Ribbons of color greet visitors at Shikisai-no-oka, Japan’s gigantic flower garden. Flowers grown together by common type create swaths of intense colors over 37 acres (15 hectares) of gently rolling hills. Take a deep breath to experience a fragrance like no other. The beauty changes naturally through the year, with the peak season for color from late April to late October. In winter the area becomes a popular spot for snow rafting, tubing and snowmobiling.
Wander among the flowers or ride on a tractor bus through the prettiest areas. The Tokachidake Mountains loom majestically in the background. You can also rent a cart for up to four people or a single-passenger buggy with the ability to go anywhere you want in the gardens.
Flower varieties include tulips, lupines, sunflowers, dahlias, Japanese anemones, salvias, lavender and many more.
Visit the alpaca farm in the park to see these very tame animals, which seem to greatly enjoy being petted by visiting children.
In 1970 a photographer captured the natural beauty in and around the town of Biei. People wanted to experience this wonder and the site rapidly grew in popularity.
Rent a bicycle to tour this and other scenic areas to the northwest and south of the town center.
A souvenir shop and eating facility in the garden offer a menu that features local produce from farm areas known for their high-quality crops.
Reach Shikisai-no-oka, which means Hills of Seasonal Colors, by traveling to Hokkaido and taking the JR Furano Line to Biei or Bibaushi Station, followed by a taxi ride to the gardens. Consider taking a hot-air balloon ride over the flower fields to enjoy the dazzling display from a different perspective and capture outstanding aerial photos of this attraction. In addition to bringing a camera, wear a hat and sunscreen, as shade is sparse.
The gardens are open most days and have free admission, although a contribution is welcome.
