[Biei/Furano] One-day sightseeing by private car!

Experience the Beauty of Hokkaido with a Private Day Trip to Biei and Furano
If you’re visiting Sapporo and craving a taste of Hokkaido’s iconic natural beauty, this private 10-hour tour offers a carefully curated glimpse into some of the island’s most photogenic spots. For around $647.56 per group (up to 8 people), you’ll spend the day exploring vivid flower fields, tranquil blue ponds, and scenic waterfalls, all with the comfort of your own vehicle and a knowledgeable driver-guide. Expect to visit Farm Tomita, Shikisai no Oka, Blue Pond, and Shirahige Waterfall, with flexible stops and a relaxed pace.

What we love most about this experience is the personalized service and comfort—your own private vehicle means you can customize the stops or linger longer at places you love. Plus, the guides are praised for being friendly, accommodating, and well-informed, often suggesting extra spots or adjusting plans based on weather or your interests.

One consideration is that the flower blooms depend on the season, with peak visuals typically in July and August. If you’re planning in early spring or late autumn, your experience might differ, especially regarding flowers. Still, the tour’s flexibility and scenic highlights make it well-suited for all seasons, from the snow-covered winter landscapes to summer’s vibrant blooms.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed yet comprehensive introduction to Hokkaido’s countryside without the stress of driving. It’s perfect for those interested in nature, photography, and local culture, and who appreciate the added comfort of private transportation. Reviewers repeatedly mention how the guides make the day special, turning a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

Key Points

• Flexible and personalized itinerary with a private vehicle ensures comfort and customization.
• Expert guides with excellent English skills and local knowledge enhance the experience.
• Beautiful scenery including flower fields, blue ponds, and waterfalls appeals to nature lovers and photographers alike.
• Comfortable transportation in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle makes long hours enjoyable.
• Seasonal variations mean blooming flowers are best in summer, but winter offers snow-covered scenery and waterfalls.
• Good value for a full-day private tour, especially considering the personalized service and scenic highlights.

An In-Depth Look at the Biei and Furano Private Tour

Picking Up in Sapporo and Setting the Tone for the Day

Many travelers praise the timely pickup—starting sharply at 8:00 am—signaling a well-organized day. Your driver, often fluent in English, not only navigates the roads but also acts as a personable guide, offering insights into the regions you visit. This personal touch means you can ask questions, request additional stops, or get tips on local eateries or photo spots.

Farm Tomita: A Lavender Wonderland and More

Your first stop, Farm Tomita, is renowned for its expansive lavender fields and seasonal flowers. As one of the most photographed spots in Furano, it’s a highlight for many visitors. Expect about 45 minutes here to wander among the colorful blooms, take countless photos, and soak in the fragrant air.

According to reviews, the flower displays are stunning in mid-May to August, though flowers may not be fully in bloom if you visit earlier or later. As one reviewer mentioned, “Flowers in Hokkaido start blooming in early May,” so timing is key for the best photographs. If you’re visiting outside peak bloom, the scenery may be less vibrant, but the area still offers charming farm views and local shops.

Shikisai no Oka: A Symphony of Colors

Next, you’ll visit Shikisai no Oka, a sprawling hillside flower garden. Here, you can expect another 45-minute stop to enjoy vivid fields of tulips, poppies, and other seasonal blooms. The gardens are designed for relaxed strolling and photography, with sweeping views over the surrounding landscape.

Many visitors appreciate this stop for its diversity of flowers and vivid colors. One reviewer said, “The natural beauty of the flower fields was breathtaking,” highlighting how these settings are perfect for capturing memorable shots or simply appreciating nature’s artistry.

Blue Pond: A Surreal Photo Spot

The Shirogane Blue Pond is a must-see for many travelers, famous for its mesmerizing, milky blue waters and reflective surface. The 25-minute visit allows you to snap photos of this surreal landscape, which is especially striking against the backdrop of surrounding trees and mountains.

Most reviews note that the Blue Pond’s spectacular color varies with weather and time of day, but it’s generally a favorite for its otherworldly beauty. Visitors often mention it as a “breathtaking” spot that’s worth the short visit.

Shirahige Waterfall: A Refreshing Break

Following the Blue Pond, the Shirahige Waterfalls offer a quick 15-minute stop to enjoy the cascading waters and tranquil setting. Many reviewers appreciate the chance to stretch their legs here, remarking on the peaceful environment and beautiful whitebeard-like cascade.

Additional Stops: Seasonal Treasures and Flexibility

Depending on the season, your guide may suggest extra spots. For winter tours, highlights include Patchwork Road and its iconic trees like the Seven Star Tree, Family Tree, and Ken & Mary Tree, along with the Mild Seven Hill. These spots are especially popular in winter when snow blankets the scenery, creating a fairy-tale landscape.

Many reviews commend guides like Keny or Kate for their flexibility and personalized suggestions, which turn a standard itinerary into a tailored experience. For example, one traveler appreciated how the guide recommended an additional stop when the scheduled spots seemed less appealing that day.

Lunch and Local Flavors

The tour typically includes a lunch at Furano Marche or a similar spot, giving you a taste of local cuisine or simple refreshments. While the cost of meals isn’t included, many reviewers mention how the lunch opportunities are well-chosen, adding to the overall value of the day.

End of the Tour and Optional Extras

As the day winds down, your driver will return you to Sapporo. Some reviews mention how the vehicle’s comfort and friendly driver made the long drive enjoyable. Others note that the vehicle is air-conditioned and spotless, important for those traveling in warmer months.

What Do Travelers Say?

The overwhelmingly positive reviews paint a picture of a well-run, flexible, and scenic tour. Many mention superb guides who are attentive, knowledgeable, and eager to suggest additional spots or help with photos. For example, “Katy (Kate) worked hard to make sure my mom and I had a positive experience,” highlights the personal touch.

People also love the scenery, describing it as “stunning,” “breathtaking,” and often remarking on how the colors and landscapes change with the seasons. One review captures the sentiment: “The contrast of the mountains with the agricultural valley was stunning, and we even got to see a little snow.”

Some travelers highlight the value for money—paying for private comfort and tailored experiences rather than joining larger bus groups. The vehicle’s air conditioning and generous space receive frequent praise.

Considerations: Timing Is Everything

A key point raised across reviews is the importance of seasonality. Flower lovers should plan visits in mid-May to August for the full-blown blooms, while winter travelers will enjoy snow-covered landscapes, waterfalls, and the famous Patchwork Road. If flowers aren’t in full bloom, the scenery still impresses but may lack the vibrant colors some visitors hope for.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private tour best suits travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and personalized service. If you’re eager to see iconic scenery like Blue Pond and flower fields without the hassle of self-driving, this is a fantastic option. It’s especially suitable for small groups or families who want to enjoy a tailored experience, possibly with children—since the vehicle is equipped with child seats upon request.

Nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those wanting a relaxed, scenic day will find plenty to love. It’s also ideal if you prefer a more intimate experience compared to larger bus tours, with the freedom to modify stops or spend extra time at favorite spots.

The Sum Up

This private day trip to Biei and Furano offers a comfortable, flexible, and scenic way to experience some of Hokkaido’s most iconic landscapes. The combination of expert guides, personalized itineraries, and stunning scenery makes it a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see the best of the region without the stress of navigation or group tours.

The tour’s emphasis on seasonal beauty ensures that whether you visit in spring, summer, or winter, you’ll encounter breathtaking views that capture Hokkaido’s unique charm. While timing is key—especially for flowers—many reviewers agree that the quality of the experience outweighs the cost, especially given the private vehicle and attentive guiding.

If you’re after a more relaxed, personalized, and immersive way to explore Hokkaido’s countryside, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories among nature’s most beautiful displays.

FAQ

How early do I need to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 53 days in advance, so planning ahead ensures availability, especially during peak seasons.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, a vehicle with air conditioning, and pickup service. Meals, parking, and facility entrance fees are not included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private, and guides are flexible to suggest additional spots or adjust stops based on weather or your interests.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to Sapporo in the late afternoon.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, child seats are available upon request, making it family-friendly.

Are there any seasonal limitations?
Flowers bloom from mid-May, and winter tours feature snow-covered scenery and patches of ice. Seasonal variations may affect what you see.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How comfortable is the vehicle?
The vehicle is described as clean, air-conditioned, and comfortable, making long drives pleasant.

Are guides English-speaking?
Yes, most reviews mention guides speaking fluent English and being attentive to guests’ needs.

What if I want to spend more time at a certain spot?
While the itinerary is scheduled, guides are often flexible and happy to suggest extra time if possible—just communicate your wishes early.

To sum it up, this private Biei and Furano tour offers a wonderful balance of scenic beauty, personalized service, and comfort. Perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet comprehensive peek into Hokkaido’s charming countryside, it’s undeniably a memorable way to see the island’s most photogenic spots.