Shikisai no Oka (Biei, Hokkaido)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Shikisai-no-Oka is a tourist flower field spot that spreads across the hilly region of Biei Town. Colorful flowers are planted in a patchwork pattern on the slopes, and their major appeal is that they change appearance with each season from spring to autumn. The fields are maintained for tourists, and are popular with families and camera enthusiasts, with photo spots, walking paths for viewing, a shop and cafe, and interactive attractions (such as a tractor bus). Winter is not the season for flowers, but you can still enjoy the snowy scenery and views of the surrounding mountains.

Highlights

• Panorama of flower fields: A colorful band of flowers spreads across the hills. Depending on the season, lavender, poppies, sunflowers, cosmos, and more bloom in abundance.
• Photo spots: There are picturesque paths, benches, and observation points scattered throughout the area. Photos taken in the early morning and evening light are especially beautiful.
• Tractor bus (fee required): A sightseeing bus that makes it easy to navigate the differences in elevation in the flower fields. It sometimes comes with commentary, allowing you to efficiently tour the highlights.
• Flower picking experiences (seasonal): Flower picking experiences and events are sometimes held at certain times (fees apply, please check).
• Shops and cafes: There are shops selling local flowers and specialties, flower-themed souvenirs, and snacks.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

Shikisai-no-Oka is located in the hills outside the city, so it is easily accessible by car or tourist bus. Public transportation is limited, so we recommend checking the timetable.

• Nearest station: JR Furano Line, Biei Station (approximately 10-15 minutes by car from JR Biei Station, or several kilometers away) *It is quite far to walk.
• By car: From Asahikawa, it takes about 30-40 minutes via national and prefectural roads, and from Sapporo it takes about 2 hours (depending on the season and road conditions).
• Buses: Tourist buses and sightseeing buses may operate during the summer tourist season, so please check the timetables and information from the operating companies.
• Parking: The facility has a large parking lot (suitable for standard cars and large buses). However, you may have to wait for parking when it is crowded.
• Taxi: It is convenient to take a taxi from JR Biei Station (takes about 10-15 minutes, but be careful on the way back as there are only a limited number of taxis).

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Quick tour: 30-45 minutes (to see the main points in a short time)
• If you include photography and tractor tours: 1-2 hours
• Nearby sightseeing (when combining with Blue Pond, Patchwork Road, etc.): Half a day to a full day

Nearby spots

• Patchwork Road/Panorama Road: A driving course with a series of Biei's iconic landscapes.
• Famous tree spots such as Ken and Mary's Tree and Parent and Child Tree: Popular for photography.
• Blue Pond (Biei/Shirogane area): A beautiful pond with a unique blue color (approximately 20-40 minutes by car, varies depending on the season).
• Farm Tomita (Furano): A famous lavender spot (approximately 30-60 minutes by car, depending on the season).
• Viewing spot of the Tokachi mountain range: Enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: The park is extremely crowded during the summer high season (July to August), Golden Week, and other consecutive holidays. Parking lots and surrounding roads can become congested, so we recommend visiting early in the morning or in the evening.
• Manners: There are restricted areas within the flower fields. Please observe basic manners such as not stepping on flowers, not damaging the plants, and always taking your trash home with you.
• What to wear and bring: The sun is strong in the summer, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and drinks. It's also a good idea to bring insect repellent. Rain gear and comfortable walking shoes are also useful.
• Cars and Transportation: During the tourist season, be careful when parking on the street and passing other vehicles on narrow roads. Public transportation is infrequent, so be sure to check the return trip schedule in advance.
• Facility opening hours and best time to see flowers: The types of flowers, their best time to see them, facility opening hours, and attraction operations vary depending on the season and weather. Please check official information and local guides in advance.
• Winter: Flowers will not be visible. Many facilities may be partially closed, so please check the opening hours if you plan to visit in winter.

This concludes the basic information about Shikisai no Oka and some key points to keep in mind when visiting. Combining it with the hilly scenery of Biei will make for an even more memorable trip. We recommend checking the official website or local guides for the latest information before visiting.