Furano & Biei 6 Hour Tour: English Speaking Driver Only, No Guide

The Furano & Biei 6 Hour Tour provides a convenient way to explore Hokkaido’s stunning landscapes without the need for a licensed guide. With an English-speaking driver at the helm, travelers can enjoy a hassle-free journey while visiting iconic attractions like the lavender fields of Farm Tomita and the Furano Cheese Craft Center. This customizable tour, which accommodates up to four passengers, has earned a remarkable 4.8-star rating, making it a popular choice for those seeking a personalized experience in the region. But what we love about this tour, and why might it be the perfect fit for your Hokkaido adventure?

Key Points

• This private full-day tour explores the scenic Furano and Biei regions of Hokkaido, Japan with an English-speaking driver but no licensed guide.
• The flexible 6-hour itinerary allows customization to visit 3-4 popular sites, including the iconic Farm Tomita’s lavender fields and Ningle Terrace.
• Transportation is provided in a private air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup and drop-off at designated hotels in Furano or Biei.
• The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infant seats available, and all highway and parking fees are included.
• The driver is available via phone for questions or needs during the tour, providing a personalized and hassle-free sightseeing experience.

Tour Overview

This private full-day tour of Furano and Biei in Hokkaido, Japan, lasts 6 hours and can accommodate up to four passengers.

It’s an English-speaking driver-only tour, without a licensed guide. Visitors can customize the itinerary, choosing 3-4 popular sites like the lavender fields at Farm Tomita, the Ningle Terrace shopping area, the Furano Cheese Craft Center, and the Furano Wine Factory.

Pick-up and drop-off are available from hotels in Furano or Biei. The tour includes transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, highway and parking fees, and a fuel surcharge.

Customers can communicate with the driver via phone during the tour.

Itinerary and Customization

Although the tour can be tailored to the interests of each group, visitors typically choose 3-4 sites from a provided list of popular destinations.

The tour highlights some of the most iconic sights in the Furano and Biei regions, including:

1. The lavender fields at Farm Tomita, famous for their stunning purple hues.
2. The picturesque Ningle Terrace, a quaint shopping village showcasing local artisanal crafts.
3. The Furano Cheese Craft Center, where visitors can sample and purchase a variety of delicious local cheeses.

The tour offers flexibility, allowing guests to customize their experience to suit their preferences.

Transportation and Accessibility

The tour offers private air-conditioned transportation throughout the 6-hour experience.

Passengers can be picked up and dropped off at their hotels in Furano or Biei.

The vehicle is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infant seats available, though rear-facing car seats aren’t provided.

All highway and parking fees, as well as the fuel surcharge, are included in the tour price.

This ensures a hassle-free and comfortable journey as you explore the scenic Furano and Biei regions of Hokkaido.

Communication and Support

Passengers can reach the driver via phone during the tour for any questions or needs.

For pre-tour communication, travelers can email the tour operator. Upon booking, customers will receive a confirmation that includes the driver’s contact information.

The tour provides the following support:

1. Driver availability via phone throughout the tour.
2. Pre-tour communication via email.
3. Confirmation provided at the time of booking, including cancellation policy.

This English-speaking driver-only tour offers a seamless way for travelers to explore Furano and Biei without the need for a licensed guide, ensuring a personalized and flexible sightseeing experience.

Traveler Feedback and Reviews

Six reviews of the Furano & Biei 6 Hour Tour have been left by travelers, resulting in an impressive 4.8-star rating.

Reviewers praised the driver’s friendliness and extensive knowledge of the local area.

Travelers appreciated the tour’s flexibility, noting the ability to adjust the schedule and stops as needed.

One reviewer, LoriAnne_S, summed it up: "Our driver was absolutely amazing! Highly recommend this tour."

Exploring the Lavender Fields at Farm Tomita

As the tour takes visitors to the stunning lavender fields of Farm Tomita, they’ll be captivated by the vibrant purple hues that stretch out before them.

The tour offers:

1. The chance to stroll through rows of fragrant lavender, taking in the calming scents and sights.
2. Photo opportunities galore, with the lavender fields providing a picturesque backdrop for memorable shots.
3. The option to visit the on-site gift shop, where visitors can purchase lavender-infused products, from essential oils to sachets.

The lavender fields at Farm Tomita are a highlight of this Furano and Biei tour, providing a serene and visually stunning experience.

Shopping and Dining at Ningle Terrace

One of the highlights of the Furano and Biei tour is the visit to Ningle Terrace, a charming shopping and dining complex nestled amidst the picturesque countryside.

Ningle Terrace features a collection of quaint wooden cabins housing artisanal shops and cafes. Visitors can browse through a variety of locally-made crafts, from pottery and glassware to knitted goods and woodcarvings.

The on-site cafes offer the chance to sample regional cuisine and delicacies, such as Furano cheese and wine.

With its tranquil atmosphere and unique shopping experience, Ningle Terrace is a popular stop on the Furano and Biei tour.

Visiting the Furano Cheese Craft Center and Wine Factory

The Furano Cheese Craft Center and Wine Factory are two must-visit attractions on the Furano and Biei tour.

Visitors can:

1. Watch cheesemakers hand-craft artisanal cheeses and sample their products at the Cheese Craft Center.
2. Explore the Furano Wine Factory, where local wines are produced from the region’s grapes.
3. Learn about the production process and taste the distinctive flavors of Hokkaido’s wine and cheese offerings.

These stops showcase the region’s culinary heritage and allow travelers to enjoy the local food and beverage culture.

The tour’s flexibility ensures guests can tailor their experience to their preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Add Extra Stops Beyond the Suggested Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional stops beyond the popular sites. The driver is flexible and will work with you to adjust the itinerary based on your interests and preferences.

Are the Tour Guides Fluent in Multiple Languages?

The tour does not include a licensed guide. The driver provides transportation and basic information, but they are not fluent in multiple languages. Travelers must communicate in English with the driver during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There is no option to extend the tour duration beyond the advertised 6 hours. The tour package is fixed and doesn’t offer flexibility to increase the tour length. Customization is limited to selecting 3-4 sites from a pre-determined list.

Can I Request a Child Safety Seat for Young Children?

Yes, the tour provider offers a limited number of infant seats for young children. Passengers can request these seats when making their booking, though availability may be limited.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Snacks and drinks are not provided on this tour, so travelers will need to bring their own. The tour does not include any catering services, so it’s recommended to pack any desired refreshments for the 6-hour excursion.

The Sum Up

The Furano & Biei 6 Hour Tour provides a hassle-free way to explore Hokkaido’s stunning landscapes. With an English-speaking driver and a customizable itinerary, travelers can discover iconic attractions like the lavender fields and cheese craft center at their own pace. The tour’s high ratings and positive feedback suggest it’s a reliable and enjoyable option for those seeking a private, guided experience in this picturesque region of Japan.