Taman Gandrung Terekota

Think “terracotta warriors of Java”. This site is a new development, but it’s very beautiful, particularly if you’re interested in Javanese history and culture. It costs 100,000 for entrance which is a bit steep for Java, but the signs and information are translated in both Bahasa and English, and it’s a beautiful site to visit with terracotta dancers spread all throughout the rolling rice fields. 

Around ten years ago an ex-banker from Java decided to turn this site into the home of hundreds of terracotta dancers. Each dancer is in local costume and poses from “Gadrung”, a traditional dance originating from the region. The owner of the site was worried that Gadrung would soon be forgotten, and invested his savings in creating a space that preserves the tradition. Whilst we were the only foreigners there, the place is frequented by local groups - either work outings, school trips, family celebrations, or conferences. There was a work outing while we were there, meaning that there was also a traditional Gadrung dance demonstration. The staff invited us to stay and enjoy the dance for free, as these are usually organised for visiting local groups. As the only foreigners, I was invited up to join the dancing woman in her demonstration, as well as a few of the local ladies, and we had some good conversations with the other visitors between my limited Bahasa and their limited English.