Jepara Proposes Educational Tourism Development in Karimunjawa

RRI.CO.ID, Jepara - Jepara Regency in Central Java has proposed developing educational tourism in the Karimunjawa Islands to diversify visitor activities, create new markets, and spread economic benefits. However, experts urge caution to ensure this expansion does not shift environmental pressures to new conservation areas.

The initiative comes as the local administration seeks to ease tourist overcrowding by channeling visitors to supporting islands through an educational tourism model. However, officials and stakeholders stress that opening access to conservation zones, such as Nyamuk Island, must be handled carefully to prevent transferring waste accumulation and environmental damage to fragile new ecosystems.

“Tourism development in Karimunjawa must not focus solely on natural resources or beach tourism. Land-based tourism potential also needs to be developed so the region’s tourism ecosystem becomes more vibrant,” said Jepara Regent, Witiarso Utomo, in Jepara on Thursday, September 10, 2026.

One concept under consideration is educational tourism, including English-language learning tours. The regency views this as a way to create a new market segment and extend the length of stay for visitors.

“Developing English-language educational tourism is one effort to create a new market,” said Regent Witiarso, as quoted by Antara.

The presence of foreign tourists in Karimunjawa is seen as a supporting factor because participants can practice English directly with native speakers during their visit.

Beyond new tourism products, Jepara plans to open access to several other islands around Karimunjawa, including Nyamuk Island. The goal is to reduce congestion at single locations and broaden the distribution of tourism’s economic benefits to communities on other islands.

Witiarso emphasized that facility upgrades must go hand in hand with cleanliness efforts. He noted that visitor comfort is key to building Karimunjawa’s image as a destination. “Cleanliness and freshness must be maintained so tourists feel comfortable,” he said.

Karimunjawa comprises 27 islands with largely intact natural scenery and significant marine, nature, and land-based tourism potential. Marine and underwater attractions include snorkeling, diving, shark conservation areas, and exploration of small, exotic uninhabited islands. On land, visitors can enjoy white-sand beaches, hills with panoramic views, and mangrove trekking.

Annual visitor numbers hover around 70,000 domestic tourists and 7,000 foreign tourists, a volume seen as an opportunity to further diversify Karimunjawa’s tourism products, including through educational tourism.

The proposal aligns with recent moves to improve access and facilities, including port upgrades and new ferry services to Karimunjawa. It also builds on upcoming sport-tourism events, such as the Mega Karimunjawa Beach Trail Run scheduled for November 2026. ***