Cirebon, Trading port city in West Java, Indonesia
Cirebon is a port city on the northern coast of Java in West Java, Indonesia, spreading across five districts. The city sits about 8 meters above sea level near the border with Central Java, linking historic harbor quarters with modern residential areas.
The settlement began in 1388 as a small fishing village called Muara Jati at the mouth of a river. During the 15th century it grew into a sultanate that controlled important sea lanes between Java and the Spice Islands.
Residents speak Jawareh, a dialect blending Javanese and Sundanese that reflects the city's mixed roots. Markets along the coast show Chinese temples next to Javanese mosques, making centuries of trading traditions visible today.
Access to the city is through Kertajati Airport or the coastal highway Jalur Pantura, which crosses Java from east to west. Trains connect the city daily with Jakarta to the west and Surabaya to the east, with journeys taking several hours.
In the Trusmi district, craftspeople produce batik textiles with coastal patterns that include Chinese motifs, using techniques handed down through generations. Visitors can enter the workshops and watch as wax is applied by hand to cotton before the fabrics are dyed.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
