Biei Patchwork Road: Ultimate Guide for Stunning Travel Experience

Discovering Biei Patchwork Road: A Traveler's Paradise

Biei Patchwork Road, nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, Japan, is a breathtakingly beautiful route that offers a serene drive or bike ride through rolling hills dotted with colorful crops, flower fields, and charming farmhouses. This unique area is famous for its quilt-like appearance of fields and farmlands, which change colors with the seasons.

Getting There and Around

To reach Biei Patchwork Road, travelers typically start from Asahikawa, a nearby city. The journey involves taking a train from Asahikawa to Biei, which can be done on either the Norokko train or a local one-man single coach train. While the Norokko train offers a more pleasant experience, the local train is a more authentic way to travel like a local, although it can be crowded.

Once in Biei, the best way to explore the Patchwork Road is by cycling. Several bicycle rental shops near Biei Station offer a variety of bikes, including electric bicycles, which are highly recommended due to the hilly terrain. Electric bikes cost around JPY600 an hour or JPY3000 a day, compared to JPY200 an hour or JPY1000 a day for regular bikes.

The Route and Scenic Views

Biei Patchwork Road spans the area between National Routes 237 and 452, offering a 14-kilometer route that is part of Hokkaido's most stunning landscapes. The road is well-paved and wide, making it ideal for cycling. The scenic views include vibrant hues of green, yellow, and brown in summer, and delicate pink and white cherry blossoms in spring.

The route is a network of roads cutting through local farmers' fields, forming a quilt-like landscape. The fields are mostly green and brown, occasionally sprinkled with flowers, creating a picturesque scene. Summer is the best season to visit, with the farmland reaching its green peak.

Must-See Attractions and Activities

Famous Trees and Landmarks

Biei Patchwork Road is home to several famous trees that have been featured in TV commercials, attracting many visitors. These trees are scattered along the route, and their proximity can be guessed by the large parking lots in the middle of nowhere. Taking selfies with these iconic trees is a popular activity among tourists.

Blue Pond (Aoike)

After exploring the Patchwork Road, a visit to the Blue Pond (Aoike) is highly recommended. The pond is known for its cobalt-blue water, which changes color depending on the weather and angle of sight. The reflections of green trees on the opposite shore create a stunning turquoise surface, contrasting with the black and white trunks of dead trees standing in the pond.

Local Cuisine and Amenities

Biei offers a range of local cuisine, including hearty specialties like curry tonkatsu. For those looking to sample more of Hokkaido's culinary delights, Asahikawa Ramen is a must-try, known for its healthier option with plenty of greens and a light soy sauce broth.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Weather and Timing: Summer is the best time to visit, but be prepared for occasional rain. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.
• Cycling: Electric bicycles are highly recommended due to the hilly terrain. They come with front baskets, which can store bulky items like tote bags and camera bags.
• Respect Local Farmers: The artistic crop fields are not intended for tourism, but the farmers and the town allow visitors to travel along the roads as long as they respect the farmers and their vegetables.
• Interactive Maps: Use interactive maps downloaded from the Biei Tourism Website to navigate the route more effectively.

Additional Attractions and Activities

Panorama Road

For those with more time, the Panorama Road, an 18-kilometer route, offers additional scenic views and is another top cycling route in Hokkaido. This route is also known for its picturesque countryside views and famous trees.

Biei Shirogane Hot Springs

After a day of cycling, a visit to the Biei Shirogane Hot Springs is a great way to refresh and rejuvenate. The hot springs offer a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

By following these tips and exploring the attractions along Biei Patchwork Road, travelers can ensure a stunning and memorable travel experience in one of Hokkaido's most beautiful landscapes.