Tree of Ken and Mary - Hokkaido
The Tree of Ken and Mary (ケンとメリーの木) is an iconic tree in the town of Biei famously known because of the 1970 Nissan Skyline commercial. It is located at Ookubo Kyousei in the town of Biei in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Tree of Ken and Mary |
Tree of Ken and Mary details
Winter
The Tree of Ken and Mary stands as a timeless symbol of beauty and nostalgia. This majestic poplar, over 90 years old, gained fame as the star of a Nissan "Skyline" commercial back in 1972, captivating viewers with its picturesque presence alongside the couple it was named after.
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| Tree of Ken and Mary - Biei town, Hokkaido Prefecture |
As you plan your visit, be aware that the Tree of Ken and Mary is surprisingly a very popular destination, particularly in summer. It draws significant crowds throughout the day, particularly during weekends and holidays. The influx of sightseeing buses, rental cars, and eager pedestrians can create a bustling atmosphere, so it's essential to exercise caution while driving. To ensure safety, maintain a safe distance between vehicles and remain vigilant, especially as large agricultural vehicles frequently traverse the area during the busy farming season. Additionally, the single parking area can fill up quickly, and there are no other parking options nearby, so it’s best to arrive early since parking operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tree of Ken and Mary in Winter
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The stunning landscape of rolling wheat fields surrounding the tree evokes the essence of summer, but visitors are reminded to respect the local farming practices by avoiding entry into the fields. This consideration helps keep the roads clear for agricultural traffic and maintains the area's charm. Facilities around the Tree of Ken and Mary are limited, with few toilets or parking options available. To enhance your experience, make sure to use restrooms before setting off on your adventure.
The solitary elegance of the Tree of Ken and Mary continues to enchant visitors, making it a must-see diving destination in the town of Biei. Whether you're seeking a nostalgic connection to the past or simply wish to bask in the beauty of this iconic landmark, a visit promises to be a memorable experience.
Team Nicerio visits the Tree of Ken and Mary
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My family and I visited the Tree of Ken and Mary last March 21, 2023, during our Vernal Equinox Holiday Road Trip. It was my 505th day here in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. The Tree of Ken and Mary was the third iconic tree of Biei that we visited during the said trip. Since we visited in late winter and the snow hadn’t fully melted yet, the tree didn’t have its beautiful green foliage. Regardless, it was still beautiful thanks to the beautiful, unobstructed backdrop of white fields and picturesque mountains. Hopefully, we get to revisit all the trees that we visited during this trip in summer to see what they look like with all their beautiful leaves.
Tree of Ken and Mary Admission Fee
Entry to the Tree of Ken and Mary area is completely FREE, and there’s also a free parking area nearby. Just a heads up: flying drones in this region is not allowed unless you have obtained permission and prior approval for unmanned aerial vehicle operation from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism, as well as consent from the local landowner.
Tree of Ken and Mary Operating Hours
The Tree of Ken and Mary area is accessible 24/7. However, please be aware that it can be quite dark at night and wild animals may be present.
Why visit the Tree of Ken and Mary?
The Tree of Ken and Mary in Biei, Hokkaido, is a must-visit for its iconic beauty and cultural significance. This majestic poplar, featured in a 1972 Nissan "Skyline" commercial, stands as a symbol of nostalgia and is surrounded by breathtaking scenery of rolling hills and vibrant wheat fields. It's a popular stop for road trips, offering a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation and photography. Visitors can also appreciate the local agricultural life and engage with the community, deepening their connection to the region. Overall, the Tree of Ken and Mary promises a memorable experience that captures the essence of Hokkaido's charm.
Getting to the Tree of Ken and Mary
From Sapporo City
To reach the Tree of Ken and Mary from Sapporo Station, follow these steps:
Take a JR Train to Asahikawa Station
- From Sapporo Station, board a JR limited express train to Asahikawa Station. The journey takes about 1.5 hours.
Transfer to the JR Furano Line at Asahikawa Station
- At Asahikawa Station, transfer to a local JR Furano Line train heading to Biei Station. This part of the trip takes around 30 minutes.
Arrive at Biei Station and Travel to the Tree of Ken and Mary
- From Biei Station, you can reach the Tree of Ken and Mary by taking a taxi (about a 10-minute ride) or renting a bicycle for a scenic ride in warmer months.
- Some sightseeing buses also operate seasonally in Biei, covering popular spots, including the Tree of Ken and Mary.
With these simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy the iconic landscape made famous by the Nissan Skyline commercial!
From Asahikawa City
To get to the Tree of Ken and Mary from Asahikawa Station, follow these steps:
Take the JR Furano Line to Biei Station
- From Asahikawa Station, board a local train on the JR Furano Line heading to Biei Station. This journey takes about 30 minutes.
Arrive at Biei Station and Travel to the Tree of Ken and Mary
- Once you reach Biei Station, you can take a taxi to the Tree of Ken and Mary, which is about a 10-minute ride from the station.
- Alternatively, during warmer months, you can rent a bicycle near the station and enjoy a scenic ride to the tree.
- Sightseeing buses may also be available seasonally and often stop at popular spots like the Tree of Ken and Mary.
This route offers a convenient way to visit one of Biei’s most iconic landmarks.
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