Gunung Jati Train Continues to Gain Popularity, Serving 204,280 Passengers During January–April 2026
There are cities that always make people want to return. Not because they are close, but because there is always a new story waiting to be discovered. Cirebon is one of them. This coastal city on the northern corridor of Java is home to a unique blend of culture, history, cuisine, and hospitality, making every visit a memorable experience.
The growing public interest in traveling to Cirebon is reflected in the performance of the Gunung Jati Train. During the January–April 2026 period, the service carried 204,280 passengers, an increase of 45.80 percent compared with the same period in 2025, when it served 140,104 passengers.
The Gunung Jati Train is a mixed class train service operating along the Jakarta–Cirebon–Semarang corridor. In its daily operating cycle, the train departs from Cirebon to Gambir, continues to Semarang Tawang via Cirebon, then returns to Gambir before ending its journey in Cirebon. This travel pattern provides customers with flexible travel options to reach various cities along Java's Northern Coast, a region known for its growing economic, cultural, and tourism activities.
KAI Vice President of Corporate Communication Anne Purba stated that the growth in Gunung Jati Train passengers demonstrates that rail travel is increasingly becoming the preferred choice for people seeking a comfortable journey while exploring various attractive destinations.
"Traveling by train allows customers to enjoy a more relaxed journey. Upon arriving at their destination, a wide range of new experiences awaits, from historical attractions and culinary delights to the natural beauty that characterizes each region,"
Upon arriving in Cirebon, passengers can immediately explore a variety of destinations located relatively close to the station. Sunyaragi Cave offers a historic complex with distinctive architecture, while the Kasepuhan Palace, Kanoman Palace, Kacirebonan Palace, and Kaprabonan Palace preserve the rich cultural heritage of Cirebon that has been maintained to this day.
For visitors interested in religious tourism, the Sunan Gunungjati Tomb complex is one of the most popular destinations. Every year, thousands of pilgrims from various regions visit the site to learn more about the history and values passed down by one of the most influential figures in the spread of Islam throughout the Indonesian archipelago.
The charm of Cirebon and its surrounding areas can also be found along its coastline and natural attractions. Kejawanan Beach is a favorite destination for enjoying the afternoon atmosphere, while Tirtamaya Beach, Tirta Ayu Beach in Indramayu, and Balongan Kesambi Beach offer captivating coastal scenery. Meanwhile, Cicerem Blue Lake and Jagara Eco Park provide peaceful and refreshing natural surroundings.
A trip to Cirebon is made even more memorable by its renowned culinary specialties. Nasi Jamblang, Empal Gentong, Tahu Gejrot, Nasi Lengko, Mie Koclok, Docang, and Empal Asem are among the local dishes that visitors consistently seek out. For many travelers, tasting regional cuisine is often a compelling reason to return.
According to Anne, the increasing number of Gunung Jati Train passengers reflects the growing connection between transportation and regional tourism development. The convenience offered by rail transportation creates more opportunities for people to discover destinations across Indonesia while also stimulating economic activity in the regions they visit.
"Perhaps several years from now, what people will remember most is not how long the journey took, but who accompanied them, the places they visited, the food they tasted, and the simple moments experienced along the way. That is where memories are born,"
Anne added that KAI aspires to be part of those memorable moments.
"Because an enjoyable journey often becomes a story that lives on, is remembered, and one day can be shared with children and grandchildren as part of a meaningful life experience,"
VP Corporate Communication KAI