Hokkaido Day Tour Farm Tomita, Blue Pond, Blue Pond and Buffet

An Authentic Taste of Hokkaido’s Nature and Cuisine

If you’re looking for a way to escape the city’s buzz and see some of Hokkaido’s most iconic natural sights, this day tour from Sapporo offers a well-balanced mix of vibrant flower fields, picturesque scenery, and regional food. Costing around $92.88 per person and lasting about 9 to 10 hours, it’s a comprehensive experience that covers several of the island’s top attractions, with convenient round-trip transportation included.

What we love about this tour is how it combines stunning visual experiences with hearty regional cuisine. Visiting Farm Tomita and Shikisai-no-oka means walking through fields bursting with color—think rows of lavender, poppies, and other wildflowers that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a painting. Plus, the visit to Ningle Terrace gives you a chance to explore charming, handcrafted timber cottages and artist workshops, adding an artsy, authentic touch to the day.

A potential drawback is the schedule’s flexibility; because the tour depends on traffic and weather, the timing at each stop can vary. If you’re someone who prefers a meticulously planned itinerary, this may require some patience. However, this slight unpredictability is typical for outdoor trips in rural Japan and often adds to the adventure.

This tour suits travelers eager to experience Hokkaido’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic walks, photography, and savoring regional foods, especially if you want a taste of the famous melon buffet in the middle of a beautiful landscape.

Key Points

• Stunning Flower Fields: Visit Farm Tomita and Shikisai-no-oka to see Hokkaido’s vibrant, lush flower displays.
• Cultural Charm: Explore Ningle Terrace, with its handcrafted timber cottages and artistic workshops.
• Regional Cuisine: Enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local dishes like Jingisukan, Furano omurice, and Hokkaido ramen, plus all-you-can-eat melon.
• Comfortable Transportation: Included round-trip transfers make the day stress-free.
• Weather Flexibility: The schedule may adjust based on weather and traffic conditions.
• Group Size: The tour caps at 25 travelers, balancing intimacy with enough company for a lively atmosphere.

Detailed Review of the Hokkaido Day Tour

Starting Point and Overall Format

This tour begins with a meet-up in Sapporo, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. The round-trip transport is a key benefit—it takes the hassle out of navigating rural roads and allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery. The small group size, limited to 25 people, helps keep the experience intimate and manageable, especially when visiting popular spots.

First Stop: Farm Tomita

Once you arrive at Farm Tomita, you’re greeted by expansive fields of lavender in peak bloom, along with other colorful flowers like poppies and lilies. Visitors often mention how “the view was breathtaking,” and how the fields are perfect for photos. The farm is very well-organized, and there’s plenty of time to stroll among the rows of flowers, soak in the smells, and take pictures.

This spot sets the tone for the day—a peaceful, colorful retreat that feels like a natural painting. The price of the tour includes admission, so you can freely wander without worrying about extra costs. Some reviews praise how “it’s a must-see for flower lovers,” and the vibrant colors make it worth the early start.

Shikisai-no-oka: A Kaleidoscope of Color

Next, the group heads to Shikisai-no-oka, a sprawling flower park offering a different kind of visual feast. Here, the fields are arranged in geometric patterns and include a wider variety of flowers and plants. It’s a favorite among visitors who love scenery and want plenty of opportunities for photos and peaceful walks.

You might find it helpful to have your camera ready, as the combination of colors and layouts creates “the perfect backdrop for memorable pictures,” as one traveler put it. The park’s design invites exploration, with narrow pathways and viewing points.

Ningle Terrace: Artistic Charm

After soaking up the floral beauty, the tour takes you to Ningle Terrace, a cluster of cozy timber cottages and artisan workshops. This is a highlight for many, as it offers a chance to see craftsmanship up close and maybe purchase a handmade souvenir. The atmosphere is calm and inviting, perfect for wandering and appreciating the artistry of local craftspeople.

One reviewer noted, “the little shops are charming, and it’s a great place to find unique gifts.” The cottages’ rustic charm gives a refreshing contrast to the vibrant flower fields and adds a layer of cultural authenticity.

Blue Pond: A Natural Wonder

Following the artistic stroll, the tour visits Blue Pond, one of Hokkaido’s most photographed sights. The pond’s striking blue color, caused by natural mineral deposits, makes it look surreal. Depending on weather conditions, the water can shimmer in different shades of blue, creating excellent photo opportunities.

Some travelers mention how “the view is truly breathtaking,” and it’s a great spot to pause and take in the natural beauty. Keep in mind that the visit’s duration varies with traffic, but most find the time sufficient to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Lunch and Melon Buffet

Midday, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch that features regional favorites like Jingisukan (grilled mutton), Furano omurice, and Hokkaido ramen. The menu may change seasonally, but the focus is on hearty, flavorful Japanese dishes.

What really draws people is the all-you-can-eat melon, which offers a refreshing, sweet taste of Hokkaido’s famous cantaloupe. Several reviews mention how “the juicy melon is a highlight,” and it pairs perfectly with the savory dishes.

Practical Considerations

The schedule is flexible, but it’s important to arrive 10 minutes early and be prepared for possible delays due to weather or traffic. Since this is an outdoor-focused tour, poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling, which is common in rural regions. It’s advisable to keep plans flexible after the tour in case of such changes.

The tour’s price includes transportation, admission fees, and the buffet, which makes it a good value—especially considering how much territory you cover in a day. However, personal expenses like souvenirs or additional snacks are not included.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who love nature and scenic views, and who enjoy regional cuisine. It’s well-suited for those wanting a relaxed day out with plenty of opportunities for photography and cultural discovery. Families with children over two will appreciate that under-2s are free, and the pace is generally comfortable for most.

If you’re looking for a guided, all-in-one day trip that captures the essence of Hokkaido’s natural beauty and flavors without the hassle of planning, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially great if you’re particularly interested in flowers, picturesque landscapes, or local food specialties.

Final Thoughts

This Hokkaido day tour from Sapporo offers a charming blend of visual delight, cultural charm, and delicious regional food. It’s a well-rounded way to explore some of the island’s most iconic spots without the need to rent a car or navigate unfamiliar roads. The highlights—vibrant flower fields, artistic artisan workshops, and the surreal Blue Pond—are truly memorable.

While the schedule can shift depending on weather and traffic, the experience remains a good value for travelers who enjoy scenic outdoor activities and local cuisine. The inclusion of a hearty buffet lunch and regional melon makes this tour not just a sightseeing trip but a taste of Hokkaido’s hearty flavors.

If you’re after an authentic, relaxing day immersed in nature and culture, this tour offers a comprehensive and enjoyable way to experience the best of what Hokkaido has to offer.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transfers from Sapporo, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 9 to 10 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore each spot without feeling rushed.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children aged 0-2 are free if they don’t occupy a seat, and children 12+ pay the same as adults.

What food is included?
You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local dishes like Jingisukan, Furano omurice, and ramen, plus an all-you-can-eat melon option.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially since many spots involve outdoor walking. Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.

Is this tour flexible with weather?
The tour requires good weather, and it may be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are poor. Always plan for flexible arrangements afterward.

To sum it up, this tour offers a delightful snapshot of Hokkaido’s natural and culinary delights. It’s best suited for travelers who want a manageable, well-organized day that combines scenic beauty with authentic regional flavors. Whether for a first trip or a return visit, you’ll likely find the experience both relaxing and visually rewarding, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged.