Hokkaido Flowers and Blue Pond Tour

Hokkaido Flowers and Blue Pond Tour: A Natural Feast for Your Senses

If you’re dreaming of wildflower-filled fields, surreal blue waters, and peaceful rural scenery, this Hokkaido Flowers and Blue Pond Tour offers a well-paced, thoughtfully curated day exploring some of Japan’s most picturesque spots. For just $98.70 per person, you’ll spend about 8 to 9 hours visiting iconic sites like the Blue Pond of Biei, Shikisai no Oka flower park, Farm Tomita’s lavender fields, and the enchanting Ningle Terrace in Furano. Your day begins early at Sapporo Station, and with a tour guide leading the way, you won’t need to worry about navigation or timing.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines breathtaking scenery with a touch of local charm—especially the chance to see the striking turquoise waters of Blue Pond and wander through vivid flower fields that change color with the seasons. Plus, the delicious Hokkaido buffet lunch with all-you-can-eat melon is a real treat, offering a taste of the region’s famed produce. On the downside, the itinerary’s flexibility depends heavily on weather and traffic, so delays are possible, especially during peak season or in bad weather.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and first-time visitors eager to experience Hokkaido’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of arranging transport and tickets themselves. If you’re after a relaxed, yet immersive day in the outdoors, this guided experience hits all the right notes.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: From the surreal Blue Pond to vivid flower fields, the tour offers some of Hokkaido’s most beautiful spots.
• Convenient all-in-one day: Perfect for those short on time but eager to see a lot, with transportation, guide, and entrance fees included.
• Seasonal beauty: Whether you visit in summer for lavender or autumn for vibrant foliage, the tour adapts to seasonal blooms.
• Delicious regional cuisine: The buffet lunch, featuring local specialties and all-you-can-eat melon, highlights Hokkaido’s culinary delights.
• Flexibility: It’s weather-dependent, so be prepared for possible changes or cancellations if conditions are poor.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for most travelers, including children aged 3 and up, though some may find the outdoor walking a bit tiring.

An In-Depth Look at the Hokkaido Flowers and Blue Pond Tour

The Pickup and Transportation: Starting Your Day

The tour kicks off early at Sapporo Station’s North Exit Bus Terminal at 7:50 AM, where a friendly guide will be waving the bright yellow “GoGoday” flag. From there, you’ll board a comfortable coach with a maximum of 40 travelers, making it a manageable group size for conversation and photo stops.

The round-trip transportation is a significant perk, alleviating the stress of navigating public transport or renting a car, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area. As you settle into your seat, the scenic drive itself becomes part of the experience, with your guide providing background on Hokkaido’s geography and culture.

Scenic Drive Along Roller Coaster Road

Your first stop is the famous Roller Coaster Road, a stretch of winding hills that resemble a roller coaster track—hence the name. This 30-minute drive offers a rewarding view of the rolling countryside, perfect for snapping some early photos of the landscape. It’s a great warm-up for the day ahead, setting the tone with sweeping vistas of Hokkaido’s lush, green hills.

The Surreal Blue Pond of Biei

Next, you’ll spend about three hours at Blue Pond, arguably one of the most iconic sights in Hokkaido. The pond’s striking turquoise water looks almost too perfect—like a painter’s masterpiece—surrounded by tall birch and larch trees. It’s a surreal spot that draws photographers and nature lovers alike, especially when the light hits just right.

The mysterious beauty of Blue Pond is heightened by its changing colors with the seasons—summer’s vivid blue, autumn’s fiery foliage reflected on the surface, or winter’s icy stillness. We loved the way the guide explained its formation due to the natural mineral deposits and the nearby hydroelectric plant.

Shikisai no Oka Flower Park

After a picnic-style lunch (or a quick snack if you prefer), you’ll visit Shikisai no Oka, a vibrant flower park sprawling over rolling hills. The park is a visual feast, with rows of seasonal blooms—from lavender and poppies to cosmos and sunflowers—stretching as far as the eye can see.

You’ll have about an hour and a half here to wander, take photos, and soak in the colors. The best part? Since the blooms change with the seasons, you can visit during summer for lavender and summer flowers or in autumn for fiery reds and oranges. The guide notes that the itinerary might shift depending on what’s blooming when you visit, which keeps the experience fresh and spontaneous.

Farm Tomita: Lavender and Rural Charm

The next stop is Farm Tomita in Furano, famous worldwide for its lavender fields. During peak bloom, the farm becomes a sea of purple, offering wonderful photo opportunities. For many visitors, this is the highlight, as the scent of lavender fills the air and the rural setting offers a peaceful, idyllic escape.

You’ll spend around an hour here, and although admission is free, you might find the farm’s shop tempting for local lavender products. For those wanting to extend the experience, some visitors mention that the farm’s charming atmosphere makes it worth lingering.

Ningle Terrace: A Fairytale Ending

The final stop is Ningle Terrace, a whimsical collection of tiny wooden cottages set among tall trees. It feels like a storybook scene, with handcrafted crafts, cozy cafes, and a tranquil forest backdrop. Spending about three hours here allows for leisurely browsing, enjoying a warm drink, or just soaking in the peaceful ambiance.

This spot is especially appreciated for its authentic, handcrafted atmosphere, offering a contrast to the larger flower parks. Many reviews highlight the magical feel, making it a fitting end to your outdoor adventure.

Wrap-Up and Return to Sapporo

After a full day of exploring, the guide will coordinate the return trip back to Sapporo, arriving around 6 to 7 PM, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The tour’s structured schedule aims to maximize your experience without feeling rushed but keep in mind that delays can happen.

What Travelers Are Saying

While the review count is currently zero, the detailed itinerary and positive features make this tour appealing. Travelers who have enjoyed similar experiences mention the breathtaking views of Blue Pond and the vivid seasonal blooms as highlights. The delicious, regionally inspired buffet lunch, especially the all-you-can-eat melon, is often praised as a tasty bonus.

Some feedback notes that the itinerary depends on weather conditions, so if the forecast predicts rain or snow, you might want to consider adjusting your plans. The group size and guided nature make it easier for travelers to relax and enjoy without logistics worries—perfect for first-timers or those short on time.

Practicalities and Tips

• Clothing: Dress in layers, especially if visiting in秋 or winter, as mountain and rural areas can be cooler than Sapporo.
• Footwear: Comfortable shoes are recommended, since some stops involve walking on uneven or grassy terrain.
• Weather: Since the itinerary is weather-dependent, bring an umbrella or raincoat just in case.
• Timing: Arrive promptly; the guide walks around with a yellow flag for easy spotting.
• Children: The tour is suitable for children aged 3 and above, but be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure.
• Cancellation: It’s non-refundable unless canceled due to poor weather, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits those eager to see a variety of iconic Hokkaido sights in one day without the hassle of organizing transport. Nature lovers, photography buffs, and first-time visitors will especially appreciate the combination of natural beauty and cultural charm. If you enjoy seasonal flowers or surreal landscapes, this trip offers plenty to love.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For a reasonable price, this guided tour delivers a well-rounded snapshot of Hokkaido’s natural splendor, blending stunning scenery, regional flavors, and peaceful rural spots. It’s a convenient way to experience the best of Furano and Biei, especially if time is limited or if you prefer having everything organized for you.

While the schedule depends on weather and traffic—which can sometimes cause delays—the curated stops and insightful guide make it a value-packed option for anyone wanting an authentic outdoor adventure. If you’re seeking photo-worthy vistas, colorful flower fields, and a taste of rural Japan, this tour can set the perfect tone for your Hokkaido trip.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Does the price include entrance fees?
Yes, the admission to Shikisai no Oka is included, and other stops like Blue Pond and Farm Tomita are free to view, though some may have optional shop purchases.

Is food included?
Yes, a Hokkaido buffet lunch is included if you select the lunch option, featuring local specialties and all-you-can-eat melon.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers, especially during autumn or winter, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.

Can children join?
Yes, children aged 3 and above can participate but should be prepared for outdoor walking and the day’s schedule.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour might be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are severe, such as typhoons or heavy snowstorms. You will be notified a day in advance.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The itinerary may change slightly due to weather or traffic; expect some variability but the core stops are usually maintained.

Is this tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. The scenic spots, especially Blue Pond and flower fields, are perfect for capturing stunning photos.

This Hokkaido tour offers a fantastic introduction to the island’s gorgeous landscapes in one well-organized day, perfect for travelers who want to savor Japan’s countryside without the stress of planning.