Jombang – Centre of Islamic Pesantren Tradition in East Java
Jombang se trouve dans la partie centrale de East Java province, entre Surabaya and Kediri. La capitale régionale est Jombang city. Jombang is one of Indonesia's most important Islamic education centres – connu sous le nom de la ville of pesantren (Islamic boarding schools). Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur), Indonesia's fourth president and symbol of religious tolerance, was born here.
Attractions et activités
Tebuireng Pesantren (Pondok Pesantren Tebuireng) is one of Indonesia's oldest and best-known Islamic schools – founded by Gus Dur's grandfather, Hasyim Asy’ari. Gus Dur Museum and Mausoleum is a pilgrimage site. Diwek and Peterongan pesantren quarters are centres of the Islamic educational tradition. Wonosalam highlands (Gunung Wonosalam) are the durian season venue – highland durian gardens are attractive May to July.
Culture et cuisine
Pesantren culture deeply permeates Jombang life: religious education, communal solidarity and the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) movement's legacy. Javanese cuisine is simple and flavourful: pecel lele (catfish with peanut sauce rice), soto Jombang (chicken soup), nasi rawon (black-nut beef broth), and wingko babat (coconut cake) are local favourites.
Sécurité publique
Jombang is a safe region. Respect local dress and behaviour codes in pesantren areas. Roads are in good condition. Medical care: several hospitals are available in Jombang city.
Informations pratiques
From Surabaya Juanda Airport, approximately 1.5 hours south-west by car. The best time to visit is April to October; durian season is May to July. Accommodation: simple hotels in Jombang city.