Best Cycling Routes in Hokkaido: Stunning Scenic Bike Trails for Adventure Lovers
Discover the enchanting beauty of Hokkaido beyond winter—this cycling paradise offers breathtaking landscapes perfect for exploration on two wheels! Let me take you through one of my favorite scenic routes from last July ⬇️
🌱 Biei Patchwork Road 🌿
Imagine pedaling through a living painting! This picturesque route meanders through undulating hills, where golden wheat fields, vibrant buckwheat blooms, and lush potato plantations create a mesmerizing patchwork quilt straight from a Studio Ghibli masterpiece.
✨ Must-Visit Highlights Along the Way ⬇️
– Northwest Hill Observation Park (panoramic valley views)
– The iconic Ken & Mary Tree (famous from car commercials)
– Seven Stars Tree (a lone beauty in the fields)
– Heartwarming Parent and Child Tree duo
🚄 Your Journey Starts Here ⬇️
Hop on the JR train to charming Biei Station, where adventure begins! Multiple bike rental shops await right outside—we recommend UNO Uno Store (directly opposite the station) for their flexible 18:00 return policy. Pro tip: Opt for an e-bike to glide effortlessly through the landscape!
💰 Rental Rates:
2 hours – ¥1,200 | 3 hours – ¥1,800
4 hours – ¥2,400 | 5+ hours – ¥3,000
(FREE child seats for little ones under 6)
🚴 The Route Magic:
From the station, cruise north on Route 237 until you spot the fork leading to Patchwork Road. This 17km loop is beginner-friendly with gentle slopes—speed through in 2-3 hours or savor it all day with photo stops at every turn!
🍽️ Refueling Stops ⬇️
While the map shows several options, we discovered the charming French bistro “Bi ble”—perfect for grabbing artisanal bread (their crusty baguettes are worth the detour!). Note: Full meals require reservations, so plan ahead or pack snacks.
🌞 Ideal Cycling Seasons ⬇️
Spring through autumn offers spectacular views, with summer showcasing the most vibrant colors. Our late July ride brought 30°C midday heat—essential tips:
– Avoid cycling 11AM-2PM during peak heat
– Load up on sunscreen and hydration (no shops en route!)
– Early mornings and late afternoons offer cooler, golden-hour magic
⚠️ Safety First:
Remember to ride on the left side (Japanese traffic rules apply) and moderate speed on descents—those thrilling downhills can get surprisingly fast!
Bonus: The route transforms throughout the seasons—spring brings cherry blossoms, autumn fiery foliage, and summer endless fields of flowers. Each visit offers a completely new experience!
Ready to pedal through Hokkaido’s living postcard? This unforgettable cycling adventure awaits! 🚴♀️💨
