Back in October 2020, I embarked on an unforgettable journey to Shikisai Hills (四季彩の丘, Shikisai no Oka) in Hokkaido, Japan. It was one of those rare moments where the crisp autumn air and breathtaking landscapes perfectly aligned to create an experience I’ll always cherish. Let me take you through my adventure! 🍂✨
The Journey to Shikisai Hills
I started my day by taking the train to Bibaushi Station, a quaint little stop on the JR Furano Line. The train ride itself was an absolute delight, offering views of rolling hills and scattered farmlands painted in golden autumn hues. If you’re planning a similar trip, make sure to grab a window seat—you won’t regret it! The ride was about 30 minutes from Furano Station, costing approximately ¥400 (around USD $3.50).
From Bibaushi Station, I began the 25-minute walk to Shikisai Hill. The route was serene, with narrow country roads framed by towering trees and the distant silhouette of the Tokachidake Mountain Range. There were moments where I just had to stop and take in the fresh, chilly air—a luxury city life rarely offers.🏔️
Shikisai Hill: A Canvas of Colours
When I finally arrived, Shikisai Hill greeted me with its sprawling, multi-coloured flower fields. Even in October, when many flowers had reached the end of their bloom, the hill was alive with vibrant patches of cosmos, salvia, and marigolds. The neat rows of flowers stretched as far as the eye could see, creating a dreamy mosaic against the backdrop of the mountains.
I was amazed at how meticulously the fields were maintained. Each colour seemed to have its own designated space, yet they all blended harmoniously. There were even tractor rides available for those who wanted to explore the fields without too much walking. For about ¥400 (USD $3.50), you could hop on and enjoy a scenic ride through the fields. Though tempting, I decided to stick to exploring on foot to fully soak in the atmosphere.✨
The Panorama Deck
One of my favourite spots was the Panorama Deck, a viewing platform that offered a sweeping view of the entire hill. Standing there, I could see not only the flower fields but also the nearby farmlands and the majestic Tokachidake Mountains. The view was nothing short of magical—the kind that stays with you long after the trip is over. I spent a good 20 minutes just standing there, letting the beauty of nature sink in. 😍
Local Treats and Souvenirs
After wandering through the fields, I made my way to the small café and souvenir shop near the entrance. I tried their soft-serve ice cream made from fresh Hokkaido milk—hands down, one of the creamiest and richest ice creams I’ve ever had! It cost around ¥300 (USD $2.50), and it was worth every yen. 🍨
The souvenir shop was filled with locally crafted items, including flower seeds, hand-painted postcards, and other charming keepsakes. I picked up a small bag of lavender-scented sachets as a reminder of my trip.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Timing: October is a great time to visit for the autumn colours, but if you want to see the flowers in their full glory, July and August are the best months.
- Transportation: The walk from Bibaushi Station is manageable, but I’d recommend comfortable shoes. Alternatively, you can rent a bicycle near the station for a quicker and equally scenic ride.
- Weather: Hokkaido’s autumns can be chilly, so layer up! I wore a light jacket and scarf, which kept me perfectly comfortable.
- Entry Fee: Shikisai Hill has a small admission fee of ¥300 (USD $2.50), which helps maintain the fields.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Shikisai Hills was like stepping into a painting—a perfect blend of nature’s beauty and human creativity. The tranquillity, the colours, and the overall experience left me feeling refreshed and inspired. If you’re in Hokkaido, I can’t recommend this place enough. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just someone looking for a peaceful escape, Shikisai Hill has something special for you. 🌿✨
If you’ve visited or are planning to visit Shikisai Hill, I’d love to hear about your experience. Drop a comment below and let’s share stories! 😊
