Around Biei, rolling hills and patchwork fields create a countryside landscape filled with striking contrasts. From Patchwork Road to Panorama Road, this township in the Kamikawa district at the heart of Hokkaido island simply calls for escape.

The Story of Biei

In 1858, explorer Takeshiro Matuura visited the Tokachi Mountains and crossed the wild region where present-day Biei now stands. The central administration officially recognized the locality as a village in the former province of Ishikari in 1915. Biei was granted township status in 1940. Later, in 1954, Naosaburou Kobayashi, originally from Hyogo Prefecture, acquired 450 hectares of land in the region to develop an agricultural estate.

During the 1970s, renowned photographer Shinzo Maeda visited Biei and fell in love with the beauty of its landscapes. He returned several times over the course of a decade to photograph scenes for postcards, advertisements, posters, and more. Some of his works are displayed at the Takushinkan Gallery.

Moreover, Biei is among the founding members of the association Japan's Most Beautiful Villages.

Biei Today

Situated between Furano and Asahikawa, the township of Biei presents an atypical landscape highly prized by Japanese filmmakers and advertising directors. Discover unique panoramas during a bike trip through its two signature zones: Patchwork Road and Panorama Road.

Patchwork Road

Patchwork Road unfolds northwest of Biei's city center. Far more than a simple route, it's a picturesque zone adorned with spectacular rural vistas. Contrasting colors shift with the seasons, treating your eyes to soft pastel greens in summer, scarlet hues in autumn, and soothing whites in winter. This scenic beauty has captivated many marketing specialists. Trees from the region appear in numerous advertisements and product packaging: larches (cigarette brand promotion), poplars (car advertising), oaks, and more. Among the attractions visible along Patchwork Road, you'll find Hokusei Hill Observatory, which offers sweeping panoramic views of fields and hillsides, as well as a flower park you can explore on foot or by horse-drawn carriage.

Panorama Road

Panorama Road, meanwhile, extends south of Biei. As beautiful as Patchwork Road, this rolling terrain is greatly appreciated by cycling enthusiasts. Of course, other modes of transport are available, such as buggies and golf carts within Shikisai Hill Flower Park. Wander through this 7-hectare domain dotted with tulips, sunflowers, lavender, and Japanese anemones. In winter, you have access to snowmobiles. On the national route between Furano and Biei, you'll discover another floral jewel of nature.

To continue exploring, visit Aoi Pond, nestled at the foot of Mount Tokachi. This artificial pond bordered by forest ranks among Biei's finest tourist attractions. Apple paid homage to this enchanting landscape by featuring it as wallpaper on Macintosh computers. Then, on a Biei hillside, you'll find the Takushinkan Exhibition Hall, which preserves the memory and works of photographer Shinzo Maeda. Photographs by his son Akira are also displayed here. The images showcase Japan's diverse landscapes, particularly those of Biei.

Do you enjoy traditional cuisine? Pay a visit to Chiyoda Educational Farm. Beyond encountering farm animals, this establishment invites you to taste local specialties. Try Biei beef, artisanal ice cream, and potato croquettes (korokke).

Climate

Due to its inland location, Biei experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year. The four seasons that sweep across the region bring dramatic changes to the local landscape. From May to July, cherry blossoms and apple blossoms color the fields. In autumn, vivid reds and yellows dominate the panorama, then give way to snow's white blanket as winter arrives.

In April, temperatures range from -1°C to 10°C. Snow still falls in Biei during this period, so pack gloves and warm clothing. In May, it becomes slightly warmer, ranging from 4.2°C to 17°C, though a jacket and sweater are still recommended for outings. From June to September, temperatures fluctuate between 9°C and 25°C. A long or short-sleeved shirt and light jacket will suffice to keep you comfortable. From October to December, temperatures drop progressively, ranging from 14°C to -3°C. A coat and gloves are recommended for excursions. Cold becomes intense between January and March (-3°C to -13°C).

From Asahikawa or Furano, you can reach Biei by train or car. The journey takes approximately forty minutes.

The nearest airport is located in Asahikawa. It operates connecting flights from Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. You'll also find international flights to Taipei, Beijing, Shanghai, and Seoul, depending on the season.

In Biei's city center, many shops rent bicycles, including electric-powered bikes. Two-wheelers are the best way to explore the region's landscapes at your own pace. In summer, you have access to tourist buses whose routes cover most of Biei's attractions.

What to Do in Biei?

• Admire Shinzo Maeda's photographs at Takushinkan Gallery
• Explore Patchwork Road and Panorama Road
• Stroll through Shikisai Flower Park
• Rejuvenate yourself at Aoi Pond
• Discover Biei's local cuisine, and more