Agoda data shows China recorded the fastest growth in Indonesia travel interest during the first half of 2026, while Malaysia and Singapore remained the leading source markets.
Indonesia travel interest recorded its fastest growth from China during the first half of 2026, according to accommodation search data released by Agoda. Searches from Chinese travellers increased by 44% compared with the same period in 2025.
The digital travel platform analysed accommodation searches made between January and June 2026. The results indicate stronger inbound interest from several Asia-Pacific markets, alongside changes in the ranking of Indonesia’s main tourism source countries.
Malaysia and Singapore ranked as the two largest contributors to inbound travel interest. South Korea, which previously held a higher position, moved to third place, followed by Australia in fourth.
China entered the top five source markets for the first time, overtaking Japan. Agoda’s figures show that the Chinese market recorded the highest year-on-year increase among Indonesia’s major inbound markets.
Interest from Malaysia increased by 18%, while searches from Singapore rose by 17%. Meanwhile, demand from some North Asian markets, including Japan and South Korea, showed weaker momentum during the six-month period.
Indonesia has also announced new air routes aimed at expanding connectivity with China. Additional flight capacity between the two markets could support further visitor growth during the second half of 2026.
The weaker Indonesian rupiah may also have contributed to the increase in international travel searches. Currency movements have improved Indonesia’s relative affordability for travellers, comparing accommodation, transport and leisure costs across regional destinations.
Bali remains the leading destination
Bali retained its position as Indonesia’s most searched destination among international travellers. Jakarta, Batam Island, Lombok and Bandung completed the top five destinations in Agoda’s accommodation search rankings.
Bali’s continued position reflects its established role in Indonesia’s inbound tourism sector. However, the rankings also show interest across urban gateways, border islands and secondary leisure destinations.
Jakarta remained a major point of entry for international travellers and a centre for business, events and urban tourism. Batam Island’s ranking reflects its proximity and transport links to Singapore and Malaysia.
Lombok continued to attract interest as an established leisure destination, while Bandung remained among the country’s most searched cities. The West Java destination combines domestic and international demand linked to its climate, retail sector, culinary market and surrounding highland areas.
Beyond the five leading destinations, Agoda reported strong search growth for several less-established tourism locations. Sukabumi recorded the largest percentage increase, with accommodation interest rising 4.6 times compared with the first half of 2025.
Located in West Java, Sukabumi features highland landscapes, waterfalls, and areas associated with the Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu UNESCO Global Geopark. Its growth indicates rising search activity for destinations outside Indonesia’s main international tourism centres.
Manado and Gorontalo ranked as the second- and third-fastest-growing destinations. Searches for both locations increased by approximately three times compared with the corresponding period last year.
The two destinations are located in eastern Indonesia and are linked to marine tourism, local culture and regional food experiences. Manado also serves as a gateway to North Sulawesi’s diving and coastal tourism areas.
Interest expands beyond established tourism centres
Gede Gunawan, Senior Country Director for Indonesia at Agoda, said: “Indonesia’s appeal is clearly broadening, especially among travelers from China and Southeast Asia. The strong growth in interest in destinations like Sukabumi, Manado and Gorontalo shows that travellers are eager to explore more of what Indonesia has to offer beyond Bali.”
He added, “The combination of affordability, accessibility, and diverse experiences positions Indonesia well for continued growth in travel interest through the rest of 2026. Agoda remains committed to supporting Indonesia’s tourism growth with a seamless platform that makes travel more accessible and easier to plan.”
The findings measure accommodation search activity rather than confirmed bookings or completed arrivals. However, they provide an indication of changing consumer interest and of the destinations travellers consider during the research and planning stages.
The data also highlights the continued importance of Southeast Asian markets for Indonesia. Malaysia and Singapore maintained their leading positions, while China’s growth strengthened Northeast Asia’s contribution to future inbound demand.
For destination organisations and tourism operators, the results show that international travel searches remain concentrated around Bali and the country’s principal gateways. At the same time, faster growth is being recorded in destinations with lower existing search volumes.
Agoda’s platform currently includes access to more than six million holiday properties, over 130,000 flight routes and more than 300,000 travel activities. The company provides accommodation, flight and activity booking services across international and domestic markets.