Biei

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
19/08/2025
Stunning winter view of a frozen waterfall and stream in Biei, Hokkaido.
zhen ciang huang, Pexels

Biei, nestled in central Hokkaido, offers a serene escape with its iconic rolling hills adorned with vibrant, patchwork-like fields. Visitors are drawn to the mesmerizing Shirogane Blue Pond, the Shirahige Waterfall, and vast flower gardens like Shikisai Hill, which transform with the seasons.

Opportunities for extensive socialization with other tourists or backpackers are limited. The destination primarily focuses on quiet appreciation of nature and scenic drives or cycling routes, with some local eateries and markets providing chances for interaction with local culture rather than a dedicated social scene for visitors.

Top 5 Things to do in Biei

Explore Biei's breathtaking agricultural landscapes and iconic natural formations through scenic drives, cycling, and visits to unique ponds and flower gardens.

1. Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike)

Experience the captivating blue waters of the Shirogane Blue Pond, a tranquil site whose ethereal hue shifts with the weather and seasons. The stark, leafless larch trees standing in the water create a surreal, almost otherworldly landscape that is a highlight for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Visiting in winter offers a particularly magical experience when the pond is illuminated after dark. It is recommended to observe the pond from designated areas to preserve its delicate ecosystem.

Cost: Free admission to the pond itself. Parking costs ¥500 per car.

Transport: Located about 17 km from Biei Town. A Dohoku Bus service runs directly from Biei Station to the Shirogane Aoiike Iriguchi bus stop, taking approximately 20-24 minutes and costing ¥310-¥800 one way. Buses depart every four hours. Taxis are also available from Biei, taking around 17 minutes and costing ¥6,000-¥7,500.

2. Shirahige Waterfall

Witness the unique Shirahige Waterfall, where groundwater cascades through cracks in the cliff face, resembling a 'white beard.' This rare phenomenon, flowing from an underground river, is the source of the minerals that give the Blue Pond its distinctive color. The waterfall is particularly stunning in winter when framed by snow and ice, and a bridge with an observation deck provides excellent viewing and photography opportunities.

Cost: Free admission.

Transport: Situated near the Blue Pond, about 20 km from Biei. A Dohoku Bus connects Biei Station to Shirogane Onsen (where the waterfall is located), taking approximately 22-27 minutes and costing ¥350-¥550. Buses run every four hours. A taxi from Biei Station takes about 20 minutes and costs ¥7,000-¥9,000.

3. Shikisai Hill (Shikisai-no-Oka Panoramic Flower Gardens)

Stroll through the vast, vibrant flower fields of Shikisai Hill, which showcase a stunning 'patchwork' of colors from various blooms like tulips, poppies, and lavender across 15 hectares. The scenery changes with the seasons, offering a different visual spectacle throughout the year, including snowmobiling in winter. You can explore the gardens by walking the trails or opt for a leisurely ride on a tractor-pulled wagon or a golf cart.

Cost: Admission is generally free, but there are costs for rides: tractor bus (e.g., ¥500-¥1,000 per adult for a tour), golf carts (e.g., ¥2,000 for 4-seater for 15 mins).

Transport: Shikisai Hill is located south of Biei town center on Panorama Road. It is accessible by car, taxi, or local bus services, though direct public transport information from Biei Station specifically to Shikisai Hill's entrance with precise costs is not consistently available. Taxis from Biei Station would be the most convenient but costly option for direct access. Alternatively, it is a key stop on many local sightseeing tours.

4. Patchwork Road Scenic Drive/Cycle

Embark on a journey through the undulating hills of Patchwork Road, named for the quilt-like appearance of its diverse fields and farmlands. This area, located northwest of Biei's town center, features famous solitary trees like the Ken & Mary Tree and the Seven Star Tree, which have gained recognition from past commercials. The seasonal changes in crops create a continuously evolving tapestry of colors, providing endless photographic opportunities. Visitors are encouraged to admire the scenery from public roads and designated viewpoints, respecting private agricultural land.

Cost: No entry fee as it is a public road. Bicycle rentals are available near Biei Station (e.g., electric bicycles from ¥600 per hour or ¥3,000 per day; regular bikes from ¥200 per hour or ¥1,000 per day). Self-driving involves car rental costs.

Transport: The Patchwork Road area is easily explored by rental car or bicycle from Biei Station. While specific bus routes covering all famous tree spots are limited, sightseeing taxis and guided tours are available. Many choose to rent an electric bicycle from shops near Biei Station to navigate the hilly terrain at their own pace.

5. Panorama Road Scenic Drive/Cycle

Explore the scenic Panorama Road, an area south of Biei's town center that rivals Patchwork Road in its rural beauty. This route offers expansive views of rolling hills and distant mountains, dotted with charming farms and flower parks like Zerubu Hill and Kanno Farm. The Takushinkan exhibition hall, featuring landscape photography by Shinzo Maeda, also provides artistic perspectives of the region's beauty. Similar to Patchwork Road, cycling is a popular way to experience this area, with electric bicycles recommended for the hilly terrain.

Cost: No entry fee. Bicycle rentals available near Biei Station (e.g., electric bicycles from ¥600 per hour or ¥3,000 per day; regular bikes from ¥200 per hour or ¥1,000 per day). Self-driving involves car rental costs.

Transport: Panorama Road is best accessed by rental car or electric bicycle from Biei Station. While there are some local bus services, a car or bicycle provides the flexibility to stop at various viewpoints and attractions along the route. Sightseeing taxis and organized tours are also viable options for exploring this area.

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