From Sapporo: 10-hour Customized Private Tour to Furano

Exploring Hokkaido in winter offers some of Japan’s most breathtaking scenery—think snow-covered fields, shimmering ponds, and the quiet beauty of rural towns. This private 10-hour tour from Sapporo is designed to give you the flexibility to craft your perfect day, visiting iconic sights like Furano’s Ningle Terrace, the famous Blue Pond, and Biei’s colorful hills. For a price of $2,271 per group of up to three people, you get a comfortable private car and a professional driver who acts as your guide, making this a tailored experience away from the crowds.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its customizability—you can prioritize the sights that excite you most, whether it’s wildlife at Asahiyama Zoo or the snow-laden landscapes of Furano and Biei. The inclusion of hands-on experiences like shopping for handmade souvenirs at Ningle Terrace adds an authentic touch that makes the day more memorable. On the downside, the tour’s price might seem steep for some travelers, especially if you’re on a tight budget, as it’s a private service with extensive inclusions but no entry fees or meals included.

This tour is a great fit for those who love nature’s quiet beauty, want the comfort of private transportation, and appreciate the flexibility to adapt their day based on weather or personal interests. It’s also ideal if you prefer to explore at your own pace rather than a large group tour, making it perfect for couples, small families, or close friends eager for an intimate journey through Hokkaido’s winter wonderland.

Key Points

Flexibility: You can customize your itinerary based on your interests and the season.

Highlights: Top sights like Biei Blue Pond, Furano’s Ningle Terrace, and Asahiyama Zoo are included, or replaced if closed.

Comfort: Private vehicle and driver ensure a smooth, relaxed experience with personalized attention.

Seasonal Variations: The sights vary depending on the time of year, with different waterfalls and scenery to enjoy.

Value: While the price is high, the private, tailored experience offers excellent value for travelers seeking a unique, worry-free day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Hokkaido’s Winter Magic

Traveling from Sapporo to Furano and Biei in winter is like stepping into a postcard—snow blankets everything, and the landscape transforms into a serene, sparkling tableau. With this tour, you’re not just ticking off sights—you’re creating a day that matches your pace, mood, and fascination for nature. It’s perfect for those wanting a personalized adventure rather than a crowded bus tour.

The journey begins with a pick-up in Sapporo, where your driver, a Japanese professional, greets you in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The private nature of this experience means no waiting around for others or sticking to a rigid schedule. Instead, you’ll have the freedom to linger longer at sites that captivate you or skip over those that don’t quite fit your interest.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Asahiyama Zoo

One of the standout stops is Asahiyama Zoo, renowned as Japan’s northernmost zoo. It’s especially engaging in winter because the animals are less hidden away, and you’ll see adorable penguins waddling in the snow—an image that’s quite difficult to forget. Visitors consistently praise the zoo for its innovative enclosures that allow animals to be more active even in cold weather, making the experience both charming and educational. Expect about 1.5 hours here, including time for a quick lunch.

Authentic Experience: As one reviewer noted, it’s a “must-visit in winter,” where animals like seals and monkeys put on a lively show. Even if zoo visits aren’t your top priority, this stop offers a fun break and some fantastic photo opportunities.

Biei Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls (Spring to Fall)

Depending on the season, your next stops will vary. From April 1 to November 30, you’ll visit Biei Blue Pond, famous worldwide for its mesmerizing turquoise waters, often compared to a giant, natural gemstone. It’s an iconic photo spot, especially since it’s been used as a default desktop image for Apple’s MacBook.

Adjacent to this is Shirahige Falls, a 600-meter-high waterfall that resembles a “white beard,” thanks to the cascading white water. The falls are particularly stunning in winter when the contrast of snow and the icy spray creates a picture-perfect scene. When visiting in summer, the lush greenery surrounding the falls adds to the vibrancy of your experience.

Pro Tip: If your visit is between December 1 and March 31, you’ll skip Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls, replacing them with the famous Ken & Merry Tree and Four Seasons Hill, which transforms into a snowy playground with sledding and snowmobiling options.

Authenticity and Scenic Beauty

What makes this tour truly special is how it balances well-known sights with lesser-visited gems. For instance, the Ningle Terrace in Furano offers a charming collection of tiny wooden shops built by local artisans. Here, you can browse handmade souvenirs, perfect for a meaningful keepsake or gift. The atmosphere is cozy, and the craftsmanship reflects true Japanese attention to detail.

Traveler feedback highlights that the Ningle Terrace “feels like a fairy-tale village,” and many find it a delightful way to end the day. It’s a quieter, more intimate experience compared to crowded markets, giving you time to savor the craftsmanship and perhaps chat with the artisans.

Flexibility and Personalization

One of the biggest strengths of this tour is its customizable nature. If you’re keen on wildlife, you might opt to spend more time at the zoo. If landscape photography is your passion, you can prioritize Blue Pond and the colorful hills of Biei. Your driver, who speaks Japanese and is a professional, will help you navigate options based on current weather conditions and your preferences.

Timing and Transportation: The tour lasts about 10 hours, with the possibility to extend for an additional charge. The choice of vehicle—sedan, minivan, or minibus—depends on your group size, ensuring comfort even for larger parties.

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Value and Practical Considerations

At over $2,200 for a group of up to three, this experience isn’t cheap. However, the value lies in the personalized service, comfort, and flexibility it offers, especially in winter when navigating snowy roads can be challenging. You won’t need to worry about parking, navigation, or figuring out public transport—your driver handles all that, letting you simply enjoy the scenery.

Keep in mind that admission tickets and meals are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to visit attractions or dine at local spots. Still, many travelers find that the convenience and tailored experience outweigh the extra costs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who value private, flexible exploration. It suits couples, small groups, or families who want a personalized day without the constraints of a larger tour group. It’s perfect if you’re keen on winter landscapes, wildlife, and authentic local experiences, and are comfortable paying a premium for comfort and customization.

The Sum Up

This private tour from Sapporo to Furano and Biei offers an excellent way to see some of Hokkaido’s most stunning winter scenery at your own pace. The combination of iconic sights like Blue Pond and the zoo, along with the chance to explore charming villages like Ningle Terrace, makes for a memorable day. The flexibility to tailor your itinerary means you can focus on what excites you most—whether that’s snowy waterfalls, colorful hills, or adorable animals.

While the price may be a consideration, the comfort of private transportation, the expert driver, and the ability to adapt the day make this a worthwhile choice for those seeking an authentic and personalized experience. If you love natural beauty, small-town charm, and the comfort of a private guide, this tour is a smart way to enjoy Hokkaido’s winter magic.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, as long as the group size and age of children are within the booking parameters, this private tour can work well for families looking for a flexible day out.

What should I bring for this tour?
Warm clothing is essential, especially in winter. Comfortable shoes for walking around scenic spots, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning views, are highly recommended.

Can I customize the stops or skip certain sights?
Absolutely. Since it’s a private, customizable tour, you can prioritize or skip sites based on your interests and weather conditions.

How long is the stop at each location?
Expect about 1.5 hours at Asahiyama Zoo, around 30 minutes at Blue Pond, and approximately 40 minutes at Four Seasons Hill or other seasonal attractions.

Are meals included?
No, meals and admission tickets are not included. You might want to plan a picnic lunch or enjoy a meal at a local restaurant during the trip.

What if I want to extend the tour beyond 10 hours?
Extension is possible at an additional charge. Discuss your needs with your driver beforehand for a seamless experience.

This personalized journey through Hokkaido’s winter landscape offers authentic sights, comfortable travel, and the freedom to craft your perfect day — making it a splendid way to experience Japan’s northernmost island.

You can check availability for your dates here: