Sapporo to Blue Pond & Shirahige Falls Furano Private Tour

Traveling in Japan often means navigating busy cities, but this private tour from Sapporo offers a peaceful escape into some of Hokkaido’s most stunning natural sights. For anyone craving a personalized, flexible day trip that blends scenic drives with iconic photo stops, this tour is worth considering. With the convenience of private transportation, you get a comfortable, intimate experience that’s tailored to your interests.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the customizable itinerary allows you to prioritize the spots you most want to see. Second, the photo stops at scenic points like Patchwork Road let you capture the rolling hills and vibrant landscapes of Hokkaido. Lastly, the small, private group setting ensures a more relaxed, personalized experience—not to mention a chance to ask your driver/guide questions about local culture and nature.

That said, the tour is quite long—around 9 hours—so it’s not ideal for those with limited mobility or very tight schedules. Also, some sights like Blue Pond might not look as striking in winter if snow accumulates, altering the usual vibrant blue hue. Still, for lovers of nature and photography, this day trip is a fantastic way to see some of Furano’s most celebrated sights without the hassle of organizing transport yourself.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, are comfortable with a full day outdoors, and want a flexible, private tour that fits their pace.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience: You can tailor the itinerary within the available time.
• Scenic drives: Biei Patchwork Road offers unforgettable views and photo opportunities.
• Iconic sights: Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls are visually stunning, especially in good weather.
• Charming village visit: Ningle Terrace provides handcrafted goods, cozy cafés, and a peaceful forest atmosphere.
• Convenience: Pickup in Sapporo and private transportation make for an easy, stress-free day.
• Limited flexibility in poor weather or maintenance days: Some sites may not look their best, and scheduled maintenance could affect your plans.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Departure from Sapporo and Scenic Drive

The day starts early, with a pickup around 8 am, which is ideal for maximizing daylight hours. The journey to Furano isn’t rushed, thanks to private transportation, allowing you to relax and enjoy the views. The drive through Hokkaido’s gentle hills and patchwork farmland is a highlight itself. Many travelers mention how beautifully the landscape lends itself to photography, especially with the changing seasons.

A reviewer noted, “The drive along Biei Patchwork Road was breathtaking, with fields stretching for miles and perfect light for photos.” This part of the trip is a great chance to capture the essence of rural Hokkaido.

Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls

The star attractions are next. Blue Pond is famous for its vibrant turquoise water, caused by natural minerals. However, winter visitors should note that snow can affect the pond’s color, sometimes dulling the usual brilliance. Still, the falls nearby add a dynamic element with their cascading water, offering different photo angles and a chance to feel the power of nature.

One traveler commented, “Even in winter, the pond’s subtle colors and surrounding trees create a peaceful, almost surreal scene.” The tour includes enough time for memorable photos, so bring your camera.

Ningle Terrace: A Forest Village of Handcrafted Goods

After the natural wonders, the tour takes you to Ningle Terrace, a charming collection of artisan shops tucked into the forest. This spot is perfect for leisurely browsing local crafts or enjoying a warm coffee. Note that scheduled maintenance is set for November, so some shops may be temporarily unavailable during that month.

Visitors often appreciate the peaceful ambiance and the opportunity to buy authentic souvenirs directly from local artisans. One review said, “It’s like stepping into a fairy tale village—beautiful and quiet, with lovely cafés and handcrafted gifts.”

Return Journey

The return trip to Sapporo wraps up around 5 pm. The time on the road allows for some reflection on the day’s highlights, and the private vehicle provides comfort after a long day of exploring.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers great value in the sense that transportation, parking fees, and fuel are covered in the price. The Japanese driver, equipped with translation devices, ensures smooth navigation and ease of communication.

However, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan for a stop at a café during the day. Extra hours beyond the 10-hour limit will cost 6,000 JPY per hour, so it’s worth discussing your preferred pace with your driver to maximize your experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration & Flexibility: About 9 hours, with the option to customize within the timeframe. If you want more time at a specific spot, your driver can accommodate.
• Group Size: Up to 5 people, making it intimate and ideal for families, couples, or small groups.
• Weather Note: The tour requires good weather for optimal sightseeing. If canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.
• Accessibility: Near public transportation, but best suited for those comfortable with a full day of outdoor activity.
• Seasonal Caveats: In winter, snow may change the look of Blue Pond; Ningle Terrace may be closed for maintenance in November.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from Sapporo offers a fantastic way to see some of Hokkaido’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of driving yourself. It balances scenic beauty, cultural charm, and convenience, making it perfect for travelers who value flexibility and comfort.

While the price might seem steep for some, the inclusions—private vehicle, expert driver, and customizable itinerary—add value. It’s especially appealing if you’re visiting during good weather and want to explore at your own pace with a local guide.

For nature lovers, photographers, or anyone eager to escape urban life and soak in Hokkaido’s countryside, this tour provides a memorable, tailored experience that captures the essence of the region.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or infants? Yes, infant seats are available, making it a good option for families with small children.

How long is the total trip? The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including transportation time and stops.

Can I customize the itinerary? Yes, the itinerary can be adjusted within the available time, allowing you to prioritize your preferred sights.

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

Are meals included? No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy food at Ningle Terrace or nearby cafés.

Is the tour accessible for all travelers? It’s suitable for most travelers, but given the full day outdoors and walking involved, it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues.

What if I want to stay longer at a specific site? Extra hours can be booked at 6,000 JPY/hour, so discuss your plans with your driver beforehand.

How far in advance should I book? On average, travelers book about 52 days ahead, so early planning is recommended to secure your preferred date.