SOMETIMES, we need to go somewhere new—to take a break from busy city life, discover new places, and feel connected to something real. In Indonesia, there’s a quiet but beautiful town that’s waiting for you. It’s called Tuban.
Located in East Java, Tuban is not as famous as Bali or Jakarta. But maybe that’s why it feels special. It’s peaceful, full of kind people, natural beauty, and traditions that have been kept alive for hundreds of years. Tuban is a coastal town with a long and proud history. It was already a trading port way back in the 1200s during the Majapahit Kingdom. Today, it's home to more than a million people who live simple but meaningful lives—farming, fishing, weaving batik, and keeping their heritage alive.
Here, you won’t find tall buildings or traffic jams. Instead, you’ll find waterfalls, caves, rice fields, beaches, and stories passed from one generation to the next.
Some places in Tuban feel like a scene from a dream. Pantai Sowan is a quiet beach surrounded by trees. You can sit under the shade, eat grilled seafood, or just watch the waves roll in. If you love nature, Nglirip Waterfall is a must-see. It’s hidden among forests, and the sound of the falling water feels like a song from nature. And for a calm day with the family, try Sendang Asmoro Spring, where you can ride boats or eat local snacks under the trees. There are also sacred places like Goa Akbar and the tomb of Sunan Bonang, where people come to pray, reflect, and find peace.
If you want to see Tuban at its most colorful and alive, come during the Tuban Specta Night Carnival. This year, it will be held on August 30, 2025. Imagine streets filled with music, dancers wearing glowing costumes, huge decorated floats, and people dancing and laughing under the stars. It’s not just a show—it’s a celebration of Tuban’s identity, and everyone is invited.
Food in Tuban is simple, but full of flavor. Try legen, a sweet drink made from palm trees. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, have a sip of tuak, a stronger version. You can also try local noodles, grilled fish, or snacks made from cassava and coconut. Don’t forget to check out Batik Gedog—beautiful handwoven fabric with sea and nature designs. It's a perfect gift or souvenir to bring home.
Getting to Tuban from Davao is easier than you think. Fly from Davao to Manila, then take another flight to Jakarta or Surabaya. From Surabaya, you can ride a bus or car to Tuban. It’s about a 2- to 3-hour trip through the countryside. Once in Tuban, you can take tricycles, vans, or ojeks (motorbikes) to get around.
Tuban is more than a place for sightseeing. It’s a town full of opportunities for small business, cultural exchange, and friendship. Many locals are open to partnerships, especially in food, crafts, and tourism.
If you’re looking to start something new, Tuban is a place where your ideas can grow—with the help of a warm and welcoming community. Indonesian Consulate General in Davao City/PR