Just a 15-minute drive from Asahikawa Airport! Enjoy the seasonal flavors of Biei at "Hayatsuma Shokai"

: Furano, Biei, Tomamu

: Last updated: September 6, 2026

Northwest Hill Observation Park is a classic tourist spot in Biei. Right in front of it is "Hayatsuma Shokai," a popular shop selling gourmet food made with vegetables and fruits from Biei. Take a break while gazing at the Biei hills with seasonal melons, corn, croquettes, and more in hand. If you stop by during a drive, you can enjoy the scenery and flavors that are characteristic of Biei.

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Approximately 10 minutes from Asahikawa Airport, the gateway to Biei tourism.

It would be a shame to only use it as an observation deck.

Enjoy the seasonal delights of Biei in a casual setting.

Must-visit gourmet spots on a tour of Biei's hills

Approximately 10 minutes from Asahikawa Airport, the gateway to Biei tourism.

Asahikawa Airport, which has flights from Tokyo and seasonal flights from Nagoya (Chubu Centrair International Airport) and Osaka (Itami Airport) during the summer, is actually located in Higashikagura Town, Kamikawa District, and is very close to Biei Town. A 10-minute drive from the airport will take you to the rolling hills and scenery that are characteristic of Biei.
Hayatsuma Trading Company The first place you should visit is the "Patchwork Road" area, which is home to many of Biei's most iconic scenic spots. Famous landmarks such as the Ken and Mary Tree and the Seven Stars Tree, known from commercials and posters, are scattered throughout the area, and you can enjoy a scenic drive while admiring the rolling hills that change their appearance with each season.

It would be a shame to only use it as an observation deck.

Hayatsuma Trading Company
If you're exploring the Patchwork Road, you absolutely must visit the Northwest Hill Observation Park. From the pyramid-shaped observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the gently rolling hills and the Tokachi Mountain Range, unfolding a magnificent landscape that is characteristic of Biei.

After enjoying the observation deck, you'll want to stop by "Hayatsuma Shokai," located in front of the parking lot. It's a popular shop frequented by locals as well as many tour buses.

Hayatsuma Trading Company
The shop sells light meals typical of Hokkaido and seasonal delicacies. You can eat inside the shop or take it to go and enjoy it while gazing at the hills. It's a Biei-style stop where you can enjoy both the scenery and gourmet food.

Enjoy the seasonal delights of Biei in a casual setting.

Hayatsuma Trading Company
The most popular item in summer is, of course, the cut melon. They serve it when it's perfectly ripe, so the flesh is soft, and with one bite, the juicy fruit and rich sweetness fill your mouth. A well-chilled melon is perfect for a summer drive.

Another specialty is the croquettes made with "Kita Akari" potatoes from Biei. The crispy, satisfying coating encases a generous amount of fluffy potato filling. The perfect amount of salt enhances the sweetness, making it so delicious that you'll find yourself reaching for another one before you know it.
Hayatsuma Trading Company
In the summer, boiled corn made with fresh produce from Biei also appears in stores. The kernels are plump and large, and with each bite, sweet juice bursts forth. The gentle sweetness inherent in the corn stands out, making it so delicious that you can easily finish an entire ear in no time.
Hayatsuma Trading Company
Besides admiring the beautiful scenery, savoring the seasonal flavors grown in the region is also a great part of traveling. When you visit Biei, be sure to enjoy the delicious local cuisine along with the rolling hills.

Must-visit gourmet spots on a tour of Biei's hills

Hayatsuma Trading Company
When you visit Biei, you'll want to enjoy not only the scenery but also the delicious food. When you stop by the Northwest Hill Observation Park, be sure to try the melon, croquettes, and corn at "Hayatsuma Shokai." They're all easy to enjoy, making them perfect for a break during your drive.

Hayatsuma Trading Company

Address: Omura Okubo Kyosei, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido

TEL: 0166-92-2292

HP: https://www.biei-hokkaido.jp/ja/facility/hayatsuma-commercial-firm-2

Business hours: 8:00-17:00

Yuhei Tonosho, a cyclist and photographer who delves deep into Japan

Born in 1993 in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture. Graduated from Doshisha University, Faculty of Letters, Department of Cultural History and Department of English Literature. While working as a salaryman, he is a travel writer who travels all over Japan by bicycle and mountain climbing. He captures and shares the changing seasons of Japan with all his senses.

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