Shikisai-no-Oka and Furano Tour with buffet lunch from Sapporo

A Well-Balanced Taste of Hokkaido’s Natural Beauty: Shikisai-no-Oka and Furano Tour with Buffet Lunch from Sapporo

If you’re dreaming of colorful flower fields, tranquil ponds, and stunning mountain views, this tour offers a satisfying peek into some of Hokkaido’s most photogenic spots. For around $110, you’ll spend about 9 to 10 hours exploring Biei’s roller coaster roads, the Shirogane Blue Pond, and the lavender fields of Furano — all with the flexibility to enjoy at your own pace, without forced shopping stops or unnecessary detours.

What we love most about this trip is its focus on authentic natural sights. The scenic drives through rolling hills and the serene Blue Pond are real highlights, along with the vast flower fields that bloom across 15 hectares. Another plus: a delicious buffet lunch that features fresh local ingredients, giving us fuel to fully enjoy the day.

One possible consideration is the weather dependency. Since most sights are outdoors, poor weather can impact the experience. Also, since the schedule can shift based on traffic and weather, some travelers might find the timing a little flexible — but that’s part of the charm with a tour designed to showcase nature’s unpredictability.

This trip suits nature lovers, photographers, and those who want a relaxed day exploring outdoor scenery without a heavy itinerary. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a taste of rural Japan’s stunning landscapes with ample freedom to explore each site.

Key Points

• Seamless scenic drives through Biei and Furano highlight Hokkaido’s breathtaking countryside.
• No shopping pressure allows for genuine enjoyment of nature and photography.
• Flexible schedule and self-guided stops suit those who prefer to explore at their own pace.
• Delicious buffet lunch with local ingredients adds value and energy for the day’s adventures.
• Stunning views at each stop make for memorable photos and peaceful moments.
• Tour guide (if mentioned) enriches the experience with cultural insights and multi-language support.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting bright and early from Sapporo, the tour is designed as a full-day escape into some of Hokkaido’s most picture-perfect scenery. The trip is operated by TrevoTour Travels, with a typical group size capped at 100 travelers, ensuring you won’t be lost in a crowd. The price of $109.99 includes your transport, the buffet lunch, and all the stops — a good deal considering the number of spots visited and the quality of sights.

The Scenic Drive Along Roller Coaster Road

The tour kicks off with a drive along Biei’s famous Roller Coaster Road, which lives up to its name with undulating terrain that looks like a gentle roller coaster. We found this stretch to be particularly charming — the rolling hills and patchwork farmland offer endless photo opportunities. It’s a real treat for photographers and nature enthusiasts, thanks to the sweeping views and changing scenery with each bend.

According to one review, this part feels like “a thrilling ride,” which captures the experience well. The undulating terrain also makes for a more dynamic landscape, especially during summer and autumn when the colors are most vivid.

The Surreal Blue Pond (Shirogane Aoiike)

Next, you visit the Shirogane Blue Pond, famous for its surreal, turquoise waters. It’s a spot that truly feels like stepping into a painting — mineral-rich water gives the pond that mesmerizing hue. Visitors can walk along the designated paths and observe the partially submerged trees, which add to the tranquil, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

The pond is a favorite among photographers, and many say it’s worth a quick visit for the photo opportunities alone. It’s a peaceful spot where you can simply pause and breathe in the quiet beauty.

Herb Garden Furano

Next, we explore the Herb Garden Furano, a riot of colors and fragrances. The garden is a great place to stroll at your own pace, surrounded by lavender, chamomile, and other herbs. The panoramic views here are particularly stunning during blooming season, and the gift shop offers herb-infused products that make nice souvenirs.

The on-site café is a cozy spot to relax and enjoy herbal teas, adding a calming pause to your day.

Shikisai-no-Oka: A Kaleidoscope of Flowers

The highlight for many is Shikisai no Oka, a sprawling flower farm that feels like stepping into a living rainbow. The fields are filled with over 30 varieties of blooms, from tulips to sunflowers, and the sight of the rolling hills painted with bright colors is truly breathtaking. You can walk through the fields or ride a tractor to get an even broader view.

The seasonal change means the colors vary, but the sense of peace and beauty remains constant. Visitors often take advantage of the ample photo opportunities — and the lack of sales pitches means you can enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or pressured.

Farm Tomita: Lavender and More

The final stop is Farm Tomita, world-famous for its lavender fields blooming in summer. The scent alone is enough to make you smile, and the views across the lavender mosaic are simply stunning. The farm offers more than just flowers; you can sample lavender ice cream, browse lavender oils, and learn about lavender oil distillation.

From the top of the farm, you get panoramic views of the Furano Basin and Tokachidake Mountains, making this a perfect photo finish. The 4-hour visit here is enough to soak in the sights and perhaps pick up a few lavender souvenirs.

The Food: A Highlight of the Day

The buffet lunch is described as a key part of the experience, featuring local ingredients from Biei and Furano. While the menu specifics aren’t detailed, the inclusion of a hearty, fresh meal means you’ll return to sightseeing energized. The value of this is clear: a filling, quality meal without having to hunt down restaurants during the day.

Our Honest Take

Reviewers appreciate the value for money — especially considering the delicious food, the variety of sights, and the flexibility of the stops. One noted that the guide was especially caring and multilingual, which enhances the experience for international travelers. The fact that there are no mandatory shopping stops or sales pitches means you can genuinely enjoy the natural beauty.

The Flip Side

The main thing to keep in mind is that weather can impact the day. If the skies are overcast or it’s raining, some sights like the Blue Pond or the flower fields might be less vibrant or accessible. Plus, the schedule can shift depending on traffic and weather conditions, which might mean some stops are shorter or longer than planned.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for outdoor lovers, photographers, and those who want a relaxed, unhurried day exploring. It’s perfect if you want to see a good cross-section of Furano and Biei’s scenery without worrying about the logistics, but don’t mind a bit of weather variability. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic natural sights over shopping or heavily structured activities.

Final Thoughts

For anyone seeking a balanced and scenic day trip from Sapporo, this tour offers a compelling mix of nature, color, and tranquility. The stops are thoughtfully selected to showcase the best of Hokkaido’s countryside, from the undulating roller coaster roads to the dreamlike Blue Pond and the vivid flower fields. The buffet lunch adds a much-appreciated touch of local flavor and energy, making the whole day more enjoyable.

While it’s not a tour for those chasing indoor attractions or shopping, it’s a great choice for travelers who want to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and capture some truly stunning photographs. The moderate price, combined with the quality of sights, makes this experience a solid value for those looking to see the real, raw beauty of Hokkaido.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 to 10 hours, including travel time and visits to each site.

Is the buffet lunch included?
Yes, the tour features a buffet lunch made with local ingredients. It’s a good opportunity to relax and refuel.

Are there any shopping stops?
No, this tour emphasizes natural sights and personal exploration without forced shopping or sales pitches.

Can the schedule change?
Yes, the schedule might shift depending on traffic and weather conditions, but all major sights are typically included.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially those comfortable with outdoor walks and scenic drives. The tour is designed to be flexible and relaxed.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and a sense of adventure. If the weather looks uncertain, consider rain gear or sun protection.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded and authentic taste of Hokkaido’s remarkable landscapes. It balances amazing scenery, local cuisine, and freedom to explore — perfect for travelers who want to experience Japan’s rural beauty without the fuss. Whether you’re a photographer, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful day away from urban buzz, this trip will leave you with lasting memories and plenty of beautiful photos.