Overview
Biei is famed for its "Hills of Patchwork" — undulating fields of potatoes, beans, and flowers painted in stripes of green, yellow, and purple. The town gained fame through iconic advertising campaigns, including the Mild Seven cigarette and Nissan Skyline commercials filmed on its rolling hills.
Nature
Before you go
Connectivity
Major carriers (NTT Docomo, SoftBank, au) have good coverage. Convenience store WiFi available. Japan uses Type A/B plugs (100V).
Money
Japan uses yen (¥). Cash is preferred in rural Hokkaido; credit cards accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants. Seven-Eleven ATMs near stations accept foreign cards.
Transport
JR Sekihoku Line trains connect Biei to Asahikawa (1 hr) and Furano (30 min). Bicycles rent for ¥1,000/day near the station. The seasonal sightseeing bus costs ¥4,000.
Weather
Summers are mild (15-25°C); winters are cold with heavy snow (-10°C average). Pack layers and rain gear for summer visits.
