Bifuka(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For breathtaking countryside views in Biei, stay at Biei no Mori Guesthouse, nestled between Aoi-ike Lake and the Patchwork Road. Its panoramic windows frame ever-changing landscapes—verdant fields in spring, lavender blooms in summer, fiery foliage in autumn, and snow-covered hills in winter. The property offers free bicycles for exploring nearby Four Seasons Color Hill and Biei River, where you can witness traditional Hokkaido farming culture firsthand.

Another top choice is Hoshizora Ryokan, a family-run inn with private onsen baths overlooking the Furano Mountains. Enjoy kaiseki meals made from local ingredients like Hokkaido potatoes and fresh trout. Book during late September to early October to avoid crowds and capture the peak autumn colors. Both properties emphasize sustainability and quiet immersion in nature.

The ideal area for accommodation in Biei is along the Patchwork Road, close to Aoi-ike Lake, Four Seasons Color Hill, and Biei River. This zone offers easy access to all major sights while preserving a peaceful rural atmosphere. Stay at Green Valley Cottage, which features spacious rooms with direct views of rolling hills and seasonal flower fields.

For those seeking spa experiences, Hoshizora Ryokan in central Biei provides a short 10-minute drive to key attractions. It’s also well-connected by public buses from Asahikawa Station and Sapporo Station. Avoid visiting in peak summer (July–August), and instead opt for late September or early October to enjoy fewer tourists and stunning fall foliage. All accommodations here prioritize guest comfort and environmental harmony.

In Biei, immerse yourself in authentic local traditions through hands-on experiences. Join a Patchwork Road Craft Workshop, where you’ll learn to create handmade quilts inspired by the region’s iconic farmland patterns. During summer (June–August), attend the Biei Flower Festival, featuring large-scale floral installations across Four Seasons Color Hill and Flower Grassland by local artists.

Book a guided tour at a family farm to learn about organic cultivation of Hokkaido potatoes and sugar beets, then taste dishes made from freshly harvested produce. Some guesthouses also host traditional wagashi (Japanese sweets) making classes, where you craft delicate treats using regional ingredients like wild berries and matcha. These activities reflect Biei’s deep connection to nature and craftsmanship.

Absolutely, Biei is an excellent destination for families with kids. Stay at Biei Kids Stay, a child-friendly guesthouse offering a dedicated playroom, outdoor mini-farm with sheep and rabbits, and safe walking trails. Children can participate in nature discovery workshops, identifying local plants and insects.

Four Seasons Color Hill has stroller-accessible paths and picnic areas, while Aoi-ike Lake’s wooden boardwalk is flat and wide, perfect for photos. Summer programs include family bike tours stopping at Flower Grassland and Biei River viewpoints, complete with packed lunches. All facilities prioritize safety and ease of access. Many hosts even provide kid-sized yukata and snacks—ideal for creating lasting memories in a serene mountain setting.

Winter in Biei transforms the landscape into a magical snowy wonderland. Stay at Hoshizora Ryokan’s Snow View Room, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the pristine Four Seasons Color Hill blanketed in snow. The inn offers free rental of snowshoes and hiking poles for guided walks along the Frozen Biei River Trail.

Join the Snow Lantern Night Walk, where handcrafted paper lanterns line forest paths, casting warm glows against the dark sky. You can also book a snow sled ride pulled by local herders, who share stories of Ainu survival techniques in harsh winters. These immersive experiences highlight the beauty and warmth of winter life in Hokkaido, turning cold weather into a cozy, unforgettable adventure.

Biei is a paradise for photographers. Must-visit locations include Aoi-ike Lake, whose deep blue waters mirror the sky and mountains—best photographed at dawn during misty mornings. Four Seasons Color Hill offers dramatic seasonal shifts: tulips in spring, lavender in summer, red maples in autumn, and snow in winter, each creating a living canvas.

The Patchwork Road provides a striking aerial perspective of neatly stitched fields resembling giant fabric. Bring a wide-angle lens and tripod; arrive before sunrise (5:30 AM) for optimal lighting. Some guesthouses offer professional photography guides and drone permits (with prior approval). Always respect private farmland boundaries—no trespassing or stepping on crops—to preserve the integrity of this natural masterpiece.

Savor Biei Potato Stew, a local specialty made with Hokkaido’s rich purple-skinned potatoes and tender beef, slow-cooked to perfection. Try it at Flower Kitchen, a roadside café near Four Seasons Color Hill, which serves seasonal dishes like lavender honey cake and fresh bean salad using farm-grown ingredients.

Don’t miss Biei River Trout & Shellfish Cuisine, prepared with fish caught directly from the icy river and paired with Sapporo rice wine. Many guesthouses offer homestay dining experiences, where hosts prepare multi-course meals while sharing stories behind each dish. Reserve in advance—especially during peak seasons—to fully enjoy the taste of Biei’s pure, simple, and deeply rooted culinary heritage.

Start your day at Aoi-ike Lake by 5:30 AM for the best light and reflections. Then head to Four Seasons Color Hill for morning photos and a brunch at Flower Kitchen. Drive 10 minutes to the Patchwork Road, where you can walk or bike through scenic fields, stopping at Biei no Mori Guesthouse for tea and souvenirs.

Afternoon: Explore the Biei River Frozen Path (winter) or enjoy a family bike tour along the riverbank. Return to town by evening, check into Hoshizora Ryokan, soak in a private onsen bath, and dine on locally sourced wagyu and vegetables. Total travel time is under 4 hours. Rent a car or use the Biei Tour Bus for seamless transitions between sites.

Biei’s distinct seasons greatly influence accommodation decisions. In summer (June–August), expect humidity and rain—opt for elevated guesthouses like Green Valley Cottage with good ventilation and mosquito-proof screens. Autumn (September–October) is ideal: cool, dry, and colorful—book rooms facing the hills to maximize views of fall foliage.

During winter (December–February), temperatures drop below freezing. Choose hotels with underfloor heating, double-glazed windows, and snow-clearance services, such as Hoshizora Ryokan. In spring (April–May), melting snow causes slippery roads—prioritize accommodations with secure parking and automatic snow removal. Select lodging based on season-specific amenities to ensure comfort and safety throughout your stay.

The best way to explore Biei is by rental car, offering flexibility across its vast countryside. Rent from Sapporo Station or Asahikawa Station, choosing a 4WD vehicle for winter conditions. Public transport includes JR Hokkaido Bus from Asahikawa and Sapporo, running every 1.5 hours with a 1.5-hour journey.

The Biei Sightseeing Bus provides loop routes covering Aoi-ike Lake, Four Seasons Color Hill, and Patchwork Road, with unlimited rides via the Biei Pass. Many guesthouses offer free shuttle services—book ahead. For eco-friendly exploration, rent electric bikes along the Biei River Cycle Path, though avoid riding in icy conditions. Smart planning ensures efficient, stress-free sightseeing.