Hokkaido | Christmas Tree & Takushinkan & Shirahige Waterfall & Ningle Terrace Day Tour | Chinese-speaking Guide (Departing from Sapporo)
- 【Hokkaido Biei Winter Day Tour】Visit the solitary Christmas Tree and snowy hills to experience the romantic and tranquil atmosphere unique to Hokkaido
- A romantic day tour of Biei's attractions. Step into Takushinkan and quietly feel the natural emotions captured by a master photographer
- Visit Shirahige Waterfall and Ningle Terrace to experience the multifaceted charm of Biei from day to night
- Book your Hokkaido Biei winter day tour through KKday for a smooth, worry-free itinerary and easily capture your life's best photos
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Departure Time | Early Departure (Before 8 am) |
| Minimum participant requirement | 8 travelers |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
Product Info
【Christmas Tree】
This is a spruce tree approximately 8 meters tall. It stands alone on a snow-covered hill and is also known as the 'Lonely Tree.' The tree originally had no name, but because its quiet, standing posture evokes the romance and warmth of a Christmas tree, people affectionately began calling it the 'Christmas Tree' over time. When you visit, be sure to soak in the peaceful and solitary beauty, and capture your own 'life's best photo'!
⚠ The area ahead is farmland and private property; please do not enter without permission!
【Takushinkan】
This is a personal photography museum created by landscape photographer Shinzo Maeda using the site of the former Chiyoda Elementary School. Mr. Maeda focused on photographing the natural landscapes of Biei for many years, and his works have not only become popular nationwide through postcards and photo books but have also been widely used in various advertisements and television commercials. The museum displays a large number of precious photographs that you can enjoy at your leisure, allowing you to feel the magnificence and softness of Biei's changing seasons. Outside the museum, there is a walking path surrounded by a birch forest; strolling through it makes you feel like the protagonist of a landscape captured by Shinzo Maeda.
⚠ Shoes must be removed upon entry. Photography is prohibited inside the museum; please use your eyes and heart to experience the photographic charm of Master Maeda.
【Shirahige Waterfall】
This is one of Biei's most iconic natural landscapes. The waterfall resembles a white beard, and the pool below glows with a dreamy blue color. Because the water flow looks like a white beard, it is named 'Shirahige (White Beard) Waterfall.' In winter, the contrast between the flowing waterfall and the pure white snow creates a magnificent, painting-like scene.
⚠ Please watch your step and be mindful of falling snow while visiting, and enjoy the winter scenery to the fullest!
【Biei Station】— 1 hour 30 minutes for lunch on your own
This is a small, beautiful rural station built with red bricks. Its simple and warm appearance complements the natural landscape of Biei, making you feel as if you are in a Japanese drama, experiencing the simple and rich winter atmosphere of the Japanese countryside.
⚠ When it comes to lunch in Biei, you cannot miss the Michelin-recommended 'Youshokuya Junpei.' Their famous shrimp tempura rice bowl is the signature dish here!
【Ningle Terrace】
This is a forest market consisting of 15 wooden cabins. The Japanese word 'Ningle' comes from the language of the Ainu people, the indigenous people of Hokkaido, meaning 'little people who live in the forest.' Therefore, the entire market feels like a fairy village, becoming even more dreamy and charming when lit up at night. The 15 small wooden cabins house various specialty craft shops, and different activities like pressed flower workshops are held depending on the season, making it a perfect place to stroll, explore, and pick up souvenirs to take home.
*Due to snow season entry controls starting in January, if 'Ningle Terrace' is inaccessible on the day, we will visit 'Shikisai-no-oka' instead. The specific arrangements are subject to the latest information received by the guide on the day.
Visit the "Instagrammable Christmas tree" in person, feel its tranquil and solitary beauty, and leave behind your own "life-changing photo"!
"Takushinkan" is a personal photography museum created by landscape photographer Shinzo Maeda on the site of the former Chiyoda Elementary School. Mr. Maeda has long been dedicated to photographing the scenery of Biei in all four seasons, and his works are popular throughout the country, widely used in postcards, photography books, and various advertisements. The museum displays many precious images, allowing visitors to quietly appreciate the magnificence and gentleness of Biei. Outside the museum, there is a walking path surrounded by birch forests, where strolling feels like stepping into the landscapes captured by Shinzo Maeda's lens.
"Shirobe Falls" is a very representative natural landscape in Biei. The waterfall is shaped like a white beard, and the pool water is blue. In winter, the waterfall's flow contrasts sharply with the white snow, presenting a magnificent scene like a painting.
Biei Station is a small, beautiful rural station built of red bricks. Its simple and charming exterior complements the natural scenery of Biei, making visitors feel as if they've stepped into a Japanese drama, experiencing the pure and rich winter atmosphere of a Japanese countryside. Lunch is available for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
"Forest Elf Terrace" comprises 15 wooden cabins and is a forest market designed based on the Ainu word "NINGURU" (forest elf). The illuminated nighttime scene is like something out of a fairytale. The market houses numerous handicraft shops and regularly hosts seasonal activities such as pressed flower making. Ample time is allocated for visitors to leisurely explore and purchase unique souvenirs.
Purchase Notice
[Tourism Conditions]
Travel departure point and destination: Hokkaido (Sapporo)
Trip duration: Day trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus company name: HEARTS Co., Ltd., etc.
Meals included: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 0 times, Dinner 0 times
Accommodation facilities: None
Minimum group size: 8 people
Tour guide: 1 person
Operating Company Name: YOUTOUR Co., Ltd.
Address: No. 8-20, Hakata Station 3-chome, Hakata Station, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture
License Number: Japan Tourism Agency Registered Travel Agency No. 2099
Travel agency association name: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA) - Full member
Reminders
A minimum of 8 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 17:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: Pregnant women
Please arrive at the designated location 20 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Once your itinerary is confirmed, the system will send your tour voucher via email. Please check your inbox. If you do not receive it, please check your spam/junk mail folder first. If you still cannot find it, please contact customer service as soon as possible to avoid affecting your trip. We will be happy to assist you.
If you are late for departure, we will not contact you again as other passengers are waiting, and the bus will depart on time. No refunds or changes will be made for late arrivals or absences.
This tour offers unreserved seating; seats are not assigned. To avoid disputes during the journey, please ensure you retain your assigned seat from departure until the end of the tour. Passengers wishing to select a front-row seat should board the bus early to make their selection. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
According to Japanese law, vehicle use is limited to 10 hours. The tour guide will adjust the sightseeing time for each attraction based on the actual conditions of the day. The itinerary may also be adjusted due to traffic and weather conditions; your understanding is appreciated.
Depending on the number of reservations made that day, different sizes and types of buses may be arranged.
We apologize that guests arriving or departing on the same day cannot join this tour.
Due to the long distance traveled on this tour, and for safety reasons, children under 3 years old are not recommended to participate. Please also note that child seats are not provided on this tour.
Each passenger may bring a maximum of one piece of luggage free of charge, and please be sure to note this when placing your order. If you bring extra luggage at the last minute, due to limited space in the vehicle, it may not be possible to arrange for its placement, which may affect driving safety and the rights of other passengers. We cannot guarantee that we can assist in handling such cases.
To ensure your safety during your trip, please purchase overseas travel insurance yourself.
Smoking is prohibited throughout the bus journey. Please clean up all your trash after the trip. Please also keep your valuables safe and double-check that you have left nothing behind at the end of the trip.
This is a group tour; early departure or leaving the group midway is not permitted. If a traveler chooses to leave the group midway, it will be considered a voluntary abandonment of the unfinished itinerary, and no refund will be given. Furthermore, any accidents or losses incurred after a traveler leaves the group will be the sole responsibility of the traveler. Your understanding and cooperation are appreciated.
Flower season tours are highly dependent on weather conditions, and the flowers may not be in good condition. We cannot guarantee the best viewing period. We will not be held responsible for any issues arising from unsatisfactory flower conditions. Please be aware of this.
Due to snow season entry restrictions starting in January, if it is impossible to visit "Forest Elf Terrace" on the day of your visit, you will be redirected to "Shikisai-no-Oka". The specific arrangements will be subject to the latest information received by your tour guide on the day of your visit.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 2 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–1 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once your refund request is confirmed, KKday will initiate the refund to your original payment method within 15 days. The actual refund timing depends on your card-issuing bank’s policy.
FAQ
1. How do group tours get around to attractions like Christmas Tree, Sanpo Farm Tomita, and Blue Pond in Biei?
When you join this group tour, you don't need to worry about transportation. The tour includes comfortable bus transfers from Sapporo, taking you sequentially to Christmas Tree, Sanpo Farm Tomita, Blue Pond, and Shirogane Birukei. Professional drivers will handle all travel between attractions, saving you the hassle of driving in winter and allowing you to relax and enjoy Hokkaido's beautiful scenery.
2. How long is the stop at each attraction like Christmas Tree, Sanpo Farm Tomita, and Blue Pond on this tour?
This tour is designed with ample time for you to fully experience the unique charm of Christmas Tree, Sanpo Farm Tomita, Blue Pond, and Shirogane Birukei. Each location will have appropriate stopover durations, ensuring you have enough time to take photos, stroll, and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty of Hokkaido in winter, without feeling rushed.
3. Where is the meeting point for the Biei day trip from Sapporo, and is there a Chinese-speaking guide service?
The meeting point for this Hokkaido Biei day trip is conveniently located in Sapporo city for easy participation. The tour specially includes a professional Chinese-speaking guide who will provide detailed explanations and guided tours of the attractions. This allows you to gain a deeper understanding of Biei's local culture and unique features, ensuring a travel experience free from language barriers.
4. What makes Christmas Tree and Sanpo Farm Tomita in Biei unique and worth photographing?
Christmas Tree in Biei is famous for its solitary growth in the snow, making it a representative winter photography landmark in Hokkaido. Its pure and serene atmosphere is perfect for capturing romantic snow scenes. Sanpo Farm Tomita, on the other hand, showcases the photographic works of the late photographer Maeda Shinzo, allowing you to admire the natural beauty of Biei throughout its seasons and appreciate its unique photographic art. It's a must-visit spot for photography enthusiasts.
5. Are there any special walking routes or physical requirements for visiting Shirogane Birukei and Blue Pond?
Shirogane Birukei is a magical space composed of wooden cabins and paths with gentle inclines, suitable for visitors of all ages to stroll through. The viewing area for Blue Pond has an observation deck, and the path leading to the waterfall is also relatively flat. Overall, visiting these attractions does not require significant physical exertion. However, the ground may be slippery in winter, so it's recommended to wear slip-resistant, warm footwear and watch your step for safety.
6. What are some recommended seasonal experiences for visiting Blue Pond and Shirogane Birukei in Biei during winter?
Visiting Blue Pond in winter allows you to witness the blue waterfall covered in ice and snow, appearing like a blue fairyland. Shirogane Birukei becomes even more enchanting with the winter snow. At night, when the lights are on, the warm yellow glow intermingles with the snowscape, creating a fairy-tale romantic atmosphere. The scenery during both day and night has its own charm and is worth savoring and photographing.
7. What clothing is recommended for visiting Christmas Tree and Blue Pond in Biei, Hokkaido during winter?
The temperature in Biei, Hokkaido, is cold during winter. Layering is recommended, with warmth as the priority. Essential clothing includes a thick thermal jacket (down jacket or windproof jacket), thermal innerwear, and a sweater. Don't forget to wear gloves, a beanie, and a scarf. It's also important to wear slip-resistant, waterproof snow boots to cope with snow accumulation and icy surfaces, ensuring warmth and safety.
8. How does the atmosphere at Shirogane Birukei differ between day and night, and what are the best times to visit?
During the day, Shirogane Birukei presents a serene, snow-white fairy-tale village landscape, with wooden cabins and snow under the sunlight exuding pure beauty. After dark, the lights flicker on, creating a warm, dreamy, and romantic atmosphere that complements the snowscape. It is recommended to visit in the late afternoon to experience both the daytime and nighttime charms and capture the beautiful moments of changing light and shadow.
