A cultural space revives traces of history, artistry, and tradition that are captivating and meaningful

The Sonobudoyo State Museum is one of Yogyakarta’s most significant cultural centers. Managed by the Cultural Office (Kundha Kabudayan) of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, the museum plays a vital role in preserving and managing objects of cultural and scientific value. Its responsibilities include collecting, conserving, maintaining, conducting research, providing library services, and presenting collections for public cultural education.

As the second most comprehensive museum in Indonesia after the National Museum in Jakarta, Sonobudoyo holds around 63,000 collections. These are divided into ten categories: Geologika, Biologika, Ethnografika, Archaeology, Numismatics, Historika, Philologika, Ceramologika, Fine Arts, and Technology. While not all items are displayed, the diversity of the collection reflects Indonesia’s rich history, scientific knowledge, and cultural traditions.

Located at Jalan Pangurakan No. 6, Ngupasan, Gondomanan, Yogyakarta, the museum is easy to reach as it sits near the North Square (Alun-Alun Utara). Covering about 7,800 square meters, the museum has two main units. Unit I is the original building, established in 1934 on the northern side of the North Square, while Unit II is located on Jalan Wijilan, about 450 meters away.

The museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM. Entrance fees in 2025 are set at Rp10,000 for adults, Rp5,000 for children, and Rp20,000 for international visitors. Tickets for cultural performances such as wayang kulit (shadow puppets), wayang orang (human puppets), and Panji masked performances are priced at Rp20,000 for domestic visitors and Rp50,000 for foreign visitors.

Among its highlights, Sonobudoyo presents a wide range of performances. In addition to traditional wayang shows, the museum has introduced digital wayang performances that retell Javanese folklore, including the story of Damarwulan. This digital innovation makes wayang more accessible and engaging, especially for younger audiences.

Visitors can also enjoy interactive activities such as traditional games fused with modern elements, including Cublak-Cublak Suweng and Engklek. These games offer a playful yet educational experience, reconnecting visitors with Indonesia’s traditional pastimes.

The museum also hosts regular wayang orang performances, including an upcoming show on October 18, 2025, titled “Ampak-ampak Pringgodani from Bimomurti.” These performances add an authentic cultural dimension to the overall visitor experience.

As the oldest museum in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Sonobudoyo is more than a repository of historical artifacts. It continues to grow as an interactive space for both locals and tourists. By blending classic collections with modern innovations, it stands as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking deeper insights into Javanese and Indonesian cultural heritage.

photo source: instagram.com/sonobudoyo

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