Where Nature Meets Adventure in the Heart of Biei
Biei Shirogane Birke is a premier roadside station nestled along the scenic route to the famed Blue Pond, nestled in the pristine forests of Biei Town, Hokkaido. Once the White Birch Forest Information Center, it has been reimagined as a vibrant hub for travelers seeking authentic experiences in one of Japan’s most picturesque landscapes. Surrounded by towering white birch trees and framed by the majestic peaks of the Daisetsuzan Range, the station serves as both a gateway to outdoor adventure and a celebration of local culture.
Visitors will find a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, including a popular burger shop that uses locally sourced ingredients, a curated outdoor gear corner featuring high-performance apparel, and a shop packed with exclusive Blue Pond merchandise. With seasonal events like snow activities and harvest festivals, Biei Shirogane Birke offers something for every traveler, whether you’re hiking, camping, or simply soaking in the serene alpine atmosphere.
Why Visit
Visit Biei Shirogane Birke to experience the only roadside station in the region offering authentic, on-site crafted burgers made with fresh ingredients from the pristine fields of Biei, including locally raised beef and dairy. The station is uniquely home to the only dedicated North Face outdoor gear corner in Hokkaido’s Dōhoku area, providing access to high-performance gear tailored for the region’s rugged terrain. Additionally, it’s the sole location to find exclusive Blue Pond merchandise, including limited-edition apparel and souvenirs inspired by the iconic natural landmark just minutes away.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh, locally sourced ingredients at Biei Shirogane Birke’s casual eatery, where handmade burgers and seasonal treats bring the beauty of Hokkaido’s landscape to your plate.
BETWEEN THE BREAD
BETWEEN THE BREAD
Specialty
Freshly made burgers using locally sourced ingredients from Biei
A burger shop located in the natural surroundings of the Daisetsuzan mountain range, offering freshly prepared burgers with ingredients sourced from the pristine environment of Biei. The shop operates on a takeout basis, emphasizing freshness and quality.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique souvenirs and nature-inspired goods at Biei Shirogane Birke, where local craftsmanship meets the serene charm of the Blue Pond area.
Biei Shirogane Birke THE NORTH FACE Corner
美瑛 白金ビルケ THE NORTH FACEコーナー
A field shop offering high-quality, high-performance outdoor apparel and gear, promoting seasonal outdoor lifestyles and sports in the Dohoku region centered around Biei.
Products
Must-Try Item
Outdoor clothing and gear
Biei Shirogane Birke Shop
ビルケ
A shop located in the birch forest of Shirogane Birke, offering exclusive Blue Pond merchandise not available elsewhere.
Products
Must-Try Item
Blue Pond merchandise
Featured Products
Explore signature specialties like Blue Pond-themed items and regional delicacies crafted with pride from the heart of Biei’s pristine countryside.
Blue Pond Merchandise
青い池グッズ
Exclusive souvenirs and merchandise inspired by the famous Blue Pond in Biei, available only at this roadside station.
Biei Local Honey
美瑛産はちみつ
Pure honey produced in the Biei region, known for its natural flavor and high quality.
Biei Fresh Milk
美瑛産牛乳
Fresh milk sourced from local dairy farms in Biei, known for its rich taste and purity.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including restrooms, free Wi-Fi, accessible facilities, and outdoor spaces designed for comfort and ease.
Parking Lot
The roadside station has a parking lot with 5 large vehicle spots and 229 regular vehicle spots, including 4 accessible spots for people with disabilities.
Near the main entrance
Restroom
Toilets are available, including a wheelchair-accessible toilet and a changing table for infants. The toilets are equipped with warm water flushing and bidet functions.
Inside the main building
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
The roadside station features an information center that provides local tourism information, including details about Biei's attractions such as the Blue Pond and Shirogane Biruke Forest. It also offers guidance on outdoor activities and seasonal events.
Main building
Play Area
A play area is available for children, located near the outdoor spaces of the roadside station.
Near the outdoor plaza
Shower Room
Shower facilities are available for visitors. Usage is subject to a fee.
Inside the main building
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging stations are available at the roadside station. Usage is subject to a fee.
Near the parking area
ATM
An ATM is available for visitors to use. It is located near the entrance of the facility.
Near the main entrance
Dog Park
A dog park (dog run) is available seasonally from spring to autumn. It provides a safe space for pets to play.
Outdoor area near the parking lot
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in seasonal adventures and hands-on workshops, from snow activities to harvest festivals, all set within scenic natural surroundings.
Bubble Ball
バブルボール
Participants can enjoy bouncing and playing inside large inflatable bubble balls, providing a fun and active outdoor experience.
Duration
60 min
Snow Activities
スノーアクティビティ
Participants can enjoy winter outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, snow play, or other snow-based fun in the snowy landscape.
Duration
120 min
Activities may be affected by heavy snowfall or extreme cold; check for updates before participation.
Birke Harvest Festival
ビルケ収穫祭
A seasonal celebration highlighting local harvests and agricultural products from the White Birch (Birke) area, featuring fresh produce, food stalls, and cultural events.
Duration
180 min
Event may be postponed or canceled due to rain or poor weather conditions.
Between the Bread Burger Workshop
BETWEEN THE BREAD
Participants can learn how to prepare fresh, locally sourced burgers using ingredients from the region, with hands-on guidance from staff.
Duration
90 min
North Face Outdoor Gear Experience
美瑛 白金ビルケ THE NORTH FACE コーナー
Participants can explore and test high-performance outdoor gear and clothing from The North Face, with expert guidance on proper use and selection for different seasons and terrains.
Duration
60 min
Insider Tips
Plan your visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience, and don’t miss the seasonal events that highlight Biei’s unique cultural rhythm.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure the freshest batch of milk bread from BETWEEN THE BREAD, which is baked daily and often sells out by 11:00 AM.
- Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the limited-edition "Blue Pond" themed merchandise, including mugs and tote bags, only available at Biei Shirogane Birke and not sold elsewhere in the region.
- Weekend Special: On Wednesdays and Thursdays between November and April, visit the THE NORTH FACE corner specifically to view and purchase seasonal outdoor gear, including winter jackets and hiking boots, which are rotated monthly and not available year-round.
- Shower Access Tip: If you're planning to use the shower room, arrive before 11:00 AM on weekdays to avoid peak usage, as the facility is most crowded between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM during summer months.
- Parking Strategy: Reserve a space in the ordinary vehicle parking zone (not the large vehicle zone) to access the main entrance and shops more directly—large vehicle spots are farther from the shop and restroom areas.
- Stamp Collection Timing: To collect the official stamp, arrive between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays when the staff is most active and stamping is consistently available, as it may be skipped during quieter hours.
- Seasonal Activity Alert: During winter months (December–February), check the bulletin board near the entrance for daily updates on snow activities such as snowshoeing and snowball games, which are hosted on-site every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Visit during the canola bloom season (late March–April) and enjoy fresh bamboo shoots at the market.
Summer (June-August): Ideal for outdoor activities with extended hours and the popular BIEI ASPARA FES event.
Autumn (September-November): Experience the annual Bilke Harvest Festival and scenic fall foliage near the blue pond.
Winter (December-February): Enjoy snow activities and the unique "Bubble Ball" attraction.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers stroller-friendly paths, family restrooms, and an infant changing station. Features a children's play area with bubble balls and interactive outdoor activities. Kid-friendly food options include a dedicated burger shop and local snacks.
Food Lover Review
Features a high-quality burger shop using local ingredients and a dedicated outdoor brand store with premium food items. Offers unique regional products like blue pond-themed merchandise and seasonal local produce.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms, showers, and vending machines. Has ample parking with designated spaces, though no official overnight camping policy is stated. Quiet surroundings during off-peak hours support comfortable stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
Surrounded by natural forests and mountain views with scenic access to the famous Blue Pond. Offers excellent photo opportunities, seasonal landscapes, and a peaceful, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere.