
Summer Camp
“Visual Ethnography”

Program Overview
Summer Camp “Visual Ethnography” is organized by Dhyana Pura University (Undhira) – Bali, Universitas Kristen Duta Wacana (UKDW) – Yogyakarta, and Kansai University – Japan.
Visual Ethnography is a research method that blends/theory and practice of visual approaches to learning and knowing about the world and communicating this to others”. It will be an interesting topic of discussion and insight exchange for students from different countries when they observe the same cultural aspects but viewed from their perspective and how they communicate their understanding visually. It is possible also that students learn the applicability of visual Ethnography in designs, journalism, and social media.
The program will be held using blended learning method in which students will learn Visual Ethnography (VE) and its applications asynchronously through online session lectures, while the field trips will be held offline through summer camp in Bali and Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The summer camp will last for 2 weeks, 1-week field trip will be spent in Bali and will be hosted by Undhira Bali, and another trip in Yogjakarta will be hosted by UKDW.
Program Objectives
The program is designed to facilitate collaboration among participants in an international environment, encouraging them to work together across cultures and disciplines. By engaging in shared projects and discussions, participants gain valuable experience in global teamwork and intercultural exchange.
Another key objective is to provide insights into capturing observed customs and ways of life in a structured and methodological manner. This helps participants develop the ability to analyze cultural practices thoughtfully and communicate their findings effectively.
The program also offers a unique opportunity to immerse in an intercultural learning environment. Through this, participants broaden their perspectives, strengthen their empathy, and build respect for diverse cultural backgrounds.
In addition, the program aims to harness participants’ skills in solving challenges related to remote collaboration and communication. By working in international teams, they learn to overcome barriers of distance, language, and technology.
Summer Camp Visual Ethnography supports the improvement of English proficiency, ensuring participants can confidently express themselves in academic, professional, and intercultural contexts.

The Summer Camp on Visual Ethnography invites students to explore culture through visual research, combining online learning with immersive field trips in Bali and Yogyakarta.
Who can apply?
The program is open to both undergraduate and graduate students who are eager to expand their horizons, engage in international collaboration, and gain valuable academic and practical experience.
How to apply?
Registration deadline: 16 July 2027
Program Fee
The program fee for non‑Indonesian students is US$ 750 (≈ €700). This fee covers:
- Accommodation with bed & breakfast
- Lunch during the program
- Transportation services, including airport pick‑up and drop‑off, local travel during the program, and transfer from Bali to Yogyakarta or vice versa
- Entrance tickets
For Indonesian students, please contact the International Office at your respective university for information regarding program fees.

Activities
During the Summer Camp, students will join interactive workshops and hands‑on field activities in Bali and Yogyakarta. They will explore local communities, arts, and sustainable small businesses, and engage with traditional groups, non‑profit organizations, and cultural projects. These experiences allow students to apply Visual Ethnography directly, combining theory with practice and gaining deeper insights into diverse cultural contexts.
Excursions
Buahan Traditional Village
Immerse yourself in Buahan, a traditional village in Tabanan Regency that can trace its heritage to the 14th-century Majapahit kingdom. Practice Balinese culture through traditional gamelan rhythms at a local village “sanggar” (performing arts studio), led by Mr. I Wayan Sumerta Dana Arta. Then, experience local eco-entrepreneurship by sampling Moringa Noodles (Mie Kelor Gud), a nutritious culinary product crafted by a local home industry promoting healthy living.
Jatiluwih Village & Rice Terraces
Explore local wisdom-based farming in Jatiluwih village, Tabanan, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its centuries-old Subak irrigation system that has existed since the 9th century. Learn how ancient Balinese traditions shape sustainable agriculture with a local farmer, visit the pristine Yeh Ho Waterfall for natural rejuvenation, and enjoy lunch at Cascadia Restaurant with verdant rice-field views.
Pancoran Solas Temple, Taman Mumbul Sangeh
Experience spiritual cleansing at this serene water garden during a traditional “Melukat” purification ceremony. Wash away negative energy under eleven sacred spouts, receive personal blessings, and wear the iconic red, white, and black “Tridatu” string ribbon. Located in Sangeh village, Badung regency, Taman Mumbul is one of many places where local Balinese and tourists seek to align the seen physical world (“sekala”) with the unseen spiritual realm (“niskala”) for achieving inner peace.
Made Tea, Ubud
Explore sustainable social business in Ubud – Gianyar, Bali’s premier icon for eco-tourism and wellness. Walk through organically grown herbal tea plantations, sample locally crafted tea blends, and engage in an insightful discussion with local herbal practitioners about holistic health and community-based eco-entrepreneurship.
Semara Ratih, Taro Village – Gianyar
Gather at Semara Ratih in historic Taro Village for a nourishing local lunch followed by a guided mindfulness session. Explore the psychology of mindfulness for personal well-being amidst serene, lush surroundings. This experience offers practical techniques to quiet the mind, release stress, and cultivate inner peace within a peaceful Balinese village setting.
Mangrove Ecotourism: Segara Guna Batu Lumbang
Located along Denpasar’s coastal wetlands, Segara Guna Batu Lumbang is a thriving community-led mangrove ecotourism project. Learn how vital these coastal forests are for protecting ecosystems, trapping carbon, and supporting local fisheries, in an interactive session with the local fishermen association. Navigate through winding waterways by boat or canoe to plant mangrove seedlings and participate in a hands-on clean-up effort, actively helping preserve Bali’s fragile coastal environment.
Tanah Lot Temple
Perched dramatically on an offshore rock formation, Tanah Lot in Tabanan Regency is an iconic sea temple providing a profound look into Balinese ocean worship traditions, cultural harmony, and breathtaking natural scenery that inspires personal reflection. Experience the sites and myths that make Tanah Lot one of Bali’s cultural and spiritual icons, dedicated to worshiping the guardian deities of the sea that welcomes all worshipers and tourists alike.
Sanur Beach & Sea Turtle Village
Sanur Beach offers a harmonious blend of coastal conservation and vibrant Balinese culture. The journey begins at the Sea Turtle Village, learning about marine protection and participating in the uplifting experience of releasing sea turtle hatchlings into the sea. Then stroll along the scenic beachfront path to Icon Bali, enjoy the scenery and togetherness before watching the “Parade of Goddesses” performance showcasing Balinese mythology at the cultural stage.
Batur Village Jeep Tour, Kintamani
Tour the dramatic volcanic landscape of Mount Batur aboard 4×4 jeeps while learning about community-led eco-tourism in Kintamani – Bangli Regency. Traverse vast fields of dark basalt and volcanic ash created by historic eruptions. This adventure highlights how local villagers adapt to their natural environment, turning geological hazards into sustainable, community-driven travel experiences.
Lazy River Penarungan
An inspiring example of community-based eco- tourism, this gentle river tubing attraction in Penarungan Village – Badung offers a calm, family-friendly water activity. Float through peaceful waterways managed directly by the local community. Connect with nature while supporting sustainable local business and enhancing your personal well-being.
Excursions
Kampung Batik Giriloyo – Imogiri
Experience a journey of mindfulness and personal well-being through the traditional art of hand-drawn batik tulis in historic Imogiri. Learn the cultural history of local motifs, then slow down during a guided hands-on workshop—drawing intricate patterns with hot wax (“canting”) in a peaceful, meditative session that connects art, patience, and inner focus.
Purbayan Village – Kotagede
Step back in time to explore Kotagede, the historic capital of the Mataram Kingdom. Walk through labyrinth-like alleys, ancient fort ruins, and historic Javanese-Dutch Indies homes alongside local community guides. Observe traditional silver crafting in home workshops, try hands-on traditional Javanese cooking in a historic Joglo, and share a communal lunch prepared by residents.
Borobudur
Experience a guided journey around the world’s largest Buddhist monument. Walk through ancient stone platforms, learning the deep spiritual meanings behind the temple’s intricate reliefs and stupas. Discover Buddhist philosophy and teachings focused on inner peace, compassion, and well-being throughout this ancient 9th century temple.
Sanggar Seni Lemah Urip (Art Studio) & Klipoh Living Museum
Immerse yourself in community-based eco-tourism through local arts and sustainable crafts around Borobudur. Discover the rich tradition of pottery-making directly from local village artisans at Klipoh Living Museum. Experience a vibrant cultural talk show, join a mini dance workshop led by Sanggar Seni Lemah Urip, and watch a performance celebrating the deep connection between dance, community, and nature.
Kraton Yogyakarta (Royal Palace)
Explore the grand residence of the Sultan of Yogyakarta, a living center of Javanese royal culture, heritage, and philosophy. Walk through open traditional pavilions (“pendopo”) and sacred courtyards, dating back to 1755, built to reflect the ancient Javanese worldview of cosmic balance between humanity, nature, and the Creator.
Reispirasi – Samas Beach Sea Turtle Conservation
Engage in hands-on coastal conservation along southern Yogyakarta’s shores. Learn about local ecological initiatives, plant mangrove seedlings to help prevent coastal erosion, and take an educational walk to observe marine habitats. Conclude by releasing sea turtle hatchlings into the ocean, celebrating community-led protection of ocean life and environmental stewardship.
Sonobudoyo Museum
Discover one of Indonesia’s most comprehensive collections of Javanese cultural artifacts, ancient shadow puppets (“wayang”), musical instruments (“gamelan”), ancient books written in Javanese Script, and royal heirlooms. Located near the royal palace, this museum acts as a guardian of regional history and preserves centuries of Javanese artistic legacy.
Agradaya Spices of Indonesia – Sleman
Discover the world of traditional Indonesian herbal wellness (“jamu”) through a local social enterprise. Tour organic herbal gardens, learn about medicinal spices like turmeric and ginger, and observe sustainable farm-to-product processing. Join a hands-on workshop to brew your own traditional health drinks, taste local herbal blends, and discuss how community farming supports wellness and rural livelihoods.
The following examples highlight sessions that have taken place in previous Summer Camps. Each camp has offered a rich variety of classes and workshops designed to inspire students and deepen their understanding of Visual Ethnography. Future Summer Camps may feature different sessions and activities, depending on the context and the availability of guest speakers and facilitators.
This dynamic approach ensures that every camp remains fresh, relevant, and engaging—providing participants with unique opportunities to learn, exchange insights, and experience cultural diversity through new perspectives.
- Balinese Gamelan dan traditional dance practice
- Mangrove Forest Conservation: Sustaining Ecosystem, Livelihood, Ecotourism, and Beyond
- Mobile Photography & Videography Course: “Capturing Moments and Connections” and Balinese Culture Practice
- Local Wisdom Talk “Subak Farming System: from Local Tradition to World Heritage”
- From Field Notes to Visual Narratives: Editing Your Ethnographic Story
- Meditative Batik: A Journey of Mindfulness through Traditional Art
- Talk show “Born from the Earth: The Dance Journey of Sanggar Tari Lemah Urip”
- Pottery-making & mini dance workshop
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