Also known as Cheribon or Tjirebon, kota (city), Cirebon has been a center of the Islamic faith for centuries. Located in northeastern West Java (Jawa Barat) province on the Java Sea about 105 kilometers (65 miles) northeast from Bandung (towards the coast), it sits on the border of Central and West Java and had a large part in generating opposition to Dutch colonial rule. With the southern half of the region mountainous and the northern half largely marshy and flat, this seaport is a treasure trove of history and culture. Read on to learn about the best things to do in Cirebon!
Tip from tour guide
The Cirebon Kingdom, a renowned Islamic kingdom with origins in West Java, was established during the 15th and 16th centuries AD. Serving as a crucial hub connecting trade routes between islands, the Cirebon Sultanate is situated on the north coast of Java, marking the boundary between Central Java and West Java. Positioned as both a port and a 'bridge' between Javanese and Sundanese cultures, the Cirebon Sultanate has developed its own unique cultural identity, known as Cirebon culture, distinct from both Javanese and Sundanese influences.
1. Great Mosque of Cirebon
One of the two oldest mosques in Indonesia with a great view. This attraction dates as far back as 15th century. Also known as Great Mosque of Cirebon, it was built around 1480.
Set in the district of Java and located near the city area (alun-alun kota) this mosque was built as the teachings of Islam were being spread by a person named Wali Songo. The mosque has a wonderful view and permits entry to Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Visitors can enjoy its architecture and the mosque is easily reachable by public transportation.
Great Mosque of Cirebon
Address: Jl. Jagasatu, Kesepuhan, Lemahwungkuk, Kota Cirebon, 45114 Jawa Barat, Indonesia
2. Kasepuhan Palace
An icon of the city. When you hear the word “Keraton Kasepuhan” you will remember this remnant of the legacy of the Islamic empire in Cirebon. Immerse yourself in the history of Sunan Gunung Jati and learn about the greatness of Kesultanan Cirebon all while taking great pictures amidst the gorgeous architecture of the building.
Kasepuhan Palace
Address: Jl. Kasepuhan No.43, Kesepuhan, Lemahwungkuk, Kota Cirebon, 45114 Jawa Barat, Indonesia
3. Keraton Kacirebonan
An expansion of Kraton Kanoman and the smallest palace in Cirebon City compared to the other two (Keraton Kanoman and Keraton Kasepuhan), Keraton Kacirebonan was built in 1800 and has a rich history. Situated in Pulasaren sub-district of Pekalipan sub-district, it is located exactly 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) southwest of Kraton Kasepuhan and about 500 meters (1650 feet) south of Kraton Kanoman and today stores many historical relics such as Keris Wayang, war equipment, and the gamelan. No trip to Cirebon would really be complete without experiencing this gem of local culture and history.
Keraton Kacirebonan
Address: Pulasaren, Pekalipan, Pulasaren, Cirebon, Kota Cirebon, 45116 Jawa Barat, Indonesia
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4. Masjid Raya At-Taqwa Cirebon
A gate of striking gold and calligraphy greets visitors at the entrance to the Great Mosque of At-Taqwa Cirebon (originally called the Tajug Agung), and six luminous pillars adorn the entrance to the gate. The floors, pillars, and walls of the mosque are made of granite and are decorated with Islamic motifs. Dominating the front are the two sentences of the shahada (declaration of faith) which are emblazoned on cement-reinforced glass set in granite stone from Brazil.
Masjid Raya At-Taqwa Cirebon
Address: Jl. RA. Kartini No. 2, Kec. Kejaksan, Kebonbaru, Kejaksan, Kota Cirebon, 45121 Jawa Barat, Indonesia
Website: Masjid Raya At-Taqwa Cirebon
Cirebon Tour Guide
Emir Yamin
When it comes to travel, the journey isn't just about reaching a destination; it's about the experiences you gather along the way. While big group tours might be the conventional choice, opting for a local guide can elevate your travel adventure to new heights. That's why I've decided to become a tour guide.During my tenure as the Chief of Media Relations, I had the opportunity to travel extensively and host numerous visitors from Indonesia. This experience not only fueled my passion for exploration but also equipped me with in-depth knowledge about Indonesia, inspiring me to contribute to the tourism sector.My expertise in tourism is rooted in my genuine interests. I have a deep love for trying new foods, leading me to discover amazing places with incredible culinary delights. Beyond gastronomy, I am passionate about nightlife, exploring the unique offerings each city has after dark. Additionally, I find joy in driving around, immersing myself in new cultures, and savoring new culinary experiences.These experiences have left an indelible mark on me, and I am eager to share the richness of each city's culture, food, and nightlife with all of you. Join me on a journey where every tour is not just a trip; it's a collection of unforgettable moments.
Tours by Emir
5. Red Mosque Panjunan
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
The Red Mosque of Panjunan or (Mesjid Merah Panjunan) is located on a street corner in Panjunan Village (where there are many craftsmen of pottery). It was built in 1480 by Maulana Abdul Rahman who is also known as Prince Panjunan, an Arab who became a pupil of Sunan Gunung Jati (one of the Wali Songo) and led a group of immigrants from Baghdad. Included as an object of cultural heritage, the facade of the building is made of red bricks (hence the name) and displays the influence of the Hindu Majapahit era.
Red Mosque Panjunan
Address: Jl. Kolektoran No.43, Panjunan, Lemahwungkuk, Kota Cirebon, 45112 Jawa Barat, Indonesia
6. Gedung Negara
The State Building of Cirebon was built in 1865 and it became the official home of Albert Wilhelm Kinder De Camurecq when he served as Resident of Cirebon. Located at Jalan Siliwangi, Cirebon City, the single-story state building is a very beautiful old building with a symmetrical curve to the right and a large yard as well as a round garden and a state flag. There is a family room as well as the Jepara Room (where important guests are received) and beautiful curved ornaments decorate the round garden which was built in 1988. Antique lamps hang gracefully on the front porch of the Cirebon State Building with several pairs of chairs and tables.
Gedung Negara
Address: Kesenden, Kejaksan, Cirebon City, 45121 West Java, Indonesia
7. Linggarjati Museum
Located at the foot of Mount Ciremai in Linggarjati Village, Cilimus District and easily reachable from Cirebon City, the Linggarjati Museum is supported by good road facilities and is one of the leading tourist destinations here. Originally a shack belonging to Mrs. Jasitem in 1918, the Linggarjati negotiation building is a historic site, which witnessed the building of the Indonesian nation and the signing of the linggarjati agreement to achieve Indonesian independence. The signing between the government of the Republic of Indonesia and the Dutch government (with the British government acting as a mediator) was to end the dispute between the two parties.
Linggarjati Museum
8. Tamansari Gua Sunyaragi
Sunyaragi Cave is a piece of cultural heritage here in the city of Cirebon and is one part of the palace known as Kasepuhan Pakungwati. It is located on the ring-road (by-pass) and easily reached by pedicab from the town center. Although called Sunyaragi Cave, this amazingly beautiful tourist attraction isn’t really a cave but a uniquely constructed man-made building. It was built in 1703 by one of the sultans of Cirebon as a water palace and renovated in the 1800s by a Chinese architect.
Tamansari Gua Sunyaragi
Address: Sunyaragi, Kesambi, Cirebon City, 45132 West Java, Indonesia
Faith and independence
Immerse yourself in the Islamic faith and struggle for independence from Dutch rule in Cirebon, Indonesia.
History
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