Complete Guide For Traveling Java By Train – Indonesia Train Travel
Java is the most populous island in the world and an Indonesian treasure with green landscapes, rich historical sites, and vibrant urban centers. Exploring Java through train travel is an unparalleled experience, and we are here to guide you through it all. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of train travel in Java, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.
Lots of people have a layover in Jakarta for destinations like Bali. Not sure if you should travel through Java also? If you like exploring I suggest you do! Yogyakarta, Borobudur Temple, and Mount Bromo were my absolute favorites to see!
Why Travel Java by Train?
When viewed from a train window, Java’s landscapes unfold in a panorama that includes majestic volcanoes and emerald rice fields. Train travel is not only scenic but also:
- Economical: Often cheaper than flights or long drives.
- Convenient: Direct routes to many tourist destinations.
- Cultural: A chance to mingle with locals and fellow travelers.
Enjoy your coffee on the train with great views!
Whenever possible we advise using a train when traveling through Java. Other options are busses, motorbike or by car. It’s also cheap to fly between many destinations!
The Basics of the Java Train System
Java’s extensive railway network has been serving both locals and tourists for decades.
Types of Trains in Java
From economy class to executive luxury, Java’s trains cater to all budgets. Here are some notable options. Be aware that it often happen that its only economy class left.
Economy (Ekonomi) Class: The basic option with air conditioning is affordable. I only chose economy class as a last resort because of my height. If you’re tall or wide, it’s worth upgrading to business class. The legroom in economy class is limited, and you sit face-to-face with other passengers. However, you might have a pleasant conversation with locals as there are usually 5 or 6 people in each row, with 2 or 3 people in each row.
Business (Bisnis) Class: More comfort and services than Ekonomi. The legroom is much better here, for me it’s absolutely worth the extra money, especially for longer rides. The seats are not reclining. But they turn the seat so you’re always facing forward.
Executive (Eksekutif) Class: Air-conditioned with reclining seats, ideal for long journeys. The seats are individual in rows with 2 and 2 seats.
Executive (Eksekutif) Luxury Class: It’s hard to find trains with executive Luxury Class, but they are extremely luxurious! The seats are actually flatbeds so you can have a good night sleep until you arrive at your destination.
Subclasses: For all classes, there are also subclasses. The more expensive ones are just what they consider to be better places to sit. Far from doors, more comfortable, and so on. However, it doesn’t really work and it’s just a way they try to make more money. What I did was to ask if they could make sure I got a good seat, and that often worked very well! So don’t pay more for subclass, just go for the cheapest option in the class you want to be in.
All classes also offer a 2-pin European socket for power supply. In economy class, you have to share two sockets with uptil six people, so bringing a power bank is smart.
Java Train Map
The Java railway stretches from Jakarta in the west to Banyuwangi in the east, connecting major cities like Bandung, Yogyakarta, and Surabaya.
Java Train Tickets
Buying tickets is straightforward if you use tiket.com, but their mobile app has som errors.
Online Platforms: Tiket.com is the best for tourists, and they accept most bankcards. The official site booking.kai.id is only in Indonesia and only accept payments from Indonesian cards, so most foreigners can’t even use the site.
When you buy the ticket online you get a confirmation code or QR code that you will need to print the ticket at the train station. You can do that buy yourself on the screen, but in my experience, they are also very helpful and will show you what to do if you need help.
Train Stations: Purchase on the spot, but this only works three hours before the train leaves! I did this a few times.
I made the mistake of just saying the city name and not the station. The station was almost one hour from the station I wanted to go to. After speaking with the conductor it worked out, but be sure to always find out which station in the city it is!
Indomaret: There are Indomaret stores all over Java, and most of them have a machine where you can buy train tickets.
Travel Agencies: I would not recommend using travel agencies, because you will pay more for the same seat. With tiket.com you pay just a small fee. If you’re experiencing problems reach out to tiket.com and ask them for help to buy your train ticket.
Tip: Book in advance during peak seasons to avoid disappointment. When I travel I never know exactly when I will be somewhere, but that also means that you sometimes will be able to buy a train ticket or get the class you want to. You can also regularly check tiket.com to see how many tickets are left. But as soon as you know which train you want you should go ahead and book it.
During Ramadan and other holidays, you should book weeks if not months in advance! So always have a second plan if you just show up at the train station hoping for the best.
Preparing for Your Train Journey
Preparation is key for a smooth journey, especially in Indonesia. The trains are mostly on time, but delays happen.
Dos and Don’ts on Java Trains – For smooth traveling
Respect local customs, especially during prayer times. During Ramadan, you should not be eating in public during the day. Read the article for Cultural Etiquette in Indonesia and you will be okay!
What to Pack?
Essentials: You will need your passport and ticket to check-in. Bring some cash for buying food on the train. Many people also bring their own food! Buying water and some snacks before the trip will save you some money.
Se pictures of the food you can expect. They are happy to open the boxes so you can see what’s inside before you decide.
Comfort Items: Neck pillow, earplugs, and a book or playlist for entertainment.
If you travel by yourself: Sometimes the storage over the seats is full so you have to leave your bag where you can’t see it all time. Make sure to have a money belt or small backpack with the most important things. If you have one it’s also easy to bring it if you have to use the toilet.
Most of the toilets I saw were okay, some were also squat toilets.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Train Travel Through Java
The biggest disadvantage with trains is that they’re often full and that they don’t go everywhere!
Using the train makes you see the scenic beauty Java has to offer. It’s also an sustainable way to travel. Other options are Motorbike, bus, car and flying.
Traveling by bus, motorbike or car is okay when there are no other options. The biggest disadvantages are traffic and you often have to haggle! At some train stations, there are “No Grab Zones” which means a grab can’t pick you up. You either have to walk a bit, or use other transportation methods.
Travel Java by train!
Traversing Java by train is more than transportation; it’s an experience etched in memory. With this guide in hand, you’re set for an epic Javanese rail journey.
