Sapporo: Furano Lavender & Biei Blue Pond Tour with Lunch

Sapporo: Furano Lavender & Biei Blue Pond Tour with Lunch offers a well-rounded, scenic journey through some of Hokkaido’s most iconic natural sights. For around $94, you get a full day of exploring the vibrant flower fields in Furano, the shimmering waters of Blue Pond, and the colorful flower landscapes at Shikisai-no-oka. Led by knowledgeable guides—like GEM, who earns rave reviews—you’ll get a taste of Japan’s natural elegance, combined with a hearty Hokkaido buffet and a chance to meet adorable alpacas.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it balances popular photo spots with genuine natural beauty, plus the convenience of round-trip transportation from Sapporo. The inclusion of exclusive access to Shirahige Falls, Japan’s rare subterranean waterfall, adds a layer of uniqueness not found on every itinerary.

However, it’s important to note that the pace can feel a bit rushed for some. The schedule moves swiftly, especially during the mid-day visits, so if you prefer leisurely sightseeing, this might be a consideration.

This tour suits travelers who love stunning landscapes, are eager to indulge in seasonal flowers, and want a full-package experience without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy guided insights and efficient itineraries—perfect if you want to maximize your day without losing time.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenic Spots: Blue Pond, Furano flower fields, and Shirahige Falls showcase some of Hokkaido’s best natural sights.
• Inclusive Meal: Enjoy a buffet lunch with local specialties and an optional Yubari melon upgrade—delicious and refreshing.
• Expert Guide: Guides like GEM earn praise for their professionalism, knowledge, and English communication.
• Efficient Itinerary: The tour covers multiple highlights in one day, ideal for travelers with limited time.
• Plus for Photographers: Multiple scenic photo opportunities, especially at Blue Pond and flower fields.
• Potential Rush: The schedule is tight, so expect some quick visits and limited free time at each stop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

Starting early from Sapporo at 8:00 AM (either by package or hotel pickup), the tour’s first highlight is the Blue Pond in Biei. With only about 30 minutes here, you’ll see why it’s a must-see: the mineral-rich waters reflect the surrounding skeletal birch trees and Daisetsuzan peaks in an almost surreal, liquid mirror effect. Many travelers find themselves reaching for their camera at every turn, trying to capture the shifting hues of aquamarine—some even compare it to Apple’s famous wallpaper. Luckily, your guide will offer tips on the best angles, like standing near the eastern bank, where volcanic blues melt into distant mountain ranges.

Next, the group heads to Shirahige Falls, a rare subterranean waterfall that offers a different kind of visual thrill. Being a glacial cascade, it produces a unique mist and even rainbows over cobalt-blue rivers—something many reviews mention as a highlight. The 20-minute stop allows you to breathe in the fresh alpine air and feel the refreshing spray from one of Japan’s lesser-known but impressive waterfalls.

After these stunning natural sights, the tour drives through the Roller Coaster Road, a scenic route that dips and rises over the landscape, providing panoramic views of patchwork farms and the Tokachi peaks. It’s a great chance to appreciate the agricultural heartland of Hokkaido, with fields that look like giant quilts—so vibrant and carefully tended.

The Heart of Furano: Lavender and Flower Fields

At lunchtime, you’ll stop at Herb Garden Furano, a spacious spot where a buffet showcases Hokkaido’s culinary specialties. Reviewers love the variety—ramen, curry, salads—and the Yubari King Melon upgrade is often praised as the culinary climax, with many calling it the sweetest, juiciest melon they’ve ever had. The meal is a good break and a chance to relax before more sightseeing.

In the afternoon, the tour visits Shikisai-no-oka, sprawling across 15 hectares of floral artistry. Here, you can wander among 30+ varieties of flowers, changing by season—from lavender and poppies in summer to sunflowers and cosmos in fall. Many reviews mention how breathtaking the flower sea in Furano is—”stunning,” “like a purple ocean,” and “better than Instagram” are common expressions. The alpaca encounter, where you can feed these adorable creatures for a small fee, adds a charming touch to the experience.

Further, in July, you’ll visit Farm Tomita, famous for its lavender oceans and rainbow stripes of flowers like poppies and sunflowers. Even if you’ve seen lavender elsewhere, the vast fields here, backed by the Tokachi Mountains, create a scene that’s hard to match.

The Final Stretch and Return

The tour wraps up around 3:50 PM, with a comfortable return trip to Sapporo arriving between 6-7 PM. The schedule’s efficiency means you get to see a lot but might feel a little hurried at each stop, especially if you want more time to explore or photograph every angle. Still, guided commentary and the group setup help make the most of your time, and many travelers appreciate GEM’s professionalism and clear English.

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What’s in the Price and What’s Not

At $94 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the transportation, guided insight, and all the entry fees included. The buffet lunch is also included, with optional upgrades like the Yubari melon, which many reviewers describe as a highlight of the day.

Extras like souvenirs, personal snacks, or additional entrance fees are on you, so budget accordingly. The organized pickup at Sapporo Station or nearby hotels makes logistics straightforward, especially if you’re unfamiliar with public transport options in Hokkaido.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Pack light—space in the vehicle is limited—and bring weather-appropriate clothing, as the weather can change quickly in Hokkaido. Since the tour departs promptly, punctuality is key, especially for late-arriving or uncontactable guests. All ages are welcome, though children under 3 travel free but must sit on a guardian’s lap.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

If you have a day in Sapporo and want a visually stunning, well-organized day trip, this tour is ideal. It’s particularly suited for those who love flower photography, scenic landscapes, and want to try local delicacies like Yubari melon. The mix of natural wonders and guided commentary appeals to travelers seeking both beauty and education.

Those who prefer a more relaxed pace or dislike feeling rushed might find this tour a bit too quick, but for most, the balance between sightseeing and comfort works well.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour delivers a beautiful snapshot of Hokkaido’s natural beauty. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, and the guide’s professionalism (like GEM’s praised service) makes a noticeable difference. The inclusion of a tasty buffet lunch and the opportunity to feed alpacas adds a dash of fun and flavor to the day.

The price reflects good value, considering the transportation, guide, and entry fees are all included. While the schedule can feel tight, most travelers come away with a camera full of stunning images and plenty of happy memories of Japan’s scenic countryside.

This experience suits travelers interested in nature, photography, and seasonal flowers. It’s best for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day trip that lets you enjoy Hokkaido’s most gorgeous sights without worry.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour departs at 8:00 AM and returns around 6-7 PM, making it a full but manageable day out.

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Sapporo is included, either via a package meeting at Sapporo Station or hotel pickup within 3 km.

What is the meal like?
A buffet lunch featuring Hokkaido specialties is included, with the option to upgrade to unlimited Yubari King Melon, which many rave about for its sweetness.

Are there any additional costs?
Entrance fees to optional attractions are not included, and souvenirs or snacks are extra. The alpaca feeding costs around ¥500 if you choose to participate.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, children under 3 travel free but must sit on a guardian’s lap. The pace and scenery make it a family-friendly option, though some may find the schedule a bit tight.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour proceeds rain or shine, but weather conditions might affect visibility or the experience at certain sites. The guide will do their best to adapt if possible.

In all, the Furano Lavender & Biei Blue Pond tour from Sapporo offers a wonderful balance of iconic scenery, delicious food, and expert guidance. It’s a chance to experience the best of Hokkaido’s summer bloom and beyond, all in one satisfying day. Perfect for those who want a reliable, well-organized, and scenic escape into Japan’s natural wonderland.

You can check availability for your dates here: