
Complete Guide to Bundaran HI MRT Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Jakarta Historical Sites
Date: 15/06/2025
Introduction
Bundaran HI MRT Station is a cornerstone of Jakarta’s urban transformation, offering more than just a rapid transit stop. Located beneath the iconic Bundaran Hotel Indonesia roundabout, it connects travelers to the city’s central business, cultural, and historic districts. Since its opening in 2019 as the northern terminus of the MRT North–South Line, Bundaran HI has become the gateway for seamless, efficient, and eco-friendly mobility in one of the world’s most dynamic capitals (Jakarta Travel Guide; Backindo).
The station’s strategic site—below the historic roundabout featuring the Selamat Datang Monument—places visitors steps away from Jakarta’s premier shopping destinations, luxury hotels, and renowned landmarks like Monas (the National Monument) and Kota Tua (the Old Town) (Jakarta Travel Guide). Bundaran HI MRT Station is at the heart of Jakarta’s efforts to reduce traffic congestion, promote walkability, and encourage sustainable development (Kompas; Jakarta Investment).
This guide covers everything you need to know: visiting hours, ticketing, facilities, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions, ensuring a smooth and enriching Jakarta experience.
Historical Context and Urban Development
Jakarta’s Mobility Challenge and MRT Inception
Jakarta, known for its vibrant culture and sprawling urban landscape, has long contended with chronic traffic congestion and air pollution. In response, the idea for a Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system emerged as early as the 1980s. After decades of planning, construction began in 2013, backed by the Indonesian government and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The goal: to transform Jakarta’s mobility, reduce reliance on private vehicles, and support sustainable city living (Backindo).
Construction and Features of Bundaran HI MRT Station
Bundaran HI was selected as the northern terminus of the first MRT phase due to its centrality and civic significance. The state-of-the-art underground station is approximately 15 meters below ground, directly beneath the iconic roundabout (Experience Sonar). Its design prioritizes accessibility, safety, and integration with other transport modes:
- Entrances/Exits: Multiple access points connect with major malls (Plaza Indonesia, Grand Indonesia), hotels, and pedestrian walkways.
- Accessibility: Elevators, escalators, tactile paving, and wide walkways.
- Security: CCTV, emergency intercoms, and clear bilingual signage.
- Intermodal Links: Direct connections to TransJakarta bus corridors and ride-hailing pick-up zones.
- Modern Amenities: Air-conditioned concourses, digital train schedule displays, free Wi-Fi, retail kiosks, and accessible restrooms.
Visiting Hours and Ticketing
- Operating Hours: Daily from 5:00 AM to 11:27 PM (Experience Sonar).
- Train Frequency: Every 10–12 minutes; more frequent during rush hours.
- Ticket Prices: Rp3,000–Rp14,000 (approx. USD 0.19–0.88), based on distance (Finance Detik).
- Payment Options: Buy single-trip tickets or use reloadable JakCard/e-money cards—available at vending machines, counters, and convenience stores. The MyMRTJ app also supports digital ticketing (Experience Sonar).
Accessibility and Passenger Experience
Bundaran HI MRT Station is designed for inclusivity and comfort:
- Elevators, Ramps, & Tactile Paving: Ensures access for wheelchair users and the visually impaired.
- Spacious Design: Air-conditioned concourses and clear bilingual signage (Bahasa Indonesia and English).
- Safety: Well-staffed, with security personnel and CCTV throughout.
- Amenities: Clean restrooms (including accessible toilets), waiting areas, retail kiosks, and free Wi-Fi.
- Information: Real-time digital train schedules, route maps, and tourist info points.
Connectivity and Integration
- TransJakarta BRT: Connected to multiple corridors for citywide travel (Jakarta Travel Guide).
- Pedestrian Links: Direct walkways to Grand Indonesia, Plaza Indonesia, Thamrin City, and luxury hotels.
- Ride-Hailing: Designated zones for Gojek and Grab.
- Future Developments: The Bundaran HI Extended Concourse Project (to be completed by end-2025) will add retail/public spaces, more entrances, and direct tunnels to adjacent developments (Jakarta Investment).
Nearby Attractions and Historical Sites
Bundaran HI MRT Station is a prime starting point for exploring Jakarta’s highlights:
- Selamat Datang Monument: Iconic statue at the roundabout’s center.
- National Monument (Monas): Jakarta’s symbol of independence, within walking distance or a short MRT/TransJakarta ride.
- Jakarta Old Town (Kota Tua): Colonial-era museums and architecture, accessible via planned MRT expansions (Bisnis.com).
- Grand Indonesia & Plaza Indonesia: Premier malls for shopping and dining.
- Museum Nasional & Museum Bank Indonesia: Culture and history within easy reach (Food and Travel Utsav).
Travel Tips
- Avoid Rush Hours: Travel between 10:00 AM–4:00 PM or after 7:00 PM for less crowded trains.
- Use Digital Tools: The MyMRTJ and Audiala apps provide real-time schedules and ticketing.
- Accessibility Help: Station staff are available for assistance; elevators and tactile paths are provided.
- Safety: Use pedestrian crossings and beware of traffic when exploring above-ground attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the operating hours of Bundaran HI MRT Station?
A: Approximately 5:00 AM to 11:27 PM daily.
Q: How to purchase tickets?
A: Use vending machines, counters, JakCard/e-money cards, or the MyMRTJ app.
Q: Is the station accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with elevators, ramps, tactile paving, and accessible restrooms.
Q: What attractions are nearby?
A: Selamat Datang Monument, Monas, Kota Tua, Grand Indonesia, Plaza Indonesia, Museum Nasional.
Q: Can I use the same card for other public transport?
A: Yes, JakCard and compatible e-money cards work for MRT, TransJakarta, and LRT.
Technical and Development Highlights
- Construction: Advanced tunneling under a busy roundabout; minimal surface disruption.
- System Integration: Modern signaling, fare collection, and passenger info systems.
- Phase 2A Extension: By 2029, Bundaran HI will connect to Kota, linking more historic/commercial areas (Bisnis.com).
Economic, Urban, and Social Impact
Bundaran HI MRT Station anchors Jakarta’s transit-oriented development by stimulating economic activity, raising property values, and supporting new retail and residential projects (Kompas). Its success has encouraged the expansion of the city’s MRT network and set the standard for future infrastructure.
Summary Table: Key Visitor Information
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Location | Bundaran HI, Central Jakarta |
Hours | 05:00–23:27 (MRT); 24/7 for roundabout area |
Ticket Price | Rp3,000–Rp14,000 (distance-based) |
Accessibility | Elevators, ramps, tactile paving, wide walkways |
Nearby Attractions | Monas, Kota Tua, Grand Indonesia, Plaza Indonesia |
Payment | JakCard, e-money, MyMRTJ app |
Guided Tours | Available via local operators |
Facilities | Restrooms, Wi-Fi, retail, security, info points |
Visuals and Media Suggestions
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Conclusion
Bundaran HI MRT Station is more than a transit hub—it’s a gateway to Jakarta’s vibrant past and dynamic future. Whether you’re commuting, sightseeing, or exploring the city’s rich cultural scene, the station offers unmatched convenience, accessibility, and connectivity. Leverage digital tools, plan your visit, and start your Jakarta adventure from this remarkable urban landmark.
Call to Action
Ready to explore Jakarta with ease? Download the Audiala app for real-time MRT updates, seamless ticketing, and exclusive travel tips. For more on Jakarta’s attractions and transit, visit our related articles or follow us on social media for the latest travel inspiration!
References
- Jakarta Travel Guide – Jakarta MRT Guide
- Backindo – Jakarta Public Transportation
- Jakarta Travel Guide – 99 Things To Do in Jakarta
- Finance Detik – MRT Jakarta Fare List 2025
- Kompas – Apartments Near MRT Jakarta
- Jakarta Investment – MRT Bundaran HI Extended Concourse Project
- Bisnis.com – Progress of MRT Phase 2A Bundaran HI–Kota
- Experience Sonar – Jakarta MRT Guide
- Jakarta Tourism Website – Bundaran HI
- Food and Travel Utsav – Must-Visit Attractions Jakarta