Experience Shibazakura and Kamiyubetsu Tulips in 2 days

Exploring Hokkaido’s Floral Wonders in Just Two Days

If you’re dreaming of a quick escape into a sea of blossoms, this 2-day flower tour in eastern Hokkaido promises an impressive splash of color and scenic delight. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve studied its highlights closely and can tell you it’s a fantastic way to experience Japan’s springtime magic without the hassle of planning every detail.

What I love about this tour is its focus on iconic flower parks—from the moss phlox carpets at Higashimokoto to the tulip fields at Kamiyubetsu, you’ll get a vibrant palette along with panoramic views of Lake Mashu and Mt. Io Volcano. The inclusion of scenic drives and local specialties like crab bowls adds a layer of authentic regional flavor. Plus, the tour offers a practical mix of transportation, accommodations, and guided commentary, making it ideal for those who prefer a well-organized experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary is quite packed, which means long driving stretches and limited time at each stop. If you’re after deep, leisurely exploration, this might feel a tad rushed. However, for travelers eager to see a lot of Hokkaido’s floral highlights in a short window, it’s a smart choice. This tour suits nature lovers, flower enthusiasts, and first-time visitors to the region looking for a comprehensive, value-focused experience.

Key Points

• Beautiful Flower Displays: From moss phlox to tulips and shibazakura, the tour showcases Hokkaido’s most stunning spring blooms.
• Convenient All-Inclusive Format: Accommodation, meals, transportation, and guides are included, offering great value.
• Scenic Drives & Views: Expect breathtaking vistas of Lake Mashu and Mt. Io Volcano along the way.
• Efficient Itinerary: Covers three major flower parks plus regional highlights in just two days.
• Group Size & Guidance: Limited to 42 travelers, with a Japanese-speaking guide using a translation app for smooth communication.
• Flexible Options: Choices of accommodations range from hotel stays to traditional tatami rooms, with dinner included at one hotel if selected.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Sapporo to Bloom-filled Fields

Your adventure kicks off early at the Sapporo Eki Kitaguchi, with a 240-minute coach ride filled with anticipation and scenic countryside views. Though the journey is lengthy, it’s broken up by short restroom breaks, ensuring you’re comfortable as you settle into the trip. Expect to pass through lush farmland and low hills, setting the tone for the natural beauty ahead.

The first stop is at the Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park, where you’ll walk over an expansive 10,000-square-meter moss phlox carpet. The sight is utterly captivating—imagine a sea of pink, stretching as far as the eye can see, with some reviewers noting that the park offers “a magnificent display” that’s perfect for photos. The admission is included, making access straightforward and stress-free.

After soaking in the colors, it’s about an hour’s drive to Abashiri for overnight stays. Depending on your choice, you might stay at the Toyoko Inn or a hilltop hotel with views overlooking the city. Both options offer comfortable rooms, and most reviewers agree that the hotel options provide good value for the price, especially considering the included breakfast and location.

Day 2: Tulips, Coastal Charm, and More Shibazakura

Morning starts with a drive to Kamiyubetsu Tulip Park, home to over 700,000 tulips in bloom. The sight of so many colorful flowers in neat rows is a highlight, and visitors have described it as “a sea of vibrant color.” The park’s layout makes it easy to stroll and photograph the blooms, and the admission is included, so you can focus on enjoying rather than paying extra.

Next, you’ll head to Monbetsu, a charming port town where you’ll get to indulge in a regional specialty: the crab bowl served warm over rice. Reviewers have called this a “highlight of the trip,” noting the crabs’ sweetness and depth of flavor, which truly reflects local maritime riches.

Your afternoon concludes with a visit to Shibazakura Takinoue Park, a site that grew from humble beginnings into a major attraction. Travelers have expressed that the experience is “a peaceful, almost magical moment,” with the moss phlox here creating a striking contrast against the mountain backdrop. It’s a wonderful way to cap off the trip, especially if you appreciate the serene beauty of wildflower fields.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transportation & Comfort

The tour uses a comfortable coach for all transfers, with a maximum group size of 42 travelers. The drive times are substantial—expect around 2-3 hours each way on some days—so bring snacks, water, and a good playlist. The tour is designed for most travelers, with a Japanese-speaking guide who relies on a translation app. While this works well, travelers seeking deep cultural commentary might wish for a licensed guide, which the tour does not include.

Accommodation & Meals

Options include staying at Toyoko Inn or a hilltop hotel overlooking Abashiri. Both are praised for their cleanliness and comfort. Breakfast is included, and dinner at the Kanko Hotel is available if you choose the package, providing a taste of local hospitality. However, note that dinner on the first night isn’t included if you opt for a single room in Abashiri, so budget accordingly.

Timing & Peak Bloom

The tour departs at 8:00 am from Sapporo, with the itinerary carefully scheduled to maximize flower viewing. Keep in mind that flower blooms depend heavily on weather, and the peak isn’t guaranteed exactly on your travel date. Reviews indicate that the timing might be tight, and flower displays may vary slightly, but most travelers found the scenery stunning regardless.

Costs & Value

At $253.26 per person, the tour offers good value, especially considering that most major entrances, accommodations, and some meals are included. Long drives mean you’re paying for a convenient, guided experience rather than a DIY trip, which many find worthwhile.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This flower-filled adventure is perfect for travelers who want a snapshot of Hokkaido’s spring beauty without the hassle of planning logistics. If you enjoy vivid landscapes, colorful flower displays, and scenic drives, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s especially suitable for those new to Japan or visitors with limited time who want to see the region’s floral highlights.

Keep in mind that the itinerary is busy, and the long coach rides might be tiring for some. However, if you’re eager to enjoy abundant blooms, stunning views, and regional flavors in a well-organized package, this tour will deliver.

This experience is not ideal if you prefer deep local culture, leisurely exploration, or flexibility in your schedule. But for a straightforward, visually spectacular, and value-packed journey through eastern Hokkaido’s springtime landscapes, it checks all the boxes.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers round-trip bus transportation, overnight accommodation (depending on your option), breakfast, some dinners, and admission to the flower parks. A Japanese-speaking tour conductor is also provided, who uses a translation app for assistance.

How long are the travel times each day?
Expect about 2 to 3 hours of coach travel each day, with some short breaks. The long drives are part of the experience, offering scenic views along the way.

Can I choose my hotel options?
Yes, you can select between staying at the Toyoko Inn or the Abashiri Kanko Hotel, each offering different styles of accommodations—ranging from Western-style rooms to traditional Japanese tatami.

What about flower blooming periods?
The tour runs during peak bloom times, but actual flower display depends on weather conditions. The schedule is based on typical bloom periods, but blooms can vary, and some flowers may be less vibrant or shorter-lived depending on the weather.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the long coach rides and walking involved suggest it’s best suited for those comfortable with extended travel periods and some walking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be exploring parks and flower fields. Dressing in layers is wise, as spring weather can be unpredictable.

In summary, this tour offers a practical, scenic, and well-organized way to experience some of Hokkaido’s most beautiful springtime landscapes. It’s ideal for flower lovers, those seeking quick but memorable nature escapes, and travelers who appreciate the convenience of guided travel. Expect vibrant blooms, stunning vistas, and a gentle introduction to Japan’s northern flower season—all at a price that balances value and experience.