Furano & Biei Customised Private Day Tour (Up to 3 Pax/11 Hours)

This 11-hour private tour offers an intimate glimpse into the natural beauty and charming produce of Hokkaido’s famous Furano and Biei regions. For just over $600 per group (up to 3 people), you’ll explore lavender fields, scenic waterfalls, and vibrant flower parks, all in a tailored itinerary designed to match your interests. The tour includes pickup from your hotel, private transportation, and the flexibility to choose among four different routes, making it perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience without the crowds.

What we particularly love about this outing is its balance of scenic beauty and cultural appeal—you can observe traditional cheese-making, wander through flower farms, or enjoy serene natural sights like the Blue Pond. The driver, who is also a helpful guide, seems to make the experience smooth and relaxed. Plus, the fact that this is a private tour means you won’t be rushed or boxed into a group schedule, which is ideal for those who value comfort and flexibility.

One thing to consider is the price—at over $600 for up to three travelers, it’s not the cheapest way to see these sights. But considering the personalized service, private vehicle, and the opportunity to visit exclusive spots at your own pace, many find it a good value. This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic, less-commercialized experiences and are keen to explore the scenic side of Hokkaido in comfort and style.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience for up to 3 people
• Includes scenic stops, local food, and artisan shopping
• Flexible route options tailored to your interests
• Comfortable private vehicle with pickup and drop-off included
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, intimate day with nature and culture
• Good value considering personalized service and exclusive access

A Detailed Look at the Furano & Biei Private Tour

When we consider a trip from Sapporo to the heart of Hokkaido’s flower and farm country, a private, flexible tour like this one can transform what might be a basic sightseeing day into a truly memorable experience. It’s designed not just to show you sights but to let you savor the atmosphere—whether that’s sampling fresh dairy or strolling through fields of lavender.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Furano Cheese Factory

Start your day with a visit to the Furano Cheese Factory. It’s a delightful way to get a behind-the-scenes look at how cheese is made in the region famous for dairy farming. You’ll observe the process and get to taste some fresh cheeses and butters—an authentic local experience. This stop is quick, about 30 minutes, but packs in enough to whet your appetite for other delights.

Many travelers, like Roy, describe this as a “wonderful trip,” praising the combination of beautiful views and the enjoyable atmosphere of the dairy farm. The cheese shop also offers a variety of products, making it a nice spot to pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Downtown Furano & Lunch

Next, you’ll have some free time in Furano itself, especially for lunch. Many choose local eateries or the farm’s own cafés to enjoy regional specialties, often with an emphasis on fresh dairy and vegetables. The tour’s flexibility means you can pick a cozy spot or a more upscale restaurant, depending on your preference.

Farm Tomita & Colorful Flower Fields

A highlight for many visitors—Farm Tomita boasts sprawling lavender fields that bloom in mid-June through late July, filling the air with a calming aroma. Even outside peak lavender season, the farm’s vibrant flower gardens and herb fields are a treat. The beauty of this stop is how it encapsulates the essence of Furano’s agricultural charm, making it a perfect photo op and relaxing stroll.

Reviewers like Emma note that the scenic views and floral beauty are unforgettable, especially when the fields are in full bloom. She also appreciated that the driver recommended a lovely local restaurant for lunch, adding a personal touch.

Optional Stops to Customize Your Day

The tour offers four different route options, allowing you to tailor your day:

• Jam Factory & Anpanman Shop, Ningle Terrace: Perfect for those interested in local crafts and treats.
• Rokkatei Sweets Shop & Winery: For lovers of sweets and wine, combining culinary delights with artisan shopping.
• Blue Pond & Shirahige Waterfall: Scenic natural sights that are iconic symbols of Biei’s landscapes.
• Nakafurano Lavender & Patchwork Road: For lovers of rolling hills, patchwork farmland, and endless fields.

The flexibility means you can focus on nature, food, or crafts, depending on your interests.

Blue Pond & Shirahige Waterfall

The Blue Pond is a must-see. Its mineral-rich waters create a surreal, iridescent blue that’s best appreciated in person. Many visitors find it a calming, almost otherworldly sight. Next, Shirahige Waterfall offers a quick but stunning glimpse of nature’s power—water cascading over rocks framed by lush greenery.

Reviewers like Antonios comment on how the Patchwork Road and Blue Pond make the journey special, praising the driver’s accommodating nature.

Ningle Terrace & Rokkatei Sweets

In the late morning or early afternoon, your tour might include a stroll through Ningle Terrace, a series of handcrafted artisan cottages surrounded by nature. You can browse and purchase unique souvenirs—perfect for those who love authentic local crafts.

Rokkatei, a famed sweets shop, is another charming stop. You’ll enjoy the blend of art, nature, and confectionery, often praised by visitors like Emma, who enjoyed the local treats and the serene atmosphere.

Scenic Drive Through Patchwork Road & Shikisai no Oka

The Patchwork Road showcases the rolling hills and patchwork farmland that define Biei’s landscape. During late spring and early summer, these fields burst into vibrant colors, making for beautiful photos. Shikisai no Oka is a sprawling flower park that blooms in every season—vivid in summer, fiery in autumn.

The tour typically spends about 45 minutes at Shikisai no Oka, giving you time to walk and take photos.

The Practicalities: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Transportation & Comfort

The highlight of the experience is the private vehicle, which ensures a smooth, effortless trip without the discomfort of crowded buses. The vehicle comes with fuel, insurance, and taxes included, so there are no surprises. Pickup and drop-off are arranged within 5km of your hotel, making logistics simple.

Flexibility & Customization

The four route options accommodate different interests—whether you’re more into natural sights, artisan shopping, or a combination. Without a guide, the driver is also a local resource, offering helpful suggestions and tips, enhancing the experience without the pressure of a guided tour.

Value & Cost

At $634 for up to three people, this tour is a solid investment if you value personalized service and exclusive access to sights. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated the driver’s kindness and local knowledge, which adds a layer of authenticity and comfort.

Duration & Timing

The 11-hour schedule is long but packed with diverse sights, giving you plenty of time at each stop. The timing ensures you experience the best of the flower seasons and natural beauty without feeling rushed.

Suitable for

This tour appeals most to travelers who prefer a relaxed, tailor-made day filled with scenic views, local flavors, and artisan finds. It’s ideal for those who want to avoid crowded group tours and enjoy a more intimate look at the region’s highlights.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many guests mention the knowledgeable, friendly driver as a key highlight, often describing the experience as “like exploring with a local friend.” The flexibility of the itinerary means you can spend more time at your favorite spots—something hard to do on large group tours. Emma notes, “Our driver was so kind and picked out a wonderful local restaurant,” emphasizing the personal touch.

Roy’s review captures the essence of the experience: “Wonderful trip, beautiful views, great driver and vehicle, and an excellent adventure.” These words reflect how the combination of scenery, comfort, and local expertise creates a memorable day.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re seeking a personalized, scenic day outside Sapporo with a focus on natural beauty and local charm, this tour offers an excellent option. Its flexibility allows you to tailor your experience, whether that’s exploring lavender fields or visiting iconic waterfalls. The private vehicle and attentive driver mean you’ll travel comfortably and efficiently, making the most of your time.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who value authentic experiences over cookie-cutter packages and who enjoy taking photos, sampling regional specialties, or shopping for handcrafted souvenirs. While it’s a bit pricier than group options, many find the added comfort, flexibility, and quality of sights worth the extra cost.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers driver, fuel, insurance, taxes, hotel pickup and drop-off within 5 km, private transportation, and support from English-speaking staff if needed.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, the tour offers four different route options, allowing you to pick the sights that interest you most.

Are guide services included?
No, this is a driver-only private tour, but the driver is knowledgeable and can offer suggestions.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, baby seats and child seats are available if pre-booked, making it family-friendly.

What sights will I see?
Expect to visit Furano Cheese Factory, Farm Tomita, Blue Pond, Shirahige Waterfall, Ningle Terrace, and other scenic or artisan stops depending on your chosen route.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, most stops have enough time allocated for sightseeing, photos, and leisure. For example, Farm Tomita allows about an hour to enjoy the lavender fields.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 27 days ahead to secure their preferred date, especially during peak flower season.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

To sum it up, this Furano & Biei private tour stands out as a well-balanced combination of scenic beauty, local culture, and personalized service. It’s ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Japan’s countryside at their own pace, with the comfort of private transportation and the flexibility to focus on the sights that matter most to them. Whether you’re a nature lover, a food enthusiast, or a craft admirer, this tour offers an engaging way to explore the enchanting landscapes of Hokkaido.