A picturesque patchwork of fields and flowers with a famous lake nearby
Biei is a charming town located near the heart of Hokkaido, a beautiful island in japan. Nestled at the foot of the Tokachidake Mountain Range in Daisetsuzan National Park, Biei is known for its stunning natural landscapes and is often featured in promotional media for Hokkaido. One of its most famous attractions is the Blue Pond, a mesmerizing body of water that changes its hue with the seasons and weather.
Don’t Miss
When visiting Biei, there are several must-see attractions that should be on your itinerary. One of the top recommendations is to see the Blue Pond illuminated. This experience allows you to witness the pond’s vibrant blue color in a whole new light. The combination of the illuminated pond and the surrounding natural scenery creates a magical atmosphere that is truly unforgettable.
Another highlight of Biei is the seven-hectare flower garden at Shikisai Hill. This expansive garden is a feast for the eyes, with a colorful display of lavender, sunflowers, poppies, cosmos, and purple salvia. Walking through the garden feels like stepping into a painting, and it’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
For those seeking a unique natural wonder, the rare groundwater waterfalls of Shirahige are a must-visit. These waterfalls are formed by water flowing through underground passages and emerging from the ground, creating a mesmerizing sight. The combination of the rushing water and the surrounding greenery makes for a picturesque scene.
How to Get There
Biei is easily accessible by train, bus, and car from Asahikawa and Furano, two major cities in Hokkaido. If you’re traveling by train, the closest major train station is Asahikawa Station. From Sapporo, you can take the JR Hakodate Line and reach Asahikawa in about an hour and 20 minutes. From Asahikawa, you can then take a JR Furano Line train to Biei, which takes around 40 minutes. If you’re arriving at Asahikawa Airport, you can take a quick fifteen-minute ride on the Lavender-go bus to Biei. In the summer, there are also sightseeing buses that run from Furano Station and Biei Station.
Quick Facts
When exploring Biei, you have the option to rent both standard and electrically powered bicycles from shops in the town. This allows you to cover more ground and explore the area at your own pace. Additionally, Biei hosts an annual race called the Biei Healthy Marathon, which attracts participants from all over the world. If you’re a fitness enthusiast, participating in this race can be a great way to experience the town’s natural beauty while staying active.
See the Pond and Floral Patchwork
One of the main reasons why Biei is so popular among tourists is its stunning natural landscapes. The Blue Pond, in particular, attracts visitors from far and wide. Its vivid blue color and ever-changing hues make it a captivating sight. The pond is surrounded by a picturesque patchwork of fields and flowers, creating a breathtaking backdrop for photographs. Many visitors come to Biei specifically to see the Blue Pond, but there are also other locations in the town where you can enjoy the beauty of nature. Places like Patchwork Road, Panorama Road, Shikisai Hill, and Zerubu Hill are known for their vast fields of lavender, sunflowers, poppies, cosmos, and purple salvia. Walking through these flower gardens feels like stepping into a dream, and the views are simply stunning. In some locations, with the permission of the farmers, visitors can even stroll through the flower gardens and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
Get Some Wheels to Cover More Ground
Biei is a relatively small town, but it offers plenty of attractions to explore. To make the most of your visit and cover more ground, it’s recommended to either take a sightseeing taxi or rent a bicycle. By doing so, you can easily visit the area’s special spots, such as the flower fields and the stands of trees that are often featured in promotional media. These trees, with names like the Ken and Mary Tree, Seven Stars Tree, and Parent and Child Trees, have become famous landmarks and draw plenty of tourists who want to see them in person. Renting a bicycle not only allows you to visit these spots but also gives you the freedom to explore the town at your own pace. Biei is a cyclist-friendly destination, with well-maintained cycling paths and beautiful scenery along the way.
For Photography Fans
Biei has gained popularity as a sightseeing destination, largely thanks to the work of the famous landscape photographer Shinzo Maeda. Maeda was captivated by the town’s scenery and captured its beauty through his photographs. His son, Akira, continues to visit Biei to take more pictures and carry on his father’s legacy. If you’re a photography enthusiast, visiting Biei will provide you with endless opportunities to capture breathtaking shots. The town’s natural landscapes, from the Blue Pond to the flower fields, offer a variety of subjects and compositions to explore. To further enhance your photography experience, consider visiting the Takushinkan Photo Gallery, which exhibits the work of the Maeda family. Here, you can gain inspiration from their stunning photographs and learn more about the art of landscape photography.
Get Active in Biei
Biei offers a range of outdoor activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in nature and stay active. In the summer, you can take leisurely strolls through the woods and discover quiet restaurants tucked away in the countryside. Walking along the Biei River is another popular activity, offering scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. If you’re looking for a bit more adventure, you can try canoeing or camping along the riverbanks. Biei is also home to a local golf course, where you can enjoy a round of golf surrounded by the town’s natural beauty.
In winter, Biei transforms into a winter wonderland, covered in a blanket of pristine snow. This opens up a whole new set of activities for visitors to enjoy. Snow buggies and snowmobiles are available for rent, allowing you to explore the snowy fields and experience the thrill of riding through the powdery snow. The quiet and serene surroundings make Biei an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape from city life.
In Conclusion
Biei is a hidden gem in Hokkaido, offering a picturesque patchwork of fields, flowers, and natural wonders. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Biei has something to offer. From the mesmerizing Blue Pond to the vibrant flower gardens, the town’s beauty is unparalleled. With its convenient transportation options and a range of activities to enjoy, Biei is a destination that should be on every traveler’s list. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the enchanting landscapes of Biei.
Address And Maps Location:
Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido
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