Things To Do
in Mojokerto
Mojokerto is a historic city in East Java that blends ancient temple heritage with approachable, friendly city life. It sits as a gateway to the Majapahit-era ruins at Trowulan and lush rural landscapes just beyond the outskirts. The streets buzz with traditional markets, coffee shops, and colorful murals that invite wandering and slow exploration.
With easy access to nearby hills, waterfalls, and cultural workshops, Mojokerto offers a low-key base for culture and nature lovers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Majapahit Temple, immersing yourself in the rich history of the Majapahit Empire. As you stroll through the ancient ruins, take note of the intricate stone carvings that tell tales of a glorious past. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Indonesian breakfast at a local warung, savoring dishes such as Nasi Goreng and fresh fruit.
In the afternoon, head to the Mojokerto City Museum to explore artifacts that date back to the Majapahit era. Engage with knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into the historical significance of the exhibits. Wrap up your museum visit with a leisurely walk through the museum's gardens, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local restaurant to indulge in a delightful dinner featuring traditional Javanese cuisine. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as locals gather to enjoy their evening meals, and perhaps try a local specialty like Rawon or Sate. End your day by taking a stroll around the nearby park, enjoying the cool evening air.
Start your morning with a scenic drive to Trawas, a mountainous region known for its stunning landscapes. Upon arrival, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a café with panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Prepare for an exciting day of outdoor adventures by gathering your hiking gear and water.
In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling hike to the top of Penanggungan Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. The trail is surrounded by lush greenery, and you may encounter local wildlife along the way. After descending, relax at a nearby café and enjoy a refreshing drink while chatting with fellow hikers.
As dusk falls, seek out a local eatery to experience traditional Indonesian dishes that will fuel your adventures. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals gather to share stories and laughter. To cap off the day, head back to your accommodation and relax under the stars, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $0.5-1.5 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🧺Groceries for a few days | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich ancient-history sites and approachable city vibe
- Low-key, friendly atmosphere with good value for money
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Public transportation options can be slower and less frequent outside central area
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Tolong" - Please / Excuse me
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don’t understand
- "Aduh enak!" - Delicious!
- "Apa rekomendasi Anda?" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in Mojokerto
Visit one of these nice places.
Vestiges of Majapahit-era temple ruins set against a village backdrop; great for atmospheric daylight shots and golden-hour photography.
City square with open space, fountains, and surrounding architecture; ideal for street photography and candid portraits.
Rolling hills and greenery with vantage points for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or late afternoon.
Food in Mojokerto
Mojokerto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed rice topped with blanched vegetables and a rich peanut sauce; a staple, affordable street-food option found at markets and warungs.
Must-Try!
Dark beef soup flavored with keluak and spices, often served with rice and sambal; a regional favorite in East Java eateries.
Turmeric-infused chicken soup with noodles or rice, herbs, and lime; a comforting meal at hawker stalls and casual restaurants.
Meatball soup common across Indonesia, widely available from street vendors and family-owned stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Large traditional market where you can taste fresh produce, local snacks, and affordable meals, with stalls open from morning into early afternoon.
Compact clusters of street food stalls offering quick bites, fried snacks, and beverages popular with locals and visitors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes when entering temple areas where required, and ask before taking photos in sacred spaces.
Greet with a smile and use polite language; use your right hand for giving and receiving objects; modest behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Mojokerto
Ensure a smooth experience
Not mandatory but appreciated for good service. Round up bills or leave small tips in cafes and guided activities.
Cash is widely used in markets and family-run eateries. Some larger shops and hotels accept card payments or mobile wallets; carry small bills for tips and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny days with lower humidity; great for outdoor sightseeing and long outdoor photo walks. Sunscreen and hydration recommended.
Frequent brief to heavy showers; carry a compact rain jacket and a protective cover for cameras. Trails can be muddy; plan indoor alternatives for rainy days.
Mojokerto at Night
Hiking in Mojokerto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A nearby volcanic peak offering accessible day hikes and scenic views over the valley.
Scenic foothills and ring of viewpoints suitable for short treks and photography, with lush landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Mojokerto by plane.
Primary international and domestic gateway within a short drive of Mojokerto; numerous domestic connections and road access to Mojokerto via toll roads or intercity buses.
Alternative regional airport with domestic flights; about a 1.5–2.5 hour drive to Mojokerto depending on traffic and route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group with strong local traditions and language usage.
Visible in commerce and markets, contributing to local cuisine and trade.
A mix of university-affiliated and rural residents who populate the city and its surroundings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular recreational sport at community gyms and clubs.
Widely played in schools and local fields; casual matches are common in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mojokerto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable-forward nasi pecel, tempeh, tofu, and vegetable soups; ask for no fish sauce or animal broths when necessary. Most warungs can accommodate requests with notice.