Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station - Hokkaido
Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station (道の駅 びえい｢白金ビルケ｣) is one of the roadside stations spread throughout Hokkaido Prefecture. It is located at Shirogane in the town of Biei, Kamikawa District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station |
Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station Details
The Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station, officially registered on April 25, 2018, under Registration No. 122, has become a favorite haven for travelers. Its name, "Birke," translates to "white birch" in German, a nod to the picturesque white birch trees that gracefully surround this tranquil spot.
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| Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station - Biei town, Hokkaido Prefecture |
Conveniently located along Shirakaba-Kaido Street, it serves as a perfect rest stop on the way to the iconic Shirogane Blue Pond. Visitors will find an array of shops and food stalls within the station’s grounds, offering a delightful experience for those passing through.
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| Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station facade |
A Shop Unique to Biei
The Shirokane Birke Shop offers an exclusive selection of Blue Pond-themed goods, available only here. Whether you're a souvenir collector or simply want a unique memento of your trip, this shop is a must-visit.
Inside Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station
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A Revitalized Information Hub
Strategically located at the gateway to Shirogane Onsen and the renowned Blue Pond, the Shirogane Birke Forest Information Center has been reimagined as a vibrant roadside station. Here, visitors can find comprehensive guides to the Shirogane area and all of Biei, ensuring a richer and more informed travel experience.
Facilities and Attractions
• Shower Rooms: Ideal for freshening up after exploring the outdoors.
• Outdoor Brand Sales: Featuring premium gear for adventurers.
• Local Flavors at “BETWEEN THE BREAD”: This nature-inspired hamburger shop crafts delicious, freshly made burgers using local ingredients sourced from the pristine lands of Biei. Surrounded by the majestic Daisetsuzan Mountain Range, this takeout spot is perfect for enjoying the flavors of Hokkaido amidst breathtaking scenery.
Facilities and stores outside Biei Shirogane Roadside Station
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| The North Face and Between the Bread buildings |
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| Karamatsu and the toilet area of Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station |
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| 小麦畑と青い池 |
Explore The North Face Field Shop
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Biei Shirokane Birke THE NORTH FACE Corner, a specialized shop offering high-quality, functional outdoor clothing and gear. From summer hikes to winter treks, this store has everything you need to stay stylish and comfortable while exploring northern Hokkaido’s stunning landscapes.
Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station Stamps
Team Nicerio visits Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station
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On July 23, 2023, during our Siblings Road Trip #2, my daughter, siblings, and I visited Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station for the first time. This memorable stop coincided with my 629th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme.
Including this roadside station in our itinerary was a must—it’s part of our Hokkaido 179 travel goals, exploring all municipalities in the region. My daughter and I also enjoyed collecting roadside station stamps for the Hokkaido Stamp Rally, making this visit even more special!
Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station Fees
It’s FREE to park, enter, and explore Biei Shirogane Roadside Station. You can also use its toilet and WiFi for free. However, I highly recommend that you bring cash just in case you want to buy local products and souvenirs sold here. You can also try the different food from the stalls in the roadside station grounds.
Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station Operating Hours
March-May, September-November: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
June-August: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
December-February: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station is CLOSED during the Year-end and New Year holidays (December 31st to January 2nd). It is open only on the morning of December 30th.
If you collect roadside station stamps, keep in mind that you won’t be able to get the stamp when the roadside station is closed.
Why Visit Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station?
This roadside station isn’t just a pit stop; it’s a destination that combines nature, culture, and convenience. Whether you're heading to the iconic Blue Pond or exploring the Shirogane area, Roadside Station Biei Shirogane Birke promises a memorable and safe rest area experience.
Getting to Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station
The most convenient way to reach Biei Shirogane Birke Roadside Station is by private or rental car, allowing for a hassle-free visit and saving time otherwise spent waiting for buses to and from the station. However, if public transportation is your only option, here’s a guide based on what I know:
From Biei Station, go to the Biei Eki Mae Bus Stop and take Bus #42 – Biei Shirokane Line, operated by the Dohoku Bus Company, heading toward the National Taisetsu Youth Friendship Center.
Get off at the Road Station Birke Bus Stop.
Travel time: 22 minutes
Fare: 660 yen
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