A journey of an exchange student teacher under the 10th Batch SEA Teacher Program by SEAMEO
CULTURAL TRIPS
with UNISSULA
Cultural trips are essential to exchange student programs because they provide immersive experiences that deepen students' understanding of local traditions, history, and daily life—allowing them to develop empathy, adaptability, and a global perspective. At UNISSULA (Universitas Islam Sultan Agung), these trips align with the university’s commitment to nurturing globally minded individuals grounded in cultural values. By engaging in cultural visits during their exchange, students can gain firsthand insight into Indonesian heritage and strengthen their intercultural communication skills—making their academic and personal journey at UNISSULA truly holistic and transformative.
CULTURAL TRIP 1
Gedung Museum Ronggo Warsito Semarang
Museum Ranggawarsita, located on Jalan Abdulrahman Saleh No. 1 in Semarang, is the largest and most comprehensive museum in Central Java. Inaugurated on July 5, 1989, it houses over 59,800 artifacts across ten categories, including geology, archaeology, ethnography, numismatics, and fine arts. Named after the 19th-century Javanese poet Raden Ngabehi Ranggawarsita, the museum spans four main exhibition buildings (A–D) and a dedicated Gold Room, each showcasing themed collections ranging from prehistoric fossils and Hindu-Buddhist relics to traditional Javanese arts and Indonesia's independence struggle. Designed in a modern Joglo architectural style, the museum serves as both an educational and cultural hub, offering visitors a comprehensive insight into the rich heritage of Central Java.
Lawang Sewu, meaning "Thousand Doors" in Javanese, is a historic landmark in Semarang, Central Java, originally built between 1904 and 1919 as the headquarters of the Dutch East Indies Railway Company (NIS). Designed by architect Cosman Citroen in the New Indies Style, the building is renowned for its numerous doors and high-arched windows, giving it a labyrinthine appearance. During World War II, it was occupied by Japanese forces and later became a site of conflict during the Indonesian National Revolution, notably the Battle of Semarang in October 1945. Today, Lawang Sewu serves as a museum and cultural site, offering insights into Indonesia's colonial past and railway history, while also being associated with local legends and ghost stories due to its storied past.
CULTURAL TRIP 2
Gedong Songo is a complex of nine 8th–9th century Hindu temples located on the slopes of Mount Ungaran near Bandungan, Semarang Regency, Central Java. Built during the early Mataram Kingdom period, these temples are dedicated to Shiva and Parvati and are among the oldest Hindu structures in Java, predating Borobudur and Prambanan. Constructed from volcanic stone, the temples exhibit early Javanese architectural styles influenced by Indian Hindu temple design. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,270 meters, the site offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including three volcanoes and the Dieng Plateau. Rediscovered in the 19th century by Dutch archaeologists, Gedong Songo has since been restored and serves as a significant cultural and historical site.
CULTURAL TRIP 3
The Mangkunegaran Palace is a historic royal complex located in Solo City (Surakarta), Central Java, Indonesia. Established in 1757 by Mangkunegara I after the Treaty of Salatiga, it became the political and cultural center of the Mangkunegaran principality and the official residence of its rulers. The palace showcases a harmonious blend of traditional Javanese architecture and European influences, reflecting the era’s cross-cultural exchanges. Notable structures within the complex include the Pendopo Ageng (a grand pavilion used for ceremonies and performances), the Pringgitan (a transitional veranda space), the Dalem Ageng (main residential quarters), and the Keputren (women's quarters). The Pendopo Ageng stands out as one of the largest in Indonesia, frequently hosting classical Javanese dance and gamelan performances.
The Museum Keris Nusantara, located in Surakarta (Solo), Central Java, is Indonesia’s premier institution dedicated to the keris—a traditional dagger recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Inaugurated on August 9, 2017, by President Joko Widodo, the museum houses over 1,000 keris and other traditional weapons from across the Indonesian archipelago, including tombak (spears), pedang (swords), and badik (knives) . The museum's four floors feature thematic exhibits, dioramas, and multimedia presentations that explore the keris's historical, spiritual, and artistic significance. Designed with traditional Javanese architectural elements, the museum also offers facilities such as a library, children's play area, and souvenir shop, making it a comprehensive cultural destination for visitors interested in Indonesia's rich heritage .
"If we get lost, we get lost together"
-Sumile, 2025-