Is Hello Kitty Shinkansen Discontinued? Looking Back At Everything This Iconic Bullet Train Offered

BY  Sibashree Jun 16, 2026

I shared my experience of visiting the Kumana National Park recently. Now, it’s time to talk about the Yala National Park, with which the Kumana National Park shares a contiguous border.  The park is home to lush lagoons, open plains, forests, and dunes.  As a result, it attracts diverse wildlife and birds. Including elephants, Yala National Park has around 44 species of mammals and 215 species of birds.  In addition, the Yala National Park safari allows you to spot leopards as it has one of the largest populations of leopards. In just Block 1, you will see around 25 leopards.  However, this diversity has further posed a problem for the wildlife and ecology of the national park. Mongabay reports that Yala National Park had 380000 visitors in the first half of 2025.  Backed by the social media boom, this increasing number of visitors has further triggered jeep jams and the problems of speeding jeeps in the national park.  Conservationists plan to restrict these, and rightly so, to maintain the experience of the Yala National Park safari.  Nevertheless, in this article, I will talk about the Yala National Park safari price, my experience, location, transportation options, and more.  Let’s begin with a quick overview of the Yala National Park and the safari price details.  An Overview Of The Yala National Park  LocationSouth-Western Sri LankaSize- 979 Square Kilometers- Total Five Blocks with Block 1 as the Main Tourist Spot Best for- Birdwatching- Spotting Leopards- Watching Sloth Bears, Elephants, and Crocodiles Hours Open- 6 AM to 6 PMSafari Prices (Based on the Safari Blocks Covered)- LKR 16900 to LKR 29,700/Main Entrance - Palatupana Gate, Close to Tissamaharama Furthermore, if you are looking for the perfect accommodation, you can check my guide on where to stay in Yala National Park. Yala National Park Safari Price: A Detailed Breakdown  Yala National Park Various ZonesDurationSafari Price in 2026 (LKR)Block 1 (Palatupana)Half Day16,900/=Block 1 (Palatupana)Full Day28,100/=Block 1 (Katagamuwa)Half Day16,900/=Block 1 (Katagamuwa)Full Day28,100/=Blocks 4 and 5 (Galge)Half Day19,800/=Blocks 4 and 5 (Galge)Full Day29,700/= (Source: Yala National Park Official Website).  Where Is Yala National Park? How Can You Reach There? Between the mighty Indian Ocean and a dense jungle, the Yala National Park is an expansive wildlife zone in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka.  Furthermore, it is well-connected to all parts of Sri Lanka. From the southern surf towns such as Ahangama, Weligama, Mirissa, and Hiriketiya to the dramatic Ella and Nuwara Eliya in the highlands, it is easily accessible.  So, here are the details of how to reach the Yala National Park from various parts of Sri Lanka.  1. From The Southern Coast To Tissamaharama The surfing towns on the southern coast are well connected to the Yala National Park.  The best way to travel is to take a train from Mirissa to Colombo Fort Station and then walk to the Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to catch a bus to Kataragama.  From Kataragama, you can hire a 4x4 jeep to reach the Yala National Park.  Check the table below to know how you can reach the Yala National Park from Mirissa. Stage 1: Train from Mirissa to Colombo Fort Station - Time: Around 3 Hours- Ticket Price: LKR 250 OnwardStage 2: Taking a Bus from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Kataragama- Time: 5 Hours Onward- Ticket Price: LKR 750Stage 3: 4x4 Jeep Ride from Kataragama to the Yala National Park Travel Time- 30 Minutes to Katagamuwa Entrance- Around 1 Hour to the Main Entrance or the Palatupana Entrance- Around 45 Minutes to Galge EntrancePrice (Per Vehicle)- LKR 9000 to 18000  3. From Ella To Tissamaharama From Ella, you can either take a bus or a private transport to reach Tissamaharama.  Bus Ride The bus passes through Wellawaya and takes 4.5 hours to complete the journey. Furthermore, the ticket price will be around LKR 200.  Also, a local told me of a bus route from Bandarawela to Kataragama, having Tissamaharama and Ella as stopovers. However, I could not fact-check the availability of such services.  Private Transfer  For a premium and flexible travel experience, you can book a private transfer to cover the distance in a shorter time.  The journey is for 2.5 hours. However, the cost will be around LKR 10000.  Also, if you are planning to take a private transfer, choose Uber for a safe journey at a reasonable price.  By Train  There is no direct railway connectivity to Yala. However, if you are traveling from the southern coast, you can get off at Matara.  From Matara, you can take a tuk-tuk, bus, or taxi to reach the Yala National Park.  What Is The History Of The Yala National Park?  The history of Yala National Park as a protected wilderness is at least a century old. As an ecotourism zone, it is a bucket-list destination for anyone on a trip to Sri Lanka.  However, earlier, it was a hunting ground for the British colonial elites. However, at the beginning of the 20th century, the colonial administration took effective steps for the preservation of the park.  The Designation As A Wildlife Sanctuary The British government designated the area as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900. It was an attempt to restrict and regulate game hunting. The Designation As A National Park  Under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance, Yala became a national park in 1938.  Thus, the core activity here became absolute wildlife protection from managed hunting.  Mid-Century Turmoil And Restoration  The park faced several challenges during the mid-to-late 20th century. Furthermore, during the 1970s and 1980s, Yala suffered from ivory hunting, illegal poaching, and agricultural encroachment along its borders.  DWC, or the Department of Wildlife Conservation, along with dedicated non-governmental organizations, launched sustained anti-poaching patrols and habitat restoration initiatives.  These endeavors established the delicate ecological equilibrium of the national park. Also, the population of the elephants and leopards made a recovery during this time span.  The 2004 Tsunami And Ecological Resilience  The coastal fringe of Yala was massively impacted due to the Indian Ocean tsunami on 26th December 2004.  However, fortunately, deer, leopards, and elephants had fled to higher ground hours before the tsunami hit.  Furthermore, the land has made a tremendous recovery over the last two decades. There has been a proper regeneration of the coastal scrub, showcasing the profound resilience of this coastal wilderness.  The Five Blocks Of The Yala National Park  The expansive area of the Yala National Park has five different geographical blocks for better management of the expansive area.  Have a look at the table below to understand the uniqueness of each block.  Blocks in the Yala National Park UniquenessBlock I (Palatupana)- The Crown Jewel of Yala- The Most-Visited, Wildlife-Dense, and Most Accessible Block of the National Park. - It features an Excellent Mix of open grasslands, monsoon forests, and Brackish Lagoons. Block II (Katagamuwa)- A Quiter, Transitional Zone- It Offers Exceptional Opportunities for Elephant Viewings and Excellent Birdwatching. Blocks III, IV, and V- The Deeper and Wilder Interior of Yala- These Northern Blocks Have Thick Vegetation, Minimal Tourist Infrastructure, and a Rugged Geology- Authentic Wilderness Experience Devoid of Jeep Convoys.  The Wildlife Experience I Had On The Yala National Park Safari  The Yala ecosystem is not just about the elephants and leopards. Furthermore, the ecosystem of Yala relies on a rich web of biodiversity, including hundreds of species.  1. The Sri Lankan Leopard  The Yala National Park does not have tigers or lions. Thus, Sri Lankan leopards rule as the undisputed predators of the zone.  Furthermore, Yala National Park is home to one of the biggest populations of Sri Lankan leopards. As a result, leopards are more visible here compared to different parts of India and Africa.  2. The Asian Elephants  Solitary bull elephants and large herds roam freely in the Yala National Park. These majestic creatures rely on inland lagoons and seasonal watering holes for bathing and feeding.  3. The Sri Lankan Sloth Bear  These animals are territorial and highly elusive. Furthermore, these shaggy, insect-eating animals are most frequently spotted during the fruiting season of the Palu tree. 4. Other Wildlife  The dry zone of the Yala National Park teems with wildlife. Along with these massive mammals, I could even spot a spotted  Deer (Chital) Sambar Deer Wild Boar Tufted Gray Langurs Toque Macaques Water Buffalo Water Monitor Lizards Mugger Crocodiles These animals were mostly visible near the water.  5. A Paradise For Birdwatchers  Yala National Park is a premier global destination for birdwatching. There are more than 215 bird species in the national park.  Furthermore, November to January is the ideal time for spotting the migratory waterfowl that fly to Sri Lanka to escape the strong winter of the Northern hemisphere.  Bird Categories in Yala National ParkKey Species to Spot in Yala National Park Endemic Species - Sri Lanka Junglefowl- Sri Lanka Grey HornbillWaterfowl and Waders- Painted Storks- Lesser Whistling Ducks- Black-Necked StorksPredators and Raptors- Crested Serpent Eagles- White-Bellied Sea EaglesVibrant Showstoppers- Green Bee-Eaters- Indian Peacocks- Malabar Pied Hornbills The Fascinating Yala National Park Safari Experience  The Yala National Park safari offers a sensory and intense experience. Furthermore, the safari experience begins before sunrise.  1. The Dawn Patrol  The safari began at 4 AM from Tissamaharama. It was still pitch black, and we took a sip of the local coffee.  Then, the cold morning breeze touched us, and we advanced with the jeep headlights piercing through the predawn mist.  Furthermore, by 5:15 AM, we reached the main Palatupana Gate. The drivers waited for the park rangers to issue permits.  Then, the gates opened at 6 AM, and the vehicles started roaring through the dirt tracks of Block I.  2. The Landscape And The Sighting  When the first rays of the Sun touch the Yala National Park, the landscape looks very African.  It has scattered grasslands, spindly thorn scrub, and flat plains. Furthermore, the air was thick with humidity.  Then, the driver spotted a leopard suddenly, and the driver made a coordinated dash across the park.  The leopard was standing tall across a massive granite boulder in the soft morning light.  3. Midday Solace At Patanangala As the day progressed, the wild creatures made a retreat deep into the thick shade with surging heat.  So, our jeep, along with many others, united at the Patanangala Beach picnic area.  In this part of the park, its rugged self became visible. The crashing waves of the Indian Ocean met the vast rocky outcrops.  Also, it was the place to stretch our legs and relax.  4. Exploring The Sacred Ruins In The Scrub  Along with rich wildlife, Yala National Park also stands out due to its deep historical and cultural footprint.  Especially in Block I of the national park, you will find some well-preserved ruins that depict the picture of an ancient civilization.  Sithulpahuwa Rock Temple This rock temple is around 2200 years old and is a prominent architectural feature of the Kingdom of Ruhuna.  Once, thousands of Buddhist monks used to live in this temple. Today, you can see its white stupas rise dramatically above the forest canopy from a massive granite peak. Furthermore, monks still live in this rock temple, and you can see leopards and tigers roaming in the courtyard.  Magul Maha Vihara Magul Maha Vihara is on the southern fringes of the Yala National Park. It is believed to be the ancient site where King Kavantissa married Princess Viharamahadevi.  You can admire the intricate moonstones and stone pillars of the Vihara.  What Is The Best Time For The Yala National Park Safari?  February to July, or the dry season in the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is the ideal time to plan a Yala National Park safari.  In these months, the grass in the park thins out, and the secondary waterholes dry up completely. So, the animals have to gather around the water in search of water.  Furthermore, November to April is the best time for birdwatching in the Yala National Park.  Also, remember that the Department of Wildlife Conservation typically closes Yala National Park for the entire month of September (sometimes extending into early October). Yala National Park Safari And The Overtourism Issues  The rising popularity of the Yala National Park, especially on social media, now impacts the intimate wilderness experience.  It feels like a rushed safari tour, and by sunrise, hundreds of high-clearance safari jeeps queue at the Palatupana Gate.  Moreover, drivers are under immense pressure from their clients to find the "Big Three." So, whenever there is a radio transmission about a leopard getting spotted, the jeeps get into a frantic race.  Furthermore, the rush of these jeeps is disrupting the ecology and the natural wildlife behaviors of the national park.  In an interview with Mongabay, warden Ravindra Kumara, while narrating the controversial case of the male leopard Lucas’ encounter with a jeep, mentioned, “Usually, when a safari jeep is close to an animal, jeep drivers have been advised to switch off the engine.  But this driver had turned on the engine, and it had scared away the animal. However, Lucas was spotted the following night near Yala junction, the animal’s usual territory, and is in good health.” However, the driver training programs conducted by the Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society are proactive measures to avoid such unwanted disturbances.  In addition, the opening of remote blocks in the park can reduce the concentrated traffic in Block I.  So, Is The Yala National Park Safari Worth It?  Yes, the Yala National Park safari is absolutely worth the hype. I could see leopards softly walking through the scrub, elephant herds roaming, and peacocks dancing on open plains.  Furthermore, the shift in the landscape is dramatic.  However, the safari of this expansive area is quite demanding, and that is why you need to keep several things in mind. What Are The Things To Keep In Mind For A Yala National Park Safari?  The rest stops and toilets are limited, and you will find the facilities near the main gate and the Patanangala Beach.  Furthermore, you must carry cash, preferably LKR, to pay for the permits and other expenses at the park.

BY  Sibashree May 27, 2026

From the beaches of Jaffna to Weligama, Sri Lanka has so many places that can teach you the art of slow traveling and the TravelDownUnder philosophy.  The southern coast of Sri Lanka, especially, has a distinct magic. Furthermore, the Hiriketiya Beach and Mirissa Beach often steal the social media limelight.  However, Weligama is an exception even in this age of Instagram craze. The region has a legendary surf culture and a salty heart.  So, surfing is the most popular answer when you ask what to do in Weligama.  It has a massive, shallow crescent bay that transforms everyday ocean swells into beautifully consistent, beginner-friendly rollers. However, surfing is not the only activity you will love in Weligama. Even if you never plan on waxing a surfboard, the laid-back beach town pulls you in with an infectious, slow-paced lifestyle.  Moreover, here you will spend the mornings in flat whites, hide from the tropical Sun in shaded pools in the afternoon, and enjoy the distinct nightlife.  So, as I was on a backpacking trip to Sri Lanka, I enjoyed every bit of this remote coastal area.  I have penned my experience, the best things to do in Weligama, what to eat, and more in this article.  What To Do In Weligama? Indulging In The Quintessential Coastal Experience In Sri Lanka According to a recent report of the World Economic Forum regarding the Jobs and the Future of Work, 25% of the workforce in the world will be fully digital.  With this shift in the workforce, there will also be a paradigm shift in the way young people and professionals travel.  The digital nomads especially look for budget-friendly and beautiful locations that offer them the ease and amenities of working.  In this regard, Weligama in Sri Lanka remains a prominent choice, and even according to a survey of the Hotel With Tub website, Weligama has secured the 43rd place among the 100 best destinations for digital nomads in the world.  It is affordable, and you must try the following attractions here.  1. Enjoying The Quintessential Weligama Surf Experience  Surfing is the very fabric of Weligama. Decades ago, some eager travelers chased the rumor of finding the perfect breaks in this sleepy fishing hub.  Today, it is one of the premier learning grounds for surfers in Asia.  The gentle sandy floor of the slope reaches across hundreds of meters in the water. Thus, the incoming waves lose their chaotic bite and turn into rolling whitewash,  With the waves getting predictable, even if you are stepping onto a board for the first time, you can walk down the main beach strip to find dozens of local wooden shacks offering board rentals and affordable one-on-one coaching. However, that does not mean that Weligama will disappoint the advanced surfers. For example, Kima Surf Camp is a high-end hub for premier surfers.  Housed within a meticulously restored colonial mansion, it pairs intensive, expert-led coaching with a vibrant communal lifestyle, yoga classes, and poolside recovery sessions.  2. Attending A Rooftop Yoga Session At Hangtime Hostel  The neighboring Ahangama is a more popular place for the niche Yoga subculture. However, the Yoga studios in Weligama stand out because of their amazing views.  The Hangtime Hostel is the place I visited, and the open-air rooftop platform grounded me as soon as I stepped in.  Also, it offers a quick relief from the street noise, and on one side, it offers the most amazing view of the expansive Indian Ocean.  On the other hand, the dense, emerald canopy of the Sri Lankan jungle sways in the breeze.  Like every day, the classes began at 9 AM, and I was a little early to reach as I wanted to secure a good spot.  Furthermore, the session was on Power Vinyasa, and it cost around LKR 2500.  3. Chasing Horizons In The Golden Hour  Along the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Sunset is more than a natural occurrence that takes place daily.  It is like a social ritual and a magic of nature that brings people together. It is an amazing experience to see the Sun dipping into the water.  However, only the locals know the right time to start a short scooter ride to reach The Cliff and see the most vibrant sunset.  It is over rugged coastal rocks, and this open-air tiered place ensures that every single table is positioned for panoramic ocean views.  Overall, it is a complete fusion of the upscale "sunset lounge" aesthetic and the unpretentious warmth that defines Sri Lanka.  Furthermore, to attend this perfect fusion, The Cliff has leaned on tropical flavors without the use of artificial sugar.  Also, I had the most amazing grilled octopus here with pillowy flatbread.  4. Exceptional Brunching Experience At Nomad Cafe Weligama has a booming cafe culture, and Nomad Cafe is surely the crown jewel. It began its journey as a modest, five-table passion project, and now it is an experience in its own right.  Foodies frequently travel from nearby towns to experience the great food and ambiance here. You must not miss the Flat White here.  Moreover, the menu of Nomad Vafe deftly bridges European brunch staples with vibrant, fresh flavor profiles. The undeniable star of the show is the rösti eggs Benedict. I loved its texture play with perfectly poached eggs and rich, velvety hollandaise balanced precariously on a shatteringly crispy potato hash brown. Moreover, if you are looking for something with a kick, don’t miss their smoky and perfectly spiced shakshuka.  5. Coworking At Plan B For Community And Connection  As I have already mentioned, Weligama is a prime location for digital nomads. Plan B is one of the prime destinations for digital nomads here.  Furthermore, if you need to answer emails, crunch numbers, or take a Zoom call without sacrificing your tropical state of mind, Plan B is the place to be.  It is an excellent fusion of a cozy garden cafe, coworking hub, and coliving space. Furthermore, there is a shaded courtyard at the epicenter of the cafe.  The space hums with gentle productivity; you will find professionals from across the globe typing away over iced lattes while jazz music filters through the trees.  Moreover, the beauty of Plan B is inclusivity. You will not need a formal workspace pass to enjoy the grounds.  Their smoothie bowls are amazing, and so are the traditional Sri Lankan hoppers and decadent eggs Florentine. You will also find many delightful vegan options here. 6. Enjoying Seafood By The Shore: A Culinary Feast At Maru Weligama is not just about cafes and local rice-and-curry spots when it comes to food. Maru, for example, is a place that elevates the beachfront dining experience.  It is right against the ocean’s edge, and the restaurant celebrates the bounty brought in daily by Weligama’s fishing fleets.  Furthermore, the menu here focuses heavily on bright, clean, and coastal flavors.  For example, the shrimp ceviche is a masterclass with fresh flavors and the right acidic balance. It is perfect for a hot midday meal.  Moreover, if you are looking for something hearty and healthy, try their assorted teriyaki and fresh fish poke bowls with crisp veggies, seasoned sushi rice, and premium cuts of fish.  In addition, Maru offers the most delightful perk in the form of the on-site swimming pool. I took a dip there before and after the meal.  So, it is an amazing base camp to escape the intense midday Sun, work, enjoy the ocean breeze, and indulge in a leisurely lunch.  7. Unwinding At Zephyr Zephyr becomes the go-to place after the surfboard rental shacks close their doors. It offers meticulously crafted cocktail, and the nightlife here is not pretentious.  Instead, you will find a highly sophisticated, relaxed beachside aesthetic here.  Moreover, the bar staff here is well aware of the finer details of classic cocktails.  Their espresso martini is properly frothy and bitter, while their classic mojito relies on freshly plucked mint and perfectly balanced lime juice.  While primarily celebrated for its drinks, Zephyr surprises many with its highly curated food menu.  Instead of heavy entrees, they specialize in elevated small plates designed to complement the spirits.  The seared tuna plate, crusted in local spices and perfectly rare at the center, is an absolute must-try. Like Maru, Zephyr features a pool that adds to its luxury-resort feel.  Essential Day Trips Beyond Weligama Bay You can extend the list of what to do in Weligama thanks to its unique geographic location.  It is a delightful epicenter for exploring the culture, wildlife, and history of southern Sri Lanka. 1. Galle Fort You can take a tuk-tuk ride for 45 minutes to reach Galle Fort.  It is a A gorgeous UNESCO Heritage site filled with 16th-century Portuguese and Dutch colonial architecture, high-end boutiques, jewelry galleries, and a striking seaside lighthouse. 2. Handunugoda Tea Estate The tea estate is a 45-minute scooter ride from Weligama.  It is a lush lowland plantation producing legendary "Virgin White Tea," completely untouched by human skin during harvesting. Here, you will enjoy fascinating machinery tours and extensive tea tastings. 3. Yala National Park  You can take a car ride of 3 hours to reach the Yala National Park.  The Yala National Park is an intense, bucket-list wildlife safari. Leave in the pre-dawn hours to spot wild Asian elephants, crocodiles, leopards, and diverse birdlife in their natural habitats.

BY  Sibashree Mar 31, 2026

Everyone knows that you cannot complete exploring Japan in a day. And I had no choice but to miss Oshino Hakkai on the first trip.  However, on the next trip, I made sure to plan a visit.  Of course, an image on Instagram was my major drive behind being so passionate about a trip to Oshino Hakkai.  I saw a series of houses with thatched roofs along the shore of a pond. The magnificent and snow-covered Mount Fuji stood behind, strong and unshakable, as the eternal truth.  Born and raised in the land of spirituality and the Himalayas, I had to visit Oshino Hakkai.  However, as I have explained in my narrative from Tokyo to Mount Fuji day trip, you have to time your trip really well and have to be extremely lucky to see the snow-capped Mount Fuji.  Also, if you are planning a trip in summer, you will only get to see Mount Fuji partially or fully covered by clouds.  Nevertheless, as Mount Fuji continues to act elusive, here is why Oshino Hakkai will win your heart.  Oshino Hakkai: Why Is Visiting The Eight Springs Of Oshino So Special?  As I stood at the center of where both Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Yamanakako meet in the small village of Oshino, I was able to look at the eight sacred ponds of Oshino Hakkai.  These sparkling, clear water springs are all that is left from a long-lost sixth lake that existed hundreds of years ago. It's as if time stood still when you visit these sacred areas. When I looked into the water, I didn't see just water, and I saw history. The springs were used by pilgrims (Fuji-ko) during Japan's Edo period to cleanse their bodies and souls before climbing Mt. Fuji. What a magical process the water goes through!  From snow accumulation on the summit of Mt. Rainier, through melting and filtration through approximately 80 years' worth of porous lava before it actually emerges at this location, its absolute perfection.  Moreover, it was crystal clear and pure.  Also, as I walked through the "Natural Monuments," I had an intense feeling of appreciation for the many years of waiting, so that each would have such serenity. How To Reach Oshino Hakkai? The journey to the stunning waters of Oshino Hakkai is as much a part of the experience as the location itself.  Here’s my recommendation for how to get to Oshino Hakkai, depending on whether you want a more convenient (train) or an adventurous (rental car) way of doing so. 1. Reaching Oshino Hakkai From Tokyo When travelling from Tokyo, you have several options available.  Highway bus lines go to Oshino Hakkai directly.  If you plan to take the train, either Fujisan Station (the nearest station) or Kawaguchiko on the Fuji Kyuko Line is your best option.  Once at Fujisan or Kawaguchiko, catch a local bus to get to the village. You may take the Fujikko-go (tourist buses), Mt. Fuji World Heritage Loop, or Uchino or Hirano routes via local bus from Fujisan Station.  Generally, there are 1-2 buses/hour on these routes. At Kawaguchiko Station, there are 11 Fuji-Q buses each day that leave for Lake Yamanaka Oriental side, and the 11 Fuji-Q buses that leave for Gotemba and also the Oshino springs. Just watch out for the Oshino Hakkai or Oshino Hakkai-Iriguchi as their stops. 2. Driving And Village Logistics I rented a car, and it is the most convenient way to visit the nearby Five Lakes region.  Parking here is convenient, and there are many public and private parking spaces.  After parking the car, you can explore the nearby villages.  However, you will need 300 JPY to enter the Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan Museum.  You can visit the museum from 9 AM to 5 PM every day for a deep understanding of the local history.  Moreover, you will find signage in Japanese and English for every pond. My Trip To Oshino Hakkai I felt a bit out of place when I got to Oshino Hakkai.  I thought it would be a nice, quiet area for reflection and meditation, free of other people.  However, I found a busy and fully built-out village of people, shops selling food, and many shoppers and visitors to the area, as well as people engaging with local merchants about the items that were being sold.  There were also a lot of people around Wakuike Pond, and they were excited to see how clear the water of the pond was and the fish that were swimming in the pond. 1. Finding Solitude And Peace Within The City Although I typically search for the peace of solitude, I did not mind being in a populated environment.  I became curious after wandering among the crowds to find out where my curiosity would take me.  I found a quiet, undeveloped area just minutes from the main road, where I could hear the water from the pond, see ducks on the water, and watch an old man with two little boys quietly fishing right next to me. 2. Folklore And Galactic History The folklore & Galactic history of the 8 springs were fascinating to explore. Especially, that water from Wakuike Pond traveled on the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1983 for a snow-making experiment in space! 3. My Personal Highlight  The highlight for me was the open-air museum at the Hanoki Bayashi Shiryokan. It was a true escape from contemporary living, immersing yourself in the cultural heritage of the area. 4. Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan: The Main Attraction Of The Trip  To tell the truth, I went to Oshino Hakkai because of Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan.  One of the most amazing sights I've seen in the Five Lakes region was the thatched-roof farmhouses against a colorful garden and the imposing backdrop of Mount Fuji. I became engrossed in the displays of antique household items and rustic farming implements inside the traditional farmhouse.  The tour was brief, but I stayed by the big pond long after I was done because of the subtle beauty of the architecture.  I couldn't resist making another lap because the landscaping was so welcoming. Read Also: What Are The Things To Do In Jimbocho Book Town? Visit The Best Book Stores And Cafes Cherry Blossom Kyoto Japan: 2026 Season And The Top Viewing Spots Osaka Food: Know What To Eat In The Streets Of Osaka