Things To Do
in Jepara

Jepara, Indonesia is a coastal town located on the island of Java, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful beaches. It is famous for its intricate wood carvings and is considered the center of traditional Javanese furniture production. The town is also home to historical sites, such as the Great Mosque and the Sunan Kalijaga Tomb, attracting both domestic and international tourists.

With its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant local culture, Jepara offers a unique travel experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Visit the Sunan Kalijaga Tomb to learn about local history and Islamic heritage.

afternoon
:

Explore the Jepara Woodworking Museum to see exquisite wood carvings and furniture.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant and enjoy fresh catches of the day.

day 2
Day 2: Beach Relaxation
morning
:

Spend the morning swimming and sunbathing at Bandengan Beach.

afternoon
:

Take a boat trip to Karimunjawa Islands for snorkeling and discovering marine life.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset dinner at a beachfront café and try traditional Jepara dishes.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3-7
🚕Taxi ride (within the city)$1-4
🏨Budget hotel per night$15-30
🍹Drink at a café$1-3
🎡Entrance to tourist attractions$0.50-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Some areas may be less accessible for tourists.
  • Language barrier, as English is not widely spoken.
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Jepara

Visit one of these nice places.

Karimunjawa Islands

Offers stunning views of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunset photography.

Jepara Beach

The coastal landscape is ideal for capturing the essence of local life and natural beauty.

Buddha Statue at Tanjung Lobang

A serene place with a large Buddha statue surrounded by beautiful gardens, great for serene backdrops.

Culinary Guide

Food in Jepara

Jepara boasts a vibrant culinary scene rooted in traditional flavors, showcasing fresh seafood and local specialties.

Jepara Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kakul

A traditional dish made from freshwater snails cooked with spices.

Must-Try!

Ikan Bakar

Grilled fish marinated with local spices, often served with sambal.

Sate Maranggi

Skewered meat with a flavorful marinade, grilled to perfection.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pasar Jepara

A bustling local market offering fresh produce, seafood, and street food.

Street Vendors at Bandengan Beach

Enjoy various local snacks like fried tofu and grilled corn.

Climate Guide

Weather

Jepara experiences a tropical climate with two main seasons: a dry season from April to October and a wet season from November to March. Temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) year-round, with humidity levels being high. Rainfall is most common from December to February, while the dry season offers plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

It is respectful to wear modest clothing, especially in religious sites.

Greetings

Use a polite greeting, and a handshake is common, but always wait for the other person to initiate.

Eating Etiquette

It is customary to use your right hand for eating and passing food.

Safety Guide

Safety

Jepara is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas, and keep your belongings secure. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets. It's also advisable to have travel insurance for emergencies.

Tipping in Jepara

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some restaurants accept credit cards; ATMs are available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (April - October)

Ideal for beach activities and exploring outdoor sites with less rain.

Wet Season (November - March)

Expect heavy rainfall, making it less suitable for outdoor activities.

Festive Season (Ramadan)

Experience vibrant markets and local festivities, though some restaurants may have altered hours.

Summer (July - September)

Peak tourist season with many local events and activities; book accommodations in advance.

Nightlife Guide

Jepara at Night

Jepara's nightlife is relatively low-key, with beachfront cafes and local bars offering a relaxed atmosphere. Most establishments close early, around midnight. Live music can be found at some venues, especially during weekends, but there are no large-scale nightclubs. Visitors can enjoy evening strolls along the beach or engaging with locals in small gatherings.

Hiking in Jepara

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gunung Muria

A popular hiking spot offering scenic views and challenging trails, ideal for adventure seekers.

Taman Nasional Karimunjawa

Features several trails through lush forests and coastal areas, perfect for hiking and exploring diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Jepara by plane.

Achmad Yani International Airport (SRG)

Located about 80 km from Jepara, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights. It is the nearest major airport, providing access to and from several Indonesian cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Jepara is moderately walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and markets are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may be less maintained. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes, and while walking is feasible, consider using public transport or taxis for longer distances or to reach beaches.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Javanese

The predominant ethnic group in Jepara, known for their rich traditions and cultural heritage.

Chinese Indonesians

A significant minority in the region, contributing to the local economy and cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular among locals, with community games often played in parks and fields.

Badminton

A favorite pastime in Jepara, with many locals engaging in badminton games at courts and recreational areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Jepara is generally light compared to larger cities, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include angkot (minivans), which are affordable and connect various parts of the town. However, during peak hours, minor congestion may occur, especially near markets and popular tourist sites.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Jepara.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants provide vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for meat stock in soups.

Halal Food

Most local dishes are halal, but always confirm with the vendor.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Jepara include several public and private hospitals, with basic medical services available. Larger hospitals offer more advanced care, but for specialized treatments, traveling to nearby cities like Semarang may be necessary. It's essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide