The Idyllic Hills of Biei: Exploring A Hidden Gem by Bike, Day 2

Good morning, Biei!

At the end of our Day 1 article, we suggested a stay at a pension in Biei’s hills. If you are up to it, wake up just before sunrise and go for a little walk.

If the conditions are right, you can enjoy some astounding misty scenery and a spectacular sunrise—the perfect start to day 2 of your Biei itinerary.

Today, you’ll head beyond the hills to the wild Shirogane area and the Blue Pond, Biei’s most famous attraction. However, the 40km round trip to Shirogane from Biei is quite a challenge, even by electric bike. Fortunately, you can take a bus to a rentacycle shop much closer to Shirogane, sparing your legs!

9:26AMBus from Biei Station -> Roadside Station Shirogane Biruke

After breakfast, head to Biei Station. As was the case yesterday, there will be very few toilets or vending machines where you’re going. It is advised to use the facilities and stock up on provisions for the day before you depart. The buses in Biei are also quite infrequent, so do check timetables in advance.

From Biei Station, head to the bus stop bound for Shirogane Onsen. You’re heading to Roadside Station Shirogane Biruke (bus stop name “Shirogane Biruke”) and the fare is 550yen each way. The bus only accepts exact change, so be sure you have the exact fare needed before you board.

The journey to Roadside Station Shirogane Biruke takes 20 minutes, depending on traffic. When you arrive, disembark and make a note of the return bus timetable on the other side of the road. Today’s suggested itinerary is modelled around returning on the 1:11PM bus to Biei. Do note also that in rural areas like this, the buses do sometimes run late. Delays of over ten minutes are not unusual.

(You can read the rest of the article at this link. This article was first published by Team JJ on November 11, 2021. Check here for deeper and unique insights into visiting Japan, including wellness, travel, cuisine and more. Find us on Instagram and on Facebook.)