cirebon cullinary March 10, 2025
Writer: Indy Baitul Izzah
Japura Lor is one of the villages located in Pangenan Sub-district, Cirebon Regency, West Java. This village is unique because it is a combination of a long history, preserved culture, and local potential that can be developed to improve the welfare of the community. As part of the Cirebon coastal area, Japura Lor has various promising resources, both in terms of agriculture, fisheries, to the trade and small industry sectors.
History of Japura Lor
Japura Lor has a history that is closely related to the development of Islam in Cirebon. https://p2k.stekom.ac.id/ensiklopedia/Japura_Lor,_Pangenan,_Cirebon One of the historical relics that still exists today is the Al-Karomah Mosque, which is said to have been built by the followers of Sunan Gunung Jati. This mosque became an important symbol in the spread of Islam in the Japura area and its surroundings. In addition, many villagers still maintain the traditional values passed down by their ancestors.
People believe that the name “Japura” is related to Cirebon’s past as the center of trade and the spread of Islam in West Java. The village used to be a strategic route for traders and scholars who came to Cirebon. To this day, there are still many residents of Japura Lor who have bloodlines with the early spreaders of Islam.
Image 1: Al Karomah Mosque
Culture and Traditions are Still Preserve
As a village with strong cultural roots, Japura Lor still maintains various traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. Some of them are:
- Maulid Nabi and Rajaban Celebrations
Every year, the people of Japura Lor commemorate the Prophet’s birthday with religious activities such as Quran recitations, shalawat chanting, and communal feasts known as “ngeliwet.” Additionally, the Isra Mikraj (Rajaban) celebration serves as an important occasion for communal prayers and gatherings.
- Local Arts and Culture
Traditional performances like Wayang Kulit and Tarling (a musical blend of guitar and the Cirebon flute) remain popular at village events. The spirit of gotong royong (community cooperation) is also deeply embedde in everyday life, manifesting in activities such as mosque construction, road maintenance, and family celebrations.
In addition to having a strong history and culture, Japura Lor is rich in natural potential that can be develope to improve the community’s economy. Some of the village’s main potentials include:
- Agriculture
Most of the people in Japura Lor make a living as farmers. The fertile agricultural land allows them to grow rice and various other crops that become their daily staples. Irrigation system also supports agricultural productivity in this village.
- Fisheries and Ponds
As part of the Pangenan Sub-district, Japura Lor has significant potential in fisheries. Many residents operate fish and shrimp farms, which serve as a primary income source. Some companies export these products regionally and internationally.
- Trade and Entrepreneurship
Many residents migrate to major cities like Jakarta and Bandung to engage in trade. They sell various Cirebon specialties, including batik, traditional foods, and products from agriculture and fisheries. Additionally, small-scale industries such as shrimp paste and salted fish production continue to thrive within the village.https://cirebonprofileandtourism.com/2025/03/10/potential-and-development-of-kalijaga-village/
