1. What types of products can be found at Shikisai-no-Oka market?
The Shikisai-no-Oka market offers a variety of local products including flowers, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, jams and condiments, souvenirs, Hokkaido wine and sake, snacks and sweets. There are also crafts made by local artisans such as wooden toys and pottery. Additionally, there are farm-fresh produce stands offering seasonal goods such as melons and pumpkins.
2. How popular is Shikisai-no-Oka among tourists?
Based on online reviews and ratings, Shikisai-no-Oka is a very popular tourist destination. It has a high rating on travel websites such as TripAdvisor and has been visited by thousands of tourists each year. Additionally, it is often featured in guidebooks and recommended by local tourism organizations, further indicating its popularity among tourists.
3. Are the prices at Shikisai-no-Oka market reasonable?
The prices at Shikisai-no-Oka market tend to be slightly higher than average, as it is a popular tourist spot. However, the quality and freshness of the produce make it worth the price for many visitors. Some items may be cheaper than others, depending on availability and seasonality. Overall, the prices are considered reasonable for the market’s offerings.
4. Can you haggle for prices at the market?
Yes, haggling for prices is a common practice at markets. However, it is important to do so respectfully and within reason. The key is to start with a lower price than the one offered and negotiate from there until a fair price is reached between the buyer and the seller.
5. Are there any locally made or artisanal products sold at Shikisai-no-Oka?
Yes, there are several locally made and artisanal products sold at Shikisai-no-Oka. Some examples include handmade pottery, wooden crafts, local dairy products such as cheese and milk, and various souvenirs made from flowers grown on the farm.
6. Is there a food section at the market where you can try local dishes?
It depends on the specific market. Some markets may have a dedicated food section where you can try local dishes, while others may not. It is best to check with the market organizers or do some research beforehand to see if the market offers this option.
7. Do they accept credit cards or only cash payments?
It depends on the business. Some businesses may only accept cash, while others may accept credit cards, debit cards, and cash. It is best to check with the specific business before making a purchase to confirm their accepted forms of payment.
8. Where is the nearest ATM to withdraw cash for shopping at Shikisai-no-Oka?
The nearest ATM to Shikisai-no-Oka is located at the Furano Mitsui Outlet Mall, which is about a 10-minute drive away.
9. Are there any souvenir shops near the market for purchasing gifts and mementos?
Yes, there are several souvenir shops near the market that offer a variety of gifts and mementos such as keychains, magnets, traditional handicrafts, clothes, and local snacks. Some popular options include Tan Tan Souvenir Shop, Futian Lihe Souvenir Shop, and Xixiuchai Culture Market.
10. Is it necessary to bring Japanese yen or can other currencies be used for shopping?
It is recommended to bring Japanese yen for shopping in Japan. While some tourist destinations and larger stores may accept major currencies like US dollars or euros, smaller shops and local restaurants may only accept yen. Having the local currency on hand will also ensure that you are getting the best exchange rate and avoid potential fees associated with currency conversion. It is possible to exchange other currencies for yen at banks, post offices, and some hotels in Japan.
11. Can you easily find English-speaking staff at the market who can assist with purchases and inquiries?
This depends on the specific market and location. In larger cities or tourist areas, it is more likely that you will be able to find English-speaking staff. However, in smaller or more local markets, English-speaking staff may be less common. It is always a good idea to learn some basic phrases in the local language to help with communication.
12. Are there any events or special promotions held at Shikisai-no-Oka market throughout the year?
Yes, there are several events and promotions held at Shikisai-no-Oka market throughout the year. Some of the popular events include:
1. Spring Tulip Festival: Held in May, this festival showcases over 8 million tulips in bloom, along with food stalls and live performances.
2. Summer Lavender Festival: Running from July to August, this festival celebrates the blooming of lavender fields with various exhibitions, workshops, and musical performances.
3. Autumn Cosmos Festival: Taking place in September and October, this festival features millions of cosmos flowers in full bloom, along with delicious food stands and traditional cultural activities.
4. Winter Illumination: From December to February, the market is transformed into a winter wonderland with colorful light displays and decorations.
5. Special Collaborations: The market also holds occasional collaborations with other famous brands or characters, such as Sanrio (Hello Kitty) or Disney, during special periods throughout the year.
In addition to these events, there are often special promotions and discounts offered at various shops and restaurants within Shikisai-no-Oka market during holidays and peak seasons.
13. Is it recommended to visit the market on a specific day of the week for better deals or selection of products?
It depends on the specific market you are visiting. Some markets may have weekly deals or specials on certain days of the week, while others may be more crowded or have a wider selection on weekends. It is best to research the market beforehand or ask locals for their recommendations.
14. How accessible is Shikisai-no-Oka from Biei town center?
Shikisai-no-Oka is quite accessible from Biei town center. It is approximately a 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk from the center of town. There may also be local buses or taxis available to take you there.
15.Is there a parking area available for those visiting the market by car?
It is dependent on the specific market. Some markets may have designated parking areas for visitors, while others may not have any available parking options nearby. It is recommended to check with the market organizers or look for parking information online before arriving by car.
16.Are there any cultural workshops or experiences offered at the market?
It depends on the specific market you are visiting. Some markets may offer cultural workshops or experiences such as cooking classes, traditional dancing demonstrations, or artisan demonstrations. It’s best to check with the market organizers or vendors to see if any cultural activities are available.
17.What are some popular souvenirs that visitors tend to purchase from Shikisai-no-Oka?
1. Local produce such as fresh vegetables and fruits
2. Flower seeds, bulbs, and potted plants
3. Regional snacks and sweets
4. Handmade crafts and woven goods
5. Traditional Japanese souvenirs like ceramics and lacquerware
6. Hokkaido souvenirs like dairy products and seafood products
7. Shikisai-no-Oka original merchandise
8. Lavender products such as essential oils, sachets, and candles
9. Local beers and wines
10. Strawberries and strawberry-related items
11. Hand-pressed flower art pieces
12. Wooden toys and accessories made from locally sourced wood
13. Sake brewed in nearby towns or villages
14. Handcrafted leather goods like wallets and purses
15.Bear-themed souvenirs, as the area is known for its wild brown bear population
16.Pottery items featuring unique designs inspired by the surrounding nature
17.Local honey and other bee products
18.Can you sample any food items before buying them?
It depends on the store and your location. Many grocery stores will offer free samples of food items, either as part of a promotional event or from a designated sampling area. However, not all stores have this option and it may not be allowed in certain areas due to health and safety regulations. It’s best to check with the store beforehand if you are unsure.
19.Are pets allowed at Shikisai-no-Oka market?
Pets are generally not allowed at Shikisai-no-Oka market as it is a working farm and there may be safety concerns for both the pets and other visitors. However, some exceptions may be made for service animals.
20.How many stalls/shops are typically present at the market, and how long does it take to fully explore it?
The number of stalls or shops at a market can vary greatly, depending on the size and location of the market. Some markets may have only a handful of stalls, while others may have hundreds. It also depends on the type of market – for example, a farmers’ market may have fewer stalls than a clothing or souvenir market.
As for how long it takes to fully explore a market, that can also vary greatly. It depends on your pace and whether you stop at every stall or just browse quickly. Some people may be able to explore a small market in 30 minutes, while others may spend hours exploring larger markets with more diverse offerings.