Jepara woodcarving is a distinctive art form originating from Jepara Regency, Central Java, and is widely recognized internationally. The beauty and intricacy of Jepara carvings make it one of Indonesia’s premier artistic products. The history of woodcarving in Jepara can be traced back to the 16th century during the reign of Queen Kalinyamat, who played a pivotal role in encouraging the development of this craft in the region.
How to Get There
The centers of Jepara woodcarving are spread across several villages, including:
- Mulyoharjo Village: Located about 2 km from downtown Jepara, this village is known as the heart of Jepara's woodcarving art.
- Senenan Village: Approximately 5 km from the city center, this village is another hub for woodcarving production.
- Tahunan Village: Situated around 4 km from downtown Jepara, this village is famous for its carved furniture.
To reach these locations:
By Private Vehicle: From downtown Jepara, follow directions to the respective villages. The roads leading to these areas are generally in good condition and accessible by two- or four-wheeled vehicles.
By Public Transportation: Local public transport and motorcycle taxis (ojek) are available to take you directly to the woodcarving centers.
Jepara woodcarving products include:
- Carved Furniture: Such as chairs, tables, wardrobes, and beds with distinctive carved designs.
- Wall Decorations: Carved panels with various traditional and modern motifs.
- Statues and Ornaments: Decorative sculptures and household ornaments.
- Home Accessories: Such as mirror frames, shelves, and other decorative items.
Operating Hours
The shops and galleries for Jepara woodcarving generally operate during:
Monday to Saturday: 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Sunday: Some stores remain open, but their operating hours may vary.
Price Range
The prices of Jepara woodcarving products vary depending on the type, size, and complexity of the design:
- Small Accessories: Starting from IDR 50,000 to IDR 500,000.
- Carved Furniture: Starting from IDR 1,000,000 to tens of millions of rupiah.
- Wall Decorations and Panels: Starting from IDR 500,000 to tens of millions of rupiah.
- Prices are often negotiable, especially for bulk purchases or when buying directly from the artisans.
