Sapporo to Blue Pond & Shirahige Falls Furano Private Tour

Sapporo to Blue Pond & Shirahige Falls Furano Private Tour: A Deep Dive into Japan’s Natural Beauty

When visiting Sapporo, many travelers seek out the beautiful landscapes of Hokkaido, and this private tour offers a flexible way to do just that. For around $624 for up to five people, you get a day of exploring scenic spots like the Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls, and charming artisan villages such as Ningle Terrace. The tour lasts roughly 6 to 10 hours, with the flexibility to customize the itinerary to suit your pace. A private vehicle driven by a knowledgeable Japanese driver makes this experience both comfortable and intimate, allowing for spontaneous photo stops and personalized attention.

Two things stand out about this tour: First, the scenic drive along Biei’s Patchwork Road promises stunning views of rolling farmland and picturesque hills—perfect for photography enthusiasts. Second, the visit to Ningle Terrace, a cozy forest village filled with crafts and cafes, offers a peaceful, authentic Japanese countryside vibe away from big crowds. That said, a potential downside is the non-refundable policy—if the weather turns bad, you’ll need to reschedule or accept a full refund, which highlights the importance of good weather planning.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy natural scenery, quaint artisan villages, and a flexible schedule. It suits those looking for a private, more personalized experience rather than a crowded group tour. If you’re keen on capturing memorable photos and savoring Japan’s rural charm, this trip could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary: Customize stops within the available time to suit your interests.
• Private transportation: Comfortable, eco-friendly green plate vehicles with experienced drivers.
• Scenic drives: Biei’s Patchwork Road offers stunning farmland landscapes perfect for photography.
• Unique spots: Blue Pond’s turquoise waters and Shirahige Falls’ cascading water make for perfect photo opportunities.
• Authentic experience: Ningle Terrace provides a peaceful, artisan-focused village environment.
• Cost and duration: At about $124 per person for a group of five, the tour balances cost with a personalized, scenic adventure lasting around 9 hours.

Why Choose This Tour? An In-Depth Look

This private day trip from Sapporo offers a tasteful blend of natural beauty, local craftsmanship, and scenic drives. The advantage of going private is the ability to move at your own pace, take extra photo stops, and avoid the often rushed schedules of larger tours.

The Scenic Drive Along Biei’s Patchwork Road

We loved the way this drive showcases Hokkaido’s lush, rolling hills and patchwork farmland. The scenery is so quintessentially Japanese countryside that it’s easy to forget you’re just a short drive from the city. The driver, equipped with translation devices, ensures smooth communication and can share interesting tidbits about the landscape, making the journey as engaging as the stops.

The Blue Pond & Shirahige Falls

The highlight for many is the Blue Pond, famous for its surreal, vibrant turquoise waters. We found that the pond looks particularly stunning in good weather, but be aware that in winter, snow may obscure its usual brilliance. Shirahige Falls adds a peaceful waterfall scene that complements the pond, with many visitors appreciating the variety of photo opportunities. The quick 45-minute visit allows enough time for photos and sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Ningle Terrace: A Charming Forest Village

After the scenic spots, you’ll visit Ningle Terrace, a hand-crafted village full of small artisan shops and cozy cafés. We loved the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to browse locally-made souvenirs. The scheduled maintenance in November might interfere with this part of the trip, so it’s worth checking ahead if this is a key part of your experience.

Comfort and Convenience

Transportation is a crucial aspect here. The legally operated green plate vehicle is both eco-friendly and comfortable, ensuring a smooth ride through Hokkaido’s countryside. The driver’s bilingual skills and translation devices add value by making navigation and communication effortless. The pickup service simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying in Sapporo, saving you a lot of hassle.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While the tour offers great flexibility, keep in mind that meals are not included—so packing snacks or planning meal stops around the tour schedule is advisable. Also, the extra hours cost 6,000 JPY per hour, so if you want to extend your sightseeing, factor this into your budget. Since the tour is non-refundable once booked, ensure your weather forecast looks favorable or be prepared with a backup plan.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples, small groups, or families who want a private and flexible way to explore Hokkaido’s scenic spots without the crowds. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate the quiet charm of rural Japan, artisan crafts, and stunning landscapes. It’s also a good fit for travelers who want a personalized, stress-free day, with the benefit of a dedicated driver and customized itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This private tour offers excellent value for those interested in authentic scenery and artisan culture. The balance of scenic drives, iconic sights like Blue Pond, and peaceful villages makes it a comprehensive introduction to Hokkaido’s countryside. For travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate experience with a professional guide at the wheel, it’s hard to beat this option.

However, remember that the experience hinges on good weather, and the flexible schedule means it’s best suited for those who prefer personalized planning over rigid group itineraries. The cost is reasonable considering the private transportation and tailored stops, making it a worthwhile investment for a memorable day out. If you’re looking to see some of Hokkaido’s most photogenic spots with comfort and ease, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 10 hours, depending on your customization and pace.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 5 people can participate in the private group, making it suitable for small families or groups of friends.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a private, eco-friendly green plate vehicle with a Japanese driver and translation devices is included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary can be tailored within the available time, allowing you to prioritize the spots most interesting to you.

What should I bring along?
It’s best to bring snacks or meals since they are not included, plus camera gear for photos and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is this tour suitable in winter?
Yes, but keep in mind that in winter, snow may impact the Blue Pond’s appearance. Check the weather forecast beforehand.

Are there any additional costs?
Extra hours beyond the plan cost 6,000 JPY per hour, and meals are not included in the tour price.

What language does the driver speak?
The driver is Japanese with translation devices, so communication should be smooth.

Is the tour refundable?
No, the experience is non-refundable once booked. Cancellation due to weather is handled by rescheduling or full refund.

Is the tour accessible for infants or small children?
Yes, infant seats are available, making it a family-friendly option.

Whether you’re after iconic natural sights or a peaceful artisan experience, this private tour from Sapporo offers a balanced and enjoyable way to explore Hokkaido’s countryside at your own pace.