Travel Guide; Indonesian Culture

This country boasts one of the world's largest Muslim populations, though it is not an Islamic state. Welcome to WatchMojo.com, and today we'll be learning more about the culture of Indonesia. The Republic of Indonesia spans the continents of Asia and Oceania, and also straddles the equator. This unique location has blessed the country not only with a beautiful tropical climate, but also with unique and diverse culture, as well as a rich and fascinating history. The country's population of roughly 238 million is split into over 200 distinctive ethnic groups. For example, while the majority of the country adheres to the religion of Islam, the island of Bali boasts a significant Hindu population as well. There are a number of beautiful religious monuments located in Indonesia that showcase this diversity. The Buddhist Borobudur Temple is found on the island of Java, and is a shrine and pilgrimage spot for adherents of Buddhism. Meanwhile, Prambanan is a Hindu temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site also found on Java. It is considered one of Southeast Asia's biggest and most beautiful Hindu temples. Indonesian architecture is typical of many Southeast Asian buildings. Many of the structures are built on stilts, and they feature huge sloped roofs. In contrast, the Dutch-built clock tower Jamgedang in West Sumatra shows foreign influences. Indonesia is known for a number of visual arts as well. From painting to sculpture, these pieces are all examples of traditional Indonesian culture. Handmade crafts such as fabrics and textiles are another important cultural element, while wood carving and colourful umbrellas are more examples. The cultural range of Indonesia is also presented in the country's folk, tribal, traditional, and contemporary dances. Many dances tell a story, and distinct ethnic groups are differentiated by varied costumes and styles. Indonesia's cuisine is immensely diverse due to a variety of reasons. The country's historical location along well-traveled trade routes and the abundance of inhabited islands are two factors that have led to variety in the food and culture. Asian influences abound, while Middle Eastern and European styles are also mixed in. Rice is a common staple of all Indonesian food, as it is harvested natively, while other food standards vary from region to region. With colourful traditions and a distinct history, Indonesia is a great place to take in some culture.