Somewhere in East Java is the most colorful village you have ever seen! A few years ago, an entire slum area in the city of Malang, Indonesia, was ready to be demolished and relocate all its residents. However, a group of students from a university in Malang came up with the idea to give the whole area a fresh and remarkable splash of paint in the hope of attracting the attention of tourists. In June 2016, the Air Force troops painted the entire village (named Jodipan), and directly after, tourists started to notice this colorful rainbow village in Java.
Malang, Indonesia
Malang is the stop before they visit Mount Bromo. Most tourists come to Malang, Indonesia, via train because of its great connection.
Right before you enter the final stop in Malang, you will drive over a bridge that is directly next to the rainbow village Jodipan. That is the reason why tourists found out about this village and why it became popular so quickly. An absolute must-see during your 8-day Java Route.
Visiting the colorful rainbow village, Jodipan
Every single house in Jodipan has a different color. After each new corner is a mural that can change from a simple minion to a full 3D tiger. There is a great arty vibe going on with many decorations like colorful umbrellas. There is a bridge over the river that connects one rainbow part to the other.
Must Read:Â 8-day Java Route Guide
Entering the village can be done from a few different sides and there is a small entrance fee of 3000 IDR (~ 0.35 USD) for the locals. Most of them can make a living from selling food and drinks to the tourists.
The Blue Village (Kampung Biru Arema)
On the opposite side of the train track bridge is the blue village in Malang named Kampung Biru Arema. This entire new project was painted blue in April 2018. If you are familiar with the blue city Chefchaouen in Morocco, this is the smaller version of it.
Like Jodipan, the area is full of small recycled artwork and beautiful murals. Near the train track bridge is a small viewpoint called the treehouse. It wasnât finished during our visit, but it will be now.
Expect to spend about 1 hour in the blue village. We couldnât find an entrance fee so just buy something from the locals if you would like to help them.
The colorful villages of Java
After wandering around for a little while, you donât have the feeling that you are in Java, Indonesia. These villages are an absolute must-visit in Malang.
Hotels in Malang
Malang offers hotels and guesthouses in any kind of price category. Base yourself in the center to be close to the main sites.
Staying anywhere near the main train station is a great idea, as you’ll be located just a few minutes walk from the colored village.
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