The Legend of Rawa Pening as a Potential Literary Tourism Destination

¹ Master of Literature, Faculty of Humanities, Diponegoro University, Indonesia
² Undergraduate of Literature, Faculty of Humanities, Diponegoro University, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: muhamadhermintoyo@gmail.com

Abstract

The Legend of Rawa Pening has the myth of the dragon named Baru Klinting as folklore has been told orally from generation to generation. The Regional Government of Semarang Regency sees the potential of nature and legend to become a literary tourism destination. At the entry of location, a statue of Baru Klinting was built in the form of a dragon. Around it, the expanse of Rawa Pening becomes a soothing sight. Visitors can also find a relief wall that tells the story of Baru Klinthing. However, this tourist attraction has not been maximized. It can be seen from the small number of visitors, which local tourists and not foreign tourists dominate. Ideally, tourism can provide income for local governments and the surrounding community and empower artists. Unique attractions may be considered to innovate, including boats, several photo spots, an art stage for art performing, an exhibition room, souvenirs, and unique culinary products. These supported facilities and infrastructure can be the alternative way to attract visitors. This study aims to provide input to the Bukit Cinta tourism management so that its natural and cultural potential becomes a literary tourism destination that local and foreign tourists enjoy. This research was conducted in the city of Semarang. The research method uses a qualitative descriptive method. Obtaining data by observation, interviews and questionnaires. The study's results can be used as input for Bukit Cinta tourism management in Rawa Pening, Semarang Regency, as a literary tourism destination.