From Sapporo: Furano and Biei Day Trip With Lunch

Tucked away in the heart of Hokkaido, Furano and Biei beckon travelers with their stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This day trip from Sapporo offers an opportunity to take in the beauty of these picturesque regions, from wandering through vibrant lavender fields to exploring charming local shops and sampling artisanal cheeses. However, the true allure of this excursion lies in the ability to uncover the hidden gems that make Hokkaido’s countryside so captivating. By embarking on this journey, one can expect to not only witness the breathtaking scenery but also gain a deeper understanding of the region’s unique identity.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Lunch Experiences In Sapporo.

Key Points

• Explore the lavender fields and seasonal flowers of Furano for 1 hour during this day trip from Sapporo.
• Enjoy a 40-minute lunch featuring a gourmet curry dish with fresh, local ingredients at a charming restaurant.
• Discover the handmade crafts and traditional architecture at the Ningle Terrace shopping village during a 30-minute free time.
• Tour a local cheese factory and sample artisanal cheeses during a 20-minute stop.
• Enjoy 30 minutes of free time to wander through the quaint town of Biei and its vibrant flower gardens.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview

This day trip to Furano and Biei offers a chance to take in the natural beauty of Hokkaido’s countryside. The tour begins and ends at the Crowne Plaza – ANA Sapporo, an IHG Hotel, lasting approximately one day.

Participants will enjoy a 15-minute break in Iwamizawa, 1-hour free time in Furano, a 40-minute lunch at a local restaurant, 30-minute free time at Ningle Terrace, 20-minute free time at a cheese factory, and 30-minute free time in Biei. The trip also includes a 20-minute break at the Sunagawa Service Area Northbound.

Highlights include visiting the colorful lavender fields at Farm Tomita, savoring a gourmet curry dish, and exploring a romantic shopping village in a lush forest. Round-trip transportation, a tour leader, and lunch are all included in the cost of $100.33 per person.

Iwamizawa Break

The tour first stops in Iwamizawa, where participants enjoy a 15-minute break. This gives them a chance to stretch their legs, grab a quick snack, or use the restroom before continuing on to the next destination.

Iwamizawa is a small city located along the route, providing a convenient stopping point. Travelers can relax and recharge during this brief respite before the tour heads to the lavender fields of Furano. The break allows everyone to refresh themselves, ensuring they’re ready to fully experience the beauty and activities that await in the coming stops.

Furano Exploration

Exploring the vibrant lavender fields of Furano, the tour group spends approximately 1 hour wandering amidst the stunning purple hues and breathing in the soothing aromatics. Visitors are free to walk through the rows of lavender, snap photos, and enjoy the serene landscape.

Aside from the famed lavender, Furano is known for its diverse array of seasonal flowers, including tulips, poppies, and daffodils. Groups can stroll through the picturesque fields, admire the views, and purchase locally-produced lavender products as souvenirs.

With ample time to explore at their own pace, the tour provides an opportunity to fully experience the natural beauty that makes Furano a premier destination.

Lunch at Local Restaurant

After spending an hour meandering through the vibrant lavender fields and capturing photos of the stunning scenery in Furano, the tour group is ready to savor a delightful local cuisine for lunch.

The tour leader guides the group to a charming restaurant where they’ll enjoy a 40-minute meal. The menu features a gourmet curry dish that showcases the region’s fresh, seasonal ingredients. Diners can expect a flavorful blend of spices, tender meat or vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice.

This hearty and satisfying lunch provides the energy needed for the afternoon’s activities exploring the picturesque town of Biei.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Ningle Terrace Visit

From Furano, the tour group next ventures to Ningle Terrace, a romantic shopping village nestled in a lush forest. They’ll have 30 minutes of free time to explore the charming wooden huts and browse the local crafts and souvenirs on display.

Ningle Terrace offers a peaceful respite, with its winding pathways and picturesque landscape. Visitors can admire the traditional architecture, peek into the artisan workshops, and perhaps pick up a unique handmade item to remember their trip. This quaint shopping experience provides a delightful contrast to the wide-open landscapes they’ve seen earlier in the day.

Cheese Factory Tour

Next, the tour group makes a brief 20-minute stop at a local cheese factory. Here, they can observe the cheese-making process and sample a variety of artisanal cheeses.

The factory showcases the region’s dairy traditions and highlights the quality of the local milk and cheese products. Visitors can purchase cheese souvenirs to take home, ranging from soft, creamy varieties to firm, aged cheeses.

This stop provides a chance to learn about the area’s dairy industry and pick up some tasty local specialties before continuing the day’s exploration of the Furano and Biei countryside.

Biei Sightseeing

Following the cheese factory visit, the tour group continues on to the scenic town of Biei. Nestled among rolling hills and verdant landscapes, Biei offers a tranquil respite from the bustling city. The group enjoys a 30-minute free time to explore the charming town at their own pace. Some wander through the quiet streets, admiring the quaint architecture and vibrant flower gardens. Others seek out local artisanal shops, discovering unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures. The beautiful vistas and peaceful atmosphere of Biei leave a lasting impression on your as they prepare to depart for their next destination.

Destination	Duration	Highlights
Biei	30 minutes	Quaint architecture, flower gardens, artisanal shops

Sunagawa Service Area Stop

After their time in Biei, the tour group boards the bus and heads towards their next stop, the Sunagawa Service Area Northbound. This is a 20-minute break where travelers can stretch their legs, use the restrooms, and perhaps grab a quick snack or beverage.

The service area offers a range of facilities, including a convenience store, restaurants, and vending machines. It’s an opportunity for the group to recharge before the final leg of their journey. Once everyone is back on the bus, the tour continues towards their last destination, providing a chance to reflect on the sights and experiences of the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens?

The tour operator doesn’t explicitly mention senior discounts. However, many tours offer discounts for seniors, so it’s worth inquiring about any available savings when booking the trip.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour, but the tour includes lunch at a local restaurant. Bringing your own provisions may not be necessary unless you have special dietary requirements.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Day Trip?

The cancellation policy allows for full refunds up to 14 days before the tour date. Within 14 days, a 50% cancellation fee applies, and no refunds are given within 7 days of the tour.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

The tour typically follows a set itinerary, but customers can inquire about customization options with the tour operator to accommodate their interests within the overall trip duration and schedule.

Does the Tour Guide Speak Other Languages Besides English?

The tour guide typically speaks English, but they may also be able to accommodate other languages upon request, depending on the availability of multilingual guides. It’s best to inquire about language options when booking the tour.

Recap

This Furano and Biei day trip from Sapporo offers a well-rounded exploration of Hokkaido’s stunning countryside. Visitors can enjoy vibrant lavender fields, indulge in local cuisine, and discover the cultural riches of these picturesque regions. With a balanced itinerary and thoughtful inclusions, this excursion provides a comprehensive introduction to the natural beauty and charm of Hokkaido’s rural landscape.

You can check if your dates are available here: