InJourney Revives Grand Hotel De Djokja in Yogyakarta
PT Aviasi Pariwisata Indonesia (Persero) or InJourney has revived the legendary hotel at the main entrance of Jalan Malioboro by restoring its historic name to Grand Hotel De Djokja. This milestone marks a new chapter in the revival of one of Indonesia’s most iconic heritage-branded hotels, which has stood since 1911.
InJourney’s Chief Executive Officer, Maya Watono, explained that restoring the Grand Hotel De Djokja name is not merely a rebranding exercise, but rather a strategic step to reclaim the hotel’s historical identity whilst strengthening its position as a cultural landmark and world-class destination in the heart of Yogyakarta.
“The revitalisation of Grand Hotel De Djokja is part of InJourney’s strategic approach to showcase Indonesia’s face through strengthening cultural identity and national heritage as the primary foundation for national tourism development,” said Maya in a written statement on Tuesday (17 March 2026).
According to her, InJourney does not simply construct destinations but rather weaves a tourism ecosystem with character and elevates Indonesia’s noble values, so that each managed asset becomes a representation of national pride and world-class attraction.
“As an aviation and tourism state-owned holding company, InJourney has a mandate not only to manage assets but also to revive historical values and national identity. Grand Hotel De Djokja is a symbol of Indonesia’s long journey,” she explained.
“Through this revitalisation, we aim to ensure that this heritage is not only preserved but also remains relevant and competitive at the global level, so it can serve as a catalyst for strengthening Yogyakarta’s and Indonesia’s tourism,” she added.
She explained that the hotel, established in 1911, is one of the oldest and most prestigious hotels in the Malioboro area. Throughout its history, the hotel has undergone various name transformations, including Hotel Asahi (1942), Hotel Merdeka (1948), Hotel Garuda (1950), Natour Garuda (1975), Inna Garuda (2001), and Grand Inna Malioboro (2017), before finally returning to its original name as a tribute to Yogyakarta’s historical roots and cultural heritage.
Grand Hotel De Djokja also played an important role in the nation’s history. During 1945-1946, when Yogyakarta served as the capital of the Indonesian Republic, several rooms in the hotel functioned as the headquarters of the People’s Security Army under the leadership of Supreme Commander General Soedirman.
She stated that one of these historic spaces is now commemorated as the ‘Sudirman Suite’ (Room 291), which still preserves historical artefacts.
“The revitalisation of this hotel is managed by InJourney’s subsidiary, InJourney Hospitality, as part of InJourney’s strategic portfolio in developing historic national hotels,” she noted.
Meanwhile, InJourney Hospitality’s Chief Executive Officer, Christine Hutabarat, added that this transformation aligns with the strategic initiative to revive The Heritage Collection, aiming to elevate Indonesia’s historic hotels into hospitality destinations that offer not only comfort but also authentic narratives, identity, and cultural experiences.
“We believe the revival of Grand Hotel De Djokja will serve as an important catalyst in strengthening Yogyakarta’s tourism ecosystem. More than just accommodation, we present this hotel as a cultural destination, a luxury landmark, and a meeting space for creativity, business, and global tourism in the heart of Malioboro,” explained Christine.
Grand Hotel De Djokja officially welcomed guests from 16 March 2026 in a soft-opening phase with a special rate of Rp 1,911,000 net per room per night, including breakfast for two persons. The figure 1911 represents the year the hotel was founded, whilst affirming the commitment to preserving historical continuity and the future.
“This opening milestone also coincides with the Eid al-Fitr holiday period, making it a special choice for tourists wishing to enjoy accommodation at a legendary hotel in the centre of Yogyakarta,” she said.
Facilities and Services
As a five-star hotel that has undergone comprehensive revitalisation, Grand Hotel De Djokja offers premium facilities designed for both business travellers and tourists, including:
• 210 rooms and suites with elegant design combining classical and modern touches and equipped with the latest technology.
• 18 meeting rooms, 2 ballrooms, and 1 flexible hall for business meetings, conferences, weddings, and large-scale events.
• Wiji All-Day Dining Restaurant serving Pan-Asian cuisine, and Djati Lounge, Yogyakarta’s first gin bar in the city centre with sophisticated ambiance.
• Ragajiwo Gym, a modern fitness centre to support guests’ healthy lifestyle.
• Lulu Kids Club, a safe and comfortable children’s play area for families.
• Swimming Pool and Sagara Pool Bar, offering a relaxation atmosphere in the heart of the Malioboro area.
She explained that the hotel will also introduce additional facilities in future, including Wening Spa and Wellness, new restaurant concepts, and Heritage Suites located in the main building and historic wings of the hotel.
“With the return of Grand Hotel De Djokja, InJourney reaffirms its commitment to reviving Indonesia’s historic icons as part of strengthening a nationally competitive tourism ecosystem rooted in the nation’s cultural identity,” she concluded.