InJourney Revives Legendary Hotel on Malioboro
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA — PT Aviasi Pariwisata Indonesia (Persero) or InJourney has officially revived the legendary hotel at the main gateway to Jalan Malioboro by restoring its historic name to Grand Hotel de Djokja. This moment marks a new chapter in the resurgence of one of Indonesia’s heritage-themed hotel icons, which has stood since 1911.
“The restoration of the Grand Hotel de Djokja name is not merely a rebranding, but a strategic step to reclaim the hotel’s historical identity while strengthening its position as a cultural landmark and world-class destination in the heart of Yogyakarta,” said InJourney’s President Director Maya Watono in a written statement in Jakarta on Tuesday (17/3/2026).
Maya explained that the revitalisation of Grand Hotel de Djokja is part of InJourney’s strategy to present the face of Indonesia through strengthening cultural identity and national heritage as the main foundation for national tourism development. According to her, InJourney not only builds destinations but also weaves a tourism ecosystem that is characterful and elevates Indonesia’s noble values, so that every asset managed becomes a representation of national pride as well as a world-class attraction.
“As a holding company for state-owned aviation and tourism enterprises, InJourney has a mandate not only to manage assets but also to revive historical values and national identity,” Maya added.
Maya described Grand Hotel de Djokja as a symbol of Indonesia’s long journey. Through this revitalisation, InJourney aims to ensure that this heritage is not only preserved but also relevant and competitive on a global level, thereby serving as a catalyst for strengthening tourism in Yogyakarta and nationally.
Maya explained that the hotel, established in 1911, is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the Malioboro area. Over its history, it has undergone various name changes, from Hotel Asahi (1942), Hotel Merdeka (1948), Hotel Garuda (1950), Natour Garuda (1975), Inna Garuda (2001), to Grand Inna Malioboro (2017), before finally returning to its original name as a tribute to its historical roots and Yogyakarta’s cultural heritage.
Maya stated that Grand Hotel de Djokja also played an important role in the nation’s history. During the period of 1945–1946 when Yogyakarta served as the capital of the Republic of Indonesia, several rooms in the hotel were used as the headquarters of the People’s Security Army under the leadership of Supreme Commander General Sudirman.
“One of those historic rooms is now preserved as the ‘Sudirman Suite’ (Room 291), which still holds historical artefacts,” Maya added.
The hotel’s revitalisation is managed by InJourney’s subsidiary, InJourney Hospitality, as part of InJourney’s strategic portfolio in developing historic national hotels. InJourney Hospitality’s President Director Christine Hutabarat added that this transformation aligns with strategic initiatives to revive The Heritage Collection, aimed at elevating Indonesia’s historic hotels into hospitality destinations that not only offer comfort but also deliver authentic narratives, identity, and cultural experiences.
“We believe the revival of Grand Hotel de Djokja will be an important catalyst in strengthening Yogyakarta’s tourism ecosystem. More than just a place to stay, we present this hotel as a cultural destination, a luxury landmark, and a space for creativity, business, and global tourism in the heart of Malioboro,” said Christine.
Christine announced that Grand Hotel de Djokja officially welcomes guests starting from 16 March 2026 in its soft opening phase with special rates of Rp 1,911,000 nett per room per night, including breakfast for two people. The figure 1911 represents the year of the hotel’s establishment, while also affirming the commitment to continuity between history and the future.
“This opening moment also coincides with the Eid al-Fitr holiday period, making it a special choice for tourists who want to enjoy a stay at a legendary hotel in the centre of Yogyakarta,” said Christine.
As a five-star hotel that has undergone comprehensive revitalisation, Christine continued, Grand Hotel de Djokja offers premium facilities designed for business guests and tourists alike, including 210 rooms and suites with elegant designs blending classic and modern touches equipped with the latest technology. Additionally, there are 18 meeting rooms, two ballrooms, and one flexible hall for business meetings, conferences, up to weddings and large-scale events.
“With the return of Grand Hotel de Djokja, InJourney reaffirms its commitment to reviving Indonesia’s historic icons as part of strengthening the national tourism ecosystem that is globally competitive and rooted in the nation’s cultural identity,” said Christine.