Kampung Warna Jodipan is a small riverside neighborhood in Malang that became popular after the houses were repainted in bright colors. The whole area feels cheerful, with murals, narrow stairways, and photo spots at almost every corner.
It’s easy to reach from the city center and only a short walk from Malang Station, which makes it a simple stop if you want something light and fun to explore.
In this short guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know before you go: how to get there, what to expect, and a few small tips to make the most of your visit.
History of Rainbow Village(s) in Malang
Jodipan Village in Malang used to be a rundown area by the Brantas River. But everything changed in 2016 thanks to a creative idea from Communication university students. They formed a team called GuysPro and worked with locals, supported by a paint company and mural artists, to transform the village into a colorful and vibrant place.
The project didn’t just beautify the area—it also inspired the community to care more about cleanliness and the environment. By 2017, Jodipan’s Colorful Village was officially recognized as a tourist destination and has become one of Malang’s most iconic spots.
Now, besides enjoying the vibrant scenery, visitors can also shop for souvenirs, try local snacks, or join a village tour to learn more about its history while supporting the local economy.
As Jodipan’s popularity grew, nearby neighborhoods began creating their own colorful identities. The most notable is Kampung Tridi (3D Village), just across the railway bridge, which features colorful 3D murals and interactive photo spots. Around the same time, on the opposite side of the river, Kampung Biru Arema was developed—its houses painted in blue tones as a tribute to Malang’s beloved football club, Arema.
Together, Kampung Warna-Warni, Kampung Tridi, and Kampung Biru form a vibrant trio that turned this once-overlooked part of Malang into a cheerful, community-led urban art destination.
Backindo Tip: Nepal van Java in Magelang was born from the same colorful‑village spirit as Jodipan. In 2016–17, local youth + paint sponsors transformed their hillside village into a rainbow landmark
What to See or Do in Jodipan Village
Once you enter, you’ll be welcomed by bright colors everywhere—yellow, red, blue, purple—all painted by the local residents. The alleys are narrow and stepped, so you can walk slowly while checking out the cute murals, 3D photo spots, and the glass bridge that connects two parts of the village.
Backindo Tip: Don’t forget—Jodipan Village and Kampung Tridi are two separate spots, even though they look connected. When crossing the small bridge between them, you’ll be asked to pay a second entrance fee. Some travelers are surprised by this and feel it's a bit of a trick, but both villages are managed independently, so it’s normal.
If you’re lucky, you might catch a train passing by on the tracks above the village—a great moment for a photo. And if the weather is on your side during sunrise or sunset, you might even spot Mount Semeru or Mount Kawi in the distance.
Just keep in mind—this is not a quiet nature spot—this is a tourist village, so you won’t be alone here.
Practical Info
Thinking of stopping by? Here’s the lowdown to help you plan:
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: 10,000 IDR for foreigners (bring small change)
- Best Time to Visit: Aim for early morning (7–8 AM) or late afternoon for better weather and fewer crowds.
- Suggested Visit Time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours is plenty to walk around and snap some photos.
Make sure to bring drinking water to stay refreshed, a hat or sunscreen to protect from the sun, your camera or phone for those must-capture moments. But there are small snack stalls throughout the village if you get hungry.
Backindo Tip: If you have extra time, Kampung Biru Arema is just across the river—painted entirely in blue and loved by Arema football fans. It’s less crowded, and there’s no entrance fee.
How to Get There
Kampung Warna-Warni Jodipan is located in central Malang, just a short 10-minute walk from Malang Train Station. Or you can hop on a GoJek or Grab for around IDR 8,000–15,000.
If you’re coming from the city center, an online ojek is still the most practical choice. It’s technically possible to come by car, but there’s no dedicated car parking area, and the nearest available parking is quite far, so walking or arriving by motorbike is much easier.
Where to Stay
Because Jodipan is in the heart of Malang, staying nearby is super convenient. For a boutique stay with character, check out The Shalimar Boutique Hotel or Hotel Tugu Malang.
If you’re after something more mid-range, Atria Hotel Malang or Ibis Styles Malang are solid picks. Traveling on a budget? Try MADOR Malang Dormitory or Hostel Wees—both are simple, cozy, and great for short stays.
Is it Worth Visiting Rainbow Villages?
Kampung Warna Jodipan isn’t just a photo stop—it’s a story of how creativity and community can transform a place. What began as a student project has improved lives, boosted the local economy, and brought pride to a once-overlooked neighborhood.
For travelers, it’s more than just snapping colorful pictures. It’s a chance to see how tourism—when rooted in local effort—can make a real impact. Visiting Jodipan offers a different kind of experience.
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