The Jogja Walking Association, in collaboration with the Sleman Regency Tourism Office, successfully held the Jogja International Heritage Walk (JIHW) 2024, an event that beautifully blended green sport tourism with the promotion of Indonesian cultural heritage. Taking place on November 16-17, 2024, the event spanned across the picturesque villages of Important, Sleman, and Selopamioro, Imogiri, Bantul, with full support from the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf).

With the theme "Save the Nature, Respect the Culture," JIHW 2024 aimed to elevate Indonesia’s tourism and cultural heritage to an international audience while promoting environmental sustainability. Deputy Chairperson of JIHW, Dahlia Puspasari, highlighted the event’s unique approach, combining walking, cultural exploration, local tourism, and environmental conservation.

“We want participants from all over the world to be able to enjoy the natural beauty of Yogyakarta while also experiencing the wisdom of local communities. This event is a medium to harmonize sports activities with the strengthening of culture and preservation of nature,” Dahlia said in a recent interview.

Recognized internationally, JIHW holds two licenses from prominent organizations—the International Marching League (IML) from the Netherlands and the Internationaler Volkssportverband (IVV) from Germany. This recognition solidified its standing as a global event, drawing participants from across the world.

Participants had the choice of three different routes—5 km, 10 km, or 20 km—each offering breathtaking views of Yogyakarta’s natural beauty, alongside the warm hospitality of local communities. The event's "Intimate Walking" concept not only allowed participants to enjoy stunning landscapes but also provided opportunities to interact with locals and explore their traditions and culture.

“The unique walking experience is more than just a physical challenge; it’s about connecting with the land, the people, and the rich cultural heritage of Yogyakarta,” added Dahlia.

JIHW 2024 wasn’t just a walk—it was a celebration of sports, culture, and environmental conservation, making it a must-attend event for both local and international participants alike. This combination of physical activity and cultural immersion promises to become a standout annual event in Yogyakarta’s tourism calendar.