Biei is one of the most popular touristic areas in Hokkaido. There are some splendid scenic spots like the famous “Seven Stars Tree” or the “Mild Seven Hill” (featured in popular TV commercials). People come to enjoy the beauty of Biei throughout all seasons on cars or bicycles. There are many boardinghouses called “pensions” in Biei where you can relax with the gorgeous countryside view and eat local farm products. This type of experience is slightly different to staying in a hotel and has its own charm. Now I will introduce one such place called “Pension Jacatra”.
You can rent a cottage and even bring your pet
“Pension Jacatra” is located south of the “Patchwork Hill”, one of Biei’s most famous sightseeing spots. Going there with a car you will pass along the famous Biei trees featured in popular TV commercials – “Ken and Mary Tree” and “Seven Star Tree”. Here you can enjoy many different scenic views, like the setting sun or the early morning sunrise.
The building in the center of the photo is the main house. The first floor is the dining room, while the second floor has guest rooms. Around the main house are the cottages. They can accommodate several people and can be rented privately by families or friends. You can even bring your pet here! There is a dog run kennel behind the main house, so it’s safe to take the pet.
Enjoy a leisurely walk
The best feature of this boardinghouse is that it’s located on the top of a hill. In front of you is the vast countryside of Biei, while behind you are Mt Tokachidake and the mountainous range Daisetsuzan. A few trees behind the main house contribute to the picture-perfect beauty of this place. In fact the views from the different sides of the main house are also different and you can enjoy them one after another. There are few roads around, so this place is quiet. During the night all you can hear is the insects singing together. It’s really a lodge in the wild nature.
There is a charming swing too! Be sure to try it. The view from this swing is absolutely amazing! Alternatively, you can take a little walk along the road. Just know that the fields around are private property, so don’t enter.
A really pretty cottage with an open-air bath!
Now let me introduce the cottage. What do you imagine when you hear “cottage”? Probably something a bit run-down built out there in the wild. Well, this author used to think the same. However, Pension Jacatra’s cottages are really pretty! Surprisingly pretty and clean! See on the photo – there is a big bed, a TV, toilet and a sink. Everything is comfortable.
Although it’s allowed to come here with your pet, the room doesn’t stink at all. There are deodorant and insecticide sprays in the hallway, so you don’t need to bring any. Of course, don’t be surprised to find lots of insects outside of the cottage. The other cottage-like hut is actually an open-air bath! Note: All cottages have air-conditioning during the summer (but in mid-August it’s pleasant and you don’t need it). Cottages A and C have also a bath tub.
The main house is cosy and relaxing
The first floor of the main house is the dining room. Its interior is made of wood and feels quite warm and cosy. From this dining room you can enjoy the great views of Biei. There are also touristic materials about Biei and Furano, as well as maps of the area. You can also use the computer installed to look for more info about your next day trip. A little further into the kitchen you might be lucky to see the local pet animals – cute dogs and cats.
There is a bath tub also in the main house. It’s not open-air, but a stone bath that can be used freely anytime. The baths can be rented privately, so don’t forget to take the key. A set for playing badminton is prepared for the guests of the boardinghouse. So how about some exercise after lunch?
Eat your breakfast looking at the beautiful landscape outside
Breakfast is included in the accommodation at Pension Jacatra. Different items are offered depending on the day, but there’s always bread made of Hokkaido wheat and one whole baked butter potato. This is the ideal breakfast that goes together with the beautiful views outside. If you stay for several days you will have the chance to try different local products.
For just 1300 JPY you can get the famous local dish “Genghis Khan” for dinner (Japanese mutton and vegetable dish). It’s a bit different than the traditional one and contains mainly lamb and mushrooms, but it’s so delicious! You can add some vegetables that you bought from the local farms or shops. Besides the “Genghis Khan” dish you will get also rice, miso soup and appetizers. Be sure to try it – you can’t come to Hokkaido and not eat “Genghis Khan”.
Enjoy Biei to the fullest!
So how does it sound? Don’t just visit Biei for short during the day. It’s much better to stay there overnights. I visited Biei in the summer, but the winter also offers beautiful views. For sure Pension Jacatra is a great place to accommodate.
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