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The 8 Coolest Neighborhoods in Jakarta, Indonesia

Putu Bagus Susastra Wiguna /
Putu Bagus Susastra Wiguna / | © Culture Trip

The diversity and versatility of Jakarta make it a great place that has something for everyone, if they know where to look. From mainstream shopping areas to the hipster hub, discover the coolest neighborhoods in Jakarta.

Kemang

This neighborhood in South Jakarta is the city’s most fashionable district, its streets lined up with the city’s best fashion boutiques, from local labels to imported, limited items. Kemang is also packed with modern, youthful restaurants and cafés with creative, artsy concepts.

Menteng

One of the oldest and most prestigious neighborhoods in Jakarta, Menteng has the city’s most elegant buildings, from restaurants to houses. Menteng hosts the residence of many Indonesian governments and high-ranking officials, as well as legendary restaurants that highlight fine, authentic Indonesian cuisine. Many buildings in this neighborhood are considered cultural and historical landmarks, and new buildings must follow a set of specific guidelines to assure aesthetic and quality.

Sudirman-Thamrin

One of the city’s most prominent business centers, this neighborhood contributes greatly to Jakarta’s ever-growing skyline, with tall stylish buildings that host hundreds of businesses. Not only known as a business district, this area is as lively at night as it is all day as vibrant bars and clubs in the neighborhood transform it into a youthful nightlife hub.

Kota Tua

Once serving as the center of governmental activities in Dutch colonial times, many of the historical, centuries-old buildings still stand in the neighborhood today. Kota Tua Jakarta is now a popular tourist attraction where tourists come to observe stylish European-style buildings, enjoy the open air, dine at colonial-inspired restaurants, and do other activities. Some of the old buildings have been repurposed and reopened as museums, adding cultural value to the historical place.

Kuningan

Kuningan is one of the busiest business districts in Jakarta, packed with tall buildings and skyscrapers. Dozens of high-end hotels and lifestyle centers have been opened in response to the ever-growing development in the area. Kuningan also has some of the city’s best shopping malls, including the Lotte Shopping Avenue, Kota Kasablanka, and the humble but highly popular Mall Ambassador.

Panglima Polim

Jakarta has many heavens for foodies or coffee lovers, but Panglima Polim is the one area to visit to experience a hipster, quirky vibe. It has numerous hipster-inspired coffee shops, restaurants, even concept stores. It’s no wonder that the trendy spot is also where Jakarta’s hipsters make their home, making it a great place to go people-watching or meet quirky people.

Pantai Indah Kapuk

Market

This up-and-coming neighborhood in North Jakarta is bustling with new concept cafés and restaurants every month. Pantai Indah Kapuk is also a prestigious residential area with its own golf club, country club, water park, market, shopping mall, and a vast area of mangrove forest.

Glodok

Glodok is Jakarta’s Chinatown, hosting a great deal of the city’s Chinese population. Consequently, the area throbs in a different way than the rest of the city. The neighborhood is dense with stores, many of which have been in business for generations. This is where tourists can enjoy great Chinese food, purchase oriental goods for cheap prices, visit ornate temples, and bargain for electronic devices.
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