Where Expats in Jakarta Play Badminton: Best Courts in South & Central
The Best Badminton Courts for Expats Around Central and South Jakarta
Badminton is more than just a sport in Indonesia. It is a national passion, a weekend ritual, and for many, a way to connect with others. Jakarta, with its bustling urban life, offers a variety of badminton courts that cater not only to locals but also to the growing expatriate community. For expats living in Central and South Jakarta, finding the right place to play is often about more than just the game itself. It is also about convenience, community, and having access to well-maintained facilities that make it easier to balance work, social life, and recreation.
According to the Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI), more than 30 million Indonesians actively play badminton, making the country one of the largest badminton communities in the world. This means Jakarta is never short of places to play, but for expats unfamiliar with the city’s neighborhoods, navigating the options can feel overwhelming. That is why it helps to have a guide highlighting some of the most accessible and high-quality courts, particularly around Central and South Jakarta where many expats live.
Why Badminton is a Must Try Among Expats in Jakarta
For many expats, badminton is not just about exercise. It offers a bridge into Indonesian culture, a way to meet new friends, and an affordable activity compared to golf or tennis. Courts are generally easy to book, equipment can be rented on-site, and the sport itself is suitable for both beginners and advanced players.
Living in Jakarta can be intense with traffic, long working hours, and a busy lifestyle. That makes badminton an attractive option because:
- Most courts are indoors, so they are unaffected by rain or the hot tropical climate.
- Sessions can be short, allowing people to play after work without taking up the whole evening.
- It is easy to form small groups, which works well for expats looking to expand their social circles.
Many expats living in luxury apartments around Central Jakarta, such as those near the Sudirman and Thamrin business districts, or in South Jakarta neighborhoods like Kemang and Senayan, appreciate having quality sports facilities close by. Being able to step out of the office or apartment and reach a good badminton hall within 15–20 minutes makes the sport even more appealing.
Central Jakarta: Accessibility Meets Convenience
Photo by GBK
Central Jakarta is often the first point of settlement for many expatriates due to its proximity to office towers, embassies, and high-end residences. While the area is known for its business-centric environment, there are also several badminton courts that provide convenience and accessibility.
One example is Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) Badminton Hall, located within the Senayan sports complex. GBK is a name synonymous with sports in Jakarta, and while it is often associated with football or athletics, it also has dedicated badminton facilities. The courts here are professional-grade and regularly maintained, making them a solid option for both casual players and serious enthusiasts. The location is highly accessible, sitting right at the edge of Central and South Jakarta, which makes it a strategic choice for expats working in the Sudirman or Kuningan areas.
Another option in Central Jakarta is Tifosi Badminton Hall. While not as expansive as GBK, it is popular for its friendly atmosphere, decent court quality, and straightforward booking system. For expats living near luxury residences like Anandamaya Residences on Jalan Sudirman, Tifosi and other nearby halls provide an easy way to play without having to deal with long commutes.
These halls are particularly attractive to expatriates because of their central location, allowing quick access after office hours. Many professionals who live and work in Sudirman or Thamrin can squeeze in a game before heading home, turning what could be a stressful commute into a chance to unwind.
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South Jakarta: The Heart of Expat Living
Photo by Ayo.co.id
South Jakarta has long been the preferred residential hub for expats in the city. Neighborhoods like Kemang, Senopati, Pondok Indah, and Setiabudi offer a mix of international schools, dining, and lifestyle options that suit the expatriate community. It is no surprise that some of the best badminton facilities are also found here.
One of the most popular venues is Candra Wijaya International Badminton Center, named after Indonesia’s Olympic gold medalist. This facility, located in Bintaro, South Jakarta, is well-known for its professional standards. The courts are regularly used for training sessions, and it has become a favorite among serious players. For expats looking to experience badminton at a higher level, this is an excellent choice.
Closer to the heart of South Jakarta, Senayan Badminton Hall provides another convenient option. Its location makes it particularly appealing for those living in Setiabudi or Kuningan, both of which are popular residential areas for expatriates. For example, residents in the upscale Savyavasa Apartments in Setiabudi benefit from being within a short distance of quality sports halls, including badminton courts that are suitable for both casual play and competitive matches.
Another strong contender is Victory Badminton Hall in Pancoran. This facility has gained a reputation for offering well-maintained courts at reasonable prices, making it a good balance between affordability and quality. Expats living in areas like Kalibata or those commuting between South and Central Jakarta often find Victory a convenient middle ground.
Facilities That Expats Appreciate
When it comes to badminton halls, expats often look for more than just the court itself. Several factors make a big difference in creating a positive playing experience:
- Court Maintenance: Well-kept flooring and good lighting are crucial. Expats often prefer halls that maintain international standards.
- Booking Flexibility: Many facilities in Central and South Jakarta allow online booking, which makes the process much easier.
- Amenities: Parking, showers, and sometimes even small cafés or canteens add to the overall convenience.
- Community Feel: Expatriates often enjoy venues where it is easy to meet new playing partners, join groups, or participate in casual tournaments.
Venues near popular apartment complexes such as Anandamaya or Savyavasa tend to attract an international mix of players. This adds an extra layer of appeal, as the courts double as a social hub where locals and expats can interact.
Balancing Lifestyle and Sports
Jakarta’s lifestyle can often feel fast-paced, but having easy access to recreational sports is one of the best ways to balance it out. For expats, badminton serves as more than just a workout. It becomes part of a healthier lifestyle that counters the city’s traffic-heavy routines and demanding work schedules.
Areas like Setiabudi, Sudirman, and Senopati have made it easier for expats to integrate sports into their daily lives. Having badminton courts near where they live or work, such as around Anandamaya Residences or Savyavasa Apartments, adds convenience without requiring long travel times. This proximity helps ensure that badminton remains a regular activity rather than something reserved only for weekends.
Read also: Best Sport Centers for Expats in Central Jakarta | Gyms, Courts & Pools
How to Get Started
For new expats in Jakarta, getting started with badminton is straightforward. Most halls allow walk-ins, though booking in advance is highly recommended during peak hours, which usually run from 6 PM to 9 PM on weekdays. Court rental prices are generally affordable, often ranging between IDR 80,000 to 200,000 per hour depending on the location and facilities.
Equipment is easy to rent if you do not have your own racket, and shuttlecocks can be purchased on-site. Many expats also find it useful to join WhatsApp or Facebook groups where regular players organize sessions. This not only guarantees a spot on the court but also helps build social connections in a new city.
Key Takeaways
Badminton is deeply embedded in Jakarta’s culture, and for expats living in Central and South Jakarta, it offers a perfect mix of sport, social connection, and accessibility. From the iconic GBK halls in Central Jakarta to modern facilities in Setiabudi, Senayan, and Pancoran, there are plenty of options to suit different needs.
While luxury residences like Anandamaya Residences or Savyavasa Apartments provide convenient access to some of the city’s best courts, the broader badminton scene across Jakarta ensures that every expat can find a place that fits their lifestyle. Whether you are looking for professional training, casual play, or simply a way to unwind after work, Jakarta’s badminton halls provide an evergreen opportunity to stay active and connected.
FAQs
- What are the best badminton courts for expats in Central Jakarta?
Some of the most convenient options for expats include Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) Badminton Hall and Tifosi Badminton Hall, both located near Sudirman and Thamrin. - Where can I find good badminton courts in South Jakarta?
South Jakarta offers popular options like Candra Wijaya International Badminton Center in Bintaro, Senayan Badminton Hall near Setiabudi, and Victory Badminton Hall in Pancoran. - How much does it cost to rent a badminton court in Jakarta?
Court rental typically ranges between IDR 80,000 and 200,000 per hour, depending on location, time, and facilities. - Can I rent badminton equipment in Jakarta?
Yes, most badminton halls in Central and South Jakarta allow you to rent rackets and purchase shuttlecocks on-site, making it easy for expats who are just starting out. - Is badminton popular among expats living in Jakarta?
Absolutely. Many expats play badminton not only for fitness but also as a way to connect with locals and other expats, especially in neighborhoods like Setiabudi, Senopati, and Kemang. - Do I need to book a court in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak evening hours from 6 PM to 9 PM on weekdays. Some venues offer online booking to make it easier.
Featured image by Muktasim Azlan on Unsplash
