5 Must Visit Museums in Yogyakarta, Indonesia 2024

Yogyakarta is renowned for its enchanting natural beauty and its rich array of museum experiences that delve into the city’s history and culture. The city boasts numerous museums showcasing diverse themes, including history, art, and captivating exhibitions. What’s more, the entrance fees to these museums are highly affordable.

For tens of thousands of rupiahs, visitors can freely explore the museum premises and immerse themselves in the masterpieces of renowned artists and historical artefacts.

5 Best Museums in Yogyakarta to Visit 2024

Exploring various museums can be an exciting way to spend a weekend in Yogyakarta. You’ll discover museums with diverse themes and captivating exhibits throughout the city. Here are some must-visit museums in Yogyakarta to include in your itinerary!

1. Sonobudoyo Museum

Sonobudoyo stands as one of Yogyakarta’s most authentic museums, offering rich insights into Javanese culture. Established in 1919, this museum boasts a diverse array of prehistoric artefacts, including 8th-century bronze statues, puppets (wayang), ancient weaponry, gold artefacts, and traditional Javanese masks.

Conveniently located near the Yogyakarta Palace, Sonobudoyo is easily accessible via public transportation or a short walk from the Malioboro area. Visitors to the museum can also experience donning traditional Yogyakarta kebaya attire, complete with various accessories, and capture the moment with the museum’s dedicated photographer. 

• Location: Pangurakan, Ngupasan, Gondomanan, Yogyakarta
• Entrance Fee Ticket: IDR 20,000
• Operational Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 8AM-9PM (Closed on Monday)

2. Ullen Sentalu Museum

Situated in the vicinity of Mount Merapi’s slopes, the Ullen Sentalu Museum offers a captivating journey through the historical heritage of Javanese culture. Spanning the evolution of ancient kingdoms, from Ancient Mataram to the Yogyakarta Palace, this museum showcases a rich tapestry of Javanese history. 

Within the Ullen Sentalu Museum, visitors can explore various ancient paintings depicting life in ancient Yogyakarta. Access to the museum requires the accompaniment of a tour guide, and the use of phones is prohibited during the tour. However, visitors are welcome to utilize their phones in the museum’s outdoor area, situated opposite their restaurant, Beukenhof.

• Location: East Kaliurang, Pakem, Sleman, Yogyakarta
• Entrance Fee Ticket: IDR 100,000
• Operational Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 8:30 AM-4 PM (Closed on Monday)

3. Sisa Hartaku Museum

The Sisa Hartaku Museum stands as a poignant testament to the devastation wrought by the 2010 eruption of Mount Merapi, particularly in the northern region of Yogyakarta. Originally the residence of a local named Kimin, the house was repurposed by his children to showcase the remnants salvaged from the aftermath of the 2010 pyroclastic flow.

Within the museum’s walls, visitors encounter a diverse array of artefacts, including cow skulls, books, household items, and even car wrecks. Comprising multiple rooms such as bedrooms, a bathroom, a kitchen, and several others, the museum offers a sombre glimpse into the impact of natural disasters on local communities.

• Location: Petung Merapi, Kepuharjo, Cangkringan, Sleman, Yogyakarta
• Entrance Fee Ticket: Sukarela
• Operational Hours: Everyday, 8AM-4PM

4. Tirtodipuran Link Museum

If you’re looking for the best art museums in Yogyakarta, make sure to explore Tirtodipuran Link located in the Mantrijeron area. Here, you’ll discover a diverse collection of paintings and art installations crafted by renowned artists from Yogyakarta and across Indonesia. Additionally, Tirtodipuran Link frequently hosts engaging art exhibitions, offering visitors a unique and enjoyable cultural experience.

• Location: Tirtodipuran St No.50, Mantrijeron, Yogyakarta City
• Entrance Fee Ticket: Free (Conditional Upon the Event)
• Operational Hours: 12-6 PM

5. Diorama Arsip Museum

Named aptly, the Diorama Archives stands out among Yogyakarta’s museums for its innovative visual concepts, offering a fresh and unique experience. Delve into the rich history of Yogyakarta, spanning 430 years from its founding to its designation as a special region in Indonesia.

Established in November 2022, this museum has become a popular destination for students and foreign tourists eager to explore the cultural and historical heritage of Yogyakarta. As you wander through its halls, you’ll be captivated by the artistic installations and the timeless beauty of Yogyakarta’s history.

• Location: Wonocatur, Banguntapan,Banguntapan, Bantul
• Entrance Fee Ticket: IDR 100,000
• Operational Hours: 9 AM-4 PM

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