If you've ever strolled through the streets of Solo, Indonesia, you might notice something curiously calming.
Despite being a bustling city with thousands of motorbikes and cars, the blaring sound of car horns is almost nonexistent.
Unlike many urban centers in Southeast Asia, Solo maintains a surprisingly quiet traffic soundscape, making first-time visitors pause and wonder, why is it so peaceful?
A Culture of Restraint and Mutual Respect
One possible explanation lies in Solo’s cultural roots. The city is deeply influenced by Javanese philosophy, which upholds values like patience, respect, and self-control.
In Javanese culture, honking is not just a noise, it's a form of expression that can come across as rude or aggressive. So instead of honking when stuck behind a slow-moving vehicle, drivers in Solo often choose to wait calmly.
This attitude reflects the broader cultural norm of “ngerti” (to understand or be understanding). Rather than reacting with frustration, people are encouraged to empathize and give others the benefit of the doubt.
In this context, laying on the horn becomes an act of impatience, even arrogance, something people in Solo are socially conditioned to avoid.
Urban Planning and Traffic Flow
Solo’s urban design also plays a role. Many of its roads are relatively narrow and interwoven with kampung neighborhoods, which naturally moderates driving speed. Combined with traffic signals that function efficiently, this layout reduces the need for assertive driving or honking.
Motorists adapt to a shared understanding: that everyone is going somewhere, and getting there peacefully is more important than getting there quickly.
It’s also common to see traffic volunteers, locals who help direct traffic at busy intersections, especially during peak hours or large events. Their presence helps ease congestion and offers a human reminder to stay courteous and composed behind the wheel.
Comparisons to Other Southeast Asian Cities
In contrast, many cities across Southeast Asia, like Jakarta, Manila, or Ho Chi Minh City are known for their chaotic and noisy traffic. The sound of horns is part of the urban soundtrack, used as both a warning and a way to assert presence. Solo’s quiet streets stand out in this regard.
Interestingly, the only other major city in the region that mirrors Solo’s quiet driving culture is Bangkok, Thailand.
There, honking is also rare, thanks to a mix of Buddhist cultural influence, traffic discipline, and social etiquette that discourages unnecessary noise.
A Lesson in Urban Civility
What Solo teaches us is that harmony on the road doesn't always require stricter laws, it can begin with shared values.
The absence of honking is not because people are forbidden to do so, but because they choose not to. It’s a subtle form of collective discipline that keeps public space comfortable for everyone.
In a world where urban noise pollution is on the rise, Solo quietly leads by example. It shows that silence can be a powerful language of respect, patience, and community.
Perhaps it’s time more cities take note of Solo’s soundscape, not just as a traffic lesson, but as a reminder that a little more patience can go a long way.
