Exploring Laweyan: The Oldest Batik Village That Continues to Thrive in the Modern Era

Solo, November 6, 2025 – Kampoeng Batik Laweyan in Solo is not only home to a long and rich history of Indonesian batik, but also a place that offers unique cultural and culinary charm. This area is known as the oldest batik center in Indonesia, which began to flourish during the Pajang Kingdom under Sultan Hadiwijaya in the 15th century.

By the early 1900s, Laweyan reached its golden era when the stamped batik (batik cap) technique began to develop. Its faster and more affordable process made it widely accepted by the public. A legendary figure, Tjokrosoemarto, emerged as one of the biggest batik entrepreneurs in Laweyan and became the first batik exporter from Indonesia. The glory of that period can still be felt today through the old Javanese-European architectural buildings that gracefully stand in every corner of the village.

However, with the rise of printing technology in the 1970s, Laweyan’s traditional batik industry faced a serious decline. Many artisans went out of business as they could not compete with printed batik textiles that were cheaper and faster to produce. By the early 2000s, only a handful of batik producers remained.

The situation began to change when local community leaders and batik entrepreneurs united to revive Laweyan’s batik spirit by forming the Forum Pengembangan Kampoeng Batik Laweyan (FPKBL) on October 28, 2002. Since then, the area has transformed into a cultural and creative tourism destination that blends heritage, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship.

Today, more than 80 small and medium industries (SMEs) are once again active in Laweyan. The artisans not only produce traditional hand-drawn and stamped batik, but also innovate to meet national standards (SNI) and have introduced a collective brand called “Batik Heritage.”

In addition to its legendary batik, Laweyan is also famous for its local delicacy Ledre Pisang Laweyan Solo, a semi-moist traditional snack made from glutinous rice, grated young coconut, banana paste, and salt. Its soft texture and sweet-savory flavor make it a favorite treat as well as a perfect souvenir from Laweyan.

Come and explore Kampoeng Batik Laweyan! Don’t miss the chance to stroll through its beautiful historical houses and experience the authentic atmosphere of Solo’s batik heritage.

For more information about tourism activities, batik-making workshops, or purchasing authentic Laweyan batik products, visit the official social media account @kampoengbatiklaweyansolo or stop by directly at Jl. Sidoluhur No.6, Bumi, Laweyan District, Surakarta City.

By , Alisa Noory