The island of Java is one of Indonesian islands bearing the oldest trace of culture. Even trace of human evolution is found in Java, and one is the oldest upright anthrophomorphic creature During the 7th century in central Java was flourishing Buddhist and Hindu kingdoms with the heritages of Borobudur, Prambanan and many other smaller temples. This kingdom is estimated to live from 8th century to beginning of 10th century. Starting 14th century we know two important kingdoms in Java that were Pajajaran and Sunda on the West and Singasari in the east which was continued by the great kingdom of Majapahit, last until 16th century. Starting 16th century the while Java entered the era of Islam, starting from Cirebon, Banten, Yogyakarta and East Java. The tradition of Islam continuous until today. The Islamization of Java is very fast, less then a century almost all being penetrated, the whole island. This is because the character of Islam probably more suitable for Javanese then other religion, besides many assumption that the kings or businessmen feel much advantages if they could make the people to follow Islam.

It is lucky that some traces of ancient Hindu and Buddhist culture still can be seen today with the serious work of colonial government to restore some monuments and some old tradition still being preserved by the palaces, as the identity of Indonesian nation. This is an advantage for national history and can be having economic value to develop tourism business. Besides cultural aspects of Java as an interest, some places are also beautiful by nature. Starting from Jakarta as the capital city which has long history, many old and classic buildings of European style, there are also interesting places for shopping, recreation and amusements. West Java with Bandung as the center of government and industry offers interesting places to visit such as beautiful mount Tangkuban Perahu and Ciater hot spring, people handicraft, and plantation estates. Central Java especially Yogyakarta is the most famous are in Java with the ancient monuments, handicraft, art and batik cloth industry. The sultan palaces in Yogyakarta and Solo are two historic royal properties showing mixed tradition of Indonesia and Islam. While east Java offers the best nature view such as Mount Bromo and Mount Ijen. Big estates of coffee, cacao and rubber are still exist in Kabupaten Banyuwangi, the eastern most region of Java island. Surabaya, the capital city of East Java province is the second biggest city in Indonesia developed as the commercial sea port for sea traffic between east and west Indonesia. Yet the city has no special place or travel interest to offer except for business activities.

Other interesting place in Java can be noted here such as Pulau Seribu north of Jakarta a group of around 130 small islands. Some islands have been changed into beautiful resorts and become popular week end holiday for people of Jakarta or outside, even from neighboring countries. Java also has man national parks, and national reserves such as Ujung Kulon, Halimun, Merapi, Baluran and Meru Betiri.