The hills in Hokkaido's Furano and Biei areas are colored purple with lavender fields where a variety of flower gardens can be seen. This exquisite scenery is a source of local pride.
Get out and enjoy the great views of Biei and Furano lavender fields by visiting during their blooming season, which is from mid to late July.
While these fields are positioned closer to the city of Asahikawa, there are many ways to get there, making a day trip from Sapporo possible. Here we share the perfect itinerary to make the most of the region!
Plan your Sapporo to Furano Day Trip: Furano Lavender Fields and Biei Hill Drive
■ Morning 1 (From Sapporo → Furano (Car: 116 km, Bus: 2 hours and 28 minutes))
・Sample route (by car): Take the Sapporo IC → Mikasa IC → Route 116 → Bibo Furano Line → National Highway No. 38
If you take a rental car from Sapporo and leave early in the morning, a sightseeing trip to Furano/Biei can be made in one day.
Alternatively, you can take a train or bus to Furano and move by renting a car near JR Furano Station. In that case, see if they will allow you to return the vehicle at JR Biei station, to optimize your tour. From Sapporo, first, go to Biei, then from there, you can take the scenic route to Furano.
In summer, the sightseeing buses are run by Hokkaido Chuo Bus, which goes around the tourist area of Furano and Biei. These depart from the Sapporo Station Bus Terminal.
Sightseeing is also possible from the stations along JR's tourist train called the Furano Biei Norokko Train, which travels between Ashikawa, Biei, and Furano stations.
■Morning 2
Sample route (by car): Farm Tomita → Flower Land Kamifurano
First head to Furano's famous sightseeing spot Farm Tomita. However, keep in mind that the best season to visit Farm Tomita is from July to mid-August, but be ready for a crowd.
Be careful if you intend to travel using a rental car, as you might get caught in a traffic jam on the surrounding roads or in the parking lots. If possible, plan your trip ahead and arrive the night before.
If you do stay at a hotel or other lodging around Furano, you can arrive early at Farm Tomita which will make for a smooth sightseeing experience.
There are many other gardens in Furano, and if you move quickly, it is possible to visit the neighboring gardens such as Flower Land Kamifurano.
■ Must-Eat Lunch
Biei's scenic view Cafe & Restaurant / Biei Curry Udon
This establishment is located near JR Furano Station, so if you stop here after seeing the sights you’ll lose a lot of…
