Pasar Papringan is one of the most unique and beautiful traditional market concepts in Indonesia, located in Ngadiprono village, Kedu District, Temanggung Regency, Central Java.
The word “papringan” in Javanese means a bamboo grove. This market is literally held in the middle of a bamboo forest, where people sell local produce, traditional snacks, handicrafts, and authentic Temanggung culinary specialties. What makes it even more special is that all transactions use bamboo coins that you exchange at a special counter — kind of like an eco-currency.
The market only opens every Wage Sunday and Pon Sunday according to the Javanese calendar, so it’s not available every day. But thanks to its uniqueness, it attracts both local and international visitors.
What makes it so heartwarming: - All packaging used in the market is eco-friendly no plastic, only leaves, bamboo, or woven containers. - The atmosphere is cool and shady, with tall bamboo trees, the sound of the wind, water trickling, and the earthy aroma of a bamboo forest. - The products sold there are directly from local farmers and include rare traditional foods, like nasi megono, geblek, tiwul, gethuk, and various herbal drinks.
The market was initiated by the Spedagi community (a village-based design and architecture movement), with the goal of reviving the village through a market concept rooted in local culture while remaining eco-friendly and contemporary.
Many people also use Pasar Papringan as a place for filming, pre-wedding photo sessions, or simply as a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
If you love nature, local culture, and traditional culinary experiences, this is a must-visit destination when you’re in Central Java ✨
