The island of Java is part of the Greater Sunda Islands, from which the Malay Archipelago is formed. On the map, it can be found in the northeastern part of the Indian Ocean.
Where the island of Java got its name from is not exactly known. According to one of the existing versions, it came from the proto-Austronesian word for "house". According to another, the consonant name of the island is found in the manuscripts of an early Indian epic. There is also the opinion of some experts, according to which "Java" is a derivative of the word "Jau". From the Sanskrit language, it can be translated as "barley" or "lying in the distance."
Geography
Java Island (see photo below) was formed, according to scientists, about six to seven million years ago. In the same period, the entire Malay Archipelago appeared.
Java is considered the extremity of a mountain range that protrudes above the water, which stretches from Burma to the Sumatra islands, passing through the Nicobar and Andaman Islands. Many years ago, seismic and volcanic processes provoked the subsidence and uplift of the continent that previously existed in this place. As a result of all this, the island of Java appeared. The landscape of its central part is decorated with a mountain range stretching from west to east. In this part of the territory, the island of Java has volcanoes. In total there are more than one hundred and twenty of them, among which there are thirty active ones. Semeru is recognized as the highest volcano. Its height is 3676 m. This is the highest point of the island. Other most significant:
Bromo - 2329 m;
- Merapi - 2914 m.
The last of these two volcanoes is one of the ten most active on our planet. In 1006, its catastrophic eruption wiped out life on the island for three centuries. Fertile soils have turned into a desert. Java Island - "Valley of Death". So, no doubt it was possible to call it in those days.
Unfortunately, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions still often occur in these places. The consequences of such seismic activity are very sad. They lead to numerous destructions and casualties.
Unlike the central part of the island, the coastal areas are swampy lowlands. There are a large number of lakes and many rivers flowing here.
Java Island has a rather winding coastline. In its bends there are a large number of convenient bays and bays that allow ships with different landings to moor.
The coast of the island, almost along its entire length, has numerous narrow sandy beaches with small dunes that end in tropical jungle.
Climate
Java Island is located near the earth's equator. Such geographical position significant impact on the climate of the area. It is equatorial, comparatively hot and humid. The weather on the island is characterized by the absence of seasonal temperature differences. It's warm here all year round. The air warms up in the range from twenty-three to twenty-six degrees. Precipitation on the island is usually short-term tropical downpours. Their number during the year can exceed 1000-1100 mm. In the northwestern and northern parts of the island, this figure is slightly higher. Sometimes it reaches 3000 mm.
Population
Today, over one hundred and forty million people live in Java. This makes it the most densely populated island in the world.
The majority of Javans are Indonesians. In addition to them, representatives of a number of ethnic groups live on the island, the list of which includes:
Madurians;
- Sundanese;
- Minangkabau.
Alien peoples from India, China and Indochina also live here. All of them speak Malay, which is recognized as the state language on the island. Often in everyday life you can hear Javanese words. There are also Chinese dialects in the conversation of local residents.
What are the main directions of the national economy, which the island of Java is proud of? The population of rural areas and small towns is busy growing barley, rice, coffee, including such a famous variety as Kopi Luwak. Developed on the island and industry. Its industries such as electronics, processing, mining and textiles employ the population of large cities.
Administrative unit
In Java, the largest city in terms of population, importance and size is the city of Jakarta. On the map, it can be found in the northwestern part of the island, on the coast itself. This is the largest settlement of the Malay Archipelago, which is also the capital of Indonesia. Jakarta has a population of 9.6 million. The list of major cities located in Java includes:
Semarang.
- Yogyakarta.
- Bandung.
- Serang.
- Kudus.
- Gaff.
- Surabaya.
- Malang and others.
According to its administrative structure, the island is divided into three provinces. These are West, East and Central Java.
Pearl of the Malay Archipelago
Indonesia includes about seventeen thousand islands. However, Java, without any doubt, is among them the real queen. Despite the fact that this is the most densely populated island of our planet, there are a lot of places untouched by man. A trip to Java will appeal to the most adventurous tourists who want to recharge their batteries and get a real drive. The island offers its guests ancient monuments and huge national parks, volcanoes and rice plantations adjacent to dense forests, savannahs and large cities.
Jakarta
Many tourists who want to get acquainted with Indonesia, first of all fly to the island of Java. The capital of the country - Jakarta, which is a colossal metropolis, serves for many as the starting point from which the path to more interesting and calm routes begins.
This city is very complex and ambiguous. But it is from him, as a rule, that tourists begin to explore the island of Java. Only in Jakarta, after seeing the sights and areas, you can feel the rich history of the country, its diverse culture and unusual architecture.
Listed interesting places Indonesia's capital is home to numerous exhibition centers and parks. But among them there are those that deserve special attention of tourists. This is, for example, the Taman-Mini park. There are 27 pavilions on its territory, each of which demonstrates traditional buildings, interesting decorations and other exhibits presented by various provinces. Here you can admire the miniature, which in all details represents Indonesia.
Attracts tourists and dream park, located in the Anchola area. On its territory you can buy bone jewelry, batik and other creations of local craftsmen.
Interesting for guests of Jakarta and the center "Tamaya Ismail Narzuki". There are many venues on its territory, where five theaters and numerous exhibitions are located. The complex includes a dance hall and a planetarium.
The main attraction of the capital, which the island of Java is rightfully proud of (see photo below), is the National Monument. It is a tower rising more than 130 m above the ground. The material for its manufacture was Italian marble. From above, the National Monument is decorated with an imitation of a flame made of gilding. For Indonesia, this tower is a symbol of the capital.
What else can the island of Java please its guests with? Tourist reviews recommend including the Istiklal Mosque in the list of must-see places. It is the largest Muslim sanctuary located in Southeast Asia.
Borobudur
Numerous tourists tend to visit the temples of the island of Java. Getting acquainted with Indonesia, it is impossible not to visit Borobudur. It is the third largest Buddhist-Hindu temple in the world. In size, Borobudur is second only to the Cambodian Angkor, as well as the Burmese Shwedagon.
The Indonesian temple is a step pyramid, the height of which is 34 m. It rises on an artificially created hill, embodying sacred mountain Meru (according to ancient Indian legends, it is she who is the center of the whole world). According to the teachings, any visitor to Borobudur or a pilgrim begins his ascent "from earth to heaven." Moreover, the road leading to the temple is a spiral. Passing along it, visitors examine the eight terraces of Borobudur and get acquainted with the history of the emergence of Buddhism, carved on one and a half thousand reliefs and stone sculptures.
The architecture of the temple itself indicates the influence of Persian, Greek, Indian and Babylonian architects. This is a majestic building, from the upper levels of which an exciting and grandiose view opens. There is also a sculpture of Buddha. There is a legend that the one who could reach his little finger will certainly be lucky.
Java Island (Indonesia) is rightfully proud of this real wonder of the world. After all, the temple of Borobudur, which was built 1200 years ago, is a beautiful, grandiose and picturesque building. It survived the eruption of the nearby volcano Merapi, the change on the island not only of the political course, but also of religion. It retained its beautiful appearance even after the invasions of treasure hunters.
Prambanan
What else attracts tourists to the island of Java? The sights located on its territory contain another masterpiece on their list, which is one rank lower than Borobudur. This is the Prambanan temple complex. Unlike Borobudur, it is located on a plain, which the locals call the "Valley of the Kings". This area is literally littered with the ruins of ancient structures.
The Prambanan complex itself is a collection of three temples, each of which is dedicated to one of the gods - Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva. The walls of these amazingly beautiful buildings are decorated with bas-reliefs, the plots of which are taken from scenes from the ancient Indian epic called the Ramayana.
The end of the construction of Prambanan is considered to be 856. This temple commemorates the victory of the Hindu king Pikatan over the Buddhist king belonging to the Shailendra dynasty.
Kraton
What other temples does the island of Java offer its guests to explore? Attractions that the Javanese are proud of include the Kraton palace complex in their list. Locals consider it the "navel" of the world. The palace was not only the seat of the sultanate for the island. The Javanese believed that the center of the universe was located here.
In Kraton are located:
Chambers of the Sultan himself and members of his family;
- throne room;
- pavilions for various performances;
- mosque;
- chambers for contemplation.
In the 19th century The interior decoration of the palace complex was changed. He was given European features. There were cast-iron columns and Italian marble, furniture and chandeliers in the Rococo style. All these interior details are in strong contrast to the Javanese basis of the Kraton.
Bogor
Not far from the bustling capital of Jakarta is a quiet town. Just an hour from the metropolis by train, and you are in Bogor, famous throughout the island for its huge botanical garden. Here you can see the largest flower on our planet - "titanic amorphophaldus".
The locals call Bogor “the city of rain”. Indeed, every afternoon it is bound to rain here. That is why it is better to walk in the botanical garden early in the morning. Visitors will see amazing trees that look like flared trousers. There is a Mexican garden, an orchid garden and much more. In the royal park, which is located next door, deer roam.
Gunung Halimun
It is one of the most national parks in Java. It differs from all the others in that the road to it is relatively simple. It is enough to drive from Bogor just an hour and a half.
Gunung Halimun Park is worth a visit for those tourists who are lovers of fauna and flora. Here you can see a large number of plants, more than a dozen species of birds, as well as mammals (including the endangered West Javanese gibbons).
Malang
This city was founded by the Dutch in the 18th century. Tourists who have chosen it get acquainted with the eastern part of the island of Java. Malang attracts guests with its surroundings, where coffee plantations are comfortably spread. Numerous Hindu temples are also located here, built on the slopes of Mount Penanggungan, which the locals consider sacred. Not far from Malang are the most famous beaches among tourists, the most popular of which is Balekambang. From the city you can quickly reach volcanoes such as Seperu, Bromo and Ijen. Public transport runs to them from Malang.
Taman Sari
There are also special attractions in Java. One of them is Taman Sari. This is a water castle built specifically for the Sultan in 1758. Taman Sari is a whole park of palace complexes with canals and pools. The castle has underground tunnels and special secret rooms.
Java(in Indonesian "Jawa") is the fifth largest island in Indonesia, home to more than half of the country's population. Much of Indonesian history is inextricably linked to this island, where powerful Hindu-Buddhist empires, Islamic sultanates and the colonial center of the Dutch East India Company were founded. Java played a decisive role in the Indonesian struggle for independence in the 1940s. Today the island occupies a dominant position in the political, economic and cultural life of the country. The capital of the state Jakarta (the largest city in Indonesia) is also located on this island.
Tourist attractions of the island
Borobudur- a Buddhist temple of the 9th century, the second largest Buddhist temple in the world after Angkor Wat, has 504 Buddha statues and 2672 stone bas-reliefs. In 1991 it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. More details in article e Borobudur
Prambanan- a complex of ancient Buddhist and Hindu temples, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. More details in article e Prambanan
Cities
Yogyakarta- popular tourist town in Indonesia, preserving pure Javanese and rich folk traditions. More details in article e Yogyakarta
Story
Since 2000 BC Java was already settled by settlers from mainland Southeast Asia. In the first centuries AD, the Javanese established close trade and cultural relations with the Hindu cultures of India. The discovery of stone stelae (prasasti) with texts and images carved on them testified to the existence of early Hindu kingdoms on the island.
Kingdoms of the Indo-Buddhist period
The small kingdoms of Taruma and Sunda in West Java formed in the 4th and 7th centuries respectively. But the first major state formation on the island of Java was the Kingdom of Mataram (732-1043), founded at the beginning of the 8th century by the rulers of the Sailendra dynasty. The first rulers of the Kingdom of Mataram professed Hinduism, then Buddhism became the dominant religion. From that era to the present day, great Buddhist and Hindu monuments have survived: Borobudur and Prambanan.
At the beginning of the 10th century, the Mataram Kingdom was in decline, the center of power began to shift from the central regions of the island of Java to the east. Mataram finally collapsed around 1043 after a conflict with the growing power of the Kingdom of Srivijaya from the island of Sumatra.
Another powerful state of the Indo-Buddhist period was the Majapahit empire founded in 1293 (1293-early 16th century). The Majapahit Empire reached its peak of power during the reign of Khayyam Wuruk. An important role was played by the talented commander Gajah Mada, thanks to whom the empire of Khayyam Vuruk completely established control over the islands of Java, Bali, Sumatra and Madura.
The economy of previous Javanese kingdoms was based on agriculture. The rulers of Majapahit established control over ports and shipping routes, becoming the first empire to actively patronize trade. With the death of Khayyam Wuruk, the Majapahit empire began to decline and finally collapsed in the early 16th century under the onslaught of the Islamic sultanates.
The spread of Islam and the emergence of Islamic sultanates
The emergence of Islam played a key role in the history of Java and Indonesia. Muslim traders have been visiting the Indonesian archipelago for centuries. With the growth of Islamic trade in the region, the Hindu kingdom of Majapahit began to decline. The Javanese were faced with a choice: fight or convert to Islam, and many ultimately chose the latter. In the early 16th century, the Javanese trading ports in east Java completely abandoned the dying Majapahit empire. Until the end of the 16th century, Islam became the dominant religion on the island of Java. During this period, independent Muslim sultanates of Pajang, Mataram, Cheribon, Bantam were formed. The Sultanate of Mataram (not to be confused with the Kingdom of Mataram) reached the greatest power. The Sultanate reached its peak of prosperity during the reign of Sultan Agung Hanyokro Kusumo (1613-1645). Agung managed to expand the territory of the Sultanate to the regions of Central and East Java, the island of Borneo.
colonial period
In 1596, four ships of the Dutch East India Company visited Java for the first time, and after a short time, the first Dutch trading posts began to appear on the coast of the island. In 1619, the Dutch troops under the command of Peter Cohen attacked and captured Jaykarta (the current capital of Indonesia). The Dutch changed the name of Jaikart to Batavia and rebuilt the city according to the classical canons of Dutch colonial architecture.
Internal conflict prevented the Javanese from forming an effective alliance to counter the Dutch. Beginning in the 1670s, the Dutch East India Company began to wrest control of the Muslim sultanates of Java. The sultanates of West Java recognized the sovereignty of the company in the last quarter of the 17th century, the north-central and north-eastern ones followed suit in 1743. In 1755, what was left of the once powerful Sultanate of Mataram, under pressure from the Dutch, was divided into two vassal states to the Dutch: Yogyakarta and Surakarta. By the end of the 18th century, the Dutch had extended their influence throughout the island.
On December 31, 1799, the government of the Netherlands nationalized the Dutch East India Company and in 1807 officially declared the Indonesian archipelago to be part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The entire territory of Indonesia belonging to the Dutch was ruled by a colonial administration centered in the city of Batavia (present-day Jakarta).
During the Napoleonic Wars in Europe, the Netherlands and its colonies in the East Indies fell under the conquests of the French Republic. In 1811, the British captured Java and the island briefly became a possession of the British Empire under Governor Sir Stamford Raffles. Under the terms of the Treaty of Paris in 1814, the British return Java to the Dutch in 1816.
In the 19th century, under the influence of Europeans, cars appeared, railways and telegraph communication. The Dutch put an end to internecine wars, increased the area under rice cultivation, began to cultivate new crops, primarily cassava and corn, and increased productivity. All this contributed to the elimination of hunger in Java and the rapid growth of the population of the island.
Independence
During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Java was the most intensively developing industry and agriculture of all the islands of the Dutch East Indies. Along with the development of capitalist relations, Indonesian nationalism and a desire to achieve independence began to emerge on the island. The first serious uprising of the Javanese in 1825-1830 against the Dutch colonists managed to suppress with great difficulty. Given these factors, the Dutch changed their domestic policy. Starting in 1903, Javanese began to be allowed to participate in local government, and in 1925 the Indonesians received a majority in the Volksraad ("People's Council").
During World War II, Java was occupied by the Japanese from 1942 to 1945. At the end of the Japanese occupation, a liberation war against the Dutch began on the island. Upon its completion, in 1950, the island became part of the independent Republic of Indonesia.
Geography and landscape
| Java island map |
Occupying about 150,000 km2 of territory, Java is the 13th largest island in the world and the 5th largest in Indonesia. The length from east to west is 1064 km, the maximum width is up to 210 km. The island is surrounded by the Java Sea in the north, the Sunda Strait in the west, the Indian Ocean in the south, and the Bali Strait in the east. In the west lies the island of Sumatra, Bali - in the east. Borneo - in the north and Christmas Island - in the south.
Java is an island of volcanic origin. A mountain range crowned with volcanoes runs east to west along the center of the island. The highest is the Semeru volcano (3676 m), the most beautiful is Bromo, the most active volcano in Java and Indonesia is Merapi (2930 m).
Java is located at the junction of two tectonic plates. The friction of these two plates causes heating and expansion of gas, magma and steam in the bowels of the earth, followed by an eruption. In total, there are 33 active volcanoes on the island and it is part of the so-called "Pacific volcanic ring of fire", in which about 90% of all earthquakes on the planet occur. Volcanoes formed a rugged landscape, culture and religion of the inhabitants, influenced the development of agriculture, the construction of cities and villages.
The longest river of the island is the Solo, almost 600 km long. The river originates from a source on Mount Lavu and flows north to the mouth of the Java Sea near the city of Surabaya. Other major rivers: Brantas, Chitarum, Chimanuk and Serayu. Most of Java's rivers flow in a northerly direction. Large and small rivers serve as a source of water for irrigation of flood fields. The major rivers are navigable only during the rainy season.
natural environment
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| Java island map |
Java's natural environment ranges from coastal mangrove forests on the north coast to coastal cliffs on the south, from low-lying rainforests to barren volcanoes. The natural environment and climate gradually change from west to east - from wet and humid tropical forests in the west to dry savannahs in the east.
The wildlife world is rich in biodiversity with many endemic species such as the Javan rhinoceros, Javan banteng, Javan pig, Javan hawk, Javan peacock, Javan silver gibbon, gleaming gullman, Javan deer and Javan leopard. The island is home to over 450 species of birds (of which 37 are endemic), 100 species of snakes and over 500 species of butterflies.
But it should be remembered that the island is inhabited by a huge number of people. With a population of over 143 million in 2014, that's more than half of Indonesia's population. With the growth of population, tropical forests were ruthlessly destroyed, surviving only on mountain slopes and isolated hard-to-reach areas. In place of tropical forests, a new landscape with rice terraces, which has significantly changed the ecosystem of the island.
Some endemic animal species have already disappeared (Javanese tiger), some are on the verge of extinction. To protect the wildlife from human activities, a number of national parks were founded on the island: Mount Halimun Salak, Mount Gede Pangrango, Baluran, Meru Betiri and Alas Purvo, Ujung Kulon (the latter was included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1991).
Administrative division
Administratively, Java consists of 4 provinces (propinsi):
Banten, the administrative center of Serang;
West Java (Jawa Barat), the administrative center of Bandung;
Central Java (Jawa Tengah), the administrative center of Semarang;
East Java (Jawa Timur), the administrative center of Surabaya;
and two special regions:
Jakarta (Special Capital Region);
Yogyakarta (semi-autonomous region).
1. Jakarta Special Capital Region
Officially, Jakarta is not a city, but a province with the status of the capital, therefore it is not governed by a mayor, but by a governor. Being a province, Jakarta consists of 5 municipalities: Central, North, East, South and West (according to the geographical location on the map). It is the only city in Indonesia with the status of a province. The Jakarta Special Capital Region includes the cities of Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, Bekasi with a population of about 23 million. Until 1527 the city was called Sunda Kelapa, in 1527-1619 Jaykarta, in 1619-1942 Batavia, and from 1942 to the present day Jakarta.
2. Semi-autonomous region of Yogyakarta
The semi-autonomous region of Yogyakarta is located in the south of Java and borders the province of Central Java to the north. Unlike other provinces in Java, Yogyakarta is governed by a sultan who is neither elected nor appointed by a central authority in the capital. The semi-autonomous region consists of 4 districts and one large city, Yogyakarta. On the outskirts of Yogyakarta is the most active volcano in Indonesia - Merapi, and the two most famous temple Indonesia: Borobudur and Prambanan.
3. Banten Province
Banten Province was formerly part of West Java Province, but since 2000 has received the status of a separate administrative unit. Banten Province is made up of 4 municipalities and 4 cities. Serang is the capital city of Banten Province. Total population 9,351,470 inhabitants (2006). Banten is favorably located on the navigation route of merchant ships between Australia and New Zealand, the countries of Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore), the islands of Java and Sumatra.
4. West Java Province
This province has 17 districts and 9 cities. In 2002, the population of West Java reached 37,548,565. Most of the inhabitants of West Java are Sundanese. The provincial capital is the city of Bandung.
5. Central Java Province
The central province is considered the center of Javanese culture. The majority of the population of Central Java is Javanese. Administratively, the province is divided into 29 municipalities and 6 cities. The population of the province is 32,380,687 inhabitants. The administrative center is located in the city of Semarang.
6. Provinces of East Java
With an area of 47,922 km² and a population of 37,070,731 (2005), it is the largest province in terms of territory and the second most populous. The administrative center is located in the city of Surabaya. Includes the island of Maduro with a population of almost 4 million inhabitants.
Demography
With a population of over 143 million (2014) and a density of 1,029 people per km² and above, Java is one of the most densely populated islands in the world. 57% of Indonesia's population lives here. The highest concentration of population is in the west of the island (West Java, Banten and Jakarta), where the population density exceeds 1,400 people per km².
Occupying 7% of the total area of Indonesia, 57% of the country's population lives on the island. From about 5 million inhabitants in 1815, the population has grown to 143 million in 2014. The five largest and most populous cities in Indonesia are located on the island of Java: Jakarta, Surabaya, Yogyakarta, Semarang and Bandung.
From the 1970s until the fall of the Suharto regime in 1998, the Indonesian government ran a program to relocate Javans to other, less populated islands in the country. During the implementation of this program, conflicts often arose between local residents and recently arrived settlers. From the 1970s until the fall of the Suharto regime in 1998, the Indonesian government managed to resettle about 3 million people.
ethnic groups
Unlike other large Indonesian islands, Java is relatively homogeneous in its ethnic composition. The bulk of the population is represented by three main ethnic groups: Javanese (approximately 70% of the inhabitants of the island), Sundanese and Madurese. The Javanese live mainly in the central and eastern part of the island, the Sundanese predominantly in the west, and the Madurese in the east. Historically, the Madurese inhabited the island of Madura off the northeast coast of Java, and immigrated to East Java in the 18th century.
The fourth group are the Betavas (descendants of people living around Jakarta, from the 17th century until 1942 this city was called Batavia). The Betavas originated as a mixture of the local ethnic groups of the island with foreigners: the Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese and Indians. Their culture and language is different from Sundanese and Javanese.
About 600,000 tengers live in the region of the Bromo volcano and the Tengger mountain range. Other minor ethnic groups: Badui, Batak, Balinese, Papua.
Of the foreigners, the most common are the Chinese, who control much of the trade on the island.
Languages
Java has 3 main languages: Javanese, Sundanese and Madurese. Other languages include Betavi (one of the Austronesian languages, spoken in the west of the island), Osing (one of the Austronesian languages, spoken in the east of the island), Tengger (Hindus living in the Tengger mountains in the east of the island), Badui (living in the mountainous regions of Kedang in west of the island), Balinese (the eastern regions of the island around the city of Banyuwangi, neighboring Bali) and the Banyumasan language. The vast majority of the population speaks Indonesian, the official language of the country.
Religion
The Indonesian constitution recognizes 5 "official" religions: Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Protestantism and Catholicism. Previously, Confucianism was also recognized, but in 1979 the Indonesian government removed it from the list of "official religions".
According to the 2000 census, the proportion of Muslims is 86.1%, Protestants - 5.7%, Catholics - 3%, Hindus - 1.8%, Buddhists and adherents of other religions - 3.4%.
There are few places on Earth where the three main religions (Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism) are mixed as deeply as on the Indonesian island of Java. Hinduism and Buddhism were the dominant religion for 1000 years, but they were replaced by Islam in the 16th century. Influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism, Indonesian Islam incorporated the rites of these two religions. Some of the excavated temples in East Java have a Hindu upper part and a Buddhist lower half, and a number of early mosques have Hindu temple roofs. Early mosques were not built in the direction of Mecca, but to the west or east, in the style of Hindu temples. Islam in Indonesia developed under the great influence of the more advanced Buddhist and Hindu religions.
Economy
Java is the most economically developed island in Indonesia. Based on 2012 statistics, Java produces 57.51% of Indonesia's gross domestic product.
Initially, the economy was based solely on rice cultivation. The power of the ancient kingdoms (Taruma, Mataram, Majapahit) largely depended on the yield of rice. The island has been a well-known exporter of rice since ancient times, the cultivation of rich crops of this important agricultural crop has contributed to the growth of the population of the island. The hillsides covered with rice terraces remain a characteristic feature of the island's landscape to this day.
During the colonial period, the Dutch introduced other crops: sugarcane, rubber, coffee, tea, cinchona. Java was the first of all the islands of the Indonesian archipelago to start growing coffee (1699). In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Javanese coffee gained worldwide popularity. The name "Java" today has become synonymous with good coffee.
Today, two-thirds of the island's land area is occupied by agricultural land. Kapok, sesame, vegetables, bananas, mango, durian, citrus and vegetable oils are produced for local consumption. Tea, coffee, tobacco, rubber, cinchona, sugarcane, kapok and coconuts are exported abroad. The soils of Java are very fertile due to periodic enrichment with volcanic ash.
The need to transport rice, coffee and other commodities from the plantations of the hinterland to ports on the coast spurred the construction of roads. In 1808, the construction of the Great Javanese Road began, connecting the cities of Anyer in West Java and Panarukan in East Java. An extensive network of toll roads began to be built during the reign of President Suharto, connecting big cities and industrial centers.
Oil is produced in the Arjuna region near the northwest coast, and processed at refineries in Chilakap and Surabaya. There is also limited mining of manganese, sulfur, phosphates, gold and silver. Small-scale production includes the manufacture of clothes and fabrics with batik painting, iron casting, silver jewelry, agricultural tools, leatherworking, and ceramics. Large-scale production is represented by the textile industry, car assembly, brewing, large-scale production is engaged in the manufacture of shoes, paper, cement and cigarettes. Surabaya and Tanjung Priok (near Jakarta) are the main ports of the island.
Climate
Java's climate is hot and humid throughout the year. Average temperature +22 °С +29 °С, average humidity 75%. Maximum temperatures are observed in the plains along the northern coast, averaging +34 °C during the dry season. The south coast is cooler than the north, with temperatures even lower in the mountainous inland (+22°C on average, but dropping to freezing or even colder in the dry season). Like other areas on the tropical island, Java's climate has two seasons: the rainy season (November to March) and the dry season (April to October). Precipitation tends to fall in the afternoon, with the wettest months being January and February. During the dry season from April to October, rain is also possible, but in general the weather is sunny and cloudless.
Precipitation is distributed extremely unevenly, for example, West Java is wetter than East Java, the interior mountainous regions receive much more rainfall. Thus, the annual rainfall in the Parahyangan highlands in West Java is more than 4,000 mm per year, on the northern coast of East Java it is only 900 mm, and in the capital Jakarta, on average, about 1760 mm.
The dry season (April to October) is the best time to visit the island.
Latitude: 42°23′58″ N
Longitude: 43°56′12″ E
Altitude above sea level: 1084 m
Java coordinates in decimal degrees
Latitude: 42.3997200°
Longitude: 43.9366700°
Java coordinates in degrees and decimal minutes
Latitude: 42°23.9832′ N
Longitude: 43°56.2002′ E
All coordinates are given in the world coordinate system WGS 84.
WGS 84 is used in the global positioning and navigation satellite system GPS.
Coordinates (latitude and longitude) determine the position of a point on the Earth's surface. The coordinates are angular quantities. The canonical representation of coordinates is degrees (°), minutes (′), and seconds (″). In GPS systems, the representation of coordinates in degrees and decimal minutes or in decimal degrees is widely used.
Latitude takes values from −90° to 90°. 0° - latitude of the equator; −90° - latitude of the South Pole; 90° is the latitude of the North Pole. Positive values correspond to north latitude (points north of the equator, abbreviated N or N); negative - southern latitude (points south of the equator, abbreviated S or S).
Longitude is measured from the prime meridian (IERS Reference Meridian in the WGS 84 system) and takes values from −180° to 180°. Positive values correspond to east longitude (abbreviated east or E); negative - west longitude (abbreviated W or W).
Height above sea level shows the height of the relative sea level point. We use a digital elevation model
Java is part of the Greater Sunda Islands and is located near Sumatra. Scientists to this day cannot understand why it received such a name. There are several theories. According to one of them, the word "Java" is of Protonesian origin and is translated as "house". Some scholars believe that the name comes from Sanskrit and means either "barley" or "lying on the other side."
basic information
Experts attribute Java to both mainland and volcanic islands. This is due to the fact that at its base lies a long mountain range that stretches through the central part of the island.
The highest point is the volcano Semeru, which has retained its activity to this day. In general, more than 120 volcanoes can be counted over the entire area of the ridge. The central part of the island has a mountainous landscape, but as soon as you go down to the coast, you will find yourself in a swamp.
There are a lot of rivers, lakes, among which Jangari, Jatilukhur, Sungai deserve special attention.
The first man on the island appeared, presumably, in the second millennium BC. e. Scientists suggest that he most likely came from the island of Sumatra. Around the 3rd century AD, cities arose on the island and the first state formations were formed. One of the very first was Sakalanagara, which gave rise to Tarum, Sundu and Mataram. The latter has a rich past and a long history of dominance. Over time, it fell into decay and broke up into several small state entities.
At the end of the 13th century, an expedition was assembled to Java led by the Mongol Khan Kublai, famous for his conquest of China. The empire he created on the island extended its influence to almost all the Sunda Islands. After a couple of centuries, it greatly weakened and broke up into a number of Muslim states.
In the 17th century, European invaders began to penetrate Java. On the coast, they created a huge number of colonies and trading posts. The Dutch were very active in the conquest. Step by step, they subjugated all the islands of the Sunda archipelago, founding the trading city of Batavia, which is known to contemporaries as Jakarta - the capital. Immediately after the end of the Second World War, Indonesia becomes independent and annexes Java.
Time has passed and today the island of Java is the largest cultural, historical and political center of Indonesia with a well-developed infrastructure.
Population of Java
According to recent estimates, the number of the island has long exceeded the number of 140 million people. Thus, Java is recognized as the most densely populated island in the world. The national composition is diverse, but the majority of the inhabitants are Javanese Indonesians. In addition, in the composition you can meet Sundanese, Madurians and those who came to different time immigrants from , . The official language throughout the island is Malay. You can often hear Chinese and Javanese dialects.
The main occupation of the local population is agriculture. Villagers grow rice and other cereals. The cities have a developed industry: textile, electronic, mining and processing.
The largest city on the island is Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia. It is home to over 9 million people. Next in size and number of inhabitants are Semarang, Serang, Bandung and others.
Weather on the island of Java
The climate of the island is determined by its location relative to the equator. It is always warm and very humid here. There are no sharp temperature drops, even despite the pronounced seasonality. The air temperature averages 24 degrees.
Showers and hurricanes are always short-lived here.
Flora and fauna
Flora is not particularly exotic and unique. Creepers, bamboo, huge ficuses grow in tropical forests. Just above sea level, the variety of vegetation becomes richer. You can find oaks, chestnuts and some types of conifers.
The fauna of the island is much more interesting and diverse. More than 150 species of animals live in Java. Many of which are endemic.
The cuisine of the island is considered the most non-exotic. The main components of the dishes are rice, vegetables, beef. Local fruits, which are very numerous in Java, enjoy great love. If you really want to try real traditional food, you should go to small cafes where the local population eats. They are always tasty and very cheap, unlike restaurants where guides are constantly leading. However, even here you can find exotic.
In the village of Tuban, earth pies are popular. They are made from silty soil from rice fields. According to local residents, this dish is considered nutritious and very healthy. With regards to the taste of pies, the population of the village tries not to talk.
Javanese drink cane juice, ginger tea, local beer "tuak" and palm vodka.
In Indonesia, the islands of Bali are the most famous and beloved by tourists, but Java also has a lot of interesting things. The beaches on the island are covered with white, coarse sand, and the sea is always clean. In addition, there are many attractions in local cities that can surprise any tourist. Let's get to know the most popular places on the island of Java.
Bromo-Tenger-Semeru National Park
Bromo National Park is located near the city of Surabaya. This is one of the most amazing attractions in Indonesia, which attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year. The park covers an area of over 800 sq. meters. On its territory there is a huge number of dense forests, waterfalls and several active volcanoes. Thanks to them, most of the national park is covered with black, volcanic sand, creating a special alien effect. The park got its name from the local tribe - Tenggers and two mountains.
The park is unique thanks to five volcanoes, which, according to legend, lead to underworld. You can climb to the top on foot or by jeep. This place is wildly popular with tourists and is rightfully considered the highlight of the island.
Temple complex Borobudur
The temple complex is located 40 kilometers from Jakarta. This place is not only considered the highlight of the city, but also known throughout the world. It was erected around the 8th-9th century. For a long time, the temple complex was hidden from human eyes in the shadow of dense jungle, covered with tons of volcanic dust. The ancient structure is still a mystery to scientists. No one can give an exact answer when and by whom Borobudur was built. Also, no one can understand why it was left after the eruption of one of the five volcanoes.
When viewed from the side, the entire temple complex resembles a huge 34-meter bell. In its structure, it is a pyramid, the base of which is several large concrete slabs. Carved stupas in the form of bells are installed on them. Inside each stupa are Buddha statues.
Prambanan temple complex
This is an amazing landmark dating back to the 9th century. The temple complex is located a few kilometers from Jakarta. Prambanan is considered the largest in Indonesia. Inside the temple is a huge statue of Shiva. Often Prambanan is called the temple of Shiva Lara Jongrang. Small structures were built on the sides of the main temple, representing the sacred animals of Indonesia. Also on the territory of Prambanan are numerous tombs and rooms for sacrifices. Recently, the temple complex was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This ancient building been destroyed many times. Numerous earthquakes were to blame, as well as the volcanic activity of Merapi. For more than a hundred years, restoration work has been underway to restore Prambanan.
Mount Merapi
Mount Merapi is the most active volcano in Indonesia. He constantly smokes. Small eruptions occur every two years, but large eruptions occur every 15 years. The last time strong volcanic activity was observed in 2006. Thanks to this, Merapi is among the ten most active volcanoes in the world.
Such fame does not prevent the local population from living at the very foot, and tourists from climbing to the very top. The beauties that opened from a great height surprise and amaze.
Old city
The Old City is located in Jakarta and covers an area of about 1.5 square meters. kilometers. This place is a cultural center that has gathered the largest number ancient monuments. First locality on this territory was established in the 14th century. Then the port was built. Over time, more and more new objects appeared in the city. A great contribution to the development of the Old City was made by the Dutch, who built amazingly beautiful temples. This place is currently listed as a World Heritage Site.
Many different cultures are gathered in the Old City. That is why this place has a special atmosphere that attracts thousands of tourists.
Taman Sari Water Palace
The palace was founded in the 18th century by the ruler of Jakarta. The complex included rooms for leisure, the main palace, a lake, a swimming pool. The construction was built for several years with money allocated from the state treasury. Taman Sari at that time was a real work of art. The palace had its own individual sewerage system. The castle was separated from the outside world by a huge dug channel. Water supply was made from the lake. Some rooms had underfloor heating.
In addition, a large net was dug under the palace underground passages, which connected some rooms with each other. There have always been legends about the magnificent garden of the palace complex. That is why the castle is called Taman Sari, which translates as "blooming garden." Today, ruins remain of the once majestic building. Some part of the territory is inhabited by local residents. In recent years, the restoration of the palace complex has been underway. The swimming pool and several rooms have been restored and are open to the public.
Bogor Botanical Garden
This is one of the most famous places on the island. The garden is located near Jakarta in the province of West Java. In another way, it is called "Kebun Raya". Whole territory botanical garden has a huge area of 87 hectares. In addition, 4 branches of Kebun Rai are scattered around the island of Java. The collection of the garden contains more than 15 thousand of the most diverse plants, comprising 6,000 species. In this place, you can still see plants planted at the founding of Kebun Rai. In addition to endemic plants, there are many specimens brought from other countries, as well as rare species.
The Bogorsky Garden is also called the center for the study of nature. And not in vain, as scientists from all over the world constantly come here. The gates of Kebun Rai are constantly open to numerous visitors. Here you can not only take a break from the bustle of the city, but also learn a lot of new things by visiting the zoological and botanical museum. One of the main exhibits of the Bogorsky garden is a collection of orchids. Some species of this amazing flower are found in closed greenhouses, while others grow in open-air lawns.
Sea of sands
The sea of sands is a unique sight and is located in a large caldera with a diameter of 10 kilometers. Majestic volcanoes have been spewing tons of lava rock for many millennia, which eventually turned into a large one. Once here, you plunge into a special atmosphere.
The landscape that opens up to the eye is very reminiscent of the surface of the moon. A special effect is added by a foggy haze over the crater, which constantly hangs over the volcano.
Thousand Islands
Off the northern coast of Java, you can see a huge number of small islands. From a great height, it seems that there are more than a thousand of them. However, calculations showed that there are about 115 continental formations in this area. Their number may vary depending on the tides. So Jakarta is the only place on the territory of which there are more than a hundred islands.
