Bibaushi Elementary School

Overview

Bibaushi Elementary School was established in 1910 as a special instruction branch of Biei Elementary School on a part of the Iwamoto farm. Its name changed over the years – Bibaushi Education Center, Bibaushi Ordinary Elementary School, Bibaushi National Elementary School – before becoming Biei-cho Bibaushi Elementary School in 1947. The triangular steeple roof of the school building was a product of ideas from children and local residents during its 1984 reconstruction. The church-like steeple blends beautifully with the surrounding European-style hill scenery, making it a favorite subject for landscape photographers. It gained national fame, particularly through the landscape photographer Shinzo Maeda's photo collection, "Tower on the Hill." As Bibaushi Elementary School conducts classes and daily school life, entry onto the school grounds is prohibited. If you wish to take photos, please be mindful and avoid disturbing students or staff. Also, please refrain from visiting during after-school hours as the grounds are used for children's activities. Near Bibaushi Elementary School is "Shikisai-no-oka" (Four Seasons Hill), a renowned scenic flower garden representing the Biei hills. Shikisai-no-oka boasts an area of 7 hectares (roughly three times the size of Tokyo Dome) and features around 30 types of flowers throughout the year, depending on the season, including lavender, lupines, cosmos, and sunflowers. The collaboration between the elementary school's triangular steeple and the flower fields of Shikisai-no-oka presents a truly breathtaking view. Bibaushi Elementary School is a spot where you can experience the beautiful natural landscapes and history of Hokkaido. We highly recommend a visit.