Wayang Museum

Overview

The Wayang Museum is dedicated to wayang (shadow puppet) traditions from Indonesia and around the world. Set in a former Dutch church building in Kota Tua, it preserves one of Java's most important performing-art forms.

Highlights

• Puppet Collection: Over 6,000 puppets from Java, Bali, China, India, and Europe.
• Wayang Performances: Live shadow-puppet shows on select Sundays.
• Heritage Building: The 1912 structure originally served as a Protestant church.

History

The museum was established in 1975. The building previously served as Batavia's first protestant church, rebuilt in 1912 after the original 1640 structure was damaged by earthquakes.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Check the schedule for live wayang kulit performances.
• Tip 2: Part of the Kota Tua museum complex—a combo visit is recommended.
• Duration: 45 min–1 hour.