Explore Jakarta’s Filming Locations

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and cinematic wonders of Jakarta, Indonesia’s bustling capital. The city’s rich history, diverse architecture, and cultural diversity have served as an intriguing backdrop for numerous films, TV shows, and books. This comprehensive guide will take you on a cinematic journey through Jakarta, exploring famous filming locations and offering travel tips for your visit.

The Cinematic Allure of Jakarta: 10 Famous Films Shot in Jakarta

Jakarta’s urban landscapes and cultural hotspots have provided the perfect canvas for various cinematic works. Here are ten films that have made use of Jakarta’s allure to tell their captivating stories:

1. “The Year of Living Dangerously” (1982) – This political drama, set in Jakarta during the Sukarno era, showcases the city’s historical backdrop.
2. “Jakarta” (1988) – This action thriller, centered around a bank robbery, captures the city’s bustling vibe.
3. “Merantau” (2009) – This martial arts film, set in modern-day Jakarta, highlights the city’s dynamic streets.
4. “Eat, Pray, Love” (2010) – Although primarily set in Bali, this film features scenes shot in Jakarta, depicting the city’s urban charm.
5. “The Raid” (2011) – This action-packed film, set in a Jakarta slum, offers a gritty perspective of the city.
6. “Java Heat” (2013) – This action-thriller captures the contrast between Jakarta’s modern skyscrapers and traditional markets.
7. “Street Society” (2014) – This racing film showcases the city’s vibrant nightlife and fast-paced street culture.
8. “Comic 8” (2014) – This comedy, set in the heart of Jakarta, depicts the city’s unique humor and local color.
9. “Halfworlds” (2015) – This fantasy thriller series set in Jakarta, blends the city’s urban reality with Indonesian mythology.
10. “A Copy of My Mind” (2016) – This romantic drama provides an intimate look at Jakarta’s urban life.

These films not only spotlight Jakarta’s varied cityscapes but also underline Indonesia’s contribution to global cinema.

Immersive Stories: 5 TV Shows Set in Jakarta

Beyond the big screen, Jakarta has also been a setting for numerous television series. Here are five series that encapsulate the essence of this dynamic city:

1. “Bidadari” (2000-2005) – This popular soap opera, set in Jakarta, explores various social issues within the city’s contemporary setting.
2. “Upik Abu and Laura” (2008) – Set in Jakarta, this drama series tells a heartwarming story of friendship and family.
3. “Cinta Fitri” (2007-2011) – This drama series, set against the backdrop of Jakarta’s urban life, presents a romantic tale of two individuals from different social classes.
4. “Tukang Bubur Naik Haji The Series” (2012-2017) – This long-running series, set in Jakarta, explores the life of a humble porridge seller.
5. “Halfworlds” (2015-2016) – HBO Asia’s first original series, set in Jakarta, delves into the city’s underworld inhabited by mythical creatures.

Through these series, viewers can explore Jakarta’s cultural dynamics, from its modern urbanity to its traditional beliefs.

A Colorful Animation Journey: 5 Animated Films Set in Jakarta

Jakarta’s vibrant city life and cultural richness have also inspired various animated adventures. Here are five animated films that capture the spirit of Jakarta:

1. “Si Juki The Movie: Panitia Hari Akhir” (2017) – This film, based on a popular Indonesian comic character, brings Jakarta’s humor and local color to the animated world.
2. “Battle of Surabaya” (2015) – Although primarily set in Surabaya, this historical animation features pivotal scenes in Jakarta.
3. “Petualangan Sherina” (2000) – This musical adventure film, while mainly set in Bandung, includes key scenes in Jakarta.
4. “Doraemon: Nobita’s Treasure Island” (2018) – This installment of the popular Doraemon franchise features Jakarta as one of the film’s locations.
5. “Bima Satria Garuda” (2013-2014) – This superhero television series, inspired by Japanese tokusatsu shows, uses Jakarta as the primary setting.

These animated features showcase Jakarta’s unique urban charm and cultural richness, providing audiences with engaging stories that highlight the city’s appeal.

Literary Landmarks: Famous Books Set in Jakarta

Jakarta’s rich history and vibrant culture have inspired numerous authors. Here are six famous books, three classics and three contemporary, that transport readers to the heart of Jakarta:

Classic:

1. “This Earth of Mankind” by Pramoedya Ananta Toer – Set in colonial-era Jakarta, this novel explores themes of love, colonialism, and native resistance.
2. “A Gentleman in Jakarta” by Tom Bouman – This mystery novel, set in 1960s Jakarta, uses the city’s atmosphere as a backdrop to its thrilling plot.
3. “Jakarta!” by Kerry B. Collison – This political thriller, set during the fall of President Suharto, captures a pivotal moment in Jakarta’s history.

Contemporary:

1. “Beauty is a Wound” by Eka Kurniawan – This novel, partly set in Jakarta, weaves a tale of love and tragedy through Indonesian history.
2. “Pulang” by Leila S. Chudori – This novel, set between Jakarta and Paris, explores the lives of political exiles during the Suharto regime.
3. “Jakarta” by Rodrigo Marquez Tizano – This dystopian novel imagines a future Jakarta affected by a mysterious disease.

These books offer a literary voyage through Jakarta’s multifaceted persona, from its historical landmarks to its bustling city life.

Exploring Jakarta’s Filming Locations: Where to Go

Jakarta, with its iconic landmarks and stunning cityscapes, is a favored canvas for filmmakers. If you’re eager to tread the paths of movie stars and soak up the cinematic history of this vibrant city, here are some essential filming locations in Jakarta you must visit:

1. “Monas (National Monument)” – The symbol of Jakarta and a location for numerous films, including “The Year of Living Dangerously” and “Eat, Pray, Love.”
2. “Old Town (Kota Tua)” – Featured in “A Copy of My Mind,” this historic district offers a glimpse into Jakarta’s colonial past.
3. “Sunda Kelapa Harbor” – The city’s old port area, featured in “Merantau,” showcases Jakarta’s maritime history.
4. “Istiqlal Mosque” – As one of the largest mosques in Southeast Asia, it’s featured in various local films and documentaries.
5. “Grand Indonesia Shopping Town” – Featured in “Comic 8,” this shopping mall represents Jakarta’s modern lifestyle.

Exploring these filming locations offers a unique blend of entertainment and sightseeing, allowing you to engage with Jakarta’s film heritage while experiencing its many cultural and urban attractions.

Where to Sleep in Jakarta: From Budget to Luxury

Jakarta, known for its bustling city life and cultural diversity, offers a diverse array of accommodations, from the ultra-luxurious to the budget-friendly.

Luxury:

1. “The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Mega Kuningan” – Known for its opulent decor and excellent service, offering a taste of luxury living.
2. “Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta” – Located in the heart of the city, this historic luxury hotel offers panoramic city views.
3. “Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta” – For a unique luxury experience, this hotel provides stunning views and exquisite dining.

Budget:

1. “Teduh Hostel Kota Tua” – Located in the Old Town, this budget-friendly hostel offers comfortable accommodation with great facilities.
2. “Capsule Hotel Old Batavia” – This capsule hotel offers a unique and budget-friendly lodging experience in the heart of the city.
3. “Six Degrees Backpackers Hostel” – Located near the National Monument, this hostel offers budget rooms with a friendly atmosphere.

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodation or a budget-friendly option, Jakarta offers a wide range of options to suit every travel style.

A Taste of Jakarta: Where to Eat From Budget to Luxury

Jakarta’s culinary scene is a blend of traditional street food and high-end dining. Here are some places to enjoy Jakarta’s cuisine at both ends of the budget spectrum.

Budget:

1. “Warung Makan Tegal” – Famous for its affordable Indonesian cuisine, this simple eatery is a favorite among locals.
2. “Sate Padang Ajo Ramon” – This street food stall offers delicious Padang-style satay at reasonable prices.
3. “Bakmi GM” – With various locations around the city, this noodle chain serves affordable and tasty noodle dishes.

Luxury:

1. “Lara Djonggrang” – This restaurant offers a gourmet dining experience with a stunning historical decor, serving traditional Indonesian cuisine.
2. “Amuz Gourmet Restaurant” – This French restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience in Jakarta’s urban setting.
3. “Tugu Kunstkring Paleis” – This fine dining restaurant serves Indonesian and Dutch colonial cuisine in a historic building.

Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or a gourmet connoisseur, Jakarta offers a tantalizing array of gastronomic delights.

Explore Jakarta’s Filming Locations: A Detailed Itinerary

Experience the cinematic charm of Jakarta with this five-day itinerary, discovering famous filming locations and immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture and history.

Day 1: Central Jakarta – Iconic Landmarks

Start your tour at Monas, the most iconic landmark in Jakarta, featured in films like “The Year of Living Dangerously” and “Eat, Pray, Love.” Visit Istiqlal Mosque, a film location for various local films. End your day in the Old Town, the setting for “A Copy of My Mind.”

Day 2: North Jakarta – Historic and Cultural Heritage

Visit Sunda Kelapa Harbor, featured in “Merantau.” Stroll through Kota Tua, known for its colonial architecture. End your day at Fatahillah Square, a popular filming location.

Day 3: West Jakarta – Shopping and Entertainment

Head to the Taman Anggrek Mall, a filming location for local TV series. Visit the Central Park Mall and Neo SOHO, featured in numerous Indonesian films.

Day 4: South Jakarta – Urban Charm

Visit Pasaraya Blok M, a popular filming location. Dine at Amuz Gourmet Restaurant, featured in various food documentaries. Visit Senayan City, a shopping mall that often appears in films and TV series.

Day 5: East Jakarta – Cultural Excursion

Head to Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, a cultural park featured in several films. End your day at the beautiful Situ Babakan, a lake that has served as a filming location for numerous Indonesian films.

Experience the cinematic charm of Jakarta with this itinerary, exploring the city’s famous filming locations and immersing yourself in its rich culture and history.

Mysterious Jakarta: Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Jakarta, with its rich history and diverse culture, is also a land of legends and mysteries. One of the most famous tales is the story of Si Pitung, a Robin Hood-like figure during the Dutch colonial era. The tale has inspired numerous films and TV shows.

Another fascinating legend is the mythical Queen of the South Sea, who is said to rule the Indian Ocean. The legend has been the subject of several films and documentaries.

These legends and tales add an element of mystery to Jakarta’s cinematic locations, offering a rich vein of inspiration for storytellers.

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Filming Locations in Jakarta

While Jakarta’s iconic landmarks are popular filming locations, the city also has numerous lesser-known locales that are cinematic gold. Here are a few hidden gems:

1. “Setu Babakan” – This man-made lake in South Jakarta is a popular location for shooting films and music videos.
2. “Pasar Baru” – Known as Jakarta’s Little India, this market area has been featured in several local films.
3. “Jembatan Kota Intan” – This Dutch colonial-era drawbridge in Jakarta’s Old Town is a favorite among local filmmakers.

Whether you’re a filmmaker seeking unique locations or a tourist looking for less-crowded spots, these hidden gems offer unique views and experiences.

What to Pack for a Film-Themed Trip to Jakarta

Packing for a film-themed trip to Jakarta requires consideration of the city’s tropical climate and the activities you plan to do. Here’s a list of essentials:

1. Comfortable Footwear – Walking is a great way to explore Jakarta, so comfortable shoes are a must.
2. Versatile Clothing – Pack lightweight clothing for Jakarta’s tropical climate. Don’t forget to bring a jacket for air-conditioned buildings.
3. Rain Gear – Jakarta often experiences sudden rain showers, so an umbrella or a raincoat is essential.
4. Camera – To capture your own cinematic memories in Jakarta.
5. Travel Guide and Map – For finding those filming locations and hidden gems.

With these packing tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your cinematic journey through Jakarta.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Jakarta

Getting around Jakarta can be easy, thanks to the city’s extensive public transportation network. Here are some tips:

TransJakarta – Jakarta’s bus rapid transit system is an affordable and convenient way to travel around the city.

Commuter Train – The commuter train is a great option for traveling within Jakarta and its surrounding areas.

Taxi or Ride-Hailing App – For comfort and convenience, taxis or ride-hailing services like Grab and Gojek are available throughout the city.

Bicycle – Some areas in Jakarta, like the Old Town, are perfect for exploring on a bike.

By using these transportation options, you can easily navigate Jakarta’s bustling streets and discover its cinematic locales.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Jakarta

When planning your trip to Jakarta, it’s crucial to have the right travel documents:

1. Passport – Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from Indonesia.
2. Visa – Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Indonesia. Check the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate website in your country for requirements.
3. Travel Insurance – It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
4. International Driving Permit – If you plan to rent a car, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required along with your valid driver’s license.

With these documents in order, you’re all set for your cinematic journey to Jakarta.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to Jakarta’s Cinematic Landscape

From the historical charm of Kota Tua to the bustling vibe of Central Jakarta, the city offers a cinematic journey like no other. Whether you’re a film buff, a TV series enthusiast, a book lover, or simply a traveler in search of unique experiences, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of Jakarta’s cinematic landscape. So embark on a journey through Jakarta’s famous films, TV shows, books, and discover the hidden gems that make this city a filmmaker’s dream. Selamat jalan!