Kudus – The Menara Kudus Mosque and Kretek Cigarette Capital
Kudus Regency lies in the northern part of Central Java province, one of Java’s smallest yet most densely populated regencies. Its capital is Kudus city. Kudus is world-famous for two things: the Menara Kudus mosque (Wali Songo heritage) and the kretek (clove cigarette) industry – Djarum and Nojorono are headquartered here.
Attractions and Activities
Menara Kudus (Kudus Tower/Mosque) is the only mosque in Indonesia with a minaret built in Hindu-Javanese architectural style – founded by Sunan Kudus (one of the Wali Songo) in the 16th century. Museum Kretek presents the history of the clove cigarette industry. Kudus Kulon (Old Kudus) quarter preserves traditional Javanese-Arab merchant houses: carved teak facades and inner courtyards. Mount Muria (Gunung Muria, 1,602 m) is suitable for trekking – Sunan Muria’s tomb is near the summit.
Culture and Cuisine
Kudus is one of the most important sites of Javanese Islamic cultural heritage (Wali Songo). Soto Kudus (beef soup with bean sprouts and noodles) is famous across Indonesia. Jenang Kudus (sticky rice cake) and lentog tanjung (rice noodle dish) are local specialities.
Public Safety
Kudus is a safe city. Traffic is dense in the small area. Medical care: several hospitals are available in Kudus.
Practical Information
From Semarang Ahmad Yani Airport, approximately 1.5 hours east by car. The best time to visit is April to October. Accommodation: hotels in Kudus city.