The People

The special region of Yogyakarta is one of the most decently populated regions in the world, and this has been the case for a very long time. Mt. Merapi volcano to the North has erupted frequently, throwing out volcanic materials, and therefore the surrounding area is fertile.

It is widely known that many kingdoms have succeeded one another in the area. Civilization, art and culture have developed in the centers of those kingdoms, attracting many visitors to come and live here.

The remains of this phenomenon are magnificent and beautiful temples, the ruins of places and monasteries, a variety of traditions and traditional folk performing arts, religions, customs and ways of life of the local inhabitants.

Most of Yogyakarta’s inhabitants are ethnic Javanese and use the Javanese language for daily conversation. Many are students; more come every year from all over Indonesia to study at the various state and private educational institutions.

There are around 70 universities and institutes providing for students an even from abroad. It can be said that Yogyakarta is a miniature of Indonesian society. Boarding houses for students from all over Indonesia can be found here. Because of this, Yogyakarta is a prominent center of education for the whole of Indonesia.

From the time when Yogyakarta was the capital of the Republic of Indonesia, it became an educational center where students from all over Indonesia got together to continue their studies. Since it is also one of the main tourist areas, the citizens of Yogyakarta have become used to dealing with visitors hospitably.

All of these elements have influenced the character of the Yogyanese. Generally they are religious, thrifty, self-confidence, able and willing to work together, considerate, able to accept and absorb influences from outside, friendly and always open to dealing with strangers.