Kebayoran Baru

Overview

Kebayoran Baru is a leafy residential district in South Jakarta, master-planned in 1948 as Indonesia's first modern garden suburb. Its tree-lined avenues, art deco homes, and neighbourhood markets offer a gentler side of the capital.

Highlights

• Blok M Plaza area: A commercial hub with vinyl shops, bookstores, and Japanese izakayas.
• Pasar Santa: A retro market in the district's centre, now a hipster food destination.
• Tree-lined streets: Jalan Senopati and surrounding lanes house boutiques and third-wave coffee shops.

History

Designed by Dutch urban planners Mohammad Soesilo and VSBK architects, Kebayoran Baru was built between 1948–1955 as a satellite town for government officials. Its grid layout and generous greenery remain intact.

Visitor Tips

• Evening strolls on Jl. Senopati: The café and restaurant scene comes alive after sunset.
• Accessible by MRT: Blok M BCA station is the gateway.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.