Yogyakarta

With a thriving population of about half a million residents, Yogyakarta is at once one of the largest cities in Java, and also the most popular tourist destination. If you are looking to check out some Javanese art, you have now come to the right place. Whether its traditional architecture and painting, or dance and shadow-puppet performances, this city is the leading cultural haven for a variety of traditional means of expression. Though there is truly an overabundance of beautiful ornate temples, a few most noteworthy specific ones to check out are Borobudur and Prambanan Buddhist temple complexes. The truly one-of-a-kind architecture of the stupas found at these locations is some of the most unique architectural creations ever constructed, and gives off a sort of haunting mystical aura thanks to their stunning appearance. The list of attractions goes on and here, with several UNESCO World Heritage Site and plenty of stunning natural attractions to go along with the man made ones. For a unique look at a culture that seems alien under the gaze of western-centric perspectives, Yogyakarta is a veritable showcase of mysterious beauty.