Rowo Bayu, a tourist area with an interesting history in Banyuwangi

Rowo Bayu, a tourist area with an interesting history in Banyuwangi

Rowo Bayu in Banyuwangi is a tourist area with an interesting history, which offers stunning natural views, a mysterious mystical atmosphere.

Banyuwangi, a district at the eastern tip of Java Island, has many attractive natural tourist destinations. One of the increasingly popular places is Rowo Bayu, a location known for its mystical stories and long history.

Located in the Petak 8 Forest area, around 800 meters above sea level, Rowo Bayu offers a unique tourism experience, combining natural beauty with mystical stories that adorn this area.

Located in the middle of a lush forest, Rowo Bayu is a perfect place for anyone looking for tranquility as well as adrenaline-pumping adventure.

The Natural Beauty of Rowo Bayu

Rowo Bayu is a serene lake with stunning natural scenery. Surrounded by shady trees and cool air, this place provides a sense of tranquility that is hard to find anywhere else.

The natural beauty of Rowo Bayu lies not only in the clear and pristine lake view, but also in the atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of the city. This place is the perfect destination to escape from the daily routine and enjoy the peace of nature.

Not many people know about the beauty of Rowo Bayu, so this place is not too crowded with visitors. However, anyone who comes will be enchanted by the peaceful and refreshing atmosphere.

Around the lake, there are many large trees that provide shade, and the clear lake water is perfect for relaxing, swimming, or just enjoying the beautiful natural scenery.

History and Origin of Rowo Bayu

Rowo Bayu is not only famous for its natural beauty, but also for the long history that accompanies it. This place was once a witness to important events in history, especially related to the Bayu War.

In the 18th century, the VOC (Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie) attacked the Blambangan Kingdom located in Banyuwangi.

The VOC’s goal was to divide the relationship between the Blambangan Kingdom and Bali, and to carry out the process of Islamization in the area.

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However, the VOC attack was not well received by the Blambangan community, which eventually triggered the Bayu War. VOC troops fought with Blambangan troops, led by figures such as Jagapati.

In the fierce battle, many lives were lost, and the battle was known for its cruelty and devastating impact on the lives of the surrounding community.

Rowo Bayu: The place of meditation of King Tawang Alun

Apart from its dark history, Rowo Bayu is also known as the place of meditation of Prabu Tawang Alun, the famous king of the Blambangan Kingdom. During the kingdom, Prabu Tawang Alun was the eldest son of King Blambangan.

Although he was appointed to lead the kingdom, Prabu Tawang Alun chose to give in for the sake of family harmony, and gave the throne to his younger brother.

In the story, Prabu Tawang Alun received a whisper from Sang Hyang Widhi asking him to go to the forest. A white tiger became a guide to take Prabu Tawang Alun to Rowo Bayu, which eventually became his place of meditation.

At that time, Rowo Bayu was still a dense, haunted forest, which was not widely known. However, after the discovery of this place, Prabu Tawang Alun decided to build a kingdom and meditate there.

Rowo Bayu became a silent witness to the spiritual journey of Prabu Tawang Alun who sought peace and wisdom after relinquishing his royal throne.

Guardian of Rowo Bayu: Ki Jalu

Behind the beauty and mystical history of Rowo Bayu, there is a guardian figure known as Ki Jalu. Ki Jalu is a creature believed to guard the Rowo Bayu area.

Although no one knows for sure what form or shape he is, legend has it that Ki Jalu is a very powerful figure and only a few people can see him. Those who have faced Ki Jalu directly are said to feel faint because of the strong energy that radiates from him.

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In addition to Ki Jalu, there are also other spirits believed to inhabit this area, such as Eyang Resi Sumilir, Nyai Resek, and various supernatural beings known to the locals.

The mystical story of Rowo Bayu is increasingly attracting the attention of visitors, many of whom come to experience the mysterious atmosphere here.

Mystical Stories in Rowo Bayu

Apart from being a calming place, Rowo Bayu is also known for the mystical stories that are often shared by visitors. Many claim that they have felt the presence of spirits or experienced strange events during their visits.

There are stories about the appearance of were-tiger, namely the Gading Tiger and the Ireng Tiger, which are said to be the guardians of the forest around Rowo Bayu.

Other stories involve the figure of an old man carrying a sickle and chasing visitors, as well as the appearance of a black-robed figure shrouded in mist.

One of the most well-known stories is the experience of a tourist who was chased by the figure of an old man with a sickle in his hand, which made him feel terrified.

Visitors also reported seeing apparitions of black-robed figures emerging from the thick fog, adding to the mystical feel that surrounds Rowo Bayu.

The History of Rowo Bayu and the Blambangan Kingdom

The history of Rowo Bayu is closely related to the history of the Blambangan Kingdom, which once triumphed in the Banyuwangi area.

In 1767, the VOC launched a military expedition to Blambangan to overthrow the kingdom and take control of the area. The Blambangan Kingdom at that time had close ties with Bali, which made the VOC worried about Bali’s great influence in the region.

After the VOC succeeded in defeating the Balinese troops in the battle of Blambangan, the tranquility of the Blambangan residents was disturbed by a rebellion led by Wong Agung Wilis, a member of the royal family.

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In 1771, this rebellion culminated in the establishment of a fort in Bayu Village. However, the VOC troops returned with greater force and destroyed the fort, causing many deaths on both sides.

This incident is part of the dark history that is still remembered by the residents around Rowo Bayu.

Rowo Bayu as a Tourist Destination

Currently, Rowo Bayu is one of the unique tourist destinations in Banyuwangi. With a cool atmosphere, beautiful natural scenery, and historical and mystical stories that accompany it, Rowo Bayu offers an experience that cannot be found anywhere else.

You can enjoy the tranquility of nature, go around by boat, or even enjoy hiking around the forest area. For those who are interested in mystical stories, visiting Rowo Bayu will provide a unique sensation that adds to the attraction of this place.

Access and Location of Rowo Bayu

Rowo Bayu is located in the Petak 8 Forest area, around 800 meters above sea level, making it have a cool air temperature. To get to Rowo Bayu, you can use a private vehicle or join a tour provided by a local travel agent.

Road access to the location is quite easy, but visitors are advised to be careful because the terrain is quite challenging in some parts. Rowo Bayu is about 10 km from the city center of Banyuwangi, and can be reached in about 20-30 minutes by vehicle.

In closing, Rowo Bayu is not only a stunning natural tourist destination, but also a place rich in historical value and local legends.

The natural beauty offered, combined with the mystical stories that develop around it, makes Rowo Bayu a must-visit destination for travelers looking for a different experience.

Traveling through Ijen Crater is not just about enjoying the scenery, but also feeling the depth of culture and stories that live amidst the nature of Banyuwangi.