5 Popular Hidden Tourist Places in Banyuwangi

Although it is still located on Java island, perhaps many of you have never set foot in Banyuwangi even though you may have been back and forth several times to Surabaya, Malang, or Bromo.

This city at the eastern end of East Java Province is a ‘bridge’ connecting the island of Java and the island of Bali. And because of the proximity of the location to the Island of the Gods, don’t be surprised if some of the traditions and arts in Banyuwangi have little resemblance to those in Bali.

Not only the tradition but the natural beauty of Banyuwangi is also worth juxtaposing with Bali. There are at least three tourist destinations in Banyuwangi whose names are already worldwide. So, it’s a shame that you, who are Indonesians, have never been to this place dubbed The Sunrise of Java.

From beautiful white sandy beaches, mountains with stunning craters, African-style national parks, waterfalls to the various noble traditions of their ancestors, the attractions that make Banyuwangi deserve to be equated with its “neighbors.”

Want to go there for the first time? Relax, we will provide a little guide so that you can get the full holiday experience.

The most Instagrammable place a la Lord of the Rings: Benculuk Bureau

In 1952, this place was not built as a tourist spot but as a water catchment area and teak wood stockpile managed by Perhutani Banyuwangi. However, the existence of shady and towering trembesi trees creates an exotic and mysterious sight, so many people come here to enjoy its charm.

If you like photo hunting, then the best time is in the afternoon when the sun shines through the gaps in the trees so that it looks so magical, like the forest scene in the Lord of the Rings movie. No wonder if in the afternoon, this area is often visited by residents to relax, enjoying the fresh air, cycling, exercising, or even taking pre-wedding photos!

In addition to presenting natural beauty, the tourist area of Jawatan also offers several other activities such as fishing and white water rafting, of course at an additional cost.

Miniature Raja Ampat that won’t drain your pocket: Bajulmati Reservoir

Are you looking forward to a trip to Raja Ampat in Papua, but the funds collected to be able to visit there have not been collected? Why not look for another alternative that is cheaper but no less beautiful? Bajulmati Reservoir located on the border between Banyuwangi and Situbondo, East Java, is your answer.

In addition to being able to accommodate 10 million cubic meters of water, the new reservoir opened in July 2016 has a panoramic view of beauty similar to Raja Ampat in Papua, due to the presence of mounds resembling small islands in the reservoir area.

If you want to get a photo spot like in Wayag, Raja Ampat, go to the reservoir area after the gazebo. In addition, visitors can also take pictures along the reservoir road, which is no less photogenic. Supporting facilities at the Bajulmati Reservoir are diverse, ranging from ATVs, speed boats, outbound facilities to cafes.

Traverse plantations and mountains by train: Kalibaru Tourist Lori

Enjoying the beauty of nature can not only be done by car or on foot. In Banyuwangi, you can do it while taking a train or tourist lorry!

This tourist lorry departs from Kalibaru Station to Mrawan PP Station. Along the way, you will be taken across coffee plantations at an altitude of 400 meters on Mount Gumitir where the air is cool. The train will stop for a moment in a dark train tunnel, where you can get off for a while to take pictures.

One lorry has a capacity of up to 16 passengers only with a price per package of around Rp. 1,200,000 or less than Rp. 100,000, – per person with a travel time of about 50 minutes. Not only can you enjoy the beauty of the natural panorama from the top of the train, but you can also learn about the history of the railway. For now, tourist lorry trains only operate on Saturdays and Sundays, but if someone orders on weekdays, they will still be served.

A special viewing post at the eastern end of Java: Mondoleko Hill Sragi Bukit

Located at the tip of the island of Java, this is the place to explore the beauty of the five mountains that adorn the eastern tip of Java: Mount Raung, Suket, Kendil, Meranti, and Merapi.

To reach this place, you have to walk about 1.5km to reach this viewing post. But no need to worry because the beautiful scenery and cool air will make the trip feel comfortable. Moreover, on the way, there is a “rest area” aka cool selfie spots, such as sunflower fields, colorful flowers, and strawberry fields that you shouldn’t miss!

Near this viewing post, there is a cave that is said to be a Japanese relic. Unfortunately, you can only explore the cave’s mouth because the inside is closed to the public.

The modern place to peek at the Island of the Gods: Asmoro Peak

Only about 13 km from Banyuwangi City, there is an enchanting place to peek at the beauty of the Bali Strait, which is between the islands of Java and Bali and the bustle of the ships that cross it, and of course, the island of Bali itself. From a place that is at an altitude of 640 meters above sea level, the majesty of Mount Meranti, Merapi, and Raung is also clearly visible! Moreover, Asmoro Peak has been deliberately transformed to become a contemporary tourist spot.

There is a viewing post, a small pier, a star-shaped spot, and a unique small pier. All of them are beautiful selfie spots that are hard to match. For a bit of a challenge, visit this place in the morning. Besides being quieter, the beauty of the sunrise from the direction of the island of Bali certainly doesn’t need to be questioned anymore.

Ready to start your getaway to Banyuwangi? Visit Wonderful Indonesia, and don’t miss out on the magic!