Full-Day Furano Lavender Farm and Blue Pond from Sapporo

Traveling through Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido during summer offers some of the most visually arresting scenes—think endless lavender fields and tranquil blue waters. This full-day tour from Sapporo promises an easy, well-organized way to soak up these sights without the hassle of planning your own transport. It’s particularly appealing if you’re keen on nature, photography, and experiencing the region’s unique natural wonders.

What I love about this experience? First, the scenic drive that sets a leisurely tone for the day. Second, the opportunity to explore the iconic Furano Lavender Fields, which are nothing short of Instagram-worthy. Third, the visit to the mystical Blue Pond in Biei, a spot often featured in travel magazines for its surreal beauty. But, a word of caution—weather conditions can affect the bloom, so expect some variability.

This tour is perfect for outdoor lovers, photographers, or anyone seeking a taste of Hokkaido’s summer magic without the stress of navigating public transport or organizing multiple visits. It’s a great way to see some of the region’s most picturesque spots in one day, especially if your time is limited or you’re new to Japan.

Good To Know

• Convenient full-day itinerary from Sapporo with round-trip transportation
• Ideal for nature enthusiasts and those who want memorable photo opportunities
• Includes free time at Furano Lavender Fields and Blue Pond for exploration
• Authentic local experiences like tasting Hokkaido’s confections at Campana Rokkatei
• Limited English support but guided by a Japanese-speaking conductor with translation aid
• Weather-dependent—flower blooms may vary, affecting the view

This tour provides a practical way to visit some of Hokkaido’s most photogenic spots, all bundled into a manageable 10-hour day trip. It’s carefully designed for visitors who prefer a guided experience, with round-trip bus transport and a friendly, Japanese-speaking conductor. While the guide’s English might be limited, they do use a translation app to help communicate key points, making the experience accessible for most international travelers. With a price of around $59.44 per person, it offers considerable value—especially considering the inclusions like free time at each stop.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: JR Sapporo Station

Your day begins bright and early at 8:00 am, meeting at the north exit of JR Sapporo Station. From here, the coach begins its scenic journey towards Furano, a region famous for its sprawling lavender fields and vibrant summer landscapes. The bus is air-conditioned, which is a relief on warm summer days, ensuring comfort as you settle in for the ride.

First Stop: Furano Marche

Though brief, the Furano Marche offers a glimpse of local produce and souvenirs. Travelers often mention that start-up arrangements at this meeting point can be a bit hectic, as several operators share the space, but overall, the staff is friendly. It’s advisable to arrive on time so you don’t miss the bus and to prepare snacks or a quick breakfast for the day.

Second Stop: Farm Tomita

This is arguably the highlight for most visitors—a must-see lavender farm with expansive, vibrant fields set against the backdrop of gentle hills. Known as one of the most famous flower farms in Hokkaido, it’s an ideal spot for photography and simply soaking in the scent of lavender. With 1.5 hours here, you’ll have plenty of time to wander, snap photos, or just sit on a bench and breathe in the fragrant air.

A common comment from past guests is how breathtaking the landscape is, with one reviewer noting: “The highlight was the Blue Pond and the flower field which was beautiful and amazing.” Some found the duration perfect, while others felt it could be a tad longer to fully appreciate the scenery.

Third Stop: Shirogane Blue Pond

The Blue Pond is a natural marvel—its waters glow with a striking cobalt hue, set off by surrounding trees and mountains. It’s a peaceful spot, often described as almost otherworldly. Visitors report that the water’s color can vary slightly depending on weather and light, but it’s generally a mesmerizing sight. With 30 minutes allocated, you’ll get a good chance to take photos and enjoy the tranquility.

Reviewers have mentioned that this stop is truly a highlight, with comments like “the Blue Pond was very beautiful and even surreal,” adding to the appeal of this natural wonder.

Final Stop: Campana Rokkatei

The day wraps up with a visit to Campana Rokkatei, a well-regarded confectionery shop that showcases the area’s famous sweets. It’s an excellent chance to sample some of Hokkaido’s finest confections—whether you’re a sweet tooth or just looking for a local souvenir. Past guests have appreciated the chance to relax here and pick up treats like chocolates and cookies, making it a sweet ending to a full day.

While the overall structure is straightforward, what makes this tour shine is the combination of scenic beauty and cultural flavor. The transportation is comfortable, and the small group size—max 38 travelers—helps make the day feel intimate and manageable. The flexibility of free time at each stop is a real plus, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

From reviews, we learn that the guides are friendly and energetic. One review mentions a guide with a great attitude, who was patient and helpful, despite limited English. The tour’s organization was generally praised, though some found the start point a bit confusing due to shared reception areas.

The Value of the Price

At just under $60, this tour offers excellent value, considering transportation, entry, and free time at key sites. What’s particularly good is that you get to see multiple highlights in one day, which would be tricky to arrange independently, especially for visitors unfamiliar with public transport routes in Hokkaido.

Weather and Bloom Conditions

It’s essential to remember that the bloom depends on weather conditions. If the weather has been uncooperative, flowers might not be in full bloom, or the scenery could be less vibrant. Since the tour is weather-dependent, flexibility is key—if flowers aren’t at their peak, the guide may suggest alternative spots, but refunds or itinerary changes aren’t usually offered based on weather alone.

This experience is perfect for those wanting a stress-free day exploring Hokkaido’s natural scenery. If you love taking photographs of flowers and landscapes, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here. It’s also well-suited for travelers wanting to taste local confections and enjoy a leisurely pace, with sufficient free time at each location.

However, those seeking highly personalized guides or expecting a fully English-speaking tour might find the communication a bit limited. Also, if you’re traveling during a less-than-ideal weather period, keep expectations flexible regarding the floral displays.

This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Hokkaido’s summer charm—beautiful lavender fields, a surreal Blue Pond, and tasty local sweets. Its value lies in the convenience of transportation and the chance to visit multiple iconic sites in one day without the hassle of planning.

While weather can influence the experience, the overall scenery and relaxed pace make it a worthwhile outing for outdoor lovers and photographers alike. It’s especially suitable for those with limited time in Sapporo who want to experience the region’s natural beauty with ease.

If you’re after a straightforward, scenic day trip that delivers on stunning visuals and local flavor, this tour is a solid choice.

Is food included in this tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’re encouraged to bring your own snacks or purchase them at stops like Furano Marche or Campana Rokkatei.

What is the starting point for this tour?
The tour begins at the north exit of JR Sapporo Station, specifically at the Sapporo Eki Kitaguchi.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Sapporo.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 3-5 can join, but only bus seats are included in the rate. Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

What happens if the flowers aren’t blooming?
Since blooming varies with weather, if the flowers aren’t in full bloom, the guide might suggest alternative sightseeing spots. There are no refunds or itinerary changes guaranteed based solely on flower conditions.

Are guides fluent in English?
The tour is operated with a Japanese-speaking guide who uses a translation app for assistance. Past reviews suggest communication can be somewhat limited but generally sufficient.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days before the tour are not refundable.

Whether you’re looking for iconic landscapes or just a relaxing way to enjoy Hokkaido’s summer colors, this full-day trip from Sapporo offers a picturesque and efficient way to tick those boxes.