Furano & Biei Customised Private Day Tour (Up to 15 Pax/9 Hours)

Exploring Hokkaido’s Natural Wonders with a Private Touch

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines scenic beauty with authentic local experiences, the Furano & Biei Customised Private Day Tour might just be your perfect escape. For around $718.47 per group, up to 15 people can enjoy a comfortably paced, tailor-made journey that covers some of Hokkaido’s most iconic sights. Starting from Sapporo, this 9-hour adventure offers visits to the Furano Cheese Factory, the lavender fields at Farm Tomita, and the stunning Blue Pond (Aoi Ike).

Two things stand out about this trip. First, the private vehicle experience ensures you’re not stuck in a large, noisy bus, but rather in a cozy, climate-controlled car with Wi-Fi—perfect for sharing photos or catching up on your playlist. Second, the flexibility of a customised itinerary means you could potentially adjust the stops to suit personal interests, making your day more tailored than a standard tour.

A potential drawback to consider is that this tour does not include a guide—you’ll be exploring these beautiful sites on your own or with your group, which might be less informative for those wanting detailed commentary. Also, parking fees at the Blue Pond are extra, so budget accordingly.

This tour is ideal for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and a personal touch, especially if you’re keen on experiencing Hokkaido’s natural landscapes without the hassle of navigating yourself. Perfect for families, couples, or friends who want to explore at a relaxed pace while enjoying the scenery.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transport with Wi-Fi enhances your experience.
• Flexible itinerary allows customization for personal interests.
• Visit iconic sites like Furano Cheese Factory, Farm Tomita, and Blue Pond.
• Ideal for small groups up to 15 seeking a private, relaxed day trip.
• No guide included, so self-guided exploration is expected.
• Park fees at Blue Pond are not included, plan accordingly.

A Closer Look at the Private Day Tour from Sapporo

When we think about Hokkaido, we often envision expansive lavender fields, serene lakes, and charming dairy farms—this tour hits all those notes. The beauty of a private journey like this is that it feels more like a personalized adventure than a cookie-cutter bus trip. We’re here to help you imagine what you’ll encounter and how to make the most of it.

Starting Point: Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins with hotel pickup within Sapporo, making it easy to start your day without the hassle of figuring out transportation. The private vehicle is described as climate-controlled and equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can relax, stay connected, or even share your moments instantly. With a maximum of 15 passengers, it’s spacious enough for groups but still intimate enough to foster a sense of camaraderie.

Furano Cheese Factory

Your first stop is the Furano Cheese Factory. Here, you’re encouraged to observe the cheese-making process, which gives a glimpse into traditional dairy craftsmanship. Visitors rave about sampling fresh cheeses and dairy products—an authentic taste of Hokkaido’s rich dairy tradition. The factory shop offers a variety of cheeses and butters to take home, providing a tasty reminder of the trip.

While just 30 minutes, this stop offers a quick but satisfying look at local food production. For those who love food experiences, it’s a definite highlight. The admission is free, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Farm Tomita and Its Vibrant Lavender Fields

Next, you arrive at Farm Tomita, famed for its sprawling lavender fields that bloom in mid-June to late July. It’s a visual feast, with rows of purple stretching to the horizon. During other seasons, the farm transforms into a vibrant tapestry of tulips and sunflowers, making it an all-year-round floral haven.

Visitors mention that the scenery is stunning, and many find the sight of lavender fields in full bloom “breathtaking.” The farm also offers beautiful flower gardens and herb fields, ideal for photographers and nature lovers. Spending around an hour here allows enough time to stroll, take photos, and enjoy the fragrant air.

The Surreal Blue Pond (Aoi Ike)

The final stop is the Blue Pond, famous for its surreal, vivid blue waters caused by natural minerals. Set against a backdrop of mountains and birch trees, the pond offers a serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere. Autumn visitors especially cherish the vibrant fall foliage reflected in the water, creating picture-perfect moments.

Visitors note that parking fees apply, but the free admission makes this a worthwhile stop. The pond’s quiet beauty makes it an ideal spot for reflection and photography, and many describe it as one of the most beautiful natural sights in Hokkaido.

The Practicalities of the Tour

Transport: The private vehicle makes a significant difference, providing comfort and flexibility. The 9-hour duration balances sightseeing with enough time to relax and enjoy each location.

Price and Value: At just over $700 for up to 15 people, the cost seems reasonable when considering the convenience of private transport and the inclusion of hotel pickup. Comparing this to group tours, you gain more flexibility and fewer crowds, which can enhance the experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions: The tour covers driver, fuel, insurance, and taxes, plus hotel pickup and drop-off within 5 km of your accommodation. Child seats are available if pre-booked, a thoughtful touch for families. However, parking and highway tolls are extra, so budget for those.

Booking and Flexibility: With most bookings made about 23 days in advance, it suggests good availability for those planning ahead. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, offering peace of mind.

Authentic Experiences and Realistic Expectations

While the tour does not include a guide, the focus on self-guided exploration allows travelers to enjoy each site at their own pace. This is perfect for those who prefer to wander freely rather than listen to a guide drone on. However, if you’re craving detailed commentary, you might feel a bit left in the dark.

Some reviews mention that the tour is ideal for those wanting a relaxed, scenic day with minimal hassle. They also appreciate the comfort and privacy of the vehicle, especially if traveling with children or in a small group.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private day trip is best suited for small groups or families who want a relaxed, flexible experience without the constraints of larger bus tours. If you appreciate scenic landscapes, photo opportunities, and local specialties like cheese and lavender, this trip will satisfy. It’s also suitable for travelers with limited time but a desire to see a diverse slice of Hokkaido’s natural charm.

Final Thoughts

The Furano & Biei Customised Private Day Tour offers a memorable way to explore some of Hokkaido’s most picturesque sights without feeling rushed or crowded. The private vehicle, combined with unhurried stops, allows you to truly savor the experience. While it’s not a guided tour, it provides enough structure for a seamless day of sightseeing with plenty of space to enjoy each location.

The stops chosen—Furano Cheese Factory, Farm Tomita, and Blue Pond—are all photogenic, memorable, and quintessential Hokkaido. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or just looking for an easy way to see the landscape, this tour offers good value for those seeking comfort, flexibility, and authentic scenery.

If you’re planning a trip to Sapporo and want a personalized, scenic day trip that highlights the region’s natural beauty and local flavors, this tour could be just what you need. It balances relaxation and sightseeing, making it worthwhile for travelers who prefer a tailored experience over a large group rush.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour can accommodate children with pre-booked baby or child seats, making it family-friendly.

How long is each stop?
The Furano Cheese Factory is about 30 minutes, Farm Tomita around 1 hour, and Blue Pond about 30 minutes, totaling roughly 2-3 hours of sightseeing time.

Do I need my own guide?
No, the tour does not include a guide, so you’ll explore sites independently or with your group, giving you flexibility.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers driver, fuel, insurance, taxes, private transport, hotel pickup/drop-off, and staff support in English.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, parking fees at Blue Pond are extra, and highway tolls are not included. Budget for these separately.

Can I customize this tour?
The tour is described as customized, so you might be able to adjust certain stops or timings, depending on your preferences.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 23 days ahead, giving enough time to secure your spot and coordinate details.

Is Wi-Fi available during the trip?
Yes, selected climate-controlled vehicles offer Wi-Fi, so you can share photos or stay connected.

What if I cancel last-minute?
Cancellation is free if you do more than 24 hours in advance. Less than that, and your payment may be non-refundable.

To sum it up, this private tour offers an engaging, comfortable way to experience some of Hokkaido’s most stunning natural sights with a personal touch. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid large group tours and prefer a flexible, leisurely exploration of Furano and Biei’s breathtaking landscapes.