The Best Museums in Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta, the thriving capital of Indonesia is a cultural center point. It is packed full of museums and galleries. Here are five of the best.

Art 1

Here you will find a respected museum, home to incredible pieces of fine art. Displaying modern Indonesian artists, you will get a good sense of the Island’s culture. It is a small museum, compared to the Met in New York, or the Tate in London, but it still contains a significant amount of quality art and is well worth a visit. 

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Galeri Nasional Indonesia

The national gallery of Indonesia takes you through the history of the country’s art. Tucked away in a historic building, be prepared to find an array of splendid artwork, representing the colors and culture of the islands.  It is free to enter, so don’t feel you have to absorb everything in one visit.

Museum Bank Indonesia

Opened by the Bank of Indonesia, this is a great place for anyone interested in financial matters. It offers a comprehensive history of the commerce and finances of Indonesia. Filled with interactive exhibits and a fascinating audio guide, you will definitely learn a lot. 

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Jakarta History Museum

This museum is brimming with cultural heritage. Located in the Old Town, it used to be a prison for Dutch and Indonesians rebels. Expect to follow a journey through the 17th to 19th century, showcasing arts, furniture, ceramics and weapons from the Dutch East Indies Company.

Jakarta Textile Museum

If you travel through Indonesia, there are many parts where you can observe traditional communities weaving and making textiles. This museum houses many fabrics from batik to beadwork and demonstrates how the local life and culture is woven in.