The best cultural experiences in Indonesia

A trip to the Island of the Gods, or Bali as it is more commonly known, is not complete without experiencing its spiritual and cultural attractions. While loud and lairy backpackers are best sticking to Kuta, there are plenty of historical UNESCO sites in other parts of this Indonesian archipelago that lure travellers looking for a more authentic Balinese experience.

Visit the art galleries

Jakarta’s diversity extends well to the bustling art scene. Different inspirations and stories are depicted through various artworks, media, and style. From classic to contemporary, public museums to private galleries, the best artworks in Jakarta serve as blueprints of the nation’s culture and history. If you are interested in Indonesia’s history of art, visit the National Gallery and be awed by 1,700 impressive artworks from different eras. Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Nusantara (MACAN) is the newest and popular addition to the scene, showcasing contemporary arts from Indonesia and around the world.

Explore the Trimurti at Prambanan Temple

Built in the 9th Century, Prambanan is a series of temple shrines dedicated to the expression of God as the creator, sustainer and destroyer. A staggering 47 meters high, this unique Indonesian temple was once covered by the jungle and lost to ruin until an adventurous Dutchman re-discovered the temple in 1733.

Visit Prambanan for a crash course in Indonesia’s grand and complex architectural wonders! Named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991, Prambanan Temple is a historical site frequently compared to Angkor Wat.

Explore the Jakarta Old Town

Once one of the most prominent neighbourhoods during colonial era, Jakarta’s Kota Tua (Old Town) is a slice of history in the bustling metropolitan. The area is packed with old government buildings and trade centers kept alive as museums and heritage sites. From riding a colourful bicycle through Fatahillah Square to taking pictures inside the quirky Rumah Akar, you can conveniently explore the Old Town’s highlights just by strolling around the area.

Discover the Cannibalistic Past of Indonesia’s Batak Tribe in Lake Toba

The Batak people are another of Indonesia’s many tribes, concentrated around Lake Toba in Sumatra. Lake Toba was the site of the earth’s last super-volcanic eruption and makes for a fascinating visit. Throughout Indonesian history, the Batak people were among the fiercest warriors. Today, they continue to practice a patriarchal clan culture emphasizing lineage and marriage. Visit Samosir village to discover their unique homes, which are shaped like boats and decorated with fertility symbols.

You will also learn about their past, during which some tribes would eat the flesh of their enemies to ingest their soul and increase their own strength in the process. Make sure to sit in the stone chairs of the tribal council and experience the unique culture of Sumatra for yourself.

Visit Ubud

Ubud is without a doubt the main cultural hub of Bali. The list of historical and cultural attractions here is endless, ranging from the Sacred Monkey Wild life sanctuary to the stunning Botanical Gardens. There is also the plethora of museums, restaurants and markets displaying traditional arts and crafts for travellers to take in. And of course, Ubud Palace.

See more: Must-visit attractions in Ubud, Bali

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Hokkaido traditions that only locals can understand

With its long winters, rich history, and indigenous population, the northern island of Hokkaido has a distinct culture, unique to that of the rest of Japan. We take a look at some of the holidays, special events, and traditions that make Hokkaido truly one of a kind.

Strawberry and Pork Festival

While most people don’t typically associate one with the other, the small town of Toyoura in southern Hokkaido is famous for two things: strawberry farming, and pork. Apparently, the local government decided to save time and celebrate both products at once, and thus the Strawberry and Pork festival was created. Aside from the obvious dining options, the event also features live performances and marching bands.

Ubagami Shrine Festival

This 3 day parade dates back nearly 400 years and is one of Japan’s oldest festivals. Local residents carry various mikoshi (portable shrines) through the streets, the oldest of which was built in Osaka in the year 1694. The festival also features traditional musical accompaniment mainly performed by flutists and drummers.

Otaru Snow Light Path

Located just an hour’s drive from Sapporo, this beautiful port city already has a reputation for being something of a fairytale, but the real magic happens around the first two weeks in February. For 10 days, the entire city is lit up by lanterns and miniature snow statues, creating a beautiful and calm winter wonderland.

Sapporo Snow Festival

Drawing in over two million tourists per year, this now legendary festival of ice and snow was started by a group of high school students in 1950. Participants can join sporting competitions, ski and snowboard events, ice sculpture exhibits, and even a beauty contest where the winner is awarded the title of “Ice Queen”.

See more: The most breathtaking regions in Hokkaido, Japan

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Christmas in Asia: the must-visit destinations in Singapore

Christmas vacations have become a trend now. And there are many destinations around the world that celebrate this festival with all glit-and-glam. If you are planning to visit Singapore during Christmas holidays, you will be glad to know that this country has some wonderful celebrations hosted on various venues. Check out some of the stunning places to visit where you can witness celebrations of Christmas in Singapore, at its best.

Orchard Road

Hands down, the best place to marvel at pretty Christmas lights and take selfies with reindeer in Singapore is Orchard Road. Sporting a new theme every year, Singapore’s busiest shopping street is also its most dressed out at the holidays.

The best-decorated portions of the road stretch from the forum on the west side of Orchard to Orchard Gateway in the east. Make a night of it by walking the full length of the road, admiring the creative Christmas displays, and dropping inside the malls to see who gets bragging rights for the biggest and best Christmas tree!

Christmas Village

This glitzy European-inspired Christmas Village makes its debut this year alluding to the theme of “Endless Wonders”. There are more than 25 pop-up stores with exclusive brands such as Haagen Dazs, Starbucks, SK-II, Tiffany & Co. Live bands and carollers will also stage daily gigs, boosting the festive spirit as you indulge in retail therapy and a slew of amusement rides. After feasting on delicious Yuletide treats and shopping for artisanal gifts, swing by Hitachi’s Santa House and snap a selfie or two with Santa. This is one of the best Christmas celebration in Singapore.

The Season of Joy 

Located at the Capitol Kempinski Hotel on Stamford Road, The Season of Joy is open 6-24 December 2019. Admission is free. Expect all sorts of festive fun with an 8-metre tall Christmas tree, a skating rink, photos with Santa, and 50+ booths offering up Christmas goodies, mulled wine, and holiday gifts and games. While you are out this way, pop on over to CHIJMES where you will find an Instagram Wonderland, perfect for keeping your holiday selfie game going strong.

Christmas Wonderland

Foodies, this one is dedicated to you! Savour, in partnership with Christmas Wonderland, is hosting Singapore’s premier gourmet festival that will delight even the most sophisticated of gourmands. With delectable cheese tasting and a decadent selection of specially selected hams and turkey to whet your appetite, you can certainly have a sampler of what Christmas is going to taste like. Acclaimed celebrity chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants will be present to showcase their culinary masterpieces for an elevated dining experience. Wine and dine until you are absolutely full and contented!

See more: Do not miss these beautiful islands when visiting Singapore

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