Quintessential Kyoto

By John Ashburne, executive summary by darmansjah

When you’re done exploring the monuments and gardens of this former imperial capital the most refined cuisine in Japan awaits. But where to go? Here, an insider’s pick of Kyoto’s Top 10 Bets for an unforgettable meal.

It was born, wrote te ancient poets, as the city of celestial spirits, where temples outnumbered the gods and the very water that sprang from the earth was purer than the dew on the lotus leaves in the gardens of Nirvana. Its fame “spread to the four known corners of the teerestrial earth.”

Michelin-starred chef Kunio Tokuoka testing dashi stock in the kitchen of hana-Kitcho

Alas, somewhere here along the line, something got lost in translation. Although tens of millions of domestic tourists visit Kyoto annually to marvel at its temples and shrines, its stone gardens and geisha, and its impossibly elegant ryotei (traditional fine-dining restaurants), Japan’s ancient capital attracts a relatively scant number of foreign visitors. Most heinously, the great star in Kyoto’s cultural firmaments-its incredibly sophisticated and alluring food-has, until recently, passed beneath the global tourist radar.

The city’s signature cuisine is Kyo-ryori, a catch-all term that encompasses the sophisticated multicourse kaiseki and chakaiseki feasts associated with the tea ceremony, as well as the nuanced vegetarian fare that constitutes the Buddhist-in particular,Zen-culinary arts. Directly translated, it simply means “Kyoto Foods,” yet the phrase is synonymous with the ultimate in quality, service, refinement, omotenashi hospitality, and luxuriant style.

Kyo-ryori emerged from a unique combination of historical, artistic, and geographic factors factors. An abundance of natural spring water and fertile oils provided the essentials. However, the inland city’s remove from the ocean posed, in the centuries before refrigeration, a serious logistical problem. Kyoto chefs had to find new ways of salting, preserving, and pickling seafood, and using soybeans and local vegetables to satisfy the dietary demands of the ubiquitous Buddhist clergy. Thus, from its very outset, Kyo-ryori has been associated with innovation.

When, in 794, Japan’s imperial capital moved to Kyoto, the city’s kitchens and markets had to fullfil the needs of even more important customers-the emperor and his court. Despite the paucity of raw materials, chefs were obliged to produce new and evermore entertaining cuisine. As master chef “Toshio Murata of Kikunoi explains,” It was a difficult and dangerous business. If a cook’s dishes displeased the imperial retinue, it was ‘Off with his head!”

The threat of imminent decapitation proved an effective spur to culinary creativity, but it was gentler, more beign influence that was to move Kyo-ryori to even more exalted heights. The newly emerged aristocratic art of the tea ceremony demanded a culinary accompaniment that incorporated wabi-sabi, the Japanese aesthetic system that finds beauty in imperfection and impermanence. Thus was born chakaiseki, the beautifully crafted antecedent of all formal Kyo-ryori meals.

The Kamasu no Sugita Yaki at Kikunoi presetns grilled barracud on a plate with autumn leaves and a pice of burning cedar

Centuries later, Kyoto’s cuisine may have finally arrived on the international stage. In 2009, the Kyoto-Osaka Michelin Guide awarded 84 of the city’s Japanese restaurants the sum total of 109 stars, with six receiving the coveted three-star accolade. Earlier this year, another French taste maker, fashion house Louis Vuitton, went even farther with its first edition of the Louis Vuitton City Guide Kyoto/Nara (for which, it should be noted, I was a contribution writer), showcasing 90 eateries that reflect th city’s unique “ cultural DNA.”

And so it should be. But if I had to pick only 10 experiences that best exemplified the cuisine of Kyoto, my home for the past two decades, it would be these:

Savor The Season at Kikundi

Presided over by three-star Michelin chef Yoshihiro Murata, this exceptional ryotei is arguably the most famous restaurant in Japan, and an obligatory stop for any Kyoto-bound gourmet. Its tranquil tatami rooms are beautiful, many looking out onto Kikunoi’s gardens: the intimate Yakatabune room was designed by Murata himself to evoke the experience of dining on an hold-fashioned pleasure boat on nearby Lake Biwa.

Kikunoi, which has been in Murata’s family for three generations, is the epitome of refined luxury in everything from its bespoke lacquer ware to its delicate ikebana flower arrangements. But it is Murata’s beautifuly crafted kaiseki that has brought him much-deserved acclaim. Borne by kimono-clad waitresses, every element in the nine-or ten course banquet is perfectly matched to the seasons. On my latest visit, Kamasu no Sugiita Yaki, 1a 17th-century recipe for grilled barracuda that Murata himself rediscovered, made for an amazing autumn specialy. Presented on the plate with freshly fallen leaves and a pice of smoldering cedar, it recalled a picnic in the Kyoto forests of yore. 459 Shimogawara-cho, Kawaramachi-dori, Yasakatoriimae-sagaru, Higashiyama-ku; 81-75-561-0015; kikuno.jp; dinner for two from US$410

Explore Artisanal Cooking at Ryozanpaku

Dining at Ryozanpaku is like being invited into the home of an impossibly tasteful and wealthy friend. You enter through a carved wooden gate, walk across a stone path, slide back the shoji door, and pass into a realm of flower arrangements, gallery-worthy art, and wondrous food.

kaiware (cress) sushi at sushidokoro Man

In the case of Ryozanpaku, your host is the genial master chef Kenichi Hashimoto. His two-Michelin-star restaurant is named after teh legendary Chines mountain lair from which a band of righteous outlaws waged war against an evil regime. The only battle going on here, however, is for the captivation of your taste buds, everything, right down to the soy sauce, is handcrafted on the premises, where Hashimoto was born and raised. His home-turned-restaurant even boasts its own source of pure water, dubbed Izumidono (“His Highness, the Well”), for which the chef modestly credits his culinary success. The 15-dish hassun (the second course of a formal kaiseki meal in which the cehf expresses his full creative flair in a selection of hors d’oeuvres) is a visual and edible delight. But it  is Hashimoto’s signature misozuke-a magical, sake-infused mx of broiled scallops, mackerel, and white miso-that keeps Ryozanpaku regulars coming back for more. 5 Izumidono-cho, Yoshida, Skyo-ku;81-75-771-447; ryozanpaku.net; dinner for two from US$270.

Dine on Contemporary Kaiseki at Hana-Kitcho

For all that he bears an uncanny resemblance to the former bad boy of sumo wrestling Asashoryu, Kunio Tokuoka is as urbane and charismatic as celebrity chefs come. With four Michlein stars under his belt and a restaurant group founded by his grandfather to oversee (including an eponymous dining room in Singapore’s Resorts World Sentosa), Tokuoka still manages his Armani suit for his chef’s whites, he’s all business. He runs his kitchen with precision, issuing a multitude of orders and testing stock with a clearly practiced eye and palate.

salmon roe with simmered green chili leaves, part of  the hassun kaiseki course at Hana-Kitcho

Tokuoka rose to fame when he took over the legendary, stratospherically expensive, rigidly calssical Kitcho restaurant in Kyoto’s Arashiyama district. Hana-Kitcho, its chid younger sibling (complete with a checkerboard moss garden on the rooftop), sets the stage for Tokuoka’s contemporary take on Kyo-ryori, with uncoventional elements appearing on the menu and prices geared toward mere mortals. Don’t miss th unique shioya, a dish that features succulent, partially grilled prawns and seasonal fish served in a dome of slat. 3-2 Taiwa-cho, Yamato-oji Shijo-sagaru, Higashiyama-ku; 81-75-531-1500; kitcho.com;dinner for two from US$156.

Try Something Fishy at Ranmaru

Chef-owner Taiki Sato runs this fantastic, intimate restaurant near the Heian-jingu shrine in Kyoto’s Shogoin district. His specilaity is fish, be it grilled, steamed, deep-fried, or raw and supremely fresh. “I became  a chef because I can’t do anything else,’ he professes with a grin. And that’s just as well: in all the years I have been going to Ranmaru, i’ve yet to be disappointed.

This is the best place to sample nodoguro (literally, “black throat”), or tilefish, a Kyoto specialty known elsewhere in Japan as guji. It is excellent as sashimi or deep-fried. Nor should you miss the feather light termpura of wakasagi (ice fish) smlet or  the Ebi to Tako Escargot Fu-prawn and octopus baked and served with freshly toasted French bread in an secargot dish. Ranmaru also has a fine sake collection try the Kintsuru, a lovingly crafted brew from the island of Sado. 28-5 Sanno-cho, Shogoin, Skayo-ku; 81-75-761-7738; dinner for two from US$90.

Satiate Yoursef with Sushi at Sushidokoro Man

It is said that the finest sushi in the world can only be found among the legendary itamae (suhsi chefs) of Tokyo. So much for conventional wisdom. Sushidokoro Man is a true gem, tucked away in the relative obscurity of the Ebisugawa furniture district, just a couple blocks north of City Hall.

The restaurant’s cheeful owner, Akira Umehara, likes to keep thins low-key. He shuns the media, relying instead on word of mouth to publicize his small, elegant establishment. It’s proven a successful strategy. Reservations are essential here: Umehara’s sushi is some of the most sublime that I have ever tasted. Staples such as toro (fatty tuna belly), and tai (sea bream) are superb, but be sure to try some of his seasonal nigiri sushi, such as the shiroika-a species of white squid from Nagasaki-and pickled cress. The latter may sound mundane, but, in fact, ti is a gustatory revelation. Take that, Tokyo! 305 Tawaraya-cho, Ebisugawa-dori Yanaginobanba Higashi-iru, Nakagyo-ku; 81-75-223-3351; dinner for two from US$260.

Embrace the Feel at Kappo Nakagawa Shijo

Hamo-a.k.a. the daggertooth pike conger-is emblematic of Kyoto cuisine, and now here is this cel served with more loving care than at Kappo Nagawa Shijo. Chef Hikko Nakagawa pioneered eating hamo in the shabu-shabu style at his restaurant in the Gion district, and his son Masahiro Nakamura has continued the tradition for the last 18 years in the relatively informal setting of this branch in downtown Kyoto.

What really sets Kappo Nakagawa apart is the quality of its dashi, a characteristic stock of  konbu (kelp) and katsuo (bonito) shavings whose exact formula is a closely guarded secret. The hamo, which you simmer all so briefly in a hot pot of stock at your table, is ready when it curls into a white are of succulent fishy flesh. You can laso try it grilled over charcoal in the sumibiyaki style. Nishi Kiyamcahi-dori Shijo-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku; 81-75-352-3511; kappou-nakagwa.ecnet.jp; dinnar for two from US$170.

Taste the Tofu at Shoraian

During the Heian period, Arashiyama, a leafy district in the western outskirts of the city, was the playground of Kyoto’s nobility, who would gater here to attend moon-viewing parties, write elegiac verse and indulge in a spot of cormorant fishing. The area today is a mecca for domestic tourists, who swarm to its bamboo groves and the magnificense of Tenryu-ji temple. For the gourmet traveler, however, the real attraction is the tofu specialty restaurant Shoraian. Perched above the banks of the Oi River, this beautiful wooden building is owned by master calligrapher Fuyoh Kobayashi, who has filled the space with her graceful Zen inspired artwork.

The delicate, silken bean curd here is just as remarkable as the decor; explore it in all its varieties with the set tofu kaiseki. Reservations, especially during the autumn maple-viewing season, are essential, but hter’s no finer spot to kick back with a glass of sake and watch ther river flow by over a long, leisurely meal. Kanyuchi-nai, Saga Kameno’o-cho, Ukyo-ku; 81-75-861-0123; only open for dinner on weekend; lunch for two from US$80.

Explore Nishiki Market

To to locals, it is Kyo-no-daidokoro, or “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” and the Nishiki-koji Ichiba market arcade has existed on this central site since 1615, serving the inexhaustible appetites of the imperial court and the high-end ryotei restaurants. A visit here is a must, as the full span of Kyoto food culture is represented in the family-run businesses that line the narrow, covered alleyway that runs for 300 meters between Takakur Road and the Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine. Highlights include the local pickles at Uchida Tsukemono (free samples available); the knives and kitchenware at the legendary Arisugu: the gourmet vegetables on offer at Kanematsu; and the inexpensive, freshly grilled shelfish at Daiyasu.

This is one spot where eating on the hoof is tolerated in Japan, though many of the shops also provide takeaway bento boxes. And if you fancy a sit-down meal, the oyako-donburi (rice topped with chicken and egg) at Maruki Shokudo canteen is excellent, and a steal at around US$8. also recommended is Yaoya no Nikai, a restaurant above Kanematsu that serves a set lunch made with locally sourced heirloom vegetables such as Shogoin daikon, Kujonegi leeks, and Kamonasu aubergines. Kyoto-niskhiki.or.jp; stalls open from 9a.m. to 5 p.m.

Order Noodles Fit for Royalty at Honke Owariya

Famed for its soba, this Kyoto institution dates back to 1465, and is reportedly Emperor Akhito’s favorite spot for a bowl of buckwheat noodles when in town. Another of Kyoto’s specialities, nishin soba (noodles in broth topped with cured herring), is in fine form here. Better still, order the signature hourai soba, en elaborate dish presented with shiitake mushrooms, sliced egg, sesame horseradish, seaweed, leek, deep-fried prawns, and grated whiet radish,. 322  Kuramaya-cho Jijo, Nkagyo-ku; 81-75-231-3446; honke-owariya.co.jp; the hourai soba will set you back US$27.

Sip Gourmet Green Tea at Ippodo

Ippodo has been retailing the finest green teas in Kyoto for nearly three centuries, its name synonyomous with the highest quality and service. At the mai nstore’s Kaboku Tearoom, even the most discerning of tea connoisseurs will find plenty to delight in, while helpful staff are on hand to guide novices through the brewing and tasting process. Start with the simple Kaboku sencha ata about US$9, then, if you are feeling adventurous and deep-pocketed, splash out on the tenka-ichi gyokuro (US$23). The name of this aromatic decoction means “the finest under heaven,” and you’ll soon know why, Termachi-dori Nijo, Nakagyoku;81-75-211-3421;ippodo-tea.co.jp

Getting There

Kyoto’s international gateway is the Kansai International Airport Outside Osaka, a 75 minute train ride away. If you’re coming from Tokyo, bullet trains leave Tokyo Station every 30 minutes, and arrive in Kyoto two and a half hours later.

Where to Stay

Hyatt Regency Kyoto, the town’s top Western-Style hotel, 644-2 Sanjusangendo-mawari; Higashiyama-ku; 81-75-541-1234; kyoto.regency.hyatt.com; doubles from US$325

The Screen, Ryokan-meets-modern design hotel at this 13-room gem.640-1 Shimogory omae-cho. Nakagyo-ku; 81-75-252-1113 screen-hotel.jp; doubles from US$387

Traveling Together with Olympus PEN E-P3

ability was equivalent SLRs, lightweight body and ready to be invited into any adventure!

By Darmansjah

Traveling toward the destination with weather conditions so difficult to guess the dominant gray sky, or want to give a certain effect on the views of the beach without having to be bothered by all major camera equipment?

Find the answer to the Olympus PEN EP-3 is equipped with a lens M. Zuiko Digital 14-42mm F3.5 - 5.6 II R. This is the latest alerts Olympus Imaging Corporation to the concept of high-performance cameras and SLR image quality equivalent. Body of material designed full-metal retro-style, available in 3 colors: silver, white, and black. Button using a metallic material, the color of the lens and grip can be changed according to taste. While the object is presented on the display screen capable of 610,000 dot dimensions 3inci OLE. The weight of the E-P3 is very lightweight, easy to carry anywhere.

The main features of the E-P3 is the reliability autofocusing (AF) through optimization of the world's fastest-Frequency Acceleration Sensor system (FAST) and the lens is equipped with mechanisms Move & Still Compatible (MSC). Performance of the FAST system and AF, the lens M. Zulko Digital 14-42 mm F3.5-5.6IIR a combined mechanism of MSC could accelerate when shooting and reduce noise when shooting with auto focus. The resulting picture quality reaches 12.3 megapixel High Speed ​​Live MOS categories sensor with ISO12800.

For taking pictures with a moving object (moving an object), the user Olympus PEN E-P3 did not have to worry. On the operating system chroma signal detectors are just as good as the luminance signal. Its function will make the appropriate object in focus, even though its shape changed or disappeared during the process of tracking progress. Simply press the S-AF-half and the sensitivity of the moving object will work perfectly.

If you want to give a particular touch to the picture, Art Effect filters are available as pale and light color until the effects of 3-dimensional (3D). Also available Advanced features Shadow Adjustment Technology (ASAT) for backlight correction. The result is natural images as seen by the naked eye, without any cases of underexposure or overexposure.

Another advantage offered by PEN E-P3 is the capability of shooting video shooting, with the integration of MPEG4 (H264) which produces recordings in complete AVCD format with facilities to reduce flickering noise. These videos can be played on home audio devices bleak Blu-ray and HDTV.

Please try the reliability of the PEN E-P3 while traveling to various parts of the world and about desitnasi tourist location. Make sure the memories in the form of photographs and video show will add to the impression of a journey. Happy creating!

Bali Safari and Marine Park

A Holiday AdventureBy darmansjah
Many people choose Bali as a holiday destination with a variety of reasons. Island of the Gods is not only famous for its stunning natural, but also a myriad of activities that can be done. One place to spend your vacation time and family is the Bali Safari and Marine Park is located in Herzliya.
And an area of ​​more than 40 acres, Bali Safari and Marine Park serves recreational areas that offer a range of knowledge about animals. There are a variety of activities that can be done by you and your family, one of which is Safari Journey. This activity invites participants traveling to all areas of Bali Safari and Marine Park, surf the native habitat of the animals from Indonesia, India, and Africa. You also can directly touch the animals, of course with the supervision of experienced guards. The professional guide who will explain the variety of information about the animal's habitat, while you sit comfortably in the safari tram a safe and air-cooled. Conservation mission has made Bali Safari and Marine Park is home to more than 60 species of animals, including rare and protected species. As part of the Taman Safari Indonesia, one of the park has a diverse collection of rare animals such as elephants, white tigers, leopards, dragons, fish, piranhas, and cheetahs. In addition to Safari Journey. You could also try Elephant Back Safari elephant riding is an activity to get around this region. Or maybe you and your family want to watch Elephant Show, where the elephants perform a variety of attractions that funny and entertaining.
Marine Park conservation area is to offering a charming fresh water aquarium. Glass tubes become home to thousands of fish a variety of forms from different parts of the world. There are nearly 40 species of fish that blend with the natural vegetation such as algae and freshwater algae. Here, you can see super red arowana fish which is the most famous of Borneo. You can even hold directly on the white tip shark touch pools that are safe for children. A time to yourself to look at feeding time the fish are piranhas, the pad at 10:30 and 16:00 each day.
In addition to educational tours of the animal. You can also do other variety activities in this place. Ranging from cultural attractions to enjoy treats such as dance performances and learning ballinese dance, learn to make sadjen, or simply take a picture with a parrot or baby orangutans are benign. Last year's largest wildlife park on the island of Bali is Balinese Theater operates every day presents a theatrical show a colossal Bali Agung. Other recreational activities you can do here is visit The Water Park with water slides and 7 pieces rides and other water suitable for your entertainment and family agenda. Not only that, there are also subordinates-subordinates interesting fun zones such as climbing car, merry-go-round, and go go bouncer. Some of the major rides include jungle cruise, spinning coaster, flame ride, boom boom boats, and bumper car which certainly test your adrenaline.
After a day of activities do not forget to give intake on your stomach. Some places to eat like Uma Restaurant and Tsavo Kon Restaurant will host you with a variety of dishes typical of Bali, Indonesia, and international. Souvernir varied from Bali Safari and Marine Park can be found in the Safari Wonder Store. For those of you like to stay available yagn Mara River Safari Lodge as your holiday accommodation complete with family.

e.mail: info@balisafarimarinepark.com or www.balisafarimarinepark.com

Yogyakarta Special

 sunset at parangteritis beach

Original text by Christina Wibisono, executive summary by Darmansjah

From the four regencies and one municipality that shelter under the flag of a special region of Yogyakarta, three of them, namely Bantul, Kulonprogo, and Gunungkidul, directly adjacent to the Indian Ocean. Not surprisingly, DIY has a series of charming beaches in the south line. Natural beauty, compassion par inhabitants, its thick and subservience tradition, making the heart of Yogyakarta is always special.

wet rice field

When the aircraft is red and white which I was riding step on his wheels on the runway Adi Sucipto, there is a sense of peace flowed in the recesses of the heart. Countless how often I visit, almost all of them labeled a working visit. But that was then. Now there's only me, him and Yogya, free loving without a barrier of time and words. Forget Borobudur, the palace and warm for a while. Now we want to build a different trail of love, others enjoy the charm of Yogyakarta.

goa cerme

The first step towards our visit to the southern boundary, Bantul District, who twice hit by severe earthquakes in 2006 and 2010 it did not wait long to stirs. Virtually no longer visible traces of the disaster victims. Is visible is the green rice fields turn yellow and shades of natural-style children's songs Desaku (still remember his verse?) Who welcomed our trip on that sunny morning.

Located in the Village Timbulharjo, Sewon district, there Tembi Tourism Village which is the result of mutual cooperation within the Community Tembi empowerment of local residents after the earthquake (RBT) as the main attraction, there is a center for crafts around the house and lush rice fields who are ready to eliminate stress and fatigue. The architecture of the building joglo RBT consists of restaurant, lodging, museum and gallery culture. The museum introduces us to the journey of cultural artifacts along with the development of Javanese society, ranging from clothing, household items, artwork, traditional ceremonies, meals and accompanying equipment and more. While the inn is very suitable for couples who want to get closer to nature and culture. Tembi restaurant also provides a unique culinary ‘tongseng emprit’ aka sparrow flavor.

kukup beach

If and are willing to give more lenient toloeransi terhadapa hygiene, it may try 'Sego Catfish Nggeneng Mbah Marto' which lies behind the ISI, not far from the complex Tembi. Even a remote location without a clue, this special grilled catfish spread reputation already up to the various regions. Apart from Mbah Marto, Bantul store dazed catfish creators Another equally commended the 'Bu is dazed Catfish' on the highway Imogiri km12, District Jetis,. Various ‘gudangan’ fresh chili paste and it is really death, not to mention the freshness dazed different gravy. It was luxurious, the price was cheap.

 imogiri tomb

After the stomach is fully charged, we continued south to Pajimatan Imogiri other names of the Tomb of the kings of Mataram (Surakarta and Yogyakarta). Historically, Sultan Agung, the powerful King of Mataram have a handful of sand from Mecca, and he threw it into the land of Java as a harbinger of the location where he was later buried. This sand fell on the land that is now known as the Tomb Imogiri. The experience of climbing the stairs to the top of the tomb is believed to be a healthy exercise of body and mind. How not, it is very rare visitor who can name the number of steps through which accurately. How abstruse control and focus the human mind, even for a simple task though. At the top, we were asked to change the traditional clothing of Mataram. ‘Beskap’ menswear is colored black or dark blue stripes, and a cloth or ‘jarik’ without clothes. As for women to wear a tank top. Motif slopes, machete or sharp weapon dagger nuanced forbidden at this location.

Parangkusumo

Pilgrimage is completed, we headed to 'Flower Pecel Turi Mrs. Wid' which is under a shady tree. The rule is clear, grab your own free will. Turi, local snacks which we rarely encounter in the city, presenting fresh crisp sensation in the mouth. Plus the peanut sauce with fresh citrus and spice scent leaves the village, we would like to add taste and add more. Even fluffier rice, different from the rice in the city. Drinking? Of course the typical ‘wedang uwu’ Imogiri. Uwuh which means garbage in local languages​​, refers to wood shavings cup, ginger, bay leaves, cinnamon, cloves and sugar certainly rock that gives natural sweetness. But when brewed hot water, piles of 'junk' is exactly produce beautiful pink colored liquid with a warm and alluring aroma.

Still in the same district, but the hills are different, we look Goa Cerme, Goa is known as one of the Wali Songo this monastery has a beautiful stalactite and stalagmite along 1200 meters below the ground. Be prepared to bring a change of clothes because the water levels could reach the limit of your waist.

depok beach

From Imogiri, to Clove and we headed into the beach area is famous Parangteritis. As far as the eye could see, carved solid rock strewn along the beach. Given the sun shines very hot afternoon, we hired a rickshaw horse to scour the beach. In addition Parangteritis there are sites  another name for the location of the encounter Panembahan Senopati with Nyai Loro Kidul.

samas beach

About 15 minutes from Paris, the famous name of Parangtritis, we arrived at Depok Beach is famous for its variety of snacks such as dent , marine shrimp, retreat fried, satay squid and much more. Since the stomach is full, we only drink coconut ice for thirst bidder. Not unlike the Parangteritis, Depok Beach has qualified in understanding the readiness of his guests, ranging from smooth access road, parking area, delicious food vendors and bathroom facilities and lodgings in the vicinity. From Depok, we continued to Samas Beach, which is the location of most end of the circuit in Bantul district south coast. Compared to two of his elder brother, Samas relatively quiet and rarely touched.

gelagah beach

On the way back into town, we stopped for a moment in the hamlet of twinning, Village Tamantirto, Poor District. This region is the site of Bagong Kusumadiarja Padepokan Arts (PSBK). PSBK are clear evidence exists of his strong populist culture. In it reside Gandrik Theatre, Orchestra Sintern petty, Kua Etnika and Rapper Jogja Community. The names of Butet Kartaredajsa, Djadoek Ferianto, Agus Noor and Kill The DJ is the originator of the play of local culture and meaning. Each end of the month,PSBK held a Jagongan Wagen. Jagong (an) in Javanese means chatter, the provision arena ways of thinking, feeling and force. Art is an expression language as well as character, and character is the root, and roots of a nation is the people. Not surprisingly, quite a lot of artists and cultural raktyat living in Bantul and the surrounding region.

Get off exit, we stopped into a lively Kasongan Tourism Village with crafts ceramics and pottery. The village made ​​famous by the late Sapto Hudyo is knacks lovers paradise with a unique design of export quality. Ornaments, of course adjust to market demand. Do not be surprised if you find a statue of Loro Blonyo in domestic fashion White Elephant! Living in Bantul and the surrounding region.

congot beach

Not interested in ceramics? Maybe it's time for you to immerse yourself more deeply into the end Kasongan. After passing through the deserted rice field, you will encounter a small signpost marked the Sawah. resort? Not! Be prepared to give up your heart caught the main work of Philip Iswardono. Yogya is a true son of the nation's wealth expertly cultivate herbs and natural products into a full culinary offerings surprises. No one I chose as a gift for a special dinner on the anniversary couple. With beautiful, Philip juggle his veranda to the dining room complete with a small table with tableware and tiny candles that warmed the hearts of love. Dish after dish was presented. Sweet touch of fresh carp soup unique. Following a set of green rice cakes complete with corn, beans belacan, green chilies and a bowl of chicken meat balls in a typical savory spiced coconut milk. Green rice fluffier and fragrant, it was gently stroking the tongue. Green chili chicken is a winner that night was special: tender, seasoning permeate every fiber is a special concoction that I have never felt. At the end of the evening, Philip presented cover a carang gesing, fragrant banana cake difficult forgotten. Apparently he deliberately selected the nuances of turquoise that symbolizes the sweetness of love that continues to grow in the liver.

Kulonprogo, district in western province of Yogyakarta, has at least two pretty beaches adjacent to one another, ie Glagah Beach and Congot Beach. Located 40 km southwest of the city, walked to the beach is presenting paintings of nature are so stunning. Expanse of verdant rice fields with a backdrop of mountains, interspersed with waving palm trees, truly remedy sense of vision. Condition of the road was smooth and flat, very friendly.

wanadri kusuma dragon fruit plantation

Glagah are named according to its location the village is the first goal. Laguna beach is gorgeous, complete with water tourism facilities as its appeal. When we walk on the rocks and look left and right, were two different parts of the coast. Next to the sandy brown soft black, while the neighbors covered greenish marine biota. Glagah beach directly adjacent to the dragon fruit plantation Wanadri Kusuma who was also a leading agro-tourism sites in DIY. We only got to look for a moment and catch a row of restaurants and lodging rooms lined in this agro-tourism complex. The journey from Congot beach to Glagah beach within a quarter hour to the west also provides a view that is not less beautiful. Unlike the Glagah beach which is intended for travel, Congot beach more earthy with a strong feel of fishing folk.

ngobaran beach

Teak forests and dry rocks along the road into a marker that we are entering a new district that is often associated with the image of drought and poverty, Gunung Kidul. How many know that it's hidden behind the steely determination of a hard worker who did not ashamed to do everything legal and lawful order of a hope. As far as the eye could see, not an inch of ground left blank look not explored. Evidence that people never give up on the fate of nature. That day at dusk. Still enough time to unwind at the beach Ngobaran. Unlike the southern coast line in Bantul and Kulon Progo, Ngobaran Beach is much more quiet. Yes, for me, as though Ngobaran has his own world that is untouched by his frenzied tourism and modernization of out there. Cluster of green mossy rocks and waves his white very pretty, but also indifferent and cold, as if no matter the spy who admired him. Religious aura too viscous to flow at this beach. Above, there is a building symbolic places of worship for five religions and kejawen genre. Apparently this place quite often used as the location of the monastery as well as religious contemplation for people who seek closeness with the Almighty. Ah, indeed so many paths to Himself.

ngrenehan coast

Moving five minutes to the east, we met with a close relative Ngoboran Coast, namely Ngrenean Coast. Like the younger brother, they are so similar, both in beauty and character of nature. Not much different with Ngobaran, Ngrenean was very sparsely attended, even impressed a lot more quiet and shy in the dim twilight. In fact, if you just want a little daub themselves, her beauty really make a man intoxicated.

 

wisma joglo jogya

Night came and we decided to stay at Wonosari, the district capital of Gunung Kidul. This absurdly surprised myself witnessed a smooth wide street which divides the city Wonosari, this sleepy border town. Wonosari have a ring road. We stay at Wisma Joglo Samiaji, a building shaped like a house joglo name. The best lodging in town, with the owner and the room rates are very friendly. The facilities were quite complete, there is a bathroom in the following hot water, cooling the room and .. free wifi!

sepanjang beach

Rest satisfied, the next morning we started the day by marketing yourself in other words visiting Wonosari’s Market in downtown. Market neat and clean, with multistory buildings and ample parking convenient. Hard to believe that we are in the district, with service standards and the availability of excellent facilities.

 baron beach

Baron beach is the first that we walk on the beach this morning, as well as the most popular beaches with natural beauty and culinary enjoyment. Reefs tough and strong. When we walked behind the cluster of rocks, there is a claear nice, where the water is bluish green, beautiful. Next is Kukup Beach. Often referred to as the coast of ornamental fish, aquarium Kukup famous for its marine life is complete. On the lip of the beach, there is a small island that reminds us of a favorite place on the island. Not far from Kukup, we met with Pantai Sepanjang. Comparing the beach before, you could say he's the most quiet, least reefs but has a uniqueness to its name, which ran along the lip of the island from west to east. Located 15 minutes from the Pantai Sepanjang is the Beach Drini, with a similar group of small coral and palm there. Get away to the southeast, ktia can find Krakal Beach. Krakal name taken from a large boulder that dominates this beach. If only these people know the beauty of the city, to be sure they will be excellent.

drini beach

The sun began to feel warm when we arrived at the beach Sundak. Coral formations here look different. Character, rose sharply to form a basin in the corner. When the waves come crashing, he's smiling welcome without fear. Surreal, maybe it's the right word to describe this one beach.

 siung beach

Have not exhausted our surprise, the next beach no less captivating, Indrayanti Coast. The first to appear here is a series of restaurants, so we thought it only sells kulineran beach alone. Makes sense really, because if we trace a series of beach Gunung Kidul  from the morning, then we will arrive at the beach Indrayanti around lunchtime. But apparently that makes special is not only a just fill the stomach contents. Classmate with a beach scene here Sundak, feast for the eyes. Amazed at the taste, the beaches along the south line is all beautiful and world-class, but each has a different character and appearance.

siung beach

There are still more beautiful, the story of our colleagues. And agree, for us personally, Siung Beach arguably been at the top of it all. If we often admire the beauty of the scenery that is printed on a postcard or a painting, well, now this is real displayed in plain sight. As if a grain of sand, branches, twigs, leaves, waves, coral, and even every pore of coral though everything was in the right place, with the right color, texture that fits, and the beauty that was almost perfect. Paved with white sand grains, on the sidelines of a ferocious rock group, our love is perfected in the surf melting the south coast.

wedi ombo beach

Already drunk beach? Oh do not! There remains one more beach is slightly far from them, ie Wedi Ombo. Wedi means sand, whereas Ombo the mean large. From the name, you can imagine the beach like what we would encounter, the journey to Wedi Ombo is the toughest route in our memories. The full climb and sharp turns and narrow streets. But on the sidelines of the teak forests bordering the road, peering piece after piece of scenery Wedi Ombo and flirty. An irresistible bait. The road turned out to culminate in the hills where we can observe the majestic Wedi Ombo it from above. Eager to taste ran to the end down there, but we must hurry to Semanu.

What's in Semanu? Pari Gogo Restaurant Upland to the west of the bridge jirak, Semanu area is the answer. Let the word 'only' brown rice and ‘Lesehan’ on a mat, a food that is secretly a first-class reputation among foodies. Without a word, brown rice and other rampe ubo of side dishes complete the word directly presented: ‘jerangan lodeh tempeh, iwak Wader’, iso chronicle (tripe cow intestine), ‘empal lemak’, ‘Godong papaya’ or papaya leaves are tender and tasty. Add the onions and chili paste sauce though more gusto. This dish is most afdol adjacent to the village brewed tea and sugar cubes.

Satiety? Save some for qualtiy snacks topnotch cavity typical Gunungkidul, namely ‘tiwul’ and ‘Gathot’. The most appropriate place to get acquainted with the two creatures is certainly ‘Warung Yu Tum’. Antiquity, both of which are the food of the hard. But thanks to the tenacity of Mrs. Tumirah or abbreviated as Yu Tum, ‘gatot’ and ‘tiwul’ meteoric rise and his reputation as far as the capital. The plume, we see that the selection of materials, processing up to package it already uses stadar tight production.

Another attraction of Yogyakarta only takes 24 hours just to tempt our hearts with the magical exoticism. Liver was spoken promise. Without the rule intends warm, palace, ‘paris’ or ‘Kaliurang’, it was more than worth it when we make the same resonance for ‘Ngoboran’, ‘Siung’, ‘Gathot’, ‘tiwul’ and their brethren in Bantul, Kulon Progo, and Gunung Kidul. The same aircraft ready for takeoff. Faint, came back again the Warriors slapstick carrying chat Mataraman in TIM at the end of March, "Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta country .. are special, special person".