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

Planning a trip to Hokkaido? Then this Shikisai-no-Oka and Furano tour from Sapporo might just be the colorful, fragrant escape you’re dreaming of. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and honest reviews give us plenty of insight into what to expect. From sweeping flower fields to tranquil blue ponds, this experience combines natural beauty with holiday comfort.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility—no forced shopping stops, with plenty of time to simply enjoy the scenery. The delicious buffet lunch featuring fresh local ingredients, the breathtaking views from Tomita Farm, and the scenic drives along the roller coaster road are standouts. On the flip side, the tour’s length (around 9-10 hours) and reliance on weather conditions are worth considering if you’re short on time or cautious about outdoor plans.

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxing day amid nature’s colorful displays. If you love photography, botanical beauty, and picturesque landscapes without the hassle of strict schedules, this could be your perfect day out. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this tour a compelling choice.

Key Points

• Vast flower fields with over 30 varieties across 15 hectares, perfect for photos and wandering.
• Scenic drives including the roller coaster road and panoramic views of the Furano Basin.
• Unique natural sights like the misty Green Pond with its striking blue waters.
• Flexibility with no obligatory shopping or dining, allowing for a personalized experience.
• Delicious buffet lunch featuring fresh, local ingredients with options to suit various tastes.
• Authentic insights from fellow travelers highlight the tour’s value and thoughtful guide.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Scenic Drive along Roller Coaster Road in Biei

The journey begins with a drive along Biei’s famous Roller Coaster Road, which is less a road and more a gentle thrill ride. The undulating terrain sweeps through rolling hills, creating a landscape that looks like a living painting. This stretch is especially photogenic during summer and autumn, with vibrant greens and fiery foliage. Travelers have noted how the views make for perfect photo opportunities, with the natural curves adding drama to the landscape.

One reviewer, Jaen_A, appreciated the guide’s storytelling about Japanese values and history during the drive, which adds cultural context to the natural scenery. The drive lasts about 3 hours, giving ample time to stop, snap photos, and soak in the views.

Shirogane Blue Pond – Nature’s Surreal Art

Next, the tour takes you to Shirogane Blue Pond, a site that often feels more like a surreal painting than a pond. The natural minerals in the water give it a vivid turquoise hue, creating a perfectly peaceful scene. Lush forests surround the pond, and the partially submerged birch and larch trees add an almost mystical element. This stop typically lasts around an hour, providing enough time to walk the paths and capture photos of its unforgettable waters.

Visitors often comment on the pond’s tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for reflection or just enjoying the quiet beauty of nature.

Herb Garden Furano – Fragrance and Color

The next stop, Herb Garden Furano, offers a sensory feast with its aromatic herbs and blooms. Lavender, chamomile, and other fragrant plants fill the air, and the garden’s panoramic views of the countryside are spectacular. There’s a charming gift shop and a cozy café where you can enjoy herbal teas or grab a quick treat.

Guests usually spend around an hour here, appreciating the colorful displays and fragrant atmosphere. It’s a good chance to relax and take some memorable photos, or pick up a souvenir infused with local herbs.

Shikisai-no-Oka – A Flower Wonderland

The highlight for many is Shikisai-no-Oka, a sprawling flower park that resembles a colorful patchwork quilt. The rolling hills are dotted with over 30 varieties of flowers, from tulips and sunflowers to lavender and poppies. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, hop on a tractor ride for a panoramic view, or simply relax amidst the vibrant blooms.

The area transforms with the seasons but remains stunning year-round. Visitors have described it as a “delightful” and “beautiful” spot, with the opportunity to capture endless photo moments.

Farm Tomita – The Lavender Capital

The day concludes at Farm Tomita, famous for its breathtaking lavender fields. During summer, the farm’s rows of purple blooms stretch as far as the eye can see, filling the air with their sweet scent. The farm also offers lavender-related products like ice cream, essential oils, and souvenirs—though shopping isn’t forced, many find it tempting to take home a fragrant memento.

Visitors love climbing to the top of the fields for panoramic views of the Furano Basin and Tokachidake Mountains, creating a perfect end to a day filled with natural beauty. The farm’s atmosphere is both lively and peaceful, with enough time to wander and enjoy.

Dining and Flexibility

One of the tour’s key strengths is the buffet lunch, offering fresh, local ingredients from Biei and Furano. Reviewers mention the lunch is delicious, with some highlighting the quality and freshness of the food as a standout value. The meal is optional, giving you the freedom to skip if you prefer a lighter snack or want to explore local eateries independently.

What makes this tour appealing is its lack of mandatory shopping stops or high-pressure sales. It’s designed for travelers who want to experience the scenery at their own pace, rather than being rushed through a tightly scripted schedule. The overall duration of 9-10 hours, including travel, allows for a relaxed but full day of sightseeing.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour is operated by TrevoTour Travels and tends to have a maximum of 100 travelers, but the reviews and itinerary suggest it’s generally a comfortable group size that allows for interaction without feeling crowded. The transportation is comfortable, with a reliable vehicle suitable for scenic drives and mountain roads.

Practical Considerations

Price: At $109.99 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the quality of sights and the included buffet lunch. The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the trip, with multiple stops and scenic drives packed into a single day.

Duration: The 9 to 10-hour schedule means you’ll need to be prepared for a long day, but the pacing seems well-balanced based on reviews. If you’re short on time or prefer a more leisurely experience, this is still manageable.

Weather: The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather might lead to cancellations or changes. It’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible.

Booking in advance: Most travelers book about 41 days ahead, which indicates the popularity and demand. Planning early ensures you secure a spot.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and travelers who value flexibility. If you’re seeking a comprehensive day of scenic drives, vibrant flower gardens, and peaceful natural sights without the pressure of shopping stops, this is a fantastic choice. The included buffet lunch adds to the value, making it easier to enjoy a full day without extra planning.

Those interested in learning a bit about local culture—especially through the guide’s insights—will find this tour even more rewarding. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic, and beautifully curated day trip from Sapporo, this ticks many boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as the stops involve walking and enjoying outdoor scenery. However, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at certain stops.

How long is the drive between stops?
The tour includes several stops with varying durations, and the overall drive is approximately 3 hours on the roller coaster road, with additional time spent at each site.

Is it necessary to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers tend to book about 41 days ahead. Booking early helps secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

Does the tour include shopping?
No, shopping isn’t part of the schedule. It’s designed for sightseeing and enjoying nature at your own pace.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and some snacks or water, though most of your needs are covered.

Can I skip the buffet lunch?
The lunch is optional. If you prefer, you can bring your own snacks or explore local eateries independently during the break.

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

Is there a guide?
While the tour is mostly self-guided, the guide shares insights about Japanese culture and history, enhancing the experience.

In summary, if you’re after a day filled with iconic Hokkaido scenery, vibrant flowers, and peaceful lakes—plus good food and flexible pacing—this Shikisai-no-Oka and Furano tour offers a well-rounded, memorable experience. It’s a fantastic way to see some of Japan’s most photographed landscapes with the comfort of a guided, thoughtfully designed day out.