Positive Trend: More Foreign Tourists Travel by Train, Gambir and Yogyakarta Favorite Spots

Monday, 20 April 2026 | 10:59

Author: Arif S

Wisatawan mancanegara di dalam kereta api jarak jauh

Foreign tourists use long-distance trains.
Source: Indonesia Railways

Summary

1. Foreign tourist usage of long-distance trains in Q1 2026 reached a five-year high.

2. The surge indicates growing preference for rail travel among international tourists exploring Indonesian cities.

3. Gambir Station was the top departure hub with 20,881 foreign passengers in Q1 2026.

The number of Foreign Tourists using Long-Distance Train services reached 129,105 passengers in Q1 2026, the highest in five years. This surge indicates trains are increasingly favored by foreign tourists for exploring Indonesian cities.

Trains are no longer just transportation but part of the tourism experience itself.

KAI's Vice President of Corporate Communication Anne Purba stated trains have become more familiar for tourists enjoying intercity Travel in Indonesia.

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The upward trend in Foreign Tourist numbers has been consistent in recent years. Q1 2022 recorded 26,225 foreign tourists, sharply rising to 103,722 in 2023.

The figure increased again to 121,329 in 2024, then 128,933 in 2025, finally reaching 129,105 passengers this year.

Train journeys are increasingly included in foreign travelers' Tourism Itineraries.

This growth is attributed to service improvements including train comfort, easier ticket purchasing, and more predictable schedules.

For departures, Gambir Station was the top choice for Foreign Tourists with 20,881 passengers in Q1 2026.

Yogyakarta followed with 17,912 passengers and Bandung with 11,371 passengers.

Additionally, Pasar Senen recorded 7,691 passengers, Surabaya Gubeng 6,481, and Semarang Tawang 4,875.

These cities attract tourists by providing easy access to popular destinations.

Yogyakarta remains a prime destination for its cultural and historical strengths, from Malioboro to temple areas.

Bandung draws tourists through mountain ambiance and growing creative centers.

Semarang Tawang offers distinctive old-town charm. Meanwhile, Cirebon and Solo showcase cultural richness and culinary offerings providing unique experiences.

East Java is equally popular. Surabaya serves as a gateway to destinations like Bromo's natural attractions, while Malang provides cool air and diverse Nature Tourism.

Anne added that train travel allows tourists to experience Indonesia more intimately.

"During journeys, tourists directly witness changing landscapes between cities. This makes trips more memorable," said Anne.

KAI affirmed continuous service quality improvements amid growing international interest.

"KAI will keep evaluating services by listening to customer feedback while adapting to technological advancements and current travel needs. With expanding connectivity, intercity travel is now easier to plan and accessible to diverse groups," Anne concluded.

Quick Answer

Foreign Tourist Train Travel Hits 5-Year High in Indonesia, Gambir & Yogyakarta Top Stations

In Q1 2026, foreign tourist usage of Indonesian long-distance trains reached 129,105 passengers, the highest in five years. Gambir Station was the top departure point with 20,881 foreign passengers, followed by Yogyakarta and Bandung. This growth reflects improved train services and their integration into tourism it...

129,105 foreign tourists used long-distance trains in Q1 2026, a five-year high.
Gambir Station had 20,881 foreign passenger departures, leading all stations.
Service improvements like comfort and easier ticketing drove the increase.
Train travel offers immersive cultural and scenic experiences for tourists.

Foreign tourist usage of long-distance trains in Indonesia reached 129,105 passengers in Q1 2026, the highest level in five years. This surge highlights trains' growing role as both transportation and an integral part of the tourism experience for international visitors exploring Indonesian cities.

The upward trend has been consistent, rising from 26,225 in Q1 2022 to 103,722 in 2023, 121,329 in 2024, and 128,933 in 2025. KAI's Vice President of Corporate Communication, Anne Purba, attributes this growth to service enhancements including greater comfort, streamlined ticket purchasing, and more reliable schedules.

Popular departure stations

Gambir Station handled the highest number of foreign tourist departures at 20,881 passengers in Q1 2026. Yogyakarta followed with 17,912 passengers, while Bandung recorded 11,371. Other key stations included Pasar Senen (7,691), Surabaya Gubeng (6,481), and Semarang Tawang (4,875). These hubs provide easy access to popular destinations, making them natural entry points for travelers.

Factors driving the trend

Destinations like Yogyakarta attract visitors through cultural landmarks such as Malioboro and ancient temples. Bandung draws tourists with its mountain scenery and creative centers, while Semarang offers old-town charm. Cities like Cirebon and Solo add culinary and cultural richness to itineraries. As Anne Purba notes, train journeys allow tourists to intimately experience Indonesia's changing landscapes between cities, creating memorable travel moments. KAI continues to refine services to meet rising international demand, ensuring connectivity adapts to evolving travel needs.