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Things You Should Know About Indonesian Culture

People holding the Indonesian flag
People holding the Indonesian flag | Amh Fx / Shutterstock

Learning about the culture of this exotic archipelago will not only ensure a more pleasant traveling experience, it will also enrich the way you perceive the world. From religious aspects to social habits, discover the things you should know about Indonesian culture.

There’s no such thing as an ‘Indonesian Culture’

Before we get into anything further, this is an important disclaimer. ‘Indonesia’ is a singular term that names a particular nation, but there’s nothing uniform about its culture. There are at least 300 ethnic groups in Indonesia, each with their own set of customs and distinctive cultural objects. That doesn’t mean there aren’t any similarities or tendencies between one culture to the other, but when reading this phrase keep in mind the diversity that comes with it. Often what considered as Indonesia’s culture is in fact an image of a dominant one or reflects an amalgamation of certain similar cultures.

Families are as close as they come

Two Indonesian girls making traditional Indonesian dish in Tenganan, Indonesia

Among the most important Indonesian traditions, is the family tradition of sharing the same household among different generations. No matter how old or independent they are, Indonesians tend to keep tight relationships with members of their family. For many Indonesian youths, moving out of parents’ house is simply not a thing, even when they already have a stable income of their own. Many choose to live under their parents’ roof unless they absolutely have to (many Indonesians leave their hometown to get a job in the city). And it’s not necessarily a sign of dependency, it just shows the values and principles the nation has when it comes to family.

Some households even consist of extended family — you’ll see grandparents, aunties, uncles, and nieces living together or staying in the same neighborhood just to be close to each other.

Religious commitments come first

When in Indonesia, you’ll see Balinese present their offerings first thing in the morning, or employees dropping everything for prayer time. No matter what religion they uphold, Indonesians are generally very spiritual. They take their religious practices very seriously, and that is reflected in daily rituals, ceremonies, even the grandness of their places of worship.

Pura Besakih temple on the slopes of Mount Agung largest and holiest temple at sunset

There are six religions in Indonesia

Indonesia is famous for its huge Muslim population; the largest in the world despite being a secular country by law. But Islam is just one of six official religions acknowledged in the country — Islam, Protestantism, Catholicism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. In Bali, for example, the dominant religion is Hinduism, and there are localities where there are more Christians than Muslims.

… and hundreds of traditional belief systems

Indonesia’s diversity extends to the variety of belief systems as well. Many communities still live traditionally and still uphold the religions and practices of their ancestors, often unique to the locality. But to categorize, many belief systems draw from animism, dynamism, and totemism. In some communities, those beliefs interact with traditions or influenced by another mainstream religion, resulting in a myriad of unique practices.

View of ubud palace from main Ubud street, Puri Saren Agung temple, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia

Indonesians are collective

Since its earliest history, Indonesians have always been communal. Farmers work together to cultivate their lands and manage resources, villages keep close-knit communities and take care of each other, and cultural values push forward principles of collectivism. Even in modern settings like the office workplace and modern communities, you’ll see the inclusiveness and friendliness of Indonesians.

Indonesians love spicy, savory food

The archipelago is rich with herbs and spices, which shape traditional recipes to utilize the abundance of those ingredients. In fact, many Indonesian dishes may come out strong to tourists’ tongues. Recipes do vary from one locality to another, according to the main crops in the area. Javanese, for instance, tend to like sweeter meals due to the abundance of cane and palm sugar. But many other locales like Padang, Manado, and Bali, sure do not hold back on their chili and spices.

Tempe Mendoan : Tempe mendoan adalah makanan tradisional orang Indonesia, khususnya daerah Cilacap, Jawa Tengah.

Every place has a legend

It’s fascinating to learn the geological processes that make mountains, hills and rivers. But Indonesians go beyond tectonic plates and erosion to explain how natural landmarks came to be. In most places, you can talk to the locals and dig stories of gods, spirits, royals, or hermits that contribute to the forming of a particular spot like natural features, temples, or other cultural landmarks.

Indonesians celebrate everything

Potato Head Beach Club, Seminyak Beach, Bali, Indonesia

From a child’s first step on the ground to certain months of pregnancy, many cultures in Indonesia has special ceremonies for even the tiniest milestones. Many cultures also make a huge deal out of life events like weddings and funerals, mixing them with mesmerizing traditional customs and celebrations. There are also communal celebrations like a myriad of different ceremonies of harvest or thanksgiving, and special dates associated with legends or history.

Indonesians are traditional

And no, we’re not talking about those living in traditional remote villages, but for practicing Indonesians customs. Many Indonesians who find themselves in modern settings still find ways to integrate their traditions and cultural values into the contemporary lifestyle. Some companies still consult traditional almanacs or spiritual elders to determine a good day to do business, and many young professionals still throw traditional ceremonies for their weddings, whether out of the family’s demands or out of their own volition, but the traditions live on.

Indonesians love making and performing arts

Indonesia’s rich culture begets so many inspired works of art — paintings, sculpture, music, dance, theatre, and more. From the ancient times to contemporary era, Indonesian artists keep drawing inspiration from the archipelago’s culture, values, and nature, ensuring the art scene stays alive and progressing.

wayang kulit traditional arts from Java,Indonesia

5 tours and experiences to help discover real Indonesian culture

Private Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance Evening Tour in Jimbaran Bay

Hindu Temple

Drone aerial panorama of Uluwatu Temple in Bali, Indonesia at sunset
Patrickwa / Shutterstock
One of the most popular neighborhoods in Bali, Uluwatu is packed with unmissable attractions, from surfer’s paradise beaches to sacred sea temples up the hill. Other than being naturally and architecturally beautiful, the Uluwatu Temple hosts regular traditional dance and drama performances held during sunset hours.

Full-Day Tour to Water Temples and UNESCO Rice Terraces in Bali

Natural Feature

Pura Ulun Danu Beratan temple balinese hindu temple on a Bedugul lake in Bali, Indonesia
Devardo_Shiva45 / Shutterstock
You may not need Culture Trip to tell you how Bali is one of the most beautiful islands to visit in Indonesia – but its a world-acclaimed island paradise for a reason. Over the years its charms have been refined by newly discovered attractions, passionate expat communities and top-class establishments. Welcoming millions of international tourists yearly, this island is used to providing something for every taste, be it natural features, food, cultural workshops, art, shopping and more. Even those who come frequently keep finding new things to see and do, while many others decide to stay and make a life on the island, engaging in the never-ending adventure it provides.

Bali Private Food Walking Tour With Locals: The 10 Tastings

Natural Feature

Kroket kentang. Croquettes are lumps of finely mashed potatoes filled with seasoned minced meat and mixed with vegetables such as carrots or green beans
Nunung Noor Aisyah / Shutterstock
Experience the authentic flavors of Bali on a private food walking tour, where local guides lead you through vibrant markets and hidden eateries. Discover ten unique tastings, from savory street food to traditional sweets, each offering a taste of Balinese culture. Alongside passionate locals, you’ll learn about the origins and ingredients of each dish, making this tour a delightful blend of culinary discovery and cultural immersion tailored just for you

Individual Bali Day Trip with Private Driver and Free WiFi

Natural Feature

Balinese women carrying on religious offering - Penglipuran is a traditional oldest Bali village at Bangli Regency
muratart/ Shutterstock
Enjoy a personalized Bali day trip with a private driver, exploring stunning temples, scenic rice terraces, and local markets at your own pace. With the convenience of free WiFi, you can share your journey in real-time while staying connected. This customized tour allows you to set your itinerary, whether you’re looking to experience Bali’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, or bustling shopping spots—all in the comfort of a private vehicle.

Legong Dance Show at Ubud Palace Bali Indonesia

Natural Feature

Asian travel background. Group of beautiful Balinese dancer girls with bare feet in traditional Sarong costume dancing Legong dance
Denis Moskvinov / Shutterstock
Witness the enchanting Legong Dance at Ubud Palace, where Bali’s vibrant culture comes alive through intricate movements and traditional music. This captivating performance tells ancient stories through expressive dance, colorful costumes, and the rhythms of a live gamelan orchestra. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Ubud Palace, the show offers a unique glimpse into Balinese art and heritage, making it a memorable experience for any visitor to Bali.
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