Sapporo: Furano Lavender & Biei Blue Pond Tour with Lunch

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through fields of lavender, snapping photos of mirror-like blue ponds, and tasting sweet Yubari melons, then this tour promises a slice of Hokkaido’s natural beauty. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it delivers a satisfying mix of scenery, culture, and delicious food—all packed into a manageable day trip from Sapporo.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to see Blue Pond’s famous liquid mirror waters – a spot that even inspired Apple’s MacOS wallpaper. Second, the opportunity to stroll through flower fields bursting with color in Furano and Biei, with plenty of time to soak in the views. Third, the buffet lunch featuring Hokkaido specialties and unlimited Yubari melon is a real highlight for food lovers. One consideration is that the tour can feel a bit rushed, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating or if you’re hoping for a leisurely pace.

This trip is perfect for anyone who loves nature photography, scenic drives, and authentic regional flavors. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a guided, well-organized day that covers some of Hokkaido’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

Key Points

• Stunning Photo Opportunities: Blue Pond, flower fields, and panoramic views combine for perfect Instagram moments.
• Comprehensive Experience: From waterfalls to lavender oceans, the tour covers varied landscapes and attractions.
• Delicious Food Included: A buffet lunch featuring local specialties and sweet Yubari melon adds a tasty highlight.
• Knowledgeable Guides & Flexibility: Clear commentary and free exploration time enrich the experience.
• Convenient Transportation: Roundtrip from Sapporo simplifies logistics, with options for hotel pickup.
• Potential Rushed Feel: The schedule is tight, so expect to see many sights in a short time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This full-day excursion kicks off early at 8:00 AM, either with a group meeting at Sapporo Station or via hotel pickup if you’re staying within 3 km of the station. The day is designed to maximize sightseeing while maintaining a manageable pace, with a typical departure from the city at 8 AM and return around 6 or 7 PM.

Morning: Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls

At 10:30 AM, you’ll arrive at Biei Blue Pond, a location famed for its liquid mirror waters that resemble a painting. The pond’s aquamarine hues shift with sunlight and weather conditions, making it a favorite for photographers. Reviewers mention the eastern bank as the best spot to capture the volcanic blues melting into the distant Daisetsuzan peaks—perfect for those who love landscape shots.

Next, you’ll visit Shirahige Falls, a rare subterranean waterfall fed by glaciers. The 30-meter cascade creates mist and rainbows that give a mystical feel, with reviews praising the refreshing mist and the scenic cobalt-blue rivers.

Midday: Scenic Drive & Delicious Lunch

The tour then takes a scenic drive through Roller Coaster Road, a stretch known for its dips and panoramic views of patchwork farmland rolling toward the Tokachi Mountains. The views here are so quintessentially Hokkaido that you’ll want to have your camera ready.

Lunchtime at Herb Garden Furano offers more than just fuel. Guests rave about the Hokkaido buffet, which includes ramen, curry, salads, and local hot dishes. An optional upgrade to unlimited Yubari King Melon is available, which many reviewers highlight as a highlight—the sweetest, juiciest melon you’ll ever taste. One guest called it “divine,” and the consensus is that the meal is a satisfying break from sightseeing.

Afternoon: Flower Fields & Lavender Magic

Post-lunch, you’ll explore Shikisai-no-Oka, a sprawling floral farm covering 15 hectares. Depending on the season, you’ll encounter lavender waves, poppies, sunflowers, tulips, or cosmos, with each offering vibrant photo opportunities. Visitors mention feeding adorable alpacas (for a small fee), adding a charming farm touch to the day.

Later, if timing permits, you may visit Farm Tomita — Japan’s most famous lavender farm. Here, the rolling purple waves creating vistas toward the Tokachi Mountains are often described as breathtaking, especially in July when the lavender is at its peak. The Irodori Fields rainbow stripes—poppies and sunflowers—are another seasonal highlight.

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Ending the Day

The tour wraps up around 3:50 PM, with a return to Sapporo arriving by early evening. The entire experience is designed to be a manageable blend of sightseeing, photo ops, and relaxation, with the driver/guide providing commentary and ensuring smooth transitions between stops.

Practical Details & Value

The tour is priced at $94 per person, which includes roundtrip transportation, buffet lunch, fuel, tolls, and the guide. For a full day of exploring some of Hokkaido’s most iconic locations, this represents good value, especially considering the convenience of transportation and the inclusion of food.

The group size is limited (up to 9 guests), fostering a more intimate experience. The tour is conducted in multiple languages, with guides providing clear explanations, especially in English, which reviewers appreciated.

What’s not included? Entrance fees for optional attractions or souvenirs, so if you’re keen to visit specific sites or purchase local crafts, budget accordingly.

Transportation & Punctuality

Transportation is by comfortable bus, and punctuality is strict. Reviews mention the driver, GEM, as courteous, reliable, and good at English communication. Be prepared to arrive early for pickup or meet at the designated spot, as late arrivals are not accommodated.

Weather & Clothing

Weather can vary, especially in the mountains. Guests recommend packing weather-appropriate clothing—layers, rain gear, or sun protection—as the experience can be affected by weather conditions, which influence the colors and visibility of certain sights.

Authentic Experiences & Unique Highlights

Many reviews emphasize the quality of the guide’s commentary, with GEM providing informative and friendly service. Guests loved that they had ample free time to explore and take photos, especially at the flower fields and lavender farm.

The lunch buffet receives high praise, often described as delicious with a variety of local dishes and the famous Yubari melon being a real treat. This meal not only fuels your afternoon but also gives a taste of Hokkaido’s culinary richness.

The visit to Shirahige Falls is a rare opportunity to see a subterranean waterfall, something most travelers don’t get to experience. The Blue Pond remains a highlight, especially for its liquid mirror effect—a surreal scene that looks even better in person than on Instagram.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for nature lovers, photographers, and those eager to see Japan’s scenic countryside without the hassle of self-driving. It’s also perfect for travelers looking to sample regional food, especially the famous Yubari melon, and for families or groups wanting a structured, worry-free day trip.

People who value guidance and insights about local spots will appreciate the knowledgeable commentary, while those seeking a relaxed pace will find the free exploration time at certain stops a bonus.

The Sum Up

This Sapporo to Furano and Biei tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of some of Hokkaido’s most iconic sights. Its key strength lies in combining stunning landscapes, delicious regional cuisine, and expert guides, all within a comfortable, organized package.

While the schedule can feel a little rushed — particularly if you’re eager to linger — the beauty of the Blue Pond, the vibrancy of flower fields, and the mouthwatering Yubari melons make it a worthwhile day out. For travelers seeking an authentic, scenic adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and local flavor, this tour hits many of the right notes.

It’s especially ideal for those who want a hassle-free, guided experience that covers a lot of ground without sacrificing quality or authenticity. Just remember to dress appropriately for the weather and keep your camera ready — this is one day you’ll want to remember forever.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Sapporo is included, with options for hotel pickup within 3 km of Sapporo Station.

What should I bring?
Pack weather-appropriate clothing, layers, and a camera. Light luggage is recommended since space is limited on the bus.

How long is each stop?
Most stops are around 20-60 minutes, with some flexibility depending on weather and traffic. Expect to spend about an hour at Shikisai-no-Oka and lunch.

Can I upgrade the lunch?
Yes, there’s an optional upgrade to unlimited Yubari Melon, which many guests rave about as the highlight of their meal.

What if it rains?
The sites are outdoors, so rain can affect visibility and photos. It’s wise to bring rain gear or an umbrella, and be prepared for potential schedule adjustments.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children under 3 travel free but must sit on a guardian’s lap. The tour is not suitable for those over 80 years old.

What language is the guide?
Guides are multilingual, offering explanations mainly in English, Chinese, Japanese, and Traditional Chinese.

Is the tour rushed?
Some reviews mention feeling a bit rushed, especially if you want to explore each site at a leisurely pace. The schedule is quite packed to cover all highlights.

Can I join if I’m traveling solo?
Absolutely. The group size is small, making it ideal for solo travelers to meet others while enjoying a personalized experience.

What’s the best season for this tour?
While available year-round, July and August are peak times for lavender and flower fields, with vibrant colors and full blooms.

This guide should help you decide whether this tour fits your Hokkaido adventure plans. With well-curated stops, delicious regional food, and friendly guides, it’s a solid choice for capturing the spirit and beauty of Japan’s northern landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: