Knowing what to buy in Jakarta is a concern far from the thoughts of tourists and travelers visiting the Indonesian capital. This great Asian metropolis is indeed one of the cities best known for its souvenirs and gadgets, capable of capturing the whole essence of Indonesia and Southeast Asia.
In Jakarta, however, travelers will not find only exotic products, as the city hosts numerous shopping centers, perfect spots for some low-cost shopping. Below are some guidelines for a tour of the Indonesian capital.
A Stop at the Markets
Whoever has come to Jakarta and wants to know what is worth buying in the city can start at one of the many colorful markets. It should be noted that bargaining is mandatory, but those who are persistent and determined will manage to score real bargains, earning the respect of the vendors.
Indonesia is famous for its antique items, which can make excellent souvenirs. Silver coins, lamps, ceramics in Dutch-inspired colors: just head to a flea market and begin bargaining.
Boutiques for Luxury Shopping
Fans of major international brands will find in Jakarta numerous boutiques and outlets able to satisfy them. Along the city’s streets, brands such as Armani, Versace and Dior can be purchased in stores aimed at the middle-to-upper segment of the population, such as Grand Indonesia and Plaza Indonesia.
Jakarta also hosts a clothing chain catering to the more affluent, distributed in commercial zones of the city such as Kemang and Pasaraya Grande.
The Small Shops and Artisan Workshops
Travelers who want to know what is worth buying in Jakarta should not miss the small shops and artisan workshops on the outskirts, far from the glamour of the urban center. Here you can find spectacular wooden sculptures, such as masks and statues of traditional Balinese anthropomorphic figures, which can also be found in Bali.
In this regard, it is interesting to know that the masks (also known as “Tapei”) have represented for over a millennium one of the most distinctive elements of Balinese artistic craftsmanship. Over time their making has transformed: from a simple popular tradition it has become a true art form, capable of telling culture and spirituality.
In Bali masks have always played a central role in ritual dances and religious celebrations: they are sacred objects, deeply tied to the island’s faith and rites, so those who carve masks destined for ceremonies must have received a special sacred initiation. Those produced for visitors or decorative use, however, can be carved by any skilled artisan.
Each Balinese mask holds a spiritual meaning that goes back to Animism, the philosophy according to which the divine is present in every place and creature. They are considered “containers” of spirits and vital energies: during religious rituals, it is through these masks that spiritual presences can manifest in the earthly world.
Among the most characteristic souvenirs are puppets, called wayang, and the classic ceremonial Indonesian dagger, the kris. The city’s best artisans also work with copper and brass, materials with which beautiful household utensils are made.
