Celebrating its 25th anniversary later this year, the resort will continue to offer its unique Journey through Java experience aboard the regal Kereta Api Wisata train. Departing from Jakarta, guests will embark on a seven-hour journey through spectacular scenery joined by Amanjiwo’s resident anthropologist, Patrick Vanhoebrouck, who will share insights into Javanese culture along the way. With meals prepared by Amanjiwo, arrive at the resort in consummate comfort, where experiences in a spiritual sanctuary await.
The Journey though Java experience includes a one-way train journey and transfers between Jakarta and the resort, VIP lounge passes in Jakarta and Yogyakarta Station, all meals and alcoholic beverages during the train journey, and a two-night stay with daily breakfast at Amanjiwo.
Also, for groups with a minimum of eight guests, the journey is available on a private charter basis, allowing friends or family to travel to Amanjiwo in the safety and security of their own private carriage. The journey is available on the following dates: 30 April – 2 May, 21 – 23 May, 18 – 21 June, 9 – 11 July, 13 – 15 August, 3 – 5 September, 15 – 17 October, 12 – 15 November and 24 – 26 December.
There are also new opportunities to become immersed in local culture. Often referred to as Hanacaraka, Aksara Jawa (Javanese Script) holds a philosophy that can be used for pitutur luhur (verbal wisdom) and guidance to address various phenomena that occur in the future. It has a long, rich history, having been used by court scribes in Surakarta and Yogyakarta.
At Amanjiwo, guests are invited to join archaeologist, Goenawan Sambodo, and deepen their knowledge of Javanese culture by learning the beautiful script. Guests will learn how to read and write the script, celebrating the written word while sipping a cup of fresh tea served with delicious traditional snacks.
Alternatively, for those looking for a cleansing spiritual reinvigoration, Amanjiwo will offer a Tolak Balak ritual. Performed by a Javanese priest, the purification custom is one of several ancestral protection and purification practices in Java. In a 90-minute session, which includes chanting mantras alongside breathing techniques and guided meditation, guests are offered a refreshing insight into local traditions that leaves the body and mind feeling light and energised.
