Experience Shibazakura and Kamiyubetsu Tulips in 2 days

Planning a trip to Japan often involves exploring its famous cherry blossoms or historic temples, but in springtime, Hokkaido offers a different kind of floral spectacle that’s just as mesmerizing. This 2-day tour takes you through some of the region’s most stunning flower-filled landscapes, with visits to iconic parks and scenic spots that highlight the best of Hokkaido’s springtime bloom. While it’s not a completely DIY experience, the organized nature makes it accessible for travelers wanting to see the region’s floral highlights without the hassle.

What we really appreciate about this tour are three things: the chance to see breathtaking flower carpets of moss phlox and tulips, the panoramic views of Lake Mashu and Mt. Io Volcano, and the well-organized itinerary that balances scenic stops with comfortable accommodations. That said, one potential hiccup is the long travel times between spots, which might feel a bit draining after a day of sightseeing. Still, if you’re someone who loves nature and doesn’t mind a bit of bus travel, this experience offers genuine value.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a scenic escape that combines floral beauty, local culture, and stunning vistas. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy photography, peaceful landscapes, and a structured plan that covers the region’s highlights in just two days.

Good To Know

1 / 4

2 / 4

3 / 4

4 / 4

1 / 4

• Incredible floral displays: You’ll witness over 10,000 square meters of moss phlox, 700,000 tulips, and stunning Shibazakura carpets.
• Scenic views: Expect panoramic vistas of Lake Mashu and Mt. Io Volcano, perfect for photography and appreciating Japan’s natural beauty.
• Comfortable accommodations: Options include a modern hotel or a hilltop inn with traditional Japanese rooms.
• Efficient itinerary: The tour maximizes flower viewing while balancing travel times and rest.
• Guided experience: A Japanese-speaking conductor uses a translation app, making the trip accessible despite language differences.
• Value for price: For around $253, you get two days filled with diverse experiences, meals, and comfortable transportation.

👉 See our pick of the 10 Best Guided Tours In Sapporo

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Sapporo to Eastern Hokkaido’s Blooming Fields

The adventure begins early, with a departure from Sapporo at 8:00 am. The journey to the first stop, Engaru Forest Okhotsk Roadside Station, takes about 4 hours including quick restroom breaks. While this might seem lengthy, it’s a good opportunity to settle into the bus, enjoy the scenery, and prepare for the day ahead.

The next highlight is Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park, home to a vivid pink moss phlox display stretching over 10,000 square meters. Here, the floral carpets are truly enchanting, especially in the soft morning light, and you’ll have about an hour to wander, take photos, and soak in the floral aroma. From reviews, visitors love the “magnificent pink carpet” and appreciate the “peaceful atmosphere” that makes this stop a highlight of the trip.

Post-lunch, the journey continues about an hour to Abashiri, where you’ll check into your hotel. Options include the Toyoko Inn Okhotsk Abashiri Ekimae or the Abashiri Kanko Hotel with its hilltop views overlooking the city. Both provide comfortable stays, but the choice depends on whether you prefer a modern chain hotel or a more scenic, traditional setting.

Day 2: Tulips, Coastal Views, and Takinoue’s Shibazakura

The second day kicks off with breakfast and a drive of roughly 90 minutes to Kamiyubetsu Tulip Park. This spread features over 700,000 tulips, creating a vibrant sea of colors. Visitors often describe this as a “must-see for flower lovers,” and the expansive fields are ideal for photography and leisurely strolls.

Next, a short 45-minute drive takes you to Monbetsu, a port city renowned for its seafood. Here, you’ll enjoy a crab bowl—a regional specialty served warm over rice—highlighting the region’s salty, briny flavors. Reviewers mention that the crab bowl is “a perfect highlight for seafood lovers,” and the coastal scenery adds to the experience.

In the late afternoon, about a 40-minute inland drive brings you to Shibazakura Takinoue Park, where decades of dedication have transformed a humble seedling collection into a sprawling floral masterpiece. The “beautiful pink moss phlox” and peaceful setting continue to impress visitors, many of whom appreciate the extra effort that has grown this into one of the top flower destinations in Hokkaido.

Additional Inclusions and Practicalities

• Meals: Breakfast is included daily, and a delicious dinner awaits at the Abashiri Kanko Hotel on the first night (for those who select the hotel option). Lunches are arranged during the day, including regional delicacies like the crab bowl.
• Transportation: The round-trip bus makes it easy to sit back and enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving. The group size, capped at 42, provides a comfortable atmosphere.
• Guidance: The Japanese-speaking conductor, using a translation app, ensures that language barriers are minimized, though this isn’t a guided tour with a licensed guide.
• Timing & Flexibility: The itinerary is designed to maximize flower-viewing opportunities, but weather and bloom conditions could shift the schedule slightly. Some reviews note that flower peaks may vary, and the timing might be adjusted accordingly.

Worth Noting

While the tour offers a lot, the long travel times (up to 4 hours on Day 1) might be tiring for some. However, the scenic drives through rural Hokkaido are often described as relaxing and visually rewarding. The tour’s value hinges on the opportunity to see multiple floral parks and scenic vistas in just two days, especially as individual entry costs to parks aren’t included, making the overall expense quite reasonable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature enthusiasts and flower lovers eager to see Hokkaido’s spring blooms without the hassle of planning. It’s also perfect for photographers wanting diverse floral backdrops and panoramic views. If you enjoy organized group travels with comfortable transport and are okay with a packed schedule, you’ll get the most out of this tour.

However, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or prefer a more flexible itinerary, you might find the travel times a bit taxing. It’s also worth noting that the blooming period varies depending on the weather, so some flowers may not be at their peak.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This 2-day flower tour delivers a genuine glimpse into Hokkaido’s springtime charm. With visits to three incredible parks and scenic views of lakes and volcanoes, it offers a well-rounded experience for those wanting to combine floral beauty with regional exploration. The inclusion of accommodations, meals, and transportation makes it a practical choice for travelers looking for convenience and value.

The tour strikes a balance between sightseeing and relaxation, allowing you to enjoy the natural landscapes without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads. It’s especially suited for visitors who want to experience Japan’s northern floral spectacles in a short, organized trip.

If you’re visiting Hokkaido in spring and crave vibrant colors and scenic vistas, this tour is a reliable, hassle-free way to indulge in Japan’s floral splendor.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip bus transportation, accommodations (hotel options vary), breakfast, dinner on the first night (if staying at Abashiri Kanko Hotel), and admission to the flower parks. Lunch is also included on the second day.

How long is the bus journey on Day 1?
The drive from Sapporo to Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park takes about 4 hours, including short breaks, while other travel segments are around 1 hour each.

Are meals provided?
Yes, breakfast is included both days, and dinner is provided on the first night if you select the Abashiri Kanko Hotel option. Lunches are arranged at regional spots, including a crab bowl in Monbetsu.

What kind of accommodation options are available?
Options include the Toyoko Inn Okhotsk Abashiri Ekimae or the Abashiri Kanko Hotel, with the latter offering scenic hilltop views and traditional Japanese-style rooms.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the round-trip bus is designed for passenger comfort, with a maximum group size of 42 travelers, ensuring a relaxed viewing experience.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Japanese?
Yes, a Japanese-speaking tour conductor uses a translation app to communicate key information, making the experience accessible for non-Japanese speakers.

What if the flowers are not at their peak?
Flower bloom timing varies with weather, and the tour schedule is based on typical peak periods. If blooms are not ideal on your date, you can cancel with a full refund up to 6 days in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While not specifically tailored for children, the relaxed pace and scenic stops make it suitable for families, provided children are comfortable with bus travel and walking.

This 2-day floral adventure in Hokkaido offers a balanced mix of nature, scenic views, and regional cuisine. Whether you’re a dedicated flower enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, the tour provides a memorable glimpse of Japan’s springtime landscapes.