Cherry Blossom Experience including Shizunai Nijukken Road

Introduction

Our review of the Cherry Blossom Experience from Sapporo offers a clear picture of what you can expect from this popular seasonal tour. While we haven’t personally taken it, the details point to a well-organized and scenic outing that highlights Japan’s fleeting but stunning sakura season.

What we love about this tour is how it combines easy transportation, breathtaking views, and a taste of local flavor. You’ll spend time in the midst of over 3,000 cherry trees, enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch, and visit charming roadside stations—all without the hassle of planning your own logistics.

A potential consideration is the timing—the cherry blossoms bloom unpredictably with weather, so your experience might not hit peak bloom if the timing shifts. Still, it’s a flexible option for travelers who want a manageable and scenic way to enjoy Japan’s famed cherry blossom season.

This trip is ideal for those who value comfort, want to see the best spots without renting a car, and enjoy a mix of nature and local culture in a straightforward, well-paced tour.

Key Points

• Convenience: Travel comfortably on a round-trip bus without the stress of navigating public transport or driving.
• Scenic Beauty: A 7-kilometer avenue lined with over 2,000 cherry trees makes for breathtaking views.
• Authentic Experience: Includes a local lunch and visits to roadside stations for a genuine taste of Hokkaido.
• Flexible & Organized: The tour runs smoothly with a Japanese-speaking conductor and a set itinerary.
• Value for Money: At roughly $59, the experience offers a lot of scenic and cultural value.
• Timing Consideration: Peak bloom can vary, so check the bloom forecast if you’re visiting outside late April to early May.

A Detailed Look at the Cherry Blossom Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at the Sapporo Eki Kitaguchi, a convenient central location close to public transit. From here, you’ll board a comfortable coach with a maximum group size of 38 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate environment. While there’s no hotel pickup, most guests find the meeting point easy to reach, especially since it’s near the train station.

The main advantage of the bus is how it takes care of transportation logistics, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving or navigating busy roads. It’s an especially good option for those unfamiliar with Hokkaido’s rural areas or who prefer not to rent a car.

First Stop: Roadside Station Mukawa Shiki-no-yakata

This brief stop is primarily for stretching your legs and soaking in the local atmosphere. The station is described as a good place to explore local souvenirs and grab a quick rest before heading to the main event—the cherry blossom avenue. It’s a chance to get your bearings and enjoy the rural scenery as you begin your scenic drive.

Main Attraction: Nijukken Road Cherry Blossoms

The highlight of this tour is definitely Shizunai Nijukken Road, a 7-kilometer stretch lined with over 2,000 cherry trees. Walking or driving along this avenue lets you feel immersed in Japan’s sakura season, with the trees creating a tunnel of pink and white blossoms.

Travelers have found this spot to be rather spectacular, with one reviewer noting, “The cherry trees are absolutely stunning, and the length of the avenue makes for an impressive sight.” The timing of the visit is crucial because the tour’s success hinges on blooming conditions, which typically occur from late April to early May.

The 1.5-hour stop allows plenty of time for photos, a leisurely walk, or simply gazing at the floral spectacle. Since admission is free, you won’t have to worry about extra costs, and the relaxed pace caters to those who want to absorb the beauty without feeling rushed.

Return: Roadside Station Niikappu

On the way back, a short stop at the Thoroughbred Road Niikappu station offers a chance to stretch your legs and pick up some souvenirs. It’s a quick 20-minute break, but one that adds a dash of local flavor and a chance for shopping.

Included Lunch: Koraku Bento

A nice feature of this tour is the lunch box, called “Koraku Bento”. This Japanese-style meal provides an authentic taste of local cuisine and is a practical inclusion, saving you time and money. While the contents may vary depending on availability, most travelers find the bento to be satisfying and well-presented.

Tour Conductor and Language Support

The tour features a Japanese-speaking conductor who uses a translation app to assist non-Japanese speakers. While not a licensed guide, this setup ensures you get key information during the trip. Some reviews mention that the conductor’s explanations are clear and helpful, adding context about the areas visited.

Analyzing the Value

At $59.20, the tour offers a comprehensive experience—scenic drives, cultural stops, and local cuisine—all in one day. The price includes round-trip bus transportation, the lunch, and the guided commentary, making it a convenient and affordable way to enjoy Hokkaido’s cherry blossoms.

Compared to the cost and effort of renting a car or arranging multiple independent outings, this tour saves you time, eliminates stress, and guarantees you won’t miss key spots at the right time.

The small group size (max 38 travelers) enhances the overall experience, allowing for more personalized attention, and the organized schedule ensures you cover the main highlights within a manageable 7-hour window.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Dress comfortably and practically; the weather can vary, and you’ll likely be walking or standing outside.
• Check the bloom forecast beforehand to maximize the chance of seeing peak blossoms.
• Don’t forget your camera—this is a prime opportunity for memorable photos of pink-tinged landscapes.
• Since food allergies are not accommodated, consider bringing extra snacks if needed.
• Be punctual, as delays in public transportation or arriving late at the meeting point could lead to missing the tour.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see Japan’s cherry blossoms without the hassle of planning. It’s suitable for those with limited time, families, or anyone who prefers a relaxed, guided approach. If you’re keen on stunning scenery and local culture, this tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into both.

The Sum Up

In essence, the Cherry Blossom Experience including Shizunai Nijukken Road offers a thoughtfully curated day out. It’s a seamless way to witness Japan’s iconic sakura season, complemented by local stops and a convenient, comfortable transport option.

While the timing of the blossoms can vary, most travelers will find this tour provides great value and memorable views. It’s especially suited for those who want a straightforward, hassle-free way to enjoy one of Japan’s most celebrated natural spectacles.

FAQs

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 46 days ahead, as it’s a popular experience during cherry blossom season.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the designated meeting point near Sapporo station.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire trip lasts around 7 hours, starting at 9:30am and returning to the meeting point.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children aged 3-5 can participate, but only a bus seat is included in their rate.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be outside and possibly walking.

Is there an English-speaking guide?
No, but there is a Japanese-speaking conductor who uses a translation app to assist non-Japanese speakers.

Will I see the blossoms at their peak?
It depends on weather conditions; the tour is scheduled based on typical bloom times from late April to early May, but blooms can vary annually.

This tour offers a practical yet enchanting way to experience Japan’s beloved cherry blossom season, perfect for travelers eager to enjoy the sights without the fuss.