Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Known as the "Center of Hokkaido," this airport is your entry point to the stunning natural beauty of the northern region. Take the Lavender Express bus for about 20 minutes to JR Biei Station. The scenic ride offers your first taste of the beauty to come.

This charming stone-built, Western-style station perfectly suits the “Town of Hills.” From December, the station front is illuminated, creating a romantic winter scene where snow and light blend beautifully. The moment you arrive, you can feel the unique winter atmosphere of Biei.

Departing in the evening, this bus takes you to major attractions where illuminated landscapes reveal a different, more enchanting side of Biei’s natural beauty. The departure and arrival point is Biei Tourist Information Center, conveniently located near JR Biei Station, so you can join with ease even after dark.

There is also a wide selection of vacation rentals, from hotels, inns, and pensions, to the rental of entire guesthouses.

In summer, Biei’s rolling hills are filled with vibrant colors, but in winter they transform into a sparkling white world. This guided plan lets you explore the vast snowfields on snowshoes, where the clear blue sky and pure white landscape create breathtaking scenery. You may even encounter rare winter wonders such as frost-covered trees or diamond dust glistening in the air. Surrounded by silence, leave your footprints on untouched snow and enjoy the beauty of a world just for you. Snowshoes are easy to wear, making this activity safe even for children.

*Local transportation is by car. If you do not have a driver’s license or find travel difficult, please mention this in the “Requests” section when booking.

*If you are not used to winter roads, please drive with extra caution.

Sanroku-gai, the largest entertainment district in Northern Hokkaido, still retains the nostalgic atmosphere of the Showa era. Asahikawa, a key hub for Hokkaido’s food distribution, gathers an abundance of fresh seafood and seasonal local produce, making it a true treasure trove for food lovers. Here, you can savor local specialties such as Shio Horumon (salt-grilled offal), said to have originated in Asahikawa, and Shinko-yaki, a hearty grilled young chicken dish. The district’s name comes from its location, centered around 3-jo Street, 6-chome in Asahikawa.

Nothing says winter in Asahikawa quite like the famous Penguin Walk. Designed to help penguins stay active during the colder months, this popular event lets you observe their natural habits up close. Visitors from around the world gather to watch these adorable penguins waddle right past them.

Another highlight is the polar bears, which become especially energetic in the cold season. Their powerful presence—running across the snow or diving into icy water—always draws cheers from the crowd.