Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (lit. 'Beautiful Indonesia Mini Park'; formerly Taman Mini "Indonesia Indah") is a culture-based recreational area situated in East Jakarta, Indonesia. It was conceived to encapsulate the cultural diversity and natural beauty of Indonesia in a single park setting. The park spans approximately 150 hectares and includes exhibits and pavilions representing all the provinces of Indonesia.
Historical Background
The concept of Taman Mini Indonesia Indah was initiated by the Harapan Kita Foundation in 1972, inspired by the vast cultural diversity found across the archipelago of Indonesia. The park was inaugurated on April 20, 1975, under the direction of Suharto, the then President of Indonesia, and his wife Siti Hartinah, also known as Tien Suharto.
Features and Attractions
Regional Pavilions
The park is organized into several sections, each representing different regions of Indonesia, such as Sumatra, Java, and Sulawesi. Each pavilion showcases the unique cultural and architectural styles of its respective region, including traditional houses, costumes, and crafts.
Museums and Cultural Displays
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah is home to numerous museums, including the Indonesia Museum, which provides insights into the ethnological and anthropological aspects of Indonesian culture. There is also the Komodo Indonesian Fauna Museum and Reptile Park, which focuses on the diverse wildlife of Indonesia, including the renowned Komodo dragon.
Religious Buildings
The park features religious buildings from Indonesia's major religions, emphasizing the country's religious diversity and interfaith harmony. Notable structures include a Catholic church, a mosque, a Hindu temple, and a Buddhist temple.
Gardens and Natural Exhibits
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah boasts several themed gardens. Notable among these is the Taman Burung Aviary, which is divided into multiple exhibits featuring birds from different Indonesian islands, such as the Greater Sunda Islands and the Maluku Islands.
Events and Activities
The park regularly hosts cultural performances, workshops, and events that showcase traditional music, dance, and crafts from across Indonesia. It has also served as a venue for international events, such as the Kabaddi tournaments held during the 2018 Asian Games.
Transportation and Access
The site is accessible by various modes of transportation. There used to be a Tram Mover system within the park, though it is currently inactive. Visitors can also use local public transportation, including buses, to reach the park.
Management and Operations
Since July 2021, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah has been managed by Injourney Destination Management, a subsidiary of the state-owned tourism holding company InJourney.