About Jakarta: The Indonesian capital of Jakarta is located in the northwest of Java Island and is the political, economic and cultural center of the country. Jakarta, also known as “Coconut City” was just a small fishing village back in the 5th century AD, but is now a sprawling international and multicultural metropolis. The city can be separated into two parts, the old and the new. The old, industrial district is in the north, close to the bay and features unique scenery with numerous monuments. The new district, located in the south, is full of modernity and houses the central business district. Central Jakarta serves as the political center of Jakarta. Most of the buildings here are European in style. Many visitors to Indonesia use Jakarta as a transit point, but a walk around the historic city is well worth the time.