Shikisai-no-Oka and Furano Tour with buffet lunch from Sapporo

This tour offers a comprehensive peek into Japan’s stunning Hokkaido countryside, combining vibrant flower fields, serene blue ponds, and mountain vistas—all without the obligation to shop or overpay. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a good value for those eager to experience Japan’s natural beauty beyond the city.

What we really like about this trip is its freedom—it’s designed so you can explore at your own pace, plus the delicious buffet lunch featuring fresh local ingredients makes the day feel both indulgent and authentic. Also, the scenic drives along the roller coaster road and the breathtaking views from Tomita Farm stand out as highlights.

That said, one consideration to keep in mind: the tour’s length can be quite full, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are prone to fatigue, plan accordingly.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a visual feast of flowers and scenery without the pressure of shopping or overly structured schedules. If you’re a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful landscapes, this trip checks many boxes.

Key Points

• Self-guided and flexible exploration of stunning sites.
• Delicious buffet lunch with regional ingredients.
• Scenic drives including the famous Roller Coaster Road and mountain vistas.
• Multiple photo-worthy stops like Blue Pond and patchwork flower fields.
• Focus on natural beauty with no forced shopping or additional costs.
• Ideal for travelers wanting a full day immersed in Hokkaido’s landscapes.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Roller Coaster Road: The Undulating Scenic Drive

The journey begins with a drive along Roller Coaster Road in Biei, famous for its ups and downs that mimic a roller coaster. While it’s just a drive, the views are anything but ordinary. The rolling hills, patchwork fields, and distant mountains create a perfect background for photos. Travelers who enjoy panoramic landscapes will appreciate the chance to stop and snap pictures at various viewpoints. The road’s undulating terrain, combined with expansive fields, makes it feel like you’re riding along a natural amusement park—and you might find yourself daydreaming about how the land was shaped over centuries.

This stretch lasts about 3 hours, with no entrance fees, making it a relaxed, scenic start. Expect plenty of stops for photos, especially during summer and autumn when the colors are at their most vibrant.

Shirogane Blue Pond: A Surreal Water Feature

Next, the tour takes you to Shirogane Blue Pond, an iconic site that’s hard to forget. The pond’s vivid blue waters owe their hue to natural mineral deposits, creating a surreal, almost paint-like effect. Surrounded by forests and with trees partly submerged, it’s a favorite for photographers and tranquility seekers alike.

Visitors can walk along designated paths and observation points to appreciate its magical glow. The pond’s serene setting offers a quiet moment to reflect and enjoy nature’s artistry. With a one-hour visit, it’s enough time to take plenty of photos and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Herb Garden Furano: Fragrant Fields and Panoramas

The next stop is Herb Garden Furano, where fragrant herbs and colorful flowers create a feast for the senses. Wander through landscaped gardens filled with lavender, chamomile, and other herbs, and enjoy sweeping views of the countryside. The garden shop offers herbal-infused products and souvenirs, and the on-site café serves herbal teas and light treats—great for a quick refresh.

This stop is perfect for those who love aromatic environments and want to experience the scent and sight of herbs at their peak. It provides a slower pace to enjoy the scenery and pick up some unique souvenirs.

Shikisai-no-Oka: A Rainbow of Flowers

At Shikisai-no-Oka, the highlight is an expansive flower park with fields stretching over 15 hectares. This patchwork of colors and textures is especially vibrant from spring to fall, featuring tulips, sunflowers, and seasonal blooms. Visitors can stroll through the fields, take a tractor ride for better views, or simply sit and admire the colors.

Photographers and flower lovers will find this a highlight—an ideal spot to absorb Hokkaido’s floral beauty. When winter arrives, the site transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering snow activities like sledding, but during the trip, the summer and autumn blooms are the main attraction.

Farm Tomita: Lavender and More

The final major stop is Farm Tomita, renowned for its lavender fields. In summer, the scent alone is enough to make your day; the fields are a sea of purple, with plenty of spots for photos. Besides lavender, the farm features other flowers, creating a colorful mosaic. The farm shop sells lavender ice cream, essential oils, and souvenirs—perfect for a sweet ending.

You’ll have about four hours here, plenty of time to wander the gardens, learn about lavender oil production at the distillery, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a fragrant, aromatic conclusion to a day filled with natural beauty.

The Practicalities and Value

This tour, offered by TrevoTour Travels, costs $109.99 per person, which, considering the number of stops and the buffet lunch, seems reasonable. The price includes the buffet—featuring regional ingredients—adding value for travelers seeking authentic local flavors without extra charges. The tour’s total duration is around 9 to 10 hours, including travel time, making it a full day adventure.

The group size is capped at 100 travelers, but reviews suggest the experience is well-managed, with a knowledgeable guide who speaks multiple languages. One reviewer highlighted that the guide shares Japanese culture and history, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Most travelers find the tour accessible, with confirmation provided swiftly after booking. It’s important to note that the schedule can shift depending on weather and traffic but generally runs smoothly.

Transportation & Comfort

Most of the day involves comfortable bus travel through scenic Hokkaido countryside, making it easy to relax and enjoy the views without the hassle of driving yourself. The stops are spaced out to avoid burnout, though the entire day still packs in quite a bit.

What’s Missing?

While the tour offers plenty of natural beauty, it doesn’t include shopping or other commercial stops, which can be a plus for those wanting a more authentic experience. However, the long hours might be tiring for travelers less accustomed to full-day excursions.

Feedback from Travelers

One reviewer noted, “We appreciate the tour guide: he shares Japanese values and history, helping us better understand what we see. He was thoughtful and spoke in four languages,” highlighting the value of having a multilingual guide who cares about guests’ experience.

Another review pointed out the value for money, emphasizing the quality of the scenery and the food. Many travelers found the variety of stops allowed them to enjoy a broad spectrum of Hokkaido’s landscapes without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Sapporo offers a well-rounded glimpse into Hokkaido’s natural splendor, combining visual delights with regional cuisine. Its main strengths are the stunning flower fields, the magical Blue Pond, and the delicious buffet lunch that makes the day feel more indulgent. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a full day of scenic photography, peaceful nature, and leisurely exploration.

While the itinerary is packed, it’s designed to maximize your exposure to Hokkaido’s signature sights without feeling overly commercial or forced. The group size and multilingual guide add a touch of comfort and cultural insight, making it a practical choice for many.

If you’re after a picture-perfect day in Hokkaido’s countryside and enjoy a bit of guided touring with the freedom to explore, this trip offers solid value. Just be prepared for a full day, and wear comfortable shoes—your camera will thank you.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The tour includes visits to all listed stops, a buffet lunch with regional ingredients, and transportation by bus. Entry to each site is free, and there are no shopping obligations.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 9 to 10 hours, including travel time, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the full day might be tiring for very young children or those with limited mobility, due to the length and walking involved.

Are there any optional activities?
The tour itself doesn’t require optional add-ons, but at Farm Tomita, you might choose to buy lavender products or try lavender ice cream.

How is the weather handled?
The schedule may change depending on weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a guide present during the stops?
While the guide shares cultural insights, the stops are mostly self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

Can I customize this tour?
This particular tour is a fixed itinerary, but you may find similar experiences with private or flexible options if you want more control over your day.

This comprehensive tour offers a delightful balance of scenery, culture, and relaxation—an excellent way to see some of Hokkaido’s most iconic sights in one day. Perfect for travelers wanting authentic natural beauty, good value, and a touch of adventure.