The Sundanese

This province has its own unique culture and language, both called Sundanese, the the major ethnic group. The ancient kingdoms of Pajajaran, Tarumanegara , Banten and Cirebon are the roots of Sundanese culture. The Sundanese people are soft-spoken. Most of them are moslem, so we can see strong islamic values in their lives. They possess natural friendliness and politeness. The Sundanese are lighthearted people who have a love for bright colors. They have a strong sense of helping each other when in need. The women of the Bandung region are known for their beauty (some say this is the real reason it is called the flower city).

The mournful "kecapi" music of the Sundanese recalls beautiful legends. Some of their folk songs include: "tarawangsa", "ogel", "buncis", "beluk", "reog" and "calung". They practice two classical Sundanese dances called: "ketuk tilu" and "japong". These are said to be more sensuous than their Javanese counterparts. The dancing is also more happy and has a faster more dynamic rythym well suited to the beat of the gamelan orchestal music. One of the instruments of the accompanying Sundanese gamelan the kendang or drum, is eminently suited to this dynamic spirit. The sundanesse have anoter unique musical instrument called "angklung". The Angklung is an instrument made from bamboo pipes which produces a very melodious tone. A most interesting part of Sundanese culture are their Wayang Golek wooden puppets. These are clearly diffent from the Javanese tradition of Wayang Kulit which are shadow puppets. The Wayang Golek is a play of figures carved and painted on wood. The characters are shaped as those in the episodes of the Hindu Mahabrata and Ramayana. Wayang is performed not merely for entertainment but also teaches religion and philosophy. Wayang golek is performed by a "dalang", who tells the story until very late, acting as narrator, operator and performer all together. Sometimes wayang puppeteering would be combined with people dressed like puppets who would dance to the music of a gamelan orchestra. These style was called Wayang Oran (Human Puppet). The Sundanese martial arts for self defense are called "pencak silat" and "degung".

The city is also home to quite a few ethnic chinese (the chinatown is around Pasar Baru Market). Javanese are the other major ethnic group in Bandung, although there is a significant European population as well.

Bandung Food Map lists these popular foods typical of Indonesian Cuisine

1. Nasi Goreng: a breakfast dish of fried rice (traditionally make from last night's meal)
2. Gado-gado: salad with peanut sauce and krupuk (shrimp chips), its great!
3. Soto (ayam): soup, or chicken soup!
4. Sate: (my favorite!) Chicken, Beef, or Pork grilled on a stick with Peanut Sauce