Wayang Kulit Performance of Bekasi City, West Java Province


In Java Island, a signature traditional art like Wayang Kulit is indeed quite popular. In fact, it has adapted into each region perfectly. In Bekasi City, for example, it has applied the local sociological aspect and turns into a new unique art for tourists to enjoy. So, what makes it different? Instead of telling stories related to the Hindu’s legends, this one uses local characters adapted from Wayang Golek. Due to such uniqueness, therefore, many outsiders and tourists are interested to watch the show directly when visiting Bekasi, especially during holidays!

The Nuance
As mentioned before, there is no Rama or other Hindu’s legends in Wayang Kulit Bekasi. Instead, tourists may find some local characters like Udel, Cepot, etc. Another thing that makes it quite different than regular shadow puppet shows is the attire of the puppets, which represents Arab culture. When it comes to the lighting technique, it is considered sophisticated. It is because the performer uses several visual effects as well during the show! What about the stories? It involves various aspects including the war, humor, song, dance, etc.

Exploring Wayang Kulit Performance
The first allure of Wayang Kulit Bekasi is none other than the history. According to the locals, the performance was brought by a person called Balentet. He became an apprentice of three famous puppeteers namely Cepe, Rasiun, and Belentuk. Later, he had his performances both in Cirebon and Bogor City starting in 1918. In fact, he kept conducting a shadow puppet show until he died in 1982! Fortunately, he passed down his skills and knowledge to his sons. The good thing is the locals also work hard to retain this valuable traditional show.

Today, Wayang Kulit Bekasi has become the part of the local culture and it is performed regularly, especially during local weddings and other occasions. For tourists, the best time to watch it is either during Hajat Bumi Ceremony. It is because the nuance becomes more sacred and interesting! As for the tip, it is better to come with a guide who can tell both information and history of the performance. He may explain the entire phases of the show as well, in fact.

At the beginning, there is Bubuka and it is done at night. At the time, the puppeteer tells the opening of the story. Next, there is Tatalu and other phases including Nyandera and Rajah. These are some scenes of the story. The fact is the performance may last for hours, even until dawn! Are you strong enough to stay up late at night?

Nearby Attractions

  • Namat Public Fishing Pond
  • Go Wet Waterpark
  • Kembang Market
  • Jakarta City

How to Get There
For those come from Bandung City, they can directly head to Bekasi City and take watch the performance right away. Still, everyone needs to know the schedule beforehand. As for the trip, it may take around 2 hours and 25 minutes as the distance is 133 km. For a faster trip, the best route to take is Purbaleunyi Highway and Pantura Street!

Where to Stay

  • Asa Hotel
  • Green Hotel
  • Aston Imperial Hotel
  • Amaroosa Hotel
  • Horison Hotel


Latest News

Bogor Botanical Garden Collections

In the Journal of Nature (a scientific journal of high repute), Mounce et al (2017) revealed, widely that Botanical Gardens around the world have collected at least 105,634 species or equivalent to 30% of all known plant diversity worldwide. However, it was also disclosed that there are an estimated 75% of species that have not been conserved in the tropics. Therefore, the Bogor Botanical Gardens which incidentally located in the tropics and are included in the oldest botanical gardens in Southeast Asia, must be able to answer the conservation challenges…


History of Bogor Botanical Gardens

The Bogor Botanical Gardens are the only natural destination in the middle of Bogor city with 87 hectares area. The transportation support capacity is very adequate to access this tourist location. Easy toll access and public transportation access are widely available, which are added values ??for the existence of this tourist location. The existence of the Bogor Botanical Gardens itself cannot be separated from the historical value of the existence of the Dutch in the colonial period, where it is known that the Bogor Botanical Gardens was founded by the…


Ranca Upas, Camping Place in Bandung

Ranca Upas is one of the tourist destinations in Bandung. Here you can camp while looking at the herd of deer and stunning scenery. Ranca Upas is a tourist spot located in Rancabali District, Bandung Regency, West Java. Ranca Upas is also known as campground, which is a favorite place for nature lovers. At Ranca Upas you can camp in the meadow on a hill of about 1700 meters above sea level. The view in the morning really amazes like being abroad. Moreover, the cool air makes the atmosphere more…


3 Most Popular Waterfalls in West Java

Last year, the waterfall or in local language called as ‘curug’, became a very popular tourist destination for tourists. Its presence in remote areas makes tourists more curious and feels challenged to reach it. Local waterfalls are also crowded because at that time Indonesian citizens were hit by boredom due to the Corona virus pandemic which forced them to cancel their vacation plans. West Java is not only famous for its beautiful beaches and mountains. The area, which is divided into 18 districts and nine cities, also has tourism potential…


Hotel Deals of the Day
Interesting Links
Indonesia Map HD
DiveWonderfulIndonesia.com
javatours.com
bali-hotel.com
Bromo
borneoecotour.com
Find Us on :
Find Us on :