cirebon natural tourism Kaliwulu village is located in the Plered sub-district, Cirebon Regency, which is one of the villages that holds great potential in tourism, especially in the religious aspect. The main icon of this village is the Kaliwulu sacred mosque, a cultural heritage site that has a substantial historical and spiritual value. Sheikh Syarif Abdurrahman, also known as Ki Gede Kaliwulu, built this mosque as a legacy; he was the son of Pangeran Panjunan and a direct descendant of Sunan Gunung Jati.
Religious Tourism
This mosque serves as both a place of worship and a popular religious tourism site. Visitors not only pray but also witness traditional customs preserved by the community. In addition, the traditional architectural design and traditions add a strong spiritual impression.
Both local and visiting tourists look forward to the Sedekah Bumi, an annual harvest ritual that preserves local tradition and expresses gratitude. The community usually accompanies this tradition with shadow puppet shows, prayers, and offerings of local food. In addition, there are still traditional games such as Jangkungan (Eglang) that children play during school holidays. The community can develop this kind of cultural heritage into an attractive annual cultural tourism event.
Cultural & Social Tourism
Beyond religion, the village’s social life also attracts tourists and locals. One popular gathering point is Miecow (formerly Kalicafe), a casual hangout spot that serves as a social interaction space for local residents, especially the younger generation. It’s strategically located near Kaliwulu Primary School 2 and the main road used for the night market. Its comfortable, open, and calm atmosphere—close to public spaces—makes it an ideal spot for informal activities and a strong candidate for development into community-based tourism.
The village hosts a pasar malam (night market) every Wednesday afternoon, adding a unique touch to the local tourism experience. Visitors can enjoy local snacks and traditional games, and feel the warmth of community life in the village. Various Cirebon specialties are sold here, including rujak—a savory and spicy salad made from shredded fruits or vegetables with chili and salt, urab—a vegetable dish mixed with seasoned grated coconut, and lobak aci—a chewy tapioca and radish snack, along with many other traditional treats like fried bananas and gethuk. In addition, there are games made as a business to attract children’s attention.
Creative Industry Tourism
The village also takes pride in its strength in the creative industry. Many local artisans craft carved furniture from teak, mahogany, and mango wood, with some works linked to the Cirebon Palace. Kinatagama, who crafted the Cirebon Palace’s Paksi Naga Liman carriage, is honored through the village’s main street, Jalan Kinatagama.
Religious sites, cultural events, gathering spots like Miecow, and the carving industry form the core of the village’s tourism appeal. Kaliwulu Village has the potential to develop integrated tourism that blends natural beauty, history, spirituality, tradition, and community warmth. With good management and community support, Kaliwulu can grow into a leading tourism village rich in beauty, spirituality, and culture.
Writer: Nita Urmila
Email: nita30niwth@gmail.com
