Discover the Heart of Biei at Hill Storehouse
Nestled just a three-minute walk from JR Biei Station, Biei: Hill Storehouse stands as a living tribute to the region’s rich agricultural heritage and architectural legacy. Housed in a meticulously restored early 20th-century stone granary built with locally quarried Biei soft stone, this roadside station blends historical charm with modern hospitality. With sweeping views of the majestic Daisetsuzan mountain range and the rolling hills of the Biei countryside, it offers a peaceful retreat where nature and tradition converge.
More than a rest stop, Biei: Hill Storehouse is a cultural crossroads. The on-site Koumugi Shokudou serves seasonal specialties like vegetable-centric curry and corn butter ramen, crafted with produce from local farms. Visitors can also explore a curated selection of regional crafts, gourmet treats, and exclusive souvenirs. The second floor hosts rotating art exhibitions, while the adjacent hotel and breakfast café provide a comfortable base for exploring the area. With free Wi-Fi, EV charging, and year-round access, it’s the ideal starting point for an authentic Biei experience.
Why Visit
Biei: Hill Storehouse stands out as the only roadside station in the region built within a preserved Meiji-era stone granary, its original soft stone walls and timber beams still visible. Here, you can savor the exclusive Biei Corn Butter Ramen, featuring a full fresh corn cob from local fields, and taste the only Biei Vegetable-Driven Curry made with seasonal produce from nearby farms—both available only at this location. The station’s unique charm lies in its fusion of history, hyper-local ingredients, and a quiet, scenic setting overlooking the rolling hills of Biei.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor authentic local flavors at Biei: Hill Storehouse, where seasonal ingredients meet rustic charm.
香麦食堂
香麦食堂
Specialty
Original dishes featuring fresh local vegetables and corn
A cozy dining spot offering hearty, locally inspired meals with a focus on seasonal produce from Biei. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal while taking in the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Restaurant Terrace de Saison
レストラン テラス・ド・セゾン
Specialty
Breakfast service with views of Biei's fields and greenery
A bright, sunlit space serving breakfast for hotel guests, offering a peaceful start to the day with a serene atmosphere and scenic views of Biei’s fields and natural landscapes.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique souvenirs and regional crafts at Biei: Hill Storehouse, your gateway to local treasures.
General Store
売店
A retail shop offering exclusive Biei-themed souvenirs, local food products, and original merchandise available only at this roadside station.
Products
Must-Try Item
Biei Soft Cream
Biei Craft Gallery
アトリエ作品販売
A specialty shop showcasing handmade crafts and artworks from local artists and artisans based in Biei.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handcrafted wooden bowls
Featured Products
Explore signature items like farm-fresh produce and handmade goods crafted by Biei’s skilled artisans.
Biei Soft Cream
美瑛ソフトクリーム
A creamy, locally made soft ice cream crafted with fresh dairy and seasonal ingredients from Biei.
Biei Corn Butter Ramen
美瑛コーンバターラーメン
A signature ramen featuring a whole Biei corn and rich butter, offering a sweet and savory taste.
Biei Vegetable-Centric Curry
美瑛の野菜が主役のカレー
A hearty curry made with a variety of fresh, locally grown vegetables from Biei.
Biei Wooden Bowls
美瑛木工ボウル
Handcrafted wooden bowls made by local artisans using sustainable Biei timber.
Biei Ceramic Art
美瑛陶芸品
Handmade ceramic pieces created by local artists in Biei, each unique and reflecting the region's natural beauty.
Biei Local Food Set
美瑛地産食品セット
A curated collection of locally produced food items from Biei, including seasonal vegetables, dairy, and specialty snacks.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including free Wi-Fi, accessible restrooms, and EV charging at Biei: Hill Storehouse.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with 21 regular cars, 2 large vehicles, and 1 accessible parking space. Parking is free of charge.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Restroom
The station features restrooms including a wheelchair-accessible toilet and an ostomy-friendly toilet. These are available 24 hours a day, though the ostomy toilet is not available 24/7.
Inside the roadside station
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The roadside station serves as an information center for visitors, offering details about local attractions, events, and tourism in Biei Town.
Main entrance area
EV Charging Station
An electric vehicle charging station is available on-site for visitors using EVs.
Near the parking lot
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to use, located within the roadside station premises.
Inside the station
Nursing Room
A nursing room is available for mothers with infants, equipped with facilities for feeding and changing.
Inside the station
Play Area
The station includes a play area for children, suitable for families visiting the roadside station.
Near the entrance or outdoor area
Hot Spring
The roadside station is connected to a hot spring facility, offering a relaxing bathing experience.
Adjacent to the station (Hotel Lavniel)
Bike Rental
Bike rental services are available at the roadside station for visitors exploring the surrounding area.
Near the parking lot
Pet Area
A designated pet-friendly area is available for visitors with pets, allowing them to walk and rest with their animals.
Outdoor area near the station
Insider Tips
Visit early to secure limited-edition dishes and plan your trip around seasonal festivals for the best experience.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 11:00 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the香麦食堂 (Kōmugi Shokudō) before the lunch rush, as the "Agricultural Vegetable Curry" and "Corn Butter Ramen" are served only until 2:30 PM and often sell out by 1:30 PM.
- Hidden Gems: Visit the second-floor event space during spring or summer to view rotating exhibitions by local artists and photographers, as the space hosts regular photo and art shows featuring works tied to Biei’s natural and cultural heritage.
- Weekend Special: On weekends, arrive before 10:00 AM to purchase fresh-baked milk bread from the on-site bakery, which is released daily and sells out by 11:00 AM—only available at the roadside station’s shop.
- Best Value Purchase: Buy the "Biei Corn Butter Ramen" at the香麦食堂 (Kōmugi Shokudō) during the seasonal event from April 21 to May 20, as it is featured as a special menu item during the "Biei Spring Bread Festival" and is only available during that window.
- Eco-Friendly Tip: Use the EV charging station located at the roadside station, which is accessible during all open hours and supports sustainable travel—ideal for visitors arriving by electric vehicle.
- Local Experience: Reserve a room at the hotel on the second floor of the roadside station to enjoy a morning view of the Biei barley fields; guests receive complimentary breakfast at the restaurant "Terrace de Saison" from 7:00 to 9:00 AM.
- Stamps and Timing: Collect the roadside station stamp during opening hours—only available between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM in the shoulder seasons (March–May, September–November), and between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM in winter (December–February), as it is not available during the final two hours of the winter schedule.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Visit for the annual BIEI ASPARA FES in May and the spring bread festival in April, featuring seasonal baked goods and fresh local produce.
Summer (June-August): Enjoy the 18:00 closing time and summer menu highlights like corn butter ramen and vegetable curry, available during peak season.
Autumn (September-November): Experience the autumn harvest with seasonal market offerings and extended hours, ideal for sampling local flavors.
Winter (December-February): Enjoy cozy visits during winter months with warm food and seasonal decorations, though the roadside station operates with limited hours.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers stroller-friendly access, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a play area near the entrance. Features kid-friendly food options and educational exhibits on local history and agriculture.
Food Lover Review
Features a variety of high-quality local dishes, including unique regional specialties like corn butter ramen and vegetable-centric curry, with fresh produce and artisanal products available.
Car Camping Review
Provides basic facilities like restrooms, vending machines, and EV charging, though parking is limited and no explicit overnight policy is stated. Quiet during off-hours.
Scenic Beauty Review
Overlooks the majestic Daisetsuzan mountain range and rolling hills, offering breathtaking views. Features excellent photo spots and seasonal beauty throughout the year.