Spend a day from Sapporo exploring Farm Tomita’s famous lavender slopes, the surreal Blue Pond in Biei, and regional markets. This practical guide explains what to expect, when to go, and how to plan your day.
Spend a day from Sapporo exploring Farm Tomita’s famous lavender slopes, the surreal Blue Pond in Biei, and regional markets. This practical guide explains what to expect, when to go, and how to plan your day.
You step off the bus under a wide Hokkaido sky and the air shifts—cool, floral, edged with cedar smoke. Rows of lavender at Farm Tomita run like purple waves across gentle slopes; beyond them the low mountains hold up a clean horizon. Later, the Blue Pond waits in a stand of bare trunks, its water a strange, mineral-blue that seems to gather light instead of reflecting it.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Club Tourism International Inc. · Furano, Hokkaido
You step off the bus under a wide Hokkaido sky and the air shifts—cool, floral, edged with cedar smoke. Rows of lavender at Farm Tomita run like purple waves across gentle slopes; beyond them the low mountains hold up a clean horizon. Later, the Blue Pond waits in a stand of bare trunks, its water a strange, mineral-blue that seems to gather light instead of reflecting it.
Furano and nearby Biei were shaped by volcanic ash and river deposits after the last ice age; farmers turned these fertile tills into patchwork fields in the 20th century. Tomita Farm built a reputation for curated flower displays and lavender breeding, while the Blue Pond is the byproduct of engineered waterways and dissolved minerals that create its signature color.
Culturally the area blends rural Hokkaido life with seasonal tourism—local dairies, craft shops and sweets makers like Rokkatei punctuate the route. Expect photography crowds at key viewpoints, and a market vibe at Furano Marche where regional cheeses and jams appear alongside practical souvenirs.
Practically, this is a long but low-effort day: the itinerary is bus-based with short walks on mostly flat, well-maintained paths. Peak lavender runs late June to early August; the Blue Pond’s color shifts with light and season. Bring water, sun protection, and a light rain layer; plan for limited lunch options unless you buy at Marche or the farm. Keep to marked trails, respect agricultural plots, and allow extra time for bus transfers—this loop rewards patience with vivid fields and a strange, photogenic pond that feels almost otherworldly.
easy.
10 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves several short, flat walks and standing for photos.
This is a roughly 10-hour, shared bus tour from Sapporo with round-trip transport, a Japanese-speaking tour conductor (using a translation app), and stops at Furano Marche, Tomita Farm, Blue Pond, and Campana Rokkatei; lunch is not included.
Lavender typically peaks from late June into early August, but exact timing varies with weather—check local bloom reports before booking.
Yes—strollers are allowed and infants travel free (0–2), but infants must sit on laps and bus seating may be shared with other guests.
Operators may shorten viewing time or visit alternate spots; refunds or itinerary changes are not provided for bloom conditions caused by weather.
Furano’s agricultural layout expanded in the early 20th century as settlers reclaimed volcanic and riverplain soils; the area later developed flower farming as both crop and tourist draw.
Stick to paths to protect fragile flower beds and avoid disturbing the Blue Pond’s riparian ecology; seasonal visitor caps and local signage help reduce impact.
Club Tourism International Inc. operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




You step off the bus under a wide Hokkaido sky and the air shifts—cool, floral, edged with cedar smoke. Rows of lavender at Farm Tomita run like purple waves across gentle slopes; beyond them the low mountains hold up a clean horizon. Later, the Blue Pond waits in a stand of bare trunks, its water a strange, mineral-blue that seems to gather light instead of reflecting it.
You step off the bus under a wide Hokkaido sky and the air shifts—cool, floral, edged with cedar smoke. Rows of lavender at Farm Tomita run like purple waves across gentle slopes; beyond them the low mountains hold up a clean horizon. Later, the Blue Pond waits in a stand of bare trunks, its water a strange, mineral-blue that seems to gather light instead of reflecting it.
Furano and nearby Biei were shaped by volcanic ash and river deposits after the last ice age; farmers turned these fertile tills into patchwork fields in the 20th century. Tomita Farm built a reputation for curated flower displays and lavender breeding, while the Blue Pond is the byproduct of engineered waterways and dissolved minerals that create its signature color.
Culturally the area blends rural Hokkaido life with seasonal tourism—local dairies, craft shops and sweets makers like Rokkatei punctuate the route. Expect photography crowds at key viewpoints, and a market vibe at Furano Marche where regional cheeses and jams appear alongside practical souvenirs.
Practically, this is a long but low-effort day: the itinerary is bus-based with short walks on mostly flat, well-maintained paths. Peak lavender runs late June to early August; the Blue Pond’s color shifts with light and season. Bring water, sun protection, and a light rain layer; plan for limited lunch options unless you buy at Marche or the farm. Keep to marked trails, respect agricultural plots, and allow extra time for bus transfers—this loop rewards patience with vivid fields and a strange, photogenic pond that feels almost otherworldly.