Banyuwangi
Location
The Regency of Banyuwangi is located in easternmost of Java Island, and it is a very strategic area for one who wants to go to Bali. It is surrounded by mountainous and woody areas in the west; sea in the east and south. Banyuwangi is only separated by narrow strait from Bali (Bali strait).
Administrative areas
The Regency of Banyuwangi consists of 19 districts:
- Banyuwangi Kota
- Glagah
- Grajagan
- Kalibaru
- Srono
- Kabat
- Glenmore
- Rogojampi
- Singojuruh
- Genteng
- Cluring
- Giri
- Kalipuro
- Pesanggaran
- Gambiran
- Wongsorejo
- Tegaldlimo
- Purwoharjo
- Sempu
- Muncar
- Songgon
Society
Banyuwangi is — as other Indonesian areas — a heterogeneous area where many ethnic groups mingled and live together under the same roof. One of the native groups is the Osing community who has got a distinct Hindu culture though they are considered as Javanese sub-ethnic group. They live mainly in central part of Banyuwangi and they sometimes consider themselves as Majapahit descendants. While others are Javanese (living mostly in the south and west), Madurese (mainly in the north and coastal area), Balinese (scattered but more concentrated in the east). Other smaller groups are Chinese, Buginese, Arabs etc.
Culture
For its location along Java–Bali road, Banyuwangi is rich in culture, where Javanese, Madurese, Balinese and other cultures had met. This area has got unique arts, traditions and natures. Besides, Banyuwangi has its own trademark such as :
Gandrung Dance
This is a Banyuwangi-typical dance which performed by a woman and along with simple music like violin, triangle (called kluncing), Gong (or kempul), Kendhang and sometimes with keyboard as result of modern influence. It is performed during night until dawn particularly in parties.
Janger or Damarwulan
It is a traditional theatre art which has been developed since the 19th century in Banyuwangi. This theatre is a combination between Balinese, Javanese and local cultures. Balinese influences can be seen in its performers' costumes (which remind to Arja costumes)and instruments, meanwhile Javanese influences is in its "lakon" or stories as well as language in dialogues. It is distinct to Balinese Janger.
