Despite the beautiful scenery, winter conditions in Biei are very harsh.
If you’re visiting Biei in winter, some preparation is essential.
This article summarizes clothing, gear, and travel precautions to enjoy winter in Biei comfortably. Keep the three rules in mind: stay dry, block the wind, and don’t slip—and enjoy your trip.
First, a bit of background. Because Biei has an inland climate with strong radiative cooling, mornings and evenings get extremely cold.
In the past, Biei recorded a minimum temperature of −33.2 ℃ (Jan 24, 1985). Even with recent warming trends, it’s still common for mid-winter days to drop below −10 ℃. If the previous night is clear with little wind, just after sunrise often becomes the coldest time of the day—plan accordingly.
Monthly reference (1991–2020 normals)
Daily High (℃)
Daily Low (℃)
Sunshine (hours)
Max Snow Depth (cm)
Nov
5.6
-2.9
60.1
23
Dec
-1.6
-10.8
47.9
48
Jan
-3.9
-14.8
67.5
65
Feb
-2.6
-14.7
83.2
78
Mar
2
-9.1
122.1
7
Source: Japan Meteorological Agency
Best clothing
Your outfit depends on how you travel. Use layering that’s easy to put on/take off, and adjust for wind-chill.
* Sneakers are not recommended in Biei: the risk of slips and water ingress is high. Wear waterproof winter shoes—at minimum, waterproof footwear with grippy soles.
Short outdoor exposure (mainly driving between spots)
Key points
Even if time outdoors is brief, you still need warmth. Indoors can be hot with heating, so rely on layers for easy temperature control. Bring lip balm and hand cream for dryness.
• Tires: winter tires (studless) are mandatory—confirm when booking.
• Driving: avoid abrupt steering, acceleration, and braking. Bridges and passes freeze easily; keep speeds down.
• Weather: visibility drops after fresh snowfall. Watch for whiteouts in late afternoon. If you lose visibility, stop in a safe location with hazard lights rather than pushing on.
Bus + walking
Body temperature can drop while waiting. Find wind-sheltered spots and move periodically.
Be careful underfoot between bus stops and the Blue Pond walkway. Even locals rarely walk in winter; you may encounter unpacked snow and icy patches.
How to walk
• Fresh snow: you’ll sink; low-cut shoes get wet and cold quickly.
• Packed snow: better grip—choose packed routes when possible.
• Ice (black ice): highest caution. Take short steps, place your whole sole down, and avoid sudden turns.
• Parking lots: refrozen melt creates black ice—be extra careful.
Safety & etiquette
• No entry into restricted areas or farmland
Unauthorized entry into fields or approaching the Blue Pond water has been an issue. In winter, boundaries are hidden by snow and accidental trespass happens easily. To protect the landscape, avoid stepping out onto open snowfields.
• Pack out your trash (wind carries light items)
Popular spots like the Blue Pond often suffer from litter. In snow season it’s hidden, but it resurfaces at the thaw. Please take everything back with you.
• Drone rules & flight manners
In Biei, drone (unmanned aircraft) flights and aerial photography are generally restricted. Use may require permits/approvals from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) / the competent Regional Civil Aviation Bureau, and consent from landowners.
Self-audio guide “BIEI STORY GUIDE”
Why did the “Blue Pond” come into being? Why is Biei called the “Town of Hills”? Want to learn the stories behind the landscape?
With BIEI STORY GUIDE, you can explore Biei at your own pace using your smartphone—an audio self-guide that deepens your understanding as you go.
Recommended for: ・Travelers who want the story behind the scenery ・Those who want to understand how the land was formed, not just take photos ・Pre-trip learners who want a deeper visit ・People who prefer flexible, self-paced travel over group tours ・Anyone who wants to learn about Biei even if they can’t visit
