Furano Biei Tour Sapporo DEP: English Speaking Driver, No Guide

A Private Day Trip from Sapporo to Furano and Biei—What It Offers

If you’re looking for a flexible yet comprehensive way to explore the stunning landscapes of Furano and Biei, this private tour from Sapporo might just be your best bet. For around $972, you get a full-day adventure with an English-speaking driver (no guide included), tailored to your interests, and lasting about 10 hours. While it’s a bit of an investment, it’s clear that many travelers find incredible value in the personalized experience—no crowded buses or generic itineraries here.

What really makes this trip shine is how it allows you to customize your itinerary from a list of must-see sites. Plus, the comfort of a private vehicle means you can hop seamlessly between locations without the hassle of public transportation or tour groups.

Two standout features we love: First, the flexibility to choose exactly what interests you—whether it’s the vivid lavender fields or the scenic Blue Pond. Second, the personalized attention from your driver, who will adapt the schedule based on the season and your preferences.

A possible consideration is that entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those. Also, since the tour is private, it’s best suited for those wanting an intimate, tailored experience rather than a large-group tour. If you’re a flower lover, a foodie, or simply seeking authentic scenery away from crowds, this trip is a thoughtful choice.

Key Points

• Flexible, private itinerary: Customize your visits to top sights like Farm Tomita or Shirogane Blue Pond.
• Seasonal highlights: Peak bloom times in July and August make flower gardens and lavender fields truly spectacular.
• Local experiences: Visit the Furano Cheese Factory and Furano Wine Factory for a taste of local produce and crafts.
• Convenient transportation: Hassle-free, private vehicle with an English-speaking driver enhances comfort and timing.
• No guide included: Focus on your interests; the driver is there to navigate and assist, not give a guided narration.
• Cost and value: For up to four people, the price offers a personalized, flexible day with access to many top sights.

Exploring Furano and Biei: A Deep Dive

This tour from Sapporo is tailored for travelers who want to see the best of Furano and Biei without the rigidity of a large group or guided tour. It’s perfect if you prefer to set your own pace, stop where you want, and skip the places that don’t excite you. We’ll walk through what each stop offers, why it’s worth your time, and how the experience feels.

The Beginning: Sapporo to Furano

Starting early in Sapporo, your English-speaking driver picks you up in a private vehicle. The journey itself is a highlight—Hokkaido’s landscapes roll past as your driver navigates the winding roads. This private setup is great because it minimizes transit stress and maximizes flexibility, which many reviews praise. One traveler noted, “Takeshi, our driver, even improvised based on the season and weather,” making the day feel tailor-made.

Farm Tomita: The Lavender Icon

Your first stop is Farm Tomita, a must-see for any flower lover. Known worldwide for its lavender fields since 1958, this farm is the quintessential image of Furano. During peak bloom (mid-July to August), you’ll see seven different flower colors blending into a rainbow—purple lavender, white baby’s breath, orange California poppies, and more. The sight is breathtaking and has been described as “the view that will come to mind when you think of Furano.”

For those who want to take a piece home, there’s a gift shop with lavender products—perfect for souvenirs. One reviewer recommends visiting early in the morning for “relative peace,” which is a good tip if you want photos without crowds. Admission isn’t included, but the experience is well worth it, especially if flowers are your focus.

Nearby Lavender East is also worth a quick visit if you’re there in July for more extensive lavender fields.

Ningle Terrace: Art in the Forest

Next, you’ll visit Ningle Terrace, a cluster of 15 log houses tucked into the forest near Shinfurano Hotel. This charming shopping area specializes in handmade goods, from owl-themed crafts to glass art, and even opportunities for DIY craft-making like candle or postcard creation.

It’s a peaceful place where you can browse unique souvenirs and enjoy a quiet walk through the woods. When evening falls, the log houses and pathways light up, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Travelers appreciate the authentic crafts and scenic setting, with comments like “a perfect place to relax and enjoy natural goods.” Admission is free, but some activities or shops may charge.

Furano Cheese Factory: A Dairy Delight

Cheese lovers, rejoice—Furano Cheese Factory is a highlight. Watching cheese being made through glass windows is fascinating, and the experience of milking a mechanical cow adds a playful touch. The factory provides insight into how the milk from local farms becomes cheese, and the cheese gelato tasting is a highlight for many visitors.

You can also reserve in advance to make your own cheese or butter, which makes this a fun, hands-on experience for families and friends. Admission costs aren’t included, but the flavors and insights make it more than worth a quick stop.

Flower Land Kamifurano: Seasonal Flower Paradise

From June to September, Flower Land Kamifurano is bursting with color—lupines, poppies, lilies, and sunflowers bloom in succession. The gardens are vast, and many visitors enjoy walking through or using the tracker bus for a scenic ride.

You can also engage in flower pressing or lavender pillow making, adding a memorable craft to your visit. Different crops grow throughout the season, offering delicious local foods—think asparagus in early summer or potatoes in fall. The garden’s vibrant display is often praised, with reviews noting it’s “a great place for both scenery and tasting local produce.”

Furano Wine Factory: A Taste of the Land

Furano isn’t just about flowers; it’s also about wine and grape growing. The Furano Wine Factory showcases the local grape industry, with a focus on producing quality wines suited to the climate.

Visitors can see the fermentation process, taste local wines, and buy bottles as souvenirs. The factory is known for its beautiful brick architecture and seasonal grape blossom light displays, making it a sensory treat. For wine enthusiasts, it’s a fun and educational stop, with reviews highlighting the delicious tastings and friendly staff.

The Blue Pond: Nature’s Mysterious Masterpiece

One of the most photographed spots on this tour is Shirogane Blue Pond. Its surreal blue color results from minerals leaching from hot springs upstream, creating a vivid, almost surreal scene. The early morning sunlight is ideal for photos, and the view is often described as “the most beautiful color I’ve ever seen.”

The nearby hot springs and the Blue River viewpoint enhance the experience, offering both natural beauty and relaxation after the drive. This stop is short (about 5 minutes), but its visual impact is lasting.

Biei’s Flower Hills and Waterfalls

The tour also includes stops at Zerubunoka Atomunooka, a hill covered with seasonal flowers, and Shirahige Falls, a stunning 30-meter waterfall that resembles a white beard. Both sites highlight Biei’s natural charm—perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.

Shirahige Falls is particularly dramatic, especially in winter when snow and ice create a stunning contrast with the dark rocks. Reviews mention the splashing water and cool mountain air as memorable.

Shikisai no Oka: Panorama of Flowers

Finally, Shikisai no Oka offers an expansive view of fifteen hectares of colorful flower gardens. Open from June through September, it’s a feast for the senses, with dozens of flower species in bloom. You can walk, take photos, or ride the flower tram for an overview.

Fun activities like flower pressing or making flower-postcards add a hands-on element. It’s a popular spot, with over 300,000 visitors annually, and reviews praise its spectacular scenery and seasonal variety.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Furano and Biei tour offers a personalized, flexible way to see some of Hokkaido’s most picturesque spots without the constraints of big groups. It’s ideal for flower enthusiasts, foodies, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet comprehensive glimpse of the region’s natural beauty. The vehicle comfort and customization options mean you can tailor the day to your interests—whether that’s lavender fields, scenic ponds, or local wine.

It’s especially valuable if you want to avoid crowded tours and prefer the intimacy of a private driver. However, keep in mind that entrance fees are not included, and the tour requires some planning around seasonal blooms. It’s best suited for those willing to invest in a full day of scenic exploration and local experiences, with a driver who can adapt based on what you love.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
You get an English-speaking driver, a private vehicle, and a customizable itinerary of 3-4 sites from a list of top attractions.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for sites like Farm Tomita or Blue Pond are not included. You should budget separately for these.

Can I choose my destinations?
Yes, you select your must-see spots from a list, and your driver will tailor the route accordingly, optimizing for seasonality and weather.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially if you need car seats or booster seats (note that rear-facing seats are not available). The tour can be customized for children’s needs.

What is the best time to see the flowers?
The peak bloom occurs from mid/late July to August, particularly for lavender and flower fields. The tour is not available in winter.

How long does each stop last?
Most stops are around 1 hour, giving you enough time to explore but not feel rushed.

Can I bring souvenirs back home?
Absolutely, many stops have gift shops, offering lavender products, cheese, wine, and craft items.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Is this tour suited for those wanting a guided experience?
No, it’s not guided—your driver is there to navigate and provide local insights, but you won’t have a guide providing narration. It’s ideal if you prefer autonomy.

This private Furano and Biei tour from Sapporo offers a wonderful balance of comfort, flexibility, and scenic beauty. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to see the best of Hokkaido’s flower fields, natural wonders, and local flavors with ease and a personal touch.