Hokkaido Day Tour Farm Tomita, Blue Pond, Blue Pond and Buffet

Hokkaido Day Tour Farm Tomita, Blue Pond, and Buffet Review

1 / 5

Planning a trip to Sapporo and craving a day away from urban hustle? This Hokkaido Day Tour offers a balanced blend of vibrant flower fields, scenic blue waters, and regional delicacies, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a taste of the area’s natural beauty and local flavors. We’re here to give you an honest look at what this tour delivers—highlighting what we loved, what might be less ideal, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

What immediately catches the eye is the price point of just under $93 per person—a reasonable cost considering the full-day itinerary, transportation, and guided experience. The three standout features that appeal most are the picturesque flower fields at Farm Tomita and Shikisai-no-oka, the fascinating Blue Pond with its surreal, mirror-like water, and the generous buffet featuring all-you-can-eat melon, which is an unexpected yet delightful treat. The one potential downside is the schedule’s flexibility; weather and traffic can influence the timing and flow of the day, so a laid-back attitude can help you enjoy the experience without stress. This tour suits nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and food fans looking to explore beyond Sapporo’s city limits.

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

Good To Know

• Beautiful Flower Fields: You’ll get to witness vibrant, seasonal blooms at Farm Tomita and Shikisai-no-oka, perfect for photos and relaxing strolls.
• Unique Blue Pond: The Blue Pond offers a surreal landscape, with water so striking that it looks almost otherworldly.
• Informed Guide Service: Guides speak multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, and Cantonese, adding a friendly, informative touch.
• All-You-Can-Eat Melon: The buffet features regional specialties, with melons being a highlight—fresh, sweet, and refreshing.
• Flexible Schedule: The itinerary can shift due to weather or traffic, so patience is key for enjoying each stop.
• Group Size: With a maximum of 25 travelers, it maintains a friendly, less crowded feel.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Start of the Day: Convenient Meet-up and Transportation

The tour begins with a pick-up from a centrally located meeting point in Sapporo. The round-trip transfer makes this trip hassle-free, especially after a long flight or busy day. The transport is comfortable, and with a maximum group size of 25, you won’t feel lost in a crowd. Guides are bilingual or multilingual, ensuring clear communication and insights about the stops.

Morning: Farm Tomita and Shikisai-no-oka

The first stops are the famous Farm Tomita and Shikisai-no-oka, both offering spectacular displays of seasonal flowers. Farm Tomita is renowned for its lavender fields, but depending on the season, you might see vibrant tulips, cosmos, or sunflowers. The sheer scale of the flower fields is impressive, and we loved the way the colors contrast with the blue sky.

Shikisai-no-oka expands on this floral theme with a sprawling garden of colorful blooms set against the rolling countryside. Visitors have ample time to walk along the paths, take photos, and soak in the peaceful ambiance. One reviewer noted, “The colors were so vivid, and it was a perfect spot for photos—I could have stayed all day.” These stops are ideal for photography fans or anyone seeking a moment of calm amidst nature.

Midday: The Blue Pond Experience

After the flower fields, the tour heads to the Blue Pond in Biei, a site that’s become iconic for its almost unreal waters. The pond’s mesmerizing blue hue is caused by mineral and algae content, and on sunny days, it produces a mirror-like surface reflecting the sky and surrounding trees.

Travelers have shared that the Blue Pond feels like stepping into a painting, and many appreciate the chance to capture stunning photos. One guest mentioned, “It’s almost surreal—like looking into a different world.” Keep in mind, the visit duration depends on traffic and weather, so your time here can vary, but the views are well worth the wait.

Afternoon: Buffet Lunch and Leisure

Later in the day, the tour includes a buffet lunch featuring regional favorites like Jingisukan (grilled lamb), Furano omurice, soup curry, and Hokkaido ramen. But the star of the meal might be the all-you-can-eat melon or cantaloupe, a sweet, juicy treat that perfectly complements the meal.

The buffet is designed to offer a hearty taste of Hokkaido’s culinary style, and many reviewers praise the delicious food and generous portions. One traveler raved about the “perfectly sweet melons” and called the buffet “a highlight of the day.” The meal provides a satisfying break before the afternoon’s final scenic stops.

End of the Tour: Flexibility and Return

The tour wraps up with a scenic drive back to Sapporo. Because the schedule depends on traffic and weather, it’s advisable to keep some flexibility after the tour ends. If you’re planning other activities or flights, check the return timings accordingly.

Practical Aspects We Considered

Duration and Pacing

The 9 to 10-hour schedule makes it a full day but not overwhelming. The stops are well-timed, giving you enough time for photos and exploration without feeling rushed. However, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or variable weather, consider this when booking.

Transportation Comfort

The round-trip transfer ensures minimal hassle, with air-conditioned buses that are clean and comfortable. The small group size enhances the experience, making it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention.

Cost and Value

At $92.88 per person, this tour offers a lot—guided transport, admission fees, a regional buffet, and unique scenic spots. While it isn’t the cheapest option, the convenience and quality of stops justify the price for most travelers. The inclusion of the melon buffet adds a bonus of regional flavor that’s not always part of similar tours.

Who Should Book?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive taste of Biei and Furano’s beauty, as well as those who enjoy photography, nature, and regional food. It’s also suitable for families, given the relaxed pace and scenic stops, but note that children aged 0-2 are free only if they do not occupy a seat.

Final Thoughts

This Hokkaido day tour packs a lot into a manageable, well-organized day. You’ll leave with a camera full of stunning images, a satisfied palate from regional cuisine, and memories of some of Japan’s most picturesque landscapes. The combination of colorful flower fields, the surreal Blue Pond, and the tasty buffet makes it a practical, value-packed option for travelers wanting a bit of everything.

The tour’s flexibility—subject to weather and traffic—means that a relaxed attitude will serve you well. For those keen on authentic, scenic experiences coupled with regional flavors, this trip hits the right notes. It’s particularly suited to travelers who value convenience without sacrificing authenticity or natural beauty.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
You get guided transportation, admission to Shikisai-no-oka, a hearty buffet lunch including regional dishes, and all-you-can-eat melon or cantaloupe if you select that option.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, from pick-up in Sapporo to return after the scenic stops.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children aged 0-2 are free if they do not need a seat, and children 12+ pay the same as adults.

Is the schedule flexible?
The itinerary may shift depending on weather and traffic, affecting the duration at each stop.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended to fully enjoy the flower fields and Blue Pond.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

How is the group size?
A maximum of 25 travelers keeps the experience intimate and manageable.

Is there a guide?
Yes, guides are fluent in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, and Cantonese.

What’s the highlight of the buffet?
Most visitors rave about the sweet, juicy melons, which are a regional specialty and a refreshing treat during the trip.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded day of stunning scenery, cultural flavor, and easy logistics—especially suited for those wanting to see the best of Biei and Furano without the hassle of planning. With beautiful photo opportunities, delicious regional food, and a friendly guide, it’s a memorable way to experience Hokkaido’s natural charm.