Is Japan Expensive For Tourists? Why Is It Still Seeing A Boost In The Travel Booking? 

BY  Sibashree Mar 16, 2026

After Kaudulla National Park and Dehiwala Zoo, the Hurulu Eco Park was another destination for me to explore Sri Lanka’s wildlife.  If places such as Jaffna in northern Sri Lanka and Kandy in Central Sri Lanka have been the cultural hubs of the country, these parks have shown how people have lived here since eternity in collaboration with nature and wildlife.  The Hurulu Eco Park is especially very close to Habarana, the epicenter of cultural and historical landmarks such as the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Pidurangala Rock, Ritigala Forest Monastery, and Ritigala Forest Reserve.  The distance between Habarana and the Hurulu Eco Park, at the edge of the Hurulu Forest Reserve, is just around 3 to 4 kilometers. However, despite the short distance, this eco park is quiet and understated.  Also, you know what makes Hurulu Eco Park different? Here, you relish the art of slow traveling and the scent of wet soil after a fresh spell of rain.  Furthermore, elephants are the heart of this eco park, and watching them grazing through the golden light is a delight.  Here is more about this beautiful eco park in Sri Lanka.  Hurulu Eco Park, Sri Lanka: Quick Details  Hours Open7 AM to 6 PMLast Time to Enter5 PMPark Entrance Fee- $15-25 for an Adult- $5 for Children above 6 Years- Free for Children below 6 YearsSafari Cost$65 OnwardSafari DurationAround 3 HoursBest Time to VisitDecember to June Where Is Hurulu Eco Park And How To Reach?  In Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, Hurulu Eco Park is between the landmarks such as Polonnaruwa (1 hour and 15 minutes), Anuradhapura (1 hour and 50 minutes), Dambulla (45 minutes), and Sigiriya (45 minutes).  So, often there is a safari add-on to explore these ancient cities and the cultural landmarks.  Furthermore, as mentioned, it is closest to Habarana. So, ideally, it should be your base.  Habarana also has many budget, mid-budget, and luxury accommodations. Moreover, most hotels in Habarana, Dambulla, and Sigiriya offer door-to-door safari facilities.  You can expect a pick up around one hour before the safari time.  Moreover, you can take a train from Trincomalee, Kandy, or Colombo to reach Habarana Junction. From there, you can take a 10-minute tuk-tuk ride to reach the eco park.  However, online booking for these train tickets may not work most of the time.  The Landscape Of Hurulu Eco Park  Hurulu Eco Park is a mix of open plains, rock, and jungle.  Furthermore, as a part of the dry evergreen forest area of Sri Lanka, it functions as an important corridor for elephants roaming between Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks.  So, you can easily spot Sri Lankan elephants here, especially the mothers and babies making small groups and moving.  Along with elephants, you can also spot peacocks, spotted deer, macaques, langurs, and many birds here.  What I Saw At Hurulu Eco Park  I was initially disappointed the day I had to visit the Hurulu Eco Park. I thought that the tropical rain would mess up my safari experience.  However, I opted for an afternoon safari, and by the time I reached Hurulu, except for the heavy dampness in the air, everything was fine.  Also, the mud on the track was not a problem to start the safari in full swing.  After a few turns in the park, I could spot a herd of elephants, and they were winding up leaves and fruits with their trunks. Moreover, they were flapping their ears.  Then, after waiting for 15 minutes, the herd passed by and we continued our safari.  We passed through rocks, canopies, and bushes. I spotted a peacock and monkeys before reaching an open land. And that was the moment of the entire safari.  At least 25 elephants were grazing, and the younger ones were rolling in the mud.   Finally, the air became cooler, and the sky started getting red. So, our jeep driver planned a return.  How To Plan A Safari In The Hurulu Eco Park?  Safaris in Hurulu Eco Park include a guide, a jeep, park entry, and a pickup and drop off from Hurulu Eco Park.  Morning safaris are the best, ideally starting from 7 AM. Furthermore, like me, you can also opt for an afternoon safari at 1 PM.  Furthermore, each jeep carries about 6 tourists. Also, you must carry some water, wear sunscreen, and a hat. What Is The Best Time To Visit Hurulu Eco Park? The best time to visit Hurulu Rco Park is between December and June. Especially, February to April is the ideal time to see the lush landscapes and the biggest elephant herds.  Furthermore, the number of jeeps is quite low in these months.  Again, from May onward, the conditions become drier, and the elephants start moving from the Kaudulla National Park to the Minneriya National Park. So, in Hurulu Eco Park, you will notice smaller herds of elephants.  Moreover, from October to January is the wet season, and the jungle becomes the most vivid. So, these months are the best for photographers.  Photography Tips For Hurulu Eco Park  You will find a mix of open plains, forest shades, and red earth in Hurulu Eco Park. So, the landscape is challenging yet interesting for photographers.  Furthermore, for photography, you must bring a 70-200 mm lens. It is ideal to capture wildlife, and the wider lens is the best to frame the color and scale of Hurulu Eco Park during the golden hour.  Moreover, after the rain, the conditions become more ideal for photography. Grey elephants, red dust, and the green foliage create wonderful frames.  Again, the light filters through the tree branches becomes low in the late afternoon. So, you can capture the texture and warmth of the Hurulu Eco Park. Things To Keep In Mind For A Visit To Hurulu Eco Park  Do not use single-use plastic bottles during the safari to minimize the impact on the environment, wildlife, and marine life.  Furthermore, keep the water use to a minimum level to reduce the pressure on water resources.  Moreover, collect your souvenirs from the local shops and eat at the local eateries to help the economy of the community.

BY  Sibashree Mar 26, 2026

If you are like me, your first trip to Japan probably started off in Tokyo, surrounded by bright neon lights and an astounding number of people moving around to get from place to place. Tokyo is a logical starting point because of the many inexpensive daily flights that arrive, as well as its efficient public transportation, making it very easy to get around and communicate with those whom you meet there, because they speak some English. But let me tell you a little secret I learned from spending two different trips to Japan over the course of three weeks. Although I had fun in Tokyo, I’m definitely not a big progressive city person. The real beauty and the heart of Japan are found away from the chaos of Tokyo. The true essence of Japan can be experienced at its best in either the peaceful mountains high above the sea or in the salty air along the coast of Japan. So if you are planning on staying in Tokyo for more than three days, do yourself a favor and venture outside of the city limits.  These are my favorite day trips from Tokyo. You can travel to each of these destinations within 1 to 2 hours. What Are The Best Day Trips From Tokyo?  Tokyo is an incredible gateway. However, Japan’s true magic is often found in the places where the skyscrapers disappear.  Whether you want the spray of the ocean in Kamakura or the mountain air of Hakone, I promise that leaving the city for just a day will change how you see the country. From Mount Fuji to Kyoto, the Soul of Japan, the day trips from Tokyo are as diverse as they can be.  Here is a detailed account of my experience in those places.  1. Mount Fuji And Kawaguchiko: The Icon Travel Time: 2 Hours  How to Reach There: Highway buses from Shinjuku or Shibuya (~¥1,250–¥2,000 one way). If I can only recommend one escape, it will be Kawaguchiko, a town located right at the foot of Mt. Fuji.  "Shy" Fuji hides behind a curtain of clouds and can be quite elusive. While I visited, Fuji showed off for me on several occasions. I spent an entire day in this beautiful town, but would recommend an overnight stay at one of the many traditional ryokans situated on the lake if possible. There, you will notice the the juxtaposition of Fuji's reflection on Lake Kawaguchi at sunrise will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Highlights From My Visit Climbing the 398 steps of Chureito Pagoda was strenuous. However, the meditation-like calm through the forest made it worthwhile. I was fortunate enough to see the iconic site of the Red Pagoda with Mt. Fuji as a backdrop, as the clouds rolled in and covered the summit of Fuji. Hōtō noodles are a local specialty and are made up of thick, flat noodles cooked in a Japanese miso broth. Eating them will feel like a warm hug! So, don’t forget to try it.  2. Nikko: A Place Of Mist And Masterpieces Travel Time: 2 Hours How to Get There: Tobu Railway from Asakusa to Tobu-Nikko Station. When you visit Nikko, you will see all that it has to offer in the stunning, misty forests and cedar trees. Moreover, the detailed and ornate shrines seem to be jewelry boxes.    Insider Tip:  Arrive before 9 am at Lake Chuzenji to witness how the morning light creates an incredibly peaceful scene on the water.  If you arrive later than 9 am, visit the Toshogu Shrine first, which is where Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu is buried and features the famous three monkeys, "See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil". Many people come to see Kegon Falls, but it can be crowded due to the high tourist volume.  Unless you arrive at dawn, I would recommend skipping Kegon Falls and enjoying the calm waters of the lake instead. 3. The Coastal Soul Of Japan: Kamakura Travel Time: 1 hour How to Get There: JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station (¥940 one way). Kamakura is also popular as the "Kyoto of the East," and I can see why.  Although it is an hour from Tokyo, when you are there, you will be surrounded by the smell of salt and incense from the temples instead of exhaust from busy streets. Be sure to see the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) at Kotoku-in.  This is a large bronze hollow statue located outside.  Standing there, surrounded by trees and soft sea light, I felt a sense of peace and tranquility.  After visiting the Great Buddha, I walked to Yuigahama Beach to watch the surfers and the sunset before enjoying a meal of sukiyaki or shabu-shabu. 4. Hakone: A Breath of Mountain Air Travel Time: 2 Hours How to Get There: Odakyu “Romancecar” from Shinjuku. I recommend the Hakone Free Pass. Tokyo is the pulse of Japanese culture, and it is in Hakone where you'll find peace after the city's frenzied pace. Hakone is a beautiful blend of modern and ancient.  The first stop for my visit was at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where I walked among sculptures created by some of the most famous artists in the world, surrounded by natural beauty all around me.  Then, I took the Hakone Ropeway across the Owakudani Valley.  It is an active volcanic area where steam rises out of the ground, creating a picture of a living canvas.  On clear days, you may see Mt. Fuji as well.  The day was capped off with a boat ride on Lake Ashi aboard a vessel that resembled a "pirate ship."  I was hesitant about it being cheesy, but the sights were gorgeous. 5. The Easy Escape To Yokohama  Travel Time: 30 Minutes How to get there: JR Tokaido or Keihin-Tohoku Line from Tokyo Station (¥480). When I need to relax from the chaos of Tokyo, I tend to go to Yokohama.  Yokohama is the 2nd largest city in Japan. However, it has a much more relaxing atmosphere due to the harbor.  I enjoy taking a stroll along Minato Mirai, which is another word for "harbor view," while enjoying the ocean breeze.  For something "quirky", I went to the Cup Noodles Museum to create my own cup of noodles and to learn about the history of Nissin Food Products.  However, the highlight was visiting China Town, which is the largest in Japan.  My recommendation is to arrive at China Town around 4:00 or 5:00 PM.  It will be early enough to beat the dinner rush and late enough to see the entrance of all the glow from the lanterns.  Take a bag of roasted chestnuts and enjoy the view of the skyline from the water while riding on the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel. 6. A Trip Back In Time To Kawagoe Travel Time: 1 Hour How to get there: Tobu Tojo Line from Ikebukuro or JR from Shinjuku. If you want a taste of the Edo period without trekking all the way to Kyoto, go to Kawagoe.  It’s a walkable town full of clay-walled warehouses and wooden merchant houses. When I arrived at 8 AM, I heard the Toki no Kane (Bell of Time) tolling in the stillness of the morning.  I went back 200 years in time.  If you have time to go to Candy Alley, everything is made from sweet potatoes, cakes, chips, and even ice cream!  I know it sounds strange, but I assure you that it is really good! 7. Kyoto: The Soul Of Japan Travel Time: 2 Hours (by Shinkansen) How to get there: Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station (¥13,320 one way). I usually tell people to stay at least two days in Kyoto, but if a day trip is all you can manage, do it. It is expensive, but it is worth every yen. To appreciate Kyoto fully, you should focus on finding peace and serenity rather than simply marking off temples from a to-do list.  Instead of fighting the crowds at the bamboo groves, I found my peace by sitting in the wonderful gardens of Kennin-Ji Temple and breathing the incense they burned there. 8. Enoshima: Islands And Icons  Travel Time: 2 Hours How to get there: Odakyu Line from Shinjuku to Katase-Enoshima Station. Enoshima is where Japan’s coastal charm meets its spiritual side.  It’s a small island with a bridge and shrines dedicated to the goddess of the sea. Prepare to take many steps as you make your way to Iwaya Caves on the opposite end of the island.  The sound of waves'll surround you as you leave the noise of the city behind.  Furthermore, inside the caves, it’s a different world! After you leave the caves and head back, stop at a vendor and buy some grilled fish or seafood so you can enjoy the smoky aroma of the grilled fish while walking through Enoshima Island. 9. Chichibu: Mountains And Moss Travel Time: 2 Hours How to Get There: Seibu Line from Ikebukuro to Seibu-Chichibu Station. Chichibu is an outdoorsy place if you love the outdoors!  It's got mountains and has a strong cultural heritage.  If your timing is right in the spring, Hitsujiyama Park gets huge patches of pink and white moss phlox in bloom. This area has deliciously filling meals, including miso potatoes and waraji katsu (a pork cutlet that’s named after a straw sandal because of how large it is). 10. Karuizawa: The Alpine Retreat Travel Time: 1 Hour How to get there: Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station. Finally, there is Karuizawa. This is where Tokyo’s elite found an escape from the summer heat, and it still feels incredibly sophisticated. Renting a bicycle is one of the best ways to experience this area.  I spent my first morning biking through beautiful pine tree forests until I arrived at Kumoba Pond. The pond has such calm water that it feels like looking into a huge mirror!  In the winter, it turns into a beautiful, snowy retreat perfect for relaxing after spending several days in the city.  Read Also: Is The Japan Rail Pass Worth It In 2026? Should I Buy Or Avoid It As A Conscious Tourist? What Are The Things To Do In Oahu For Free? A Guide For Budget Travelers Festivals Of Light And Color: Experiencing Japan’s Vibrant Matsuri

BY  Sibashree Mar 23, 2026

Hiriketiya Beach is a place that can disrupt your travel plans completely.  You may arrive with plans for a two-night stay and end up spending 3 weeks developing a routine of mornings spent surfing, drinking coconut coffee, and watching the sun set down on the jungle.  This tucked-away cove in Sri Lanka’s southern coast, nicknamed by its community of surfers and digital nomads as "Hiri", is a textbook example of tropical aesthetics.  The cove is well-formed, with water that is surrounded by palm trees, and has a jungle so dense behind it that you will hear monkeys scurrying through the tree tops of your surfboard as they find their way there.  Hiri feels like a secret to be shared, but is just being revealed to people in the surrounding towns of Weligama and Mirissa.  Hiriketiya has developed to become a more sophisticated version of Weligama and Mirissa. The "vibe" of Hiriketiya is not just another phrase used by hipsters. It is the currency used by locals. Here is more about this beautiful coastal gem in Sri Lanka.  The Evolution Of Hiriketiya Beach: Why You Need To Go Now Hiriketiya has experienced an incredible transformation over the last few years.  Only a few years ago, this sleepy little fishing village had only a few guesthouses and one small roti shop. It is quite similar to the beaches in Jaffna in that way.  Now, it's become a vibrant hub, and even though it has lost some of its "untouched" charm. Moreover, this infusion of new energy has produced world-class specialty coffee shops, beautiful state-of-the-art Yoga studios, and a co-working scene. But despite these rapid changes, the spirit of this village remains.  The Surf At Hirikeya Beach: A Wave For Every Soul The horseshoe shape and the unique geography of the Hirikeya Beach make it ideal for every type of surfer.  Here is a quick breakdown. Surf LocationDetails The Beach Break (Right Side)- Beginner-Friendly- Sandy Bottom- Gentle WavesThe Middle- Ideal for Longboarders- Offers a Mellow RideThe Point Break (Left Side)- Ideal for Professionals- Shallow Reef Board rentals are standardized at 1000 LKR per hour.  If the Hirikeya Beach is very busy, you can go 3.5 km east and find Kudawella Beach.  Where Is Hirikeya Beach? How To Reach It?  Hiriketiya is located off the main highway along the coast, about one mile away from the town of Dickwella.  Since Hiriketiya is not on a major transit route, you will have to use Dickwella as your transit point. 1. Traveling To Hiriketiya Beach From Colombo The best way to get there is by taking the train from Colombo Fort to Matara, which takes approximately four hours.  From Matara, you can take a local bus to Dickwella or take a tuk-tuk taxi. You can also take a highway express bus from Colombo to Matara and arrive in about three hours. 2. Traveling To Hiriketiya Beach From Ella You can catch the #31 bus at the intersection of the Ella-Passara Road as you travel through tea country.  It is approximately four hours to the coast on a winding road. Just tell the conductor you want to go to Dickwella. 3. Traveling To Hiriketiya Beach From Arugam Bay If you are traveling from the East Coast surf to the surf in the South, there is a direct bus leaving from Pottuvil every day around 6:30 AM, arriving at Dickwella approximately six hours later. What Are The Things To Do At Hirikeya Beach? (Beyond Surfing) Hiri has just as much gravitational force to attract chill seekers. So, here are the things to do beyond surfing.  1. Walk To Blue Beach Island If you're looking for a little adventure, try the 2.5km (1.5-mile) walk to Nilwella.  You'll be walking through peaceful local neighborhoods when you find a beautiful natural sandbar that links the mainland with a small island.  Moreover, walking over a sandbar with breaking waves on both sides of you is something you will remember long after leaving Hiri.  Also, it is the best place to watch the sunset. 2. Sip In Style At Smoke And Bitters Believe it or not, one of the 50 Best Bars in Asia is hidden deep in a coconut grove.  Furthermore, the menu at Smoke and Bitters is based on the smokehouse method of cooking, using local Sri Lankan ingredients with cooking methods from around the globe.  Moreover, you must try the smoked harissa pumpkin and the pork ribs as they are WOW!!  Every cocktail created at Smoke and Bitters is a work of art. The price of a drink here, compared to what you would expect to pay in Sri Lanka, may seem high. However, when you want to treat yourself, there is no better place to go. 3. Become A Culinary Master With Rosie Rosie's cooking class experience is the ultimate rite of passage in Hiri.  While she prepares the dishes during your cooking class, you will also hear many personal stories of her life and how she made some special Sri Lankan spice combinations. Moreover, it costs 6000 LKR, and the 4-hour feast is the ultimate attraction.  The Digital Nomad And Yoga Scene At Hirikeya Beach  Hiriketiya has become a cornerstone of the "work-from-anywhere" lifestyle.  Places like Dots Bay House and Salty Pelican provide the infrastructure (and the caffeine) needed to hit deadlines. Moreover, when it comes to physical and mental well-being, Arise is unparalleled.  So, they provide a variety of classes to choose from, including Muay Thai, ecstatic dance, and Reiki, as well as many types of Vinyasa yoga.  Additionally, their Salt House location offers stunning rooftop yoga classes where you can do yoga while listening to the waves below. Where to Stay In Hiriketiya? Hiriketiya offers a versatile range of accommodation. Here are some places you can try.  1. Salt House  This upscale beach hotel has a boutique feel.  Located 5 minutes away from the beach, the hotel has spacious, minimalistic rooms opening directly to its central pool and open-air cafe.  Moreover, on-site yoga classes every day attract those interested in wellness. Room rates begin at about 21000 LKD per night. 2. Dots Bay House  Located next to the surfing area, 'Dots', the centre of Hiri's social scene, offers accommodation options ranging from dormitories to high-end private rooms.  Moreover, facilities include an on-site co-working space, swimming pool, and popular bar which features the best live music acts in town. Prices start at approximately 7000 LKD per night. 3. Hiriketiya White House  A charming, family-owned guesthouse hidden away in the jungle, offering an excellent option for visitors who want authentic experiences at affordable prices.  Also, the double rooms come with beautiful contemporary bathrooms and balconies where guests can enjoy watching monkeys play overhead. Moreover, the prices start from about 5500 LKD per night.  When To Visit Hiriketiya Beach? Due to offshore winds and consistent swell during the "High Season", November to April is the best time for surfers to be out on the ocean.  Moreover, December to February is the busiest time of year, with hot and dry weather as well as a lot of activity happening around town.  However, there are two downsides. The first is that accommodation prices rise significantly, and the second is that line-ups at the ocean can be extremely crowded. Where To Eat In Hiriketiya? As an enthusiast of TheLowDownUnder Travel and genuine experiences, I felt compelled to sample the local cuisine at Hirikeya. So, here are a few recommendations for places to check out. 1. Lemon Grass Café Considered the benchmark for rice and curry in Sri Lanka, this family-run establishment is modest yet impactful.  Moreover, for 1000 LKR, you’ll enjoy a generous array of at least four different vegetable curries, rice, and dessert, with unlimited refills. 2. Kingsley’s Kitchen Another gem in the area, Kingsley is a well-known figure in the village who serves outstanding home-cooked meals.  Dinner operates on a pre-order basis, so be sure to stop by during the day to reserve your meal.  Moreover, it’s one of the most budget-friendly spots in the bay, with a vegetarian curry priced at 750 LKR. 3. Dahami Situated at the Dickwella intersection, this is where the locals dine. Furthermore, it’s a straightforward buffet offering a mountain of rice and curry for just 450 LKR. Moreover, for those seeking specialty cafés and a beach atmosphere, options like Duni’s Hoppers Café, MOND Café, and La Playa are worth considering.