Minister of Tourism Praises Banyuwangi, a Destination That Successfully Combines Nature, Culture, and Innovation.

There are many reasons Banyuwangi has emerged as one of Indonesia's most favoured tourist destinations today. This is not only due to its world-renowned Ijen Crater and its iconic blue fire phenomenon, but also for the region's successful tourism development model that is firmly rooted in local culture, nature conservation, and community empowerment.

This consistent, principled approach received direct recognition from Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana during her official working visit to Banyuwangi on 25–26 July 2026.

According to the Minister, Banyuwangi has proven that tourism development does not need to be solely oriented towards visitor numbers. It can instead simultaneously protect cultural identity and deliver tangible economic benefits for local communities.

"Thanks to its unwavering commitment and consistent innovation, Banyuwangi has become one of the leading examples of successful regional tourism development in Indonesia," stated Widiyanti during her visit running from Saturday 25 July through Sunday 26 July 2026.

For travellers, Banyuwangi delivers a complete, well-rounded tourism experience. Mountains, beaches, national parks, cultural heritage sites, and marine attractions can all be explored within this single region.

This very diversity is what continues to establish Banyuwangi as one of Indonesia's flagship tourist destinations.

Widiyanti further noted that the strategies implemented by the Banyuwangi Regency Government for tourism development serve as valuable inspiration for other regions seeking to grow their tourism potential in a sustainable manner.

Exploring Banyuwangi: From Marina Boom to Ijen Geopark

During her stay, the Minister of Tourism visited a number of Banyuwangi's most iconic local destinations.

One stop was Marina Boom Beach, a coastal tourism precinct that has developed into a dedicated mooring location for private yachts. This site offers panoramic views across the Bali Strait with Mount Agung as a backdrop, making it a favourite spot for visitors to observe both sunrise and sunset.

Alongside touring the coastal area, Widiyanti also chaired a coordination meeting with all relevant stakeholders to prepare for the upcoming Ijen Geopark revalidation process.

Ijen Geopark is recognised as one of Indonesia's most extraordinary geological areas. Beyond the globally rare blue fire phenomenon, the site hosts intact ecosystems, millions of years of geological history, and indigenous communities that have lived in harmony with the natural landscape for generations.

During her visit, the Minister also inspected the Ijen Geopark Geological Information Centre (PIGGI), an educational facility that introduces visitors to the formation history of the geopark region.

Kemiren Village: Upholding Tradition Amidst Tourism Progress

The Minister's itinerary continued to Kemiren, a traditional Osing tribal village. Upon arrival, she was welcomed with traditional Othek drum performances and an angklung paglak presentation by local villagers.

Kemiren Village is the cultural homeland of the Osing people, the indigenous inhabitants of Banyuwangi. To this day, the community maintains their ancestral traditions, native language, traditional architecture, and ceremonial practices passed down through countless generations.

Widiyanti confirmed that the national government will provide dedicated technical support for Kemiren Village, following the village's acceptance into the UN Tourism 2025 Upgrade Programme of Best Tourism Villages.

"It is our hope that once this support programme concludes, Kemiren Village will achieve full official Best Tourism Village status," she commented.

This international recognition will further strengthen Banyuwangi's standing as a globally respected cultural tourism destination.

Meanwhile, Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani emphasised that cultural conservation will always remain the core foundation for all tourism development in the region.

"For Banyuwangi, tourism is the main umbrella driving our overall regional development. But we will never sacrifice our cultural identity and unique character. Our distinct traditional heritage is Banyuwangi's greatest attraction," Ipuk stated.

Banyuwangi's success demonstrates that the finest tourist destinations are not defined only by natural beauty. They are built through protecting cultural heritage, centering local communities, and delivering authentic travel experiences. This balanced, purpose-driven approach is what continues to make Banyuwangi the leading reference for sustainable tourism across Indonesia.