Enchanting Fantasy Forests in the 'Java Sunrise' Region

When in Indonesia, don't just explore the well-known places like Jakarta, Bali, or Yogyakarta. Take some time to discover hidden gems like Banyuwangi, which holds many intriguing secrets.

Explore Banyuwangi: Uncover the Magical Forests in the 'Java Sunrise' Region

Located at the eastern tip of Java Island, Banyuwangi is home to over half of Indonesia's 260 million people. Known as the Java Sunrise, this is where the first rays of sunlight kiss the island every day.

Named 'Fragrant Water' in the local language, Banyuwangi boasts diverse natural landscapes stretching from west to east. It embraces a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions with Javanese, Madurese, Bugis, Chinese, Arab communities coexisting harmoniously in a society where Islam and Hinduism prevail.

This vast land is renowned for its active volcanoes towering above the clouds and extensive national parks adorned with lush greenery.

Though just a few hours away from the super popular tourist island Bali by boat or plane, Banyuwangi remains relatively undiscovered by travelers. If you seek a place to slow down and immerse yourself in nature, Banyuwangi tourism might leave you more satisfied than Bali itself.

If you're short on time and not up for the early morning treks to remote places, head to the outskirts of Banyuwangi city, about a 1-hour drive, to reach the De Djawatan forest.

The 6-hectare forest will mesmerize visitors on their Banyuwangi tours with its breathtaking scenery of towering strangler fig trees, covered in cascading vines, creating a mythical and otherworldly ambiance. Under the sunlight, the alternating thick and sparse canopy makes the forest appear surreal, as if stepping into a realm of fantasy or the Lord of the Rings.

Originally a natural forest with century-old giant trees, De Djawatan has been transformed by the city authorities into a cool park for people to relax and unwind. Catering to the social media trend of 'Instagrammable' spots, the forest features many adorable photo opportunities, from circular tree canopies to moss-covered roots, from quaint wooden houses perched on stilts to vintage trucks creating a nostalgic atmosphere.

Families picnicking, couples capturing wedding photos, or simply jogging or strolling along the green trails under lush canopies, De Djawatan offers gentle nature experiences for everyone.

For Banyuwangi tourism, if you crave a bit of sea breeze, venture further south to Pulau Merah Beach, bury your feet in the shell-strewn sandy shores, and enjoy the cool waters of the Indian Ocean while witnessing the serene sunset on the tranquil coastline.

Don't forget to stroll towards the mossy green shore revealed only after the tide has receded. Here, you may encounter small adorable sea creatures stranded by the tide.

The waves here are quite substantial, reaching 3-5m in height. Hence, this beach is more suitable for surfing enthusiasts than swimmers. Yet, the crystal-clear water and picturesque scenes ready for a click make Pulau Merah an ideal place for a leisurely evening.

Reaching Banyuwangi by air almost certainly involves a domestic journey with the national airline Garuda Indonesia since the only international route is from Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) with a frequency of 2 flights per week. Thus, if flying from Vietnam, the most feasible route is to enter Jakarta after a layover in Singapore or Malaysia.

Though the journey might be challenging, what awaits you at the destination, Banyuwangi Airport, will undoubtedly not disappoint. The small airport, designed in the image of traditional Javanese houses, is an open-air structure without any air conditioning.

As Indonesia's first green airport, Banyuwangi Airport resembles a garden community with grassy areas, fish ponds, and vines covering the canopies. Sitting in any corner, you can enjoy the breeze and natural light. The airport's entirely wooden interior is recycled from fishermen's boats.

The management proudly states that their airport saves over 50% of electricity compared to airports of the same scale. Banyuwangi Airport covers an area of about 20,000m2 and can accommodate 2 million passengers annually.

Source: Đại An/ Youth

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Reference: Travel guide Mytour