Lokananta: Why This Musical Landmark is a Must-Visit in Solo

An Article by Natasya Soetantyo

Solo is one of the cities in Indonesia that I always wanted to explore but never got a chance to (despite travelling to Central Java quite often since I was young). Last January, this long-overdue bucket list was finally ticked off.

After a comforting lunch of soto and a cheeky es dawet selasih from the nearby market, food coma didn’t stop us from exploring the city further – after all, it was only a two-day trip. We then made our way to Lokananta, located on Jalan Ahmad Yani, Laweyan.

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Lokananta is a sacred pilgrimage site for those passionate about music, art, and history. Established in 1956, it was Indonesia’s first record label and vinyl record producer. In their heyday, they were the ones that introduced Indonesia to legendary musicians; Gesang (famously known for his song ‘Bengawan Solo‘), Titiek Puspa, and Waldjinah to name a few.

Its archive is not limited to only pop and Keroncong music at the time; but also home to Indonesia’s largest collection of Gamelan recordings, various ethnic/ folk music throughout the country, and even a recorded speech of Presiden Soekarno reading the Proclamation of Indonesian Independence. After several challenging decades trying to adapt to technological advances of cassettes and CDs, Lokananta was revitalised in 2022 and is now functioning as a modern creative hub for the public.

Exploring Galeri Lokananta

The museum, Galeri Lokananta, is an essential part of the visit. It is a ticketed entry with limited time slots – you can either explore the exhibition by yourself or with a guided tour. I opted for the first option; this gave me a bit more freedom to enjoy each part of the exhibition at my own pace. I wouldn’t mind doing the guided tour on my next visit though; turns out the discography room can only be entered with the tour guide present. My share of tips: book a guided tour online as we were unable to book it in-person.

Fun, Concise, and Engaging

Those three words sum up the experience. The first part of the exhibition depicts the origin of Lokananta and its transformative journey in becoming a significant part of Indonesian music history. Brimmed with cool memorabilia (a room full of original Lokananta vinyls!), clear information, and immersive multimedia installations – the entire exhibition was easy to digest. My personal favourite was the room explaining the vinyl production process.

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The later part of the exhibition (only until 8 March 2025) delves into a more general theme of Indonesia’s pop music in the 60s – especially its tumultuous journey under Soekarno’s era of censorship. As I go along enjoying their colourful, aesthetically-pleasing pop graphics and listening to rare Lokananta original recordings, two things particularly caught my attention – the existence of a local genre music called Lenso (please look up its interesting history!) and a once-banned Indonesia Raya recording that was deemed too subversive.

Even if a museums are not your thing, the precinct’s line-ups of trendy coffee shops, restaurants, and retail spaces are still worth a visit. I do suggest you stop by the Lokananta Record Store – their collection of rare Indonesian vinyls from the 60s and 70s really sparked my interest to start a vinyl collection.

Planning Your Visit

⏰ Museum (Galeri Lokananta) Hours: Daily, 10am – 8pm

🎟️ Entry Time Slots (10 sessions per day):

Session 1: 10am – 12pm (with a guided tour)
Session 2: 11am – 12pm
Session 3: 12pm – 2pm (with a guided tour)
Session 4: 1pm – 2pm
Session 5: 2pm – 4pm (with a guided tour)
Session 6: 3pm – 4pm
Session 7: 4pm – 6pm (with a guided tour)
Session 8: 5pm – 6pm
Session 9: 6pm – 8pm (with a guided tour)
Session 10: 7pm – 8pm

💰Ticket Prices:

Adults: IDR 35,000
Kids (above 100cm), Students, Seniors: IDR 25,000
Foreigners: IDR 70,000 (with tour guide) / IDR 50,000 (without tour guide)

💬 Guided Tour Booking: Online only at Galeri Lokananta Website

🙋‍♀️ Personal Tips:

● If you opt for a guided tour, make sure you book online before you arrive as time slots can be limited.

● All exhibition materials were written in Indonesian; perhaps getting a tour guide is worthwhile if Indonesian is not your first language.

● Bring an umbrella on rainy day

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28 Jul 2026 by Teman Bella in Asia

A Nostalgic Escape: Where to Stay and Eat in Yogyakarta

NOSTALGIC TRAVEL TO YOGYAKARTA - an article by Anne Diana Putri Eight years later, I came back for ArtJog (annual contemporary art festival in Yogyakarta) - but stayed for everything else. Eight years. That's how long it had been since my last trip to Yogyakarta - or Jogja, as Indonesians lovingly call it. Funny how a city can stay frozen in your memory, only to surprise you when you finally return. This time, my excuse was ArtJog. But somewhere between gallery hopping, bowls of gudeg (Yogyakarta's signature jackfruit dish) at breakfast, sipping specialty coffee, discovering century-old jamu (herbal drink) recipes, and taking the slow train to Solo, I realised I wasn't revisiting Yogyakarta. I was meeting a completely different version of it. Flying from Bali takes only one hour and fifty minutes - almost the same as flying to Jakarta. Yet somehow, the moment I stepped outside the airport, life immediately moved at a different pace. The new Yogyakarta International Airport feels modern, spacious, and surprisingly efficient. A direct airport train takes only thirty minutes to downtown for IDR 75,000, making the city more accessible than ever. But what fascinated me wasn't the infrastructure. It was how confidently Jogja has grown. For years, people have known it simply as Kota Pelajar (the city of students). Today? I'd call it Indonesia's Creative Capital. A place where heritage and contemporary culture coexist effortlessly. Traditional markets sit comfortably beside minimalist cafés. Ancient recipes share the spotlight with experimental tasting menus. Artists, coffee roasters, chefs, historians, and young entrepreneurs all seem to speak the same language: "Create something meaningful." Unlike Jakarta, which constantly asks you to move faster, or Bali, which often feels curated for visitors, Jogja simply exists. Quietly. Confidently. Authentically. And perhaps that's exactly why it keeps pulling people back. You may also like this article: 5 Co-working Spaces in Jogja to Get Things Done WHERE I STAYEDGrand Hotel de DjokjaCasa Wirabrajan LOCAL EATERIESGudeg SaganSate Kambing Tjokro Gembira LokaPasar NgasemCOFFEE SHOPSBergamot KoffieSpace RoasteryTadasih CoffeeINDONESIAN SPICE & HERBAL MEDICINE STOREBhumi BhuvanaJamu GinggangHotel Tentrem Pattiserie INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANT & LATE NIGHT GELATO CRAVEMediterranea Restaurant by KamilMichael Kreme Gelato Malioboro WHERE I STAYED Grand Hotel de Djokja If you're visiting Jogja for the first time, this is probably where I'd tell you to stay. The location couldn't be better - perfectly positioned between Tugu Station and Malioboro, allowing you to explore the city's heritage on foot. One experience I particularly loved was the hotel's traditional portrait session. Guests can wear Javanese kebaya and beskap (traditional attire) while being photographed inside the heritage property. It sounds touristy, and it is - but in the best possible way. Sometimes embracing local culture begins by simply dressing the part. 📍Google Map: Grand Hotel de Djokja Casa Wirabrajan If ArtJog is your main destination, Casa Wirabrajan offers an entirely different experience. Simple, affordable, and surrounded by creative energy, it's located in the same area of the Jogja National Museum. The neighborhood has quietly evolved into one of the city's most interesting creative districts, filled with cafés, local eateries, live music, and artists gathering long after sunset. 📍Google Map: Casa Wirabrajan From left to right: Grand Hotel de Djokja Heritage, Casa Wirabrajan, and Jogja National Museum area LOCAL EATERIES Gudeg Sagan Locals call it "gudeg basah" (wet gudeg). Established in 2003, it brought fresh love to Jogja’s iconic gudeg, since the city’s version is normally the dry type. You can’t make a reservation - just find a table and a server will come to you. They have two branches across Jogja, and yes, it’s completely normal to eat gudeg for breakfast here. 📍Google Map: Gudeg Sagan Sate Kambing Tjokro Gembira Loka Famous for Sate Buntel, Sate Kronyos, and Sate Klathak (different types of mutton satays) - the most satisfying meal and the ultimate protein load. 📍Google Map: Sate Kambing Tjokro Gembira Loka Pasar Ngasem A traditional market famous among locals for legendary eateries, such as: Jenang Yu Jamilah (Jamilah's sweet porridge), Warung Makan Bu Sirep (Sirep's eatery), Gudeg Yu Djum (Djum's gudeg), and other iconic Javanese delicacies. Pro tip: come to this market as early as 7am, stroll around, and try the food and drinks - then walk to Tamansari, the water temple, to explore the landmark. 📍Google Map: Pasar Ngasem From left to right: Sate Kambing Tjokro Gembira Loka and Gudeg Sagan COFFEE SHOPS Bergamot Koffie A new, chic spot with a vibrant interior and some of the best dirty coffee I’ve had in Jogja - plus a good burger if you’re hungry and missing something comforting. 📍Google Map: Bergamot Koffie Space Roastery A local chain with 6 branches across Jogja - each with a different mood and ambiance, but consistent coffee at every branch I visited. Their signature is Es Kopi Susu Dolce (sweet iced coffee), along with manual brews, and you can take away merch and coffee beans too. 📍Google Map: Space Roastery CCC Tadasih Coffee A unique boutique coffee shop run by Mas Ferza himself. It only has 17 seats and opens just four days a week, so check Google to make sure they’re open. Ferza is a passionate host who offers 8 types of coffee beans from around Indonesia and beyond, with specialty coffee priced from just 35K per cup. As unbelievable as it sounds, he even publishes a monthly transparency book for Tadasih, covering how much of each bean has sold, average prices, and how many origins he covers. His mission is simply to turn regular guests into friends through genuine conversation - and please, order the toast, it’s incredible. 📍Google Map: Langenarjan 29 (RSVP only) From left to right: Space Roastery, Tadasih toast, Bergamot exterior INDONESIAN SPICE & HERBAL MEDICINE STORE Bhumi Bhuvana A very special place to discover rare ingredients from all over Indonesia, like sea salts from Bali, Cirebon, and Kalimantan, which you can taste on the spot - plus palm sugar from the Baduy people of Kalimantan. They offer a bookable walking tour, but you can also just pop in for the day and try the home-cooked meals the staff prepares daily, drawn straight from legendary Indonesian cookbooks like Mustika Rasa. The staff will welcome you warmly and guide you through a side of Indonesian gastronomy most of us never get to touch. The space is small, so give them a heads-up before you visit. 📍Google Map: Bhumi Bhuvana Jamu Ginggang Jamu is famous throughout Indonesia, and it was born in Java. This place is special because it’s run by the original acaraki, a Javanese herbalist once appointed by the city’s mayor, located in the Pakualaman area. Stepping in feels like traveling back to 1950, when this place was first established. Using real spices, you simply tell the lady at the counter how you’re feeling, and she’ll make you a bespoke jamu - in a world full of cocktail bars, this place existed long before the glitz. It’s a privilege to experience a place like this today, both as a homage and a history lesson. 📍Google Map: Jamu Ginggang Hotel Tentrem Pattiserie The birthplace of Tolak Angin, Indonesia’s famous instant herbal medicine, this hotel lets you explore the brand’s other creations. In the lobby of Hotel Tentrem Jogja, you can enjoy an afternoon tea with Tolak Angin ice cream, takeaway chocolate pralines, and popsicles - all made from Tolak Angin. 📍Google Map: Hotel Tentrem Form left to right: Bhumi Bhuvana entrance and its collection, Jamu Ginggang INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANT & LATE NIGHT GELATO CRAVE Mediterranea Restaurant by Kamil One of the most visited restaurants for both international and domestic tourists. It offers an array of international dishes, from pizza to hummus to steak frites to chocolate mousse. The affordable prices are a highlight, but the food itself is genuinely good and consistent. It’s a fine casual dining restaurant with none of the intimidation that ambiance can sometimes bring. The wine of the month is excellent too, at half the price of Bali or Jakarta - Bordeaux included. Do make a reservation, though, or you won’t get a proper seat. 📍Google Map: Mediterranea Restaurant by Kamil Michael Kreme Gelato Malioboro A new gelato hotspot open until 2am - sounds like a good deal to me. The gelato itself is solid, but the bonus is the café next door, Blue Butter, which has a giant 4D cat installation with blinking eyes that draws crowds in for a photo. Quite a scene to stumble on in Jogja. 📍Google Map: Michael Kreme Gelato Malioboro Mediterranea Restaurant by Kamil Yogyakarta was everything I hoped it would be and more. From wandering through historic landmarks and hunting down local favourites to discovering hidden cafés and cultural gems, every day brought something new. But the journey doesn't end here. Next up, we're heading east to Solo, another city rich in Javanese culture, heritage, and unforgettable eats. Stay tuned for the next chapter of this Central Java adventure on my next article!

29 Apr 2026 by Bella in Lifestyle

Fun Communities in Bali for Every Kind of Lifestyle

Communities in Bali. Bali is often seen on social media for its beaches, postcard sunsets, surfing culture, wellness activities, temples, and cute brunch spots - but beyond the surface, there’s so much more to do, see, and experience. It’s also home to a vibrant network of communities that shape the island’s true rhythm. Togetherness is, after all, the heart of Indonesia, and in Bali alone I’ve come across such a unique mix of groups you can be part of, whether you’re just here on holiday or calling it home - here are some of them. Jumpa Lagi ClubBe VocalThe Sketch CollectiveVinyl Book ClubContinuum AthleticsFilm Photography ClubExit Haven You may also like this article: What It’s Like to Live in Bali: Cost, Culture, and Everyday Life Jumpa Lagi Club This artsy bunch of genuinely lovely humans run all sorts of workshops like canvas painting, cake decorating, flower arranging, and more. “Jumpa Lagi” means “see you again,” which feels fitting for a space that keeps bringing people with shared interests back together. From just 100K a session, you get to tap into your creative side while they sort out all the tools (no stress, just show up and have fun). They also often collaborate with their chosen venues, so you can sneak in a cheeky food and drink deal while you’re at it - win win! Follow their Instagram @jumpalagiclub to check out their schedule. Image credit: Jumpa Lagi Club Instagram Be Vocal This has to be one of the cutest groups I’ve come across. Exactly as I imagined when I heard it’s a singing group - it’s literally just a bunch of people meeting at a scheduled time… to… sing together! And yes, it’s as wholesome as it sounds. When I was there, they kicked things off with a fun singing game, then moved on to learning a traditional Indonesian song from Maluku, and wrapped it all up with the best part: open mic. So cute. If you’re looking to meet new friends, definitely give this one a go. Follow their Instagram @bevocalindonesia to check out their event calendar. Image credit: Be Vocal Instagram The Sketch Collective If you’re an artist, an art lover, or someone who just enjoys putting pencil to paper, make your way to Sketchy Tuesday. Held every Tuesday at The Canggu Studio, this weekly gathering brings people together for live figure drawing, creative conversations, and a relaxed evening of sketching. Follow their page @the.sketchcollective for more information and updates on upcoming sessions. Image credit: The Sketch Collective Instagram Vinyl Book Club Hands up, everyone! Literature and the art of properly listening to good music are not dead yet. I stumbled across this group on Instagram and immediately wanted in. They host sessions at Analogue Listening Space on Sunset Road, and the concept is beautifully simple: reading + listening to music. You get access to their vinyl library, can bring your own book, or borrow from their collection. It’s the perfect activity for introverts or anyone looking to slow down after a busy week. I think the world needs more spaces like this. Check them out on Instagram @vinylbookclub to learn more. Image credit: Vinyl Book Club Instagram You may also like this article: Things to do in Bali - Fun Art Classes at Rumah Rabbit Continuum Athletics This one’s for all you energised bunnies around Canggu. Three times a week, they get together for different types of training. Tuesdays are for interval trainings, Thursdays are threshold sessions, and Sundays are for long, easy runs. Don’t be intimidated if you spot some seriously athletic-looking people there - everyone who wants to get fitter and challenge themselves is welcome. It’s a friendly bunch who support each other. Follow their Instagram @continuum.athletics for the weekly schedule and meet-up points. Image credit: Continuum Athletics Instagram Film Photography Club In a world that’s constantly pushing us towards the next new technology, there are still people who appreciate the slow, intentional art of analogue photography - and I love that. This club hosts “photowalks” where you meet fellow film photography enthusiasts at a set time and place, then wander, shoot, connect, and enjoy the quiet thrill of not knowing how your photos turn out until later. Each season is limited to just 20 participants, which keeps things nice and intimate. Whether you’re a seasoned film shooter or just curious to try something new, it’s such a refreshing way to spend a day. Check out their next photowalk on Instagram @filmphotographyclub. Image credit: Film Photography Club Instagram Exit Haven This is a whole new level of nerdiness that I 100% want to be part of and I want to be friends with everyone in this group. They literally just meet up… to play board games, haha! No screens, just proper games, a bit of friendly competition, and (I’m assuming) some very serious rule debates. It actually sounds like such a fun, low-pressure way to hang out and meet new people. Follow their Instagram @exithaven_ to see when their next hang is. Image credit: Exit Haven Instagram Soooo...next time you’re in Bali and want to skip one beach day, try joining a community instead. You might leave with new friends, new hobbies, new experiences, and a whole different side of the island you didn’t expect. Thank you for reading!

30 Jun 2026 by Bella in Lifestyle

My Go-To Gyms in Canggu for Strength Training, Classes, and Recovery

Gyms in Canggu Canggu has no shortage of gyms - there’s one every few hundred metres, and I’m not even exaggerating. But these are a few I’ve personally trained in and genuinely enjoy - whether it’s the vibe, the equipment, the fair price, or just how easy it is to get a proper workout in. They’re not fitness influencer-style gyms built for aesthetics and content, if you know what I mean. They’re places where you can actually train well, with everything you need for a solid session. Many of them also have a recovery section- which feels pretty essential these days. Almost every gym in Canggu seems to include some version of that now, from ice baths to saunas and magnesium pool. Also, a couple on this list are actually martial arts gyms, but still worth checking out - maybe you'll find a new passion! The membership options vary quite a bit as well, from more budget-friendly local rates to higher-end facilities but not too crazy, which is another reason they made it onto my list. If you’re on holiday but don’t want to compromise your training routine, I hope this helps you find a spot that fits. You may also like this article: Things to Do in Canggu - Where Every Plan Turns Into Three More Wellness GymAlpha GymByndBrother GymWovenThe BlockUndefeated GymAvenue FitnessSurya Gym Wellness Gym It’s not a fancy, Instagram-heavy gym, but it has all the essentials I need, from the outdoor free weight area to the air-conditioned workout space downstairs. The atmosphere is chill and friendly which makes it perfect if you’re new to fitness or someone who likes training alone without feeling intimidated. There's a nice garden area to stay a little longer after your workout to stretch, relax, or catch some sun. 📍 Google Map: Wellness Gym Canggu 💰 Membership: IDR 1.5mill/ month ⏰ Opening Hour: Mon-Sun, 6am-10pm 🧖🏻‍♀️ Facilities: Swimming pool, sauna, magnesium pool, a small ice plunge Image credit: Wellness Gym Google Page Alpha Gym I first discovered this gym because it was within walking distance from my old apartment. The gym has a modern, clean design with all the equipment you need for a good workout. One of the highlights is the rooftop area, which is nice for an afternoon session when you want some fresh air and natural light. Despite its stylish look, it's not that type of “influencer gym” - it's a comfortable space where you can focus on your workout and train in peace. 📍 Google Map: Alpha Gym 💰 Membership: IDR 2mill/ month ⏰ Opening Hour: Mon-Sun, 6am-10pm 🧖🏻‍♀️ Facilities: Sauna, ice bath Image credit: Alpha Gym Google Page Bynd They had me at the lap pool overlooking rice fields - because, lap pool, and how rare it is to still see that kind of view in Canggu. The gym itself is open-air with a beautiful bamboo, tropical feel. It focuses on hybrid training, Hyrox, and functional fitness, but you can also just grab a day pass and train independently or join one of the classes depending on your mood. 📍 Google Map: Bynd Fitness Club 💰 Membership: From IDR 2mill/ month ⏰ Opening Hour: Mon-Sun, 6am-7.30pm 🧖🏻‍♀️ Facilities: Swimming pool, sauna, magnesium pool Image credit: Bynd Google Page You may also like this article: Best Coffee Shops in Canggu, Umalas, and Nearby Areas - My Personal Favourites Brother Gym Three words for Brother gym; simple, local, and affordable. It’s very much a “workout, done, move on” kind of place, and possibly one of the cheapest gyms I’ve come across in Canggu, it’s straightforward without any fuss or extras. Bonus point, its location near plenty of restaurants, for when post-workout hunger hits and you want something good nearby right after. 📍 Google Map: Brother Gym 💰 Membership: IDR 600K/ month ⏰ Opening Hour: Mon-Sun, 6.30am-10pm 🧖🏻‍♀️ Facilities: Gym only Image credit: Brother Gym Google Page Woven I just have to mention Woven because it’s more than just a gym for me – it’s my happy place. If you train jiu jitsu, or one day wake up feeling like you want to learn one of the best martial arts in the world, you should definitely come to Woven. It’s not scary or intimidating at all, I promise, and it might just be one of the best decisions you make for yourself. All the coaches and everyone here are super nice! And even if jiu jitsu ends up not being your thing, you’ll still walk away with some really great friends and a beautiful community 📍 Google Map: Woven Jiu Jitsu 💰 Membership: IDR 2.250mill/ month ⏰ Opening Hour: Open daily around 7.30am-7.30pm (hours vary) 🧖🏻‍♀️ Facilities: Cafe Image credit: Woven Jiu Jitsu Google Page You may also like this article: My Little Canggu Restaurant List - Part 1 The Block It's an MMA gym offering boxing and jiu jitsu classes, with everything you need to train, recover, and recharge. Beyond the mats and the octagon, there’s a strength and conditioning area, plus a dedicated recovery section complete with a pool, sauna, jacuzzi, and two different ice baths. Despite being a combat sports gym, The Block has a welcoming atmosphere that feels friendly and approachable. It’s a place where hard training meets good recovery and a strong community. 📍 Google Map: The Block 💰 Membership: IDR3.6 mill/ month (all access) ⏰ Opening Hour: Mon-Fri 7am-9pm, Sat-Sun 7am-4pm 🧖🏻‍♀️ Facilities: Sauna, pool, ice baths, jacuzzi Image credit: The Block Google Page Undefeated Gym This gym tucked a bit inside Tumbak Bayuh, so if you’re following Google Maps and feel like you’re lost, you're not lol...just keep going. Important note - bring your noise-cancelling headphones! They usually play the music pretty loud - part of the vibe, I guess. The equipment is more than enough for a solid workout, but the real highlight is the recovery area: a nice pool, indoor ice bath and jacuzzi with a TV (yes, you can just chill and watch something), plus steam and sauna. 📍 Google Map: Undefeated Gym 💰 Membership: IDR 1.5mill/ month ⏰ Opening Hour: Mon-Sun, 6am-9pm 🧖🏻‍♀️ Facilities: Sauna, steam, pool, ice bath Image credit: Undefeated Gym Google Page Avenue Fitness It's right on the main Batu Bolong Street, so it’s super easy to find. The gym is spread across three floors: the top floor is a quieter space for stretching and free weights, while the bottom floor has the sauna and ice bath for recovery. It’s a pretty straightforward gym - nothing fancy, but it’s got all the essentials you need for a workout. 📍 Google Map: Avenue Fitness 💰 Membership: IDR 1.8mill/ month ⏰ Opening Hour: Mon-Sat 6am-10pm, Sun 6am-9pm 🧖🏻‍♀️ Facilities: Sauna, ice bath Image credit: Avenue Fitness Instagram Surya Gym This gym in Pererenan has that local gym energy. It’s got all the essential machines you need and enough space to move - that’s it. They’ve also added classes like Zumba and boxing. The vibe feels relaxed and unpretentious, more about just showing up and getting it done. A solid spot if you’re in the area and want something simple, functional, and easy to train in. 📍 Google Map: Surya Gym 💰 Membership: IDR 1.2mill/ month ⏰ Opening Hour: Mon-Sun, 6am-10pm 🧖🏻‍♀️ Facilities: Sauna, Cafe Image credit: Surya Gym Instagram Hopefully this list helps you find a gym in Canggu that fits your training style while you’re travelling. Whether you’re here for a short stay or a longer trip, it’s always nice to have a space where you can keep your routine going. Just a quick note that membership prices may vary or change over time, so it’s always worth checking directly with each gym for the latest updates before you go.