Grades 1 and 2 students of SD Edu Global Cirebon had a class tour to Keraton Kasepuhan Cirebon on September 24, 2025. The tour was enjoyable, educational, and full of beaming faces. We set off with angkot, local transport, as students had the opportunity to practice the use of Indonesian rupiah in live conditions. This was a practical yet enjoyable way to develop independence.
When we got to the Keraton gate around 8 a.m., the group was greeted warmly by one of the guides, who introduced himself with a brief rundown and warned us that we were actually visiting a significant historical site, the old royal palace of the Cirebonese kings. The first of our attractions was the Museum Pusaka Keraton, where the kids observed royal relics and listened to the history of each item. Then we moved on to Bangsal Dalem Pakungwati, where the children had the option to feed the palace birds.
Next, we headed to the Goa Al-Lotus Museum, the first-ever cave museum in Indonesia. There, students listened to the legends of the local Cirebon folk hero, Sultan Matangaji, as well as legends of his life, struggles, and role in history. To cap the day, the entire group participated in an art class where they made traditional Cirebon dance masks as well as mini plaques with the world-famous pattern of Megamendung batik.
The session made them appreciate the art and culture of Cirebon differently. The students, particularly the Grade 1 students, were bubbling with excitement during the trip. They learned not just about the royal history of Cirebon but also about real-life skills such as travelling in public transportation, as well as making tiny transactions independently. It was a special day — one that combined learning, art, and experience perfectly. We want the students to retain this memory as well as absorb the learning throughout their lives.