Furano and Biei lie in the centre of Hokkaido, a few hours from Sapporo, and are among the most photographed landscapes in Japan. In summer the hills are striped with lavender, poppies, salvia and other flowers in long bands of colour, and in winter the same slopes turn into a clean, white landscape under big skies. This guided day tour from Sapporo takes in the best-known stops in a single long day without the need to drive, rent a car or work out the regional train and bus connections. Farm Tomita, famous for its lavender and its flower beds, and Shikisai-no-Oka hill, with its ribbons of coloured flowers, are the headline stops in the warm months, while the Blue Pond, a small pond dyed a milky blue by minerals and fringed with bare white birch trunks, draws visitors in every season. Depending on the departure and the season, the route also takes in waterfalls and viewpoints on the way. The tour suits couples, families and photographers who want to see the Hokkaido countryside, and travellers on a short stay who would otherwise struggle to reach these places. Because the countryside is the point, seasonal timing matters, and it is worth choosing your dates with the flowers or the snow in mind.
Why do this tour
The Furano and Biei area is spread out, with sights separated by country roads, and public transport is limited. A guided coach tour solves the logistics: you leave Sapporo in the morning, travel in comfort to the hills, make several planned stops with time to wander and photograph, and return in the evening.
You also gain from your guide's knowledge of where to stand for the best views, what is in bloom and how to avoid the crowds at the busiest viewpoints. For visitors who do not drive, it is by far the easiest way to see central Hokkaido in a day.
When to go
The character of the day changes sharply with the season. Lavender usually peaks in July, with other flowers following across summer and into early autumn, so late June to early September is the classic window. Autumn brings golden foliage, and winter turns the area into a quiet snowfield, when the Blue Pond is often lit up after dark and the trees are frosted.
Spring is subtler, with fresh green and the first flowers. Because the flowers and the snow depend on weather, check what is in bloom for your dates, and keep some flexibility if your itinerary allows it.
What to expect and plan for
This is a long day, usually about ten to twelve hours door to door, and most of it is spent travelling, so bring snacks, water and something to do on the bus. Stops are timed, so be back at the coach on time. Wear comfortable walking shoes, since fields and paths can be uneven or muddy, and in winter bring warm layers, gloves and sturdy boots. Lunch is often independent, with local cafes and farm shops offering melon, dairy ice cream and fresh produce, which are worth trying.
Because it is a lot of driving in one day, many visitors pair it with a quiet evening back in Sapporo rather than a late night out. If you would rather see animals than flowers, the Asahiyama Zoo tour covers a similar region, and the two share the Blue Pond. Book ahead for July and August weekends, when this is one of the most popular day trips from the city.
What to expect
The experience
A guided coach day trip from Sapporo to Farm Tomita, Shikisai Hill, the Blue Pond and the surrounding countryside, with timed stops for walking and photos.
Best time
Lavender and flowers from late June to early September, autumn colour in October, and snowy landscapes in winter.
How long
A long day of around ten to twelve hours including the drive.
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes, bring snacks and water, be back at the coach on time, and check what is in bloom for your dates.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want Hokkaido scenery without driving.
- Families
- Easy for children who can handle a long day, with space to run around at the farm.
- Couples
- Wide views, flower fields and a relaxed day together.
- Pair with
- A quiet evening and a hot-spring soak or ramen dinner back in Sapporo.
- Time needed
- Plan for the whole day, around ten to twelve hours.
Good questions
When are the flowers at their best?+
Lavender usually peaks in July, with other flowers across summer and into early autumn. Late June to early September is the classic window.
Is the tour worthwhile in winter?+
Yes, as the area becomes a quiet snowfield and the Blue Pond is a highlight in every season, but there are no summer flower fields to see.
How long is the day?+
Around ten to twelve hours from Sapporo and back, with most of the time spent travelling between stops.
Do I need a car?+
No. The coach tour handles all transport from Sapporo, which is the main advantage over doing it independently.
Is lunch included?+
This varies, and lunch is often independent, with cafes and farm shops offering local melon and dairy at the stops.
