Blue Hills “Ao-no-Oka”

Behind the Indigo‑Dyeing Studio Yui no Mori, a gentle, walk‑up slope known as the Blue Hill (Ao no Oka) rises above the facility. At the summit sits a bench crafted from indigo‑dyed timber called the “Blue Ring” (Ao no Wa), where you can sit back and take in sweeping views of Biei’s rolling hills. Beyond the foreground fields—whose colors shift with the seasons—lie a series of hills and, farther off, mountain ranges. After an indigo‑dyeing workshop, there’s nothing more pleasant than lingering here in the breeze and soaking up the tranquil panorama.

Paired with a hands‑on dyeing session and a visit to the on‑site gallery, the hill is ideal for a leisurely stroll and photography. Because the landscape changes dramatically with weather and light, we especially recommend visiting in the soft hours of morning or evening.