Setu Babakan, Cultural lake in Srengseng Sawah, South Jakarta, Indonesia

Setu Babakan is an artificial lake in Srengseng Sawah in South Jakarta that receives water from the Ciliwung River year-round. The water body forms the centerpiece of a traditional Betawi village with residential homes, craft workshops, and an outdoor performance stage.

In 2004 the area was designated the Betawi Cultural Village, coinciding with Jakarta's 474th anniversary, replacing the earlier Condet cultural village. The designated zone covers 175 hectares, including community gardens, Betawi housing and the two flanking lakes. The choice reflected the survival of original Betawi settlements in Srengseng Sawah.

The village displays traditional Betawi architecture and crafts still maintained by residents today. Walking through the houses and workshops gives you a direct experience of how Jakarta's original people lived and continue to live.

The village is open to visitors at no cost and can be explored on foot along level paths and traditional walkways. If you arrive by vehicle, expect parking fees, but walking through the area is free.

Local residents have long practiced fish farming using floating net cages on the water, creating a working relationship between aquaculture and village life. This practice lets you observe traditional fishing methods directly during your visit.