surabaya, where many souvenirs can be obtained in the form of attractive antique pieces. There are also several modern shopping malls that trade in all sorts of goods and products.
On Jakarta's offshore, there is a vast marine national park, which is commonly known as the "Thousand Islands", featuring stunning beach houses and resorts, and other uninhabited parts.
Jakarta experiences a tropical monsoon climate. The climate is characterized by two major seasons. The wet season is long and lasts from
October through to
May. With
January and
February as its wettest months, Jakarta receives precipitation of up to 300mm (11.8") and over. The temperature in Jakarta is moderately steady all year long without any significant variations.
The dry season, however, is short and lasts from
June through to
September. The temperature remains steady as is during the wet season, but the rainfall amount drops considerably to collect precipitation as low as below 100mm (3.9") on a monthly average. The driest month falls in
August.
The peak of the tourist period in Jakarta falls during the dry season, between June and September. The weather remains hot and humid, but the minimal rainfall allows for a perfect time to tour Jakarta. The afternoon may, however, receive mild showers of rain. On top of that, the evenings remain mild and pleasant throughout the season.
One of the key events in Jakarta is the Chinese New Year. Depending on the lunar calendar, the Chinese New Year may fall either in January or in February. It is treated as a public holiday, and many businesses remain closed to give way to the colorful festivities and feasting.
The Java Jazz Festival, held in
March, is another significant event. It aims at appreciating the best international artists, and it attracts crowds and performers from far and wide.
On the 17th day of August, Jakarta marks its Independence Day. Beautiful and synchronized parades are held in most parts of the city, culminating in dazzling fireworks displays that light up the night sky.
On varying dates, Jakarta celebrates its Ramadhan Holiday, where the Muslims hold their religious celebrations throughout the period.