Hokkaido, the second largest island of Japan is very famous for its lavender season. Usually, this flowering season starts in late June in the summer.
Unlike cherry blossom season that stays less than a week at a particular hanami spot, lavender season stays for more than a month from early July to early August. In fact, Hokkaido’s weather is quite favorable to cultivate lavender.
Most of the lavender cultivation can be seen in a small town named Nakafurano. Hokkaido’s lavender season depends on this town, located next to Furano.
Please check out the lavender tour or Hokkaido summer itinerary to get some idea right now.
Nakafurano and Kamifurano, these two small towns host some flower festivals every year in July. Will not it be great for you to spend a few days in Furano in summer?
Hokkaido itself famous for being a coldest place in the country, but those snowy landscapes could turn into a colorful landscapes offering you variety of flower including lavenders.
Therefore visiting Hokkaido in the summer to see the eye-catching lavender fields will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you.
Japan offers you endless natural beauty of its distinct four seasons. In the north of Japan, the climate is very harsh but the surrounding impressive snowy landscapes often steal your heart.
Needless to say if you visit Hokkaido in winter, you should definitely plan a trip to the region again during summertime to see its stunning flower fields. In fact, it’s worth returning for.
Sakura (cherry blossom) reminds me of the spring, Sapporo Snow Festival reminds me of the winter, colorful leaves (koyo) reminds me of the autumn, on the other hand, deep purple lavender reminds me of the summer.
This is how nature of Japan gives you enormous opportunity to explore its natural beauty.
In this article, I am going to highlight everything that is related to Hokkaido’s lavender season. While reading this article, you will be seeing beautiful lavender photographs of Hokkaido.
Except this, I include some useful travel information. Let’s explore Hokkaido’s beautiful summer nature then!
Furano and Biei – Two Most Famous Places to View Flowers in Summer
Are Furano and Biei the best places to view summer flowers in the Hokkaido region? Yes indeed they are!
Located in the center of Hokkaido, they are the most popular places to see flowers of different kinds including lavender, lupine, sunflowers and thus how they attract thousands of tourists each and every year.
In Furano, there are two small towns located, they are known as Nakafurano, and Kamifurano, in which picturesque lavender farms can be enjoyed during the peak season (Mid July to Late July).
Biei is a small town that is surrounded by a picturesque landscape of gently rolling hills with rainbow fields. It does seem to you very a pleasant and charming place to travel to! It attracts number of visitors in summer when lavenders are in full bloom.
This area could be divided into two broad categories, they are: 1) Patchwork Road and 2) Panorama Road.
The area northwest of the city center is known as “Patchwork Road” and therefore the area south of the city center is called “Panorama Road”. South Biei has a beautiful small flower farm called Kanno Farm.
This city also hosts a biggest marathon event which is called Biei Healthy Marathon. It is a great place for cycling and driving through the hills.
While on the other hand, the city Furano, (located in Kamikawa Subprefecture of Hokkaido Prefecture) is famous for growing beautiful summer flowers including lavenders, poppies, French marigolds and many more. It is not only famous for its wide lavender fields but also for ski slopes.
Depending on the weather condition of the year, the peak season of lavender varies from mid July to early August. If you are a flower aficionado then I assume you won’t miss exploring this beautiful place.
This city offers you four different types of lavender, 1) Okamurasaki 2) Hanamoiwa 3) Yotei and 4) Dark Purple. During the peak season the JR Lavender Bataké Station is open for locals and tourists alike.
However, being one of the coldest areas in Hokkaido, it produces winter vegetables such as carrot and onion in abundance.
This city offers you four most popular lavender viewing spots, they are as follows:
1. Farm Tomita
2. Flower Land Kamifurano and
3. Farm Tomita – Lavender East
4. Hokuseiyama Lavender Field/Choei Lavender Farm
If you are serious of visiting other famous flower farms in these areas then please take a look at the list of the 10 beautiful flower farms to visit in Furano and Biei.
If you want to see rural Japanese landscapes and scenic spots like these, then why not to visit Furano and Biei in the summer of 2025?
Best Lavender Farms to See in Hokkaido
What is the perfect garden/farm to view Hokkaido’s lavenders?
Let me narrow the exact destination! Have you ever heard of a place name called Furano? Yes, you have heard of this a moment ago while reading this article.
In fact, this is where you need to go first when you arrive in Hokkaido to see breathtaking view of lavender.
This is a beautiful town located in Kamikawa sub-prefecture of Hokkaido prefecture. Most of the popular lavender fields are found there.
Now, take a look at the list of popular lavender viewing spots in Furano and Biei:
1) Farm Tomita
2) Saika Farm
3) Choei Lavender Farm/Hokuseiyama Lavender Field & Nakafurano Flower Park
4) Flower land Kamifurano
5) Shikisai-no-Oka, Biei
6) Farm Tomita – Lavender East
7) Miyama Pass
8) Hokusei-no-oka Observatory Park
9) Hill of Zerubu & Hill of Atoms
10) Hinode Park Lavender Garden
I will be describing a few of these places here in this article.
Farm Tomita in Furano, Hokkaido
Read About Farm Tomita and Its History
Suppose you are now in Furano, but still you need to find the exact place to view dark purple lavender garden. Am I right? Well, there are many small and large flower fields in Nakafurano and Furano.
Located in Nakafurano, Farm Tomita is arguably the best lavender field in Hokkaido region, even from all over Japan! This is a massive flower farm consists of more than 12 hectares. A beautiful view of Tokachi mountain range is seen from this spot.
History says, Tokuma Tomita is the first generation of the Tomita line introduced this farm in 1903. Though the cultivation of lavender had started in 1958.
It is said that in 1970 the total planting area of lavender reaches its largest at 230 ha, though it decreased thereafter.
A miracle happened in 1976 where the lavender fields of Farm Tomita was introduced on the calendar of JR throughout Japan.
Then tourists had started knowing about this beautiful lavender garden and they began to visit it. In 1998, farm authority had opened a museum named “Tomita Lavender Museum.”
It is possible for you to see lavender in the middle of snowy winter because in 2000 they have opened a greenhouse. In 2008, a new farm named “Lavender East” was established. This farm offers you paid 15 minute bus ride through the lavender fields.
Visitors here can purchase variety of lavender-infused products from cafe such as ice-cream, perfume, original lavender essential oil, pastries, jellies, honey puddings, cream puff, dried lavender, cream puff and so on.
You would definitely see rainbow fields that means field’s rows are planted by different colorful flowers. It is not hard to reach to Farm Tomita from downtown Furano, just take a bus or train.
If you are living in Tokyo then the best and easiest way to be there is to fly to Asahikawa from Tokyo and then you have to go to Nakafurano by bus or train. There is an option you can rent a car from the Asahikawa to reach your dream destination – Farm Tomita. That’s simple!
Opening Hours: 8:30am – 6:00pm in summer.
What to Eat and Shop?
Tourist just like me expects to buy beautiful things and eat, what about you? If you are from outside Japan then you must be thinking about buying some souvenirs for someone you know.
Well, Hokkaido’s lavenders farms have gift shop from where you can buy variety of original products that are made from fresh lavender.
Some of these are potted plant, dried lavender, soap, candles, perfumes, lavender potpourri doll, lavender tea, lavender essential oil, lavender cosmetics and so on.
If you are to eat some delicious foods then I highly recommend five delicious Japanese foods you must try they are: Lavender soft serve Ice cream and Furano’s traditional watermelon, Chiffon cake, Pumpkin ice ream, Calpis jelly, Honey pudding and Cream puff.
Next to the gift shop there is a cafe, this is where you can drink Lavender soda.
Take a look at the picture shown above, that’s lavender soft serve Ice Cream! It sounds yummy, right?
Have you seen this kind of melon (shown below) before? If you have not seen then you surly have not tasted it yet, so don’t forget to have a slice.
Flowerland Kamifurano
You don’t be surprised knowing this place as a motherland of lavender. This popular lavender viewing spot is located in Sorachi-gun district. It takes approximately 10 minutes to reach there by car from JR Kamifurano Station.
The first time lavender was introduced here During Showa period (1926-1989) by a essence company, though the first cultivation was part of a trial. People thought Hokkaido was the best area to cultivate it, indeed they were completely right.
It is said that local farmers of Kamifurano were contracted to grow lavender after the Second World War. Thus how lavender production spread throughout the island.
In 1965, production decreased dramatically because farmers were not able to compete with the price of imported lavender at that time.
Thereafter the contract was terminated in 1977, it was a contract between farmers and the essence company.
However, those dark days did not stay for long. Farmers did recommend lavender cultivation in order to attract local tourists because during the summer time scenery of that area used to look like a heaven.
In 1979, the first lavender festival was held in Kamifurano and it played an important role to send a message to the world that why Kamifurano was supposed to call as motherland of lavender! Many public and private lavender gardens were formed and today it has become one of the best tourist spots in all over Hokkaido.
Get ready for having craft-making experience such as making pillow with lavender potpourri. It is a fun task I must say you. You will have a great fun experience that is riding on a tractor bus and it is possible to have Furano’s traditional watermelon here.
Shikisai-no-Oka in Biei, Hokkaido
A Panoramic Flower Garden with Lavenders
Can you imagine that sweet fragrance of various flowers coming out of a garden then you can smell and enjoy it? This could happen once you visit a panoramic flower garden called Shikisai no oka. It is a famous flower garden and farm at Biei town.
This is not only famous flower garden for viewing lavender but also for tulips, dahlias, sunflower, lupine, salvia, petunia, celosia, cosmos, California poppy, snapdragon and more. Magnificent landscapes of Hokkaido can be found here!
The small town Biei is blessed with scenery that looks like a heaven! In order to find the real beauty of a flower garden, you should pay a visit to Biei. It is said that the name Shikisai-no-Oka is created by aggregating “Shikisai (color)” and “Shiki (four seasons)”.
The full name Shikisai-no-Oka means the Hill of Seasonal Colors. The total area of this garden is about 7 hectare.
I think it is a big enough space for planting various colorful flower plants along with lavender. Flowers start blooming from April to October, some of them are early bloomers and some are quite late bloomers.
If you want to visit all the area of this flower garden then you better take a tractor bus or cart. This is the perfect transportation for you to view colorful flowers.
The peak season for viewing lavender here is from July to August. When your flower viewing trip is over then you can visit a shop to buy various products that are actually produced in the Biei filed.
Fruits like melons, cherries are available to buy, including pumpkin ice cream.
There is no access fee to enter the flower garden but you will have to pay when you ride on tractor bus. However, you can donate some money, but how much should you pay? Well ¥200 is enough, that is what I think of!
So, if you can then be a donor. It takes only 5 minutes by car from Bibaushi Station on the JR Furano Line and 50 minutes from Asahikawa-Kita Interchange of the Doo Expressway.
Opening hours depends on season:
April to May/October 9:00 – 17:00
June to September 8:30 – 18:00
November 9:00 – 16:30
December to February 9:00 – 16:00
March 9:00 – 16:30
Is The Town “Nakafurano” Only Famous for Viewing Lavender?
Of course it is not! In fact this small town that is located in the center of Hokkaido welcomes you to see other flowers except lavender. If you had seen any picture of rainbow field of Furano, you would have certainly agreed with me.
It is true that it is the motherland for lavender. Here, many farmers’ lives depend on lavender cultivation. Nowadays, lavender cultivation in nakafurano town has become one of the best tourist destinations in this lovely island – Hokkaido.
Red poppies, multicolored tulips, purple lavenders, yellow sunflowers can be found here in this place. Whether you believe it or not that Hokkaido is now a peaceful place in summer for nature lovers. It attracts more tourists in the summer than the winter season.
It happens only because of Furano’s massive flower fields. Many Japanese TV Drama series production companies prefer Furano’s landscape. It is clear why they prefer it!
Also number of TV commercials take place in the summer here. Don’t wait anymore, let’s get prepared for seeing beautiful summer nature of Hokkaido.
Saika no Sato/Saika Farm in Nakafurano, Hokkaido
Saika no sato or Saika Farm is one of the biggest lavender fields in Nakafurano, Hokkaido. Apart from having lavender garden, this farm has lupines, two-rowed barley, red salvias, sunflowers, lupines, cosmoses, and poppies.
What is the perfect time to visit this farm? The best time to visit this famous garden is from late June to mid September.
A wide range of lavender products are available to buy for tourists. From this farm, the stunning view of Mt Tokachidake and Mt Ashibetsudake can be seen and you fully can enjoy the moment you will have.
If you want to see beautiful rolling Japanese landscape then don’t forget to visit this farm. You will be happy to know that It takes only about 15 minutes on foot from JR Nakafurano Station.
Opening Hours: 8:00AM until 5:00PM
Things to Do to Have a Memorable Lavender Season Trip in Hokkaido
I could suggest you a list of important things that you must abide by. Accommodation, sightseeing spots, transportation, things to do and etc. will take place in this part.
Since most of the lavender gardens are located Furano and nearest part of Furano including Biei you should know the following tips.
1) The most important thing to do is to check the lavender blooming forecast. The peak season starts usually in July, so keep it in mind, and the best time to see incredible lavender in abundance is between Mid July and Late July. Though visiting the farms in early August would be great too.
2) If you know the exact forecast, prepare yourself for your upcoming trip to Hokkaido. This Hokkaido itinerary could give you some ideas.
3) Tourism Information Center of Furano and Biei give you a lot of useful travel info so don’t forget to check it out. Besides, our Hokkaido guide would help you organize your trip.
4) English Tourist Map, and the FURANO Area Guide would definitely help you to understand something where you need to go to see lavender.
5) Decide how you want to explore and reach to a destination by train, bus or car.
6) Make sure to complete your hotel reservation before arrival, in the summer sometimes it’s impossible to book your hotel because the area is packed with many tourists. Booking.com offers a lot of best hotels deals in Furano and Biei. If you don’t believe me then you could try it yourself from here.
7) Finally take as many as pictures you want including yourself! Just look at the photo on the right side, is not it great?
8) Hokkaido’s temperature remains still cold a bit even in July, could be rainy too. So, those of you who are going to visit Furano lavender field from Southeast Asia, I request you to wear a very light jacket or coat. Even though you are not going to go to Furano in winter I want you to get some idea how to dress good when visiting Hokkaido.
Is Hokkaido a Paradise for Flower Lovers?
Is Hokkaido a paradise for flower lovers? I think it is a paradise for them including me. I myself think as a flower lover. We hardly find a person who hates flowers.
Flower is a wonderful natural creature that everybody likes to touch and see. They do symbolizes many things based on different countries cultural value and customs.
Hokkaido’s landscapes are totally different than other parts of Japan’s traditional landscapes. Here fields are covered with many flowers in summer and they come in several varieties.
You will see lavender, sunflowers, poppies, Japanese roses, herbs, marigolds, cosmos, tulips, scarlet sage, lupins, and iris germanica. Among these lavender, poppies and marigolds are my favorite.
You can stroll down the rolling hills and enjoy viewing the lavender smelling sweet fragrance of it. Can you imagine that everything would sound to you peaceful and charming?
The rainbow field would certainly make you curious to think of a paradise. Visiting Hokkaido’s lavenders fields make your day memorable and joyful.
Traveling Hokkaido by Train During Lavender Season
One of the best ways of traveling all over Hokkaido is by train.
In Hokkaido, during the summer months, a lot of visitors start coming to see lavender in Furano from different areas of the region, such as Sapporo, Asahikawa, Hakodate, Chitose.
Enjoy the iconic landscapes of central Hokkaido inluding green fields, mountain range in the distance through the train window by a train journey.
It is a comfortable ride that could relax you very much. Nature gives you everything it has got, you just have to accept its offer.
There are some trains run along the JR Furano Line. Your destination and my destination could vary, so it is better to know it first where actually you want to go – Furano or Biei?
Firstly, decide yourself where to go and then secondly book or buy a train ticket based on your desired destination.
There are limited express train services from Sapporo called “Furano Lavender Express.” It will take you directly to Furano city from Sapporo.
Furano-Biei Norokko train (connects JR Asahikawa Station with JR Furano Station) allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the railway at a leisurely speed and it stops at the seasonally constructed “Lavender Batake Station.”
JR Railway Stations that operate in Hokkaido also offer you to reserve ticket for The Twinkle Bus Furano “Lavender Course” sightseeing bus service. It runs from Asahiawa to Furano and stops at the Farm Tomita.
Tips for Accommodation and Transportation
It is quite possible to get a room in a hotel, small cottage, apartment or ryokan. The early you make a reservation the better it would be because many tourists arrive there during the lavender season.
If you don’t make a hotel reservation in advance, you possibly are not going to manage a room to stay overnights. You are advised to find the best hotels that are located not that much far from the flower fields.
I highly recommend you to stay in a hotel located in Furano town. Please visit here to book a hotel/guest house/ryokan room, located nearby the flower gardens or before you reserve your room, I would like you to get familiar with our top 5 best Furano hotels. We have reviewed most of the hotels in Furano but we ended up with only the top 5!
If you are going to explore the flower fields from Sapporo as part of a day trip, then stay at Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo.
The customer service was awesome and whenever I needed to know anything regarding accommodation they did pay their helpful attention very early. It takes only a-5 minute walk to JR Sapporo Station from the hotel.
To be honest, you must make a hotel reservation in advance, otherwise you may have to stay in Asahikawa city. There is no need to stay a night in Asahikawa,, if your plan is to spend only a day in Furano and Biei.
Most of the hotels/ryokans/guest houses in Furano & Biei usually get booked early before the arrival of lavender season. So be sure to book as soon as possible, possibly you can do it in late winter season.
Make sure that you buy Japan Rail Pass or Hokkaido Rail Pass from a reputed JR pass seller or from tour operators. Apart from this you can rent a car at Asahikawa Airport or Furano Station to get to the exact destinations but it will not be economic if you travel alone or with a person!
Though, if you plan on traveling only Furano and Biei areas then please don’t buy a Hokkaido Rail Pass. Public transportation there is rather poor and infrequent (not like Sapporo).
Instead we want you enjoy a scenic road trip to Furano. So, rent a car from Asahikawa city and witness incredible scenery along the way to Furano.
There are sightseeing buses available for tourists. You should take Twinkle Buses operated by JR Hokkaido in order to get to different lavender and flower gardens.
This is an exclusive bus service, which works perfectly in order to travel around Central Hokkaido’s beautiful attractions, including the flower fields and gardens.
Besides, Hokkaido Chuo Bus offers one-day bus tour from Sapporo to Furano and Biei. This bus tour is also reliable!
If you decide to go to Furano city from Tokyo by air then buy plane ticket first from JAL or Air Do. There are multiple flights available on daily basis operated by JAL and Air Do between Haneda Airport and Asahikawa Airport.
Finally, take a look at the timetable of JR sightseeing trains and buses in Furano and Biei, including rail passes, recommended routes, and special offers.
Hello Photographers! Attention Please!!!
Are you a professional photographer who is searching for a unique place to take some shots with your camera? I can recommend Hokkaido’s lavender farms and other flower gardens located on this lovely island of Japan.
I know you will not regret for visiting Hokkaido in summer because you have seen how it looks like here in this article. I invite you to explore Hokkaido summer and get this unforgettable summer experience.
You surly would find many great photogenic spots if you think yourself as a professional photographer. So hunt for the hidden spots to capture awesome photographs, and then surprise the world.
No one will pass you by or tell you something until you say “hello” to someone during your photo session.
Lavender fields in France is quite remarkable and the country is famous for it! Hokkaido is no different. Anyone looking to experience tons of lavender flowers must get to Furano & Biei.
My Previous Trip Experience to Farm Tomita, Nakafurano
Once again, just like every year I do, I have visited Farm Tomita in Hokkaido, Japan in the summer. The farm is famous its stunning lavender fields, this stunning farm offers plenty of seasonal flowers to see with soothing fragrances everywhere.
As I stepped on the farm, I saw a lot of tourists roaming around and taking photos of flowers of different kinds. Seeing tourists in Furano in the summer is not surprising for me because it’s an interesting place to visit with some really amazing flower fields and gardens.
There, I noticed the breathtaking sight of rolling fields covered in a sea of lavender and other flowers. Rolling fields covered in flowers create a stunning landscape, no doubt about that and you will see it when you visit this farm in the future. The lavender was in full bloom. It was not a bright sunny day, though visitors were happy seeing them in full bloom.
Aside from the stunning scenery that I experienced, Farm Tomita offers a range of lavender-themed products. I enjoyed sampling lavender ice cream and purchasing lavender-scented soaps and essential oils, which make perfect souvenirs. You can buy some for others if you want! They are good quality product and safe to use.
Hokkaido Lavender Tour 2025
Are you planning to visit Japan in this year summer vacation? If you have got such a plan then why don’t you think of Hokkaido’s lavender tour? It is going to be a great destination you would like to visit with your all family members.
Summer nature of Hokkaido can’t be forgotten by you once you take a day trip to Furano’s lavender fields. I think you will be sad for a while when leaving the flower fields in Furano. It will be hard to say “Goodbye”!
So you’d better stay there a few days more instead of spending just one day. On behalf of locals, we warmly welcome you to explore its gorgeous looking flower fields and other popular attractions.
When is lavender season in Hokkaido? I think you know the answer now, though I would say it again here. Hokkaido’s lavender season usually starts from late June to early August. Mid-July is the best time to see lavender in Hokkaido.
Please before you take a trip to Hokkaido/Japan, we highly recommend reading this post. It reveals some important Japan travel tips and ideas to make your trip hassle free.
If you want to find some Hokkaido lavender tour packages then contact us immediately, we will guide you with the best ideas and recommend you some fully-guided tours. Besides, you should know a list of exciting summer activities you can experience in Furano and Biei area.
If you are looking for a lavender tour from Asahikawa, then you may find this one day bus tour useful. Alternatively, you can enjoy a great day in central Hokkaido visiting its popular flower fields through this one day bus tour departing right from Sapporo downtown.
We have tried our best to explain about Hokkaido’s Lavender Season. We would be just pleased if you think this article helps you somehow. Thank you all.
Thank you for your quick response. What’s your email address so I can send you a copy of our itinerary?
Hi Susan,
Here is our email address: info@kyuhoshi.com.
Thank you!
Hello! We’ll be visiting Hokkaido from July 24 to Aug 1 with our 2-year-old son. We’re planning to follow your itinerary. Do you suggest that we extend another night in Furano or not include Asahikawa in our itinerary? I am a little worried that our son will be tired because of all the transferring almost every night. By the way, we are planning not to rent a car. I hope you can help us with our itinerary. Thank you so much!
Hello Susan,
Greetings from Kyuhoshi.com. Thank you very much for visiting our website.
Well, our suggested itineraries can always be modified based on your need. In summer, the more days you can spend in Furano area, the better the trip will be. In fact, you will find many flower gardens there, including outdoor activities. So, yes extend another night or two if you have time to spend, that will be awesome!
Send an email so I can look at your itinerary.
Thank you very much. Take care!
Hi, your write-up about Furano and Biei, is very informative. We intend to visit the said places this mid of July. We got 4 days only and 3 nights. Will stay in Sapporo on the first day and go to Otaru then Furano and Biei, in the afternoon the next day. We will spend overnight in Biei, though and back to Sapporo in the afternoon. Our flight is early morning the next day that’s why we need to be in Sapporo again. Am just wondering if it would be best to rent a car from Sapporo to travel to Otaru then to Furano and Biei, afterwards? Would it be economical and would it be advisable as we are only two. I would like to spend sometime in open air onsen too, if there is one near the area where we will stay, you may be of help on this matter. Thank you and would appreciate dearly, your advice on this. Best Regards. – Mariz
Hello Mariz,
Thanks for leaving a comment here. A few minutes ago, I have sent you a message.
I am sure you will find your answer there. Thank you.
Thank you so much for this helpful post. We were originally planning to get a hotel in Sapporo as our base for 4 days and just go on day trips. Is that not feasible? Would you say it’s better to rent a car then stay in different towns every night? Thank you!
Hi, I have answered your questions. Please check your email inbox.
Thank you.
Hello, my sister and I are planning a trip to Hokkaido for this summer. We are not able to rent a car, but we are debating between a tour bus and taking the train from Sapporo. There seem like many different options and we are having a hard time deciding which will allow us to explore the most. Thank you!
Hi, please check your mailbox to find my suggestion. Thank you.
Hi , its an amazing article .. i am really excited to visit Hokkaido. We are planning to visit Hokkaido around 22nd sep for 2nights and 3 days.. Please let us know what all we can visit? Also can we still be able to see Lavendar farm ? You can mail me on my mail ID as well.. Thanks..
Hi, thanks for visiting this post.
I appreciate it and I have sent you a message to your email address. Please check it out. Have a good day!
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Hokkaido with my friends in mid-Nov, but Nov doesn’t seem to be a popular travel period for tourists. We’re planning to do a self-drive from Hakodate to Sapporo City. Will we still be able to see lavender fields, or do you have any places to recommend? We’re not sure how to start planning our trip.
Thanks!
Hello,
You are partially right though. There is no chance of seeing lavender fields in mid-November. Please note that, July is the best time to see lavender in Hokkaido. Based on your interest, the best way you can start your Hokkaido trip is from Hakodate, spend a day here.
Hakodate: Morning Market, Night View from Mount Hakodate, Bay Area, Motomachi, Onuma Quasi National Park, and Fort Goryokaku.
Toyako Onsen: Lake Toya
Noboribetsu: Noboribetsu Onsen, the Shiraoi Ainu Museum
Sapporo: Explore downtown Sapporo, and Jozankei Onsen. Don’t miss the Sapporo White Illumination, it would be held from November 18 to December 25, 2016 in Odori Park, Sapporo. Learn how to spend a day in Sapporo.
Otaru: Explore its top tourist’s attractions.
I hope this helps you to start planning your trip. Thank you!
Hi there,
Thanks for the extensive information, it’s really helpful.
I’m planning a trip for 2 this coming September from 2/9 to 11/9.
Is it still possible to visit lavender farm?
Can you also give me some tips on places to visit or probably an itinerary for 2 person? We are not renting a car as it is not economical and it’s seems that my travelling dates is too late for lavender and too early for autumn foliage.
We have booked most of our accommodation in Sapporo and one night in Hakodate…After reading your post, we decided to cancel a few nights in Sapporo but we are unsure where to stay.
Thanks a bunch!
Hi there,
I appreciate it and thanks for visiting this post. It sounds cool that you are going to have a trip to Hokkaido this early autumn. No, there is no way to see lavender flower there but you can visit most of the flower farms in September, except the farm Lavender East. Please visit https://www.kyuhoshi.com/2016/03/22/10-beautiful-flower-farms-to-visit-in-furano-and-biei/ to find out the top flower farms.
Is there any specific area you want to discover in Hokkaido? It would help me to share an itinerary for you two. I don’t know if you two like hiking or such kind of outdoor activity. If you do then you can enjoy hiking in early September and experience Hokkaido’s unspoiled nature. You can discover some part of Daisetsuzan National Park and Akan National Park in Kushiro. On the other hand, along with visiting flower farms in Biei & Furano, you can have an incredible farm stay experience. I am glad that you have decided to stay one night in Hakodate, there you can experience many things. By the way, let me know which part of Hokkaido you want to explore the most. Then I would share an itinerary with you including travel tips. Thank you.
Hi, we have Asahikawa in mind as it is along the same route as Furano and Biei. Do u suggest 1 or 2 nights?
We would like to visit one of the national park too but probably not Akan as it as off route.
I’m also interested in exploring Lake Toya.
Looking forward to your reply.
Thanks!
Hi, I have sent you the itinerary, please check out your email inbox. Thank you!
Hi,
Your shared article is really useful and informative about visiting Hokkaido. I really love to see lavender. However, my schedule in Japan only allows me around late August to early September to travel a little far. I plan to stay in 1-2 days to visit lavender and other things. Is it possible for me to visit Hokkaido this time? As I read above comments and your replies, it seems that I will miss viewing the beautiful scenes. So I am wondering. If it is ok, is there any suggestion or guide?
Thank you so much.
Hi,
Thank you! And I always try my best to share useful information about visiting Hokkaido. I assume you live are currently living in Japan. Well, you are right! You will miss the lavender season but there are other flowers to please you. Of course it is possible for you to visit Hokkaido. Are you going to travel alone? If you are not alone then try exploring the flower gardens by a rental car. First arrive in Sapporo then head to Asahikawa. Then rent a car in Asahikawa. Drive it to Biei, explore Shikisai no Oka and Zerubo Hill flower gardens there. Stay overnight in Nakafurano. The following morning you visit the Farm Tomita, Saika no Sato and Choei Lavender Farm. Thank you and have a good day.
Hi,
I am planning to visit Hokkaido from 16Oct-19Oct. We will be going to Furano from Sapporo. Is the only possible access is by train? We would like to take bus, however, chuo bus comes with the day tour package which we do not need as we are planning to walk around the farm ourselves. Thank you.
Hi,
No, access to Furano from Sapporo by train is not the only possible way. Except this option you can rent a car or take the highway bus to Furano station. If you really wish to you walk around the farms located in Biei and Furano area then rent a car from Asahikawa. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Patchwork Road and Panorama Road.
By train you can access to Furano via two routes. Check out the train time-table here.
1) Sapporo >>>>> Takikawa >>>>> Furano
2) Sapporo >>>>> Asahikawa >>>>>Furano
Alternatively, you take the Highway buses operated by Chuo Bus. Every day more than 10 buses depart from Sapporo to Furano. Check out the time-table here. I hope this helps. Thanks!
Hi,
I will be spending about 6 days 5 nights(from 1st Aug to 7th Aug, ) in Hokkaido with my boyfriend. Heard that the transportation is not convenient surrounding Hokkaido as most tourist would have rented a car.
Since only me and my boyfriend which I think it’s not economic for only two person to rent a car. Any possibility to survive with only JR Hokkaido pass to travel on the places (especially furano & biei). Would be very much appreciate you can advice me for this trip, e.g. place of interests. etc
Thanks a million…
Hello,
When you visit Hokkaido and you give much priority to the places like Furano and Biei then honestly I would say that Hokkaido Rail Pass will not be convenient for you. It will be costly at the same time you would unable to visit most of the flower gardens. Train will take you to Biei and Furano, there is no problem at all. But when it comes to visiting every flower farms you must take a taxi or rental cars. I have an itinerary that I have made for you, I actually already have sent it to your email, please check it out and hopefully you would understand everything I have explained there including the possible transportation cost you have to bear. Thanks a lot. 🙂
Hi, i’d like to ask is there any public transport between each lavender farm? Besides, I read your post saying that there’s no lavender in early august, is it true as i’m planning to visit next year first week of august.
Hi, public transportation here is infrequent and kind of poor as most of the flower farms are located over the entire region. Though, there is a special train called Furano-Biei Norokko that operates along the Furano Line, and is open for only Lavender Batake station. It is only a-7 minute walk from the station to Farm Tomita. And to see the Farm Tomita Lavender East, you will have to take a taxi (a-7 minute car ride from Farm Tomita) or just walk, there is no way except these two options. You can read this article to see the lavender farms in Nakafurano area.
The best and easiest way to access each lavender farm is by a rental car. You can rent a car online in advance as during the flower season rental car price increases. With respect, I guess you read that wrong. I said that visitors there could see lavender from early July to early August. Though, it would be best if you could manage to get there in late July. I hope this helps. Thank you. 🙂
Hi takkhis
Thank you for your very informative blog! My family will be going to Hokkaido beginning to mid Dec, very keen to go Eastern Hokkaido but cannot decide because it seems quite tough to go by public transport(Lake Akan, Blue Pond etc) and we have not drive during winter before. What will you suggest? Should I train to the main stations then rent car to explore each town, at least it wont be long driving distance? What is the best option, with luggage plus 1 senior and 2 kids(8 and 12 yo). Thank you!
Hello, I am glad that you have visited this post. In Hokkaido, traveling by a rental car is the best option than relying on public transport. You may think about renting a car from “TOYOTA RENT a Car Shop” located around Hokkaido region.
Check out the locations clicking this link: https://rent.toyota.co.jp/eng/shop/hokkaido.html
While driving car in a snowy and icy road – you just make sure you drive slowly maintaining the traffic rules. That’s it. And I guess your idea is not bad at all. Though, you could reserve separate day tour packages in order to visit sightseeing attractions across Hokkaido. It would provide you bus and meal. Please visit the following links give below and take actions accordingly – contact them via phone or email.
1) http://uu-hokkaido.com/corporate/akanbus.shtml
2) http://www.easthokkaido.com/english/bus/
3) https://www.skybus.co.jp/hokkaido-day-tours
4) https://rent.toyota.co.jp/eng/service/oneway.html
Don’t bother to contact me again, I would help you and make your trip memorable. Thanks 🙂
Hi Takkhis :
Me and my wife will be in Hokkaido from 22May16 to 30May16. We just wondering is it advisable for us to spend 2days in Furano/Biei since it is not a Lavender blossom season? Its there any draft itinerary so that we wouldn’t miss some of the attractions:)
Many Thanks
Hello Daniel,
The time you have chosen to explore Hokkaido is the best time to cherry blossoms there. Therefore, I suggest you to check out this itinerary: https://www.kyuhoshi.com/2016/04/07/hokkaido-spring-itinerary/
I know you can make a travel plan seeing the itinerary I have shared with you. And you also can prefer this one: https://www.kyuhoshi.com/2016/03/24/hokkaido-summer-itinerary/
Well, I think you can stay a night in Nakafurano which would help you to visit the top sightseeing spots around Furano and then visit Asahikawa.
Have a good time in Hokkaido! Thanks.
Hello!
Thank you very much for the informative article. My family of 5 adults are planning on a 8 days self-drive trip in July to capture the beauty of summer in Hokkaido.
I have tried to look for hotels in Furano/Biei. Oh man, more than 80% are fully booked and the remaining ones are changing sky high prices. What are the areas that I can look for accommodation? Asahikawa? Tomura?
Will it be better to go in early July since Japan summer holidays start on 20 July?
Would appreciate your advise on it. Thanks!
Hello,
I always suggest visitors to reserve room in advance especially during the summer. I am sorry that you have got a problem getting a room there. I would suggest you to find accommodation in Asahikawa as it would be great to drive a car to Biei and then Furano.
Well, check out these cheapest hotels at the moment shown below:
1) http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/p-dash-garden.en-us.html?aid=811066
2) http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/furanui.en-us.html?aid=811066
3) http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/pensiyon-gusuberi.en-us.html?aid=811066
I think if your main intention to see lavender at its peak season then mid July is the best time but still early July would be great to see scenic beauty of Biei/Furano along with traditional flower farms there including early blooming lavender. If you have any questions then ask me again. Good luck and thank you!
Hello dear, thanks for the earlier reply! Need you help on my proposed itinerary from 04 July to 12 July (9 days) on self drive trip.
Day 1: Sapporo
Day 2: Asahikawa
Day 3/4: Asahidake onsen or sounkyo onsen or daisetsuzan national park (which to go?)
Day 5: Biei
Day 6: Furano
Day 7: Lake Toyo
Day 8: Sapporo
Day 9: airport
Is the arrangement ok? Any other places to recommend? Do you think I can slot in Akan if I give lake Toyo a miss? Which place would you choice?
Hi, good morning!
Your itinerary sounds not bad to me and you could take a look at mine here: https://www.kyuhoshi.com/2016/03/24/hokkaido-summer-itinerary/
In fact, both Asahidake Onsen and Sounkyo Onsen are part of Diasetsuzan National Park. Therefore, I would like you to go to Asahidake onsen from where it is easy to explore the beauty of Diasetsuzan national park especially in Autumn. If you don’t like to hike then I would not recommend you to get there. Instead of Asahidake or Sounkyo Onsen there is a renowned hot spring resort in Noboribetsu. Furano to Lake Toya is a long distance but as it will be a self drive trip I guess it won’t be an issue for you.
The recommended places are given in the itinerary of mine. Yes that’s possible though I believe visiting Lake Toya would be great than visiting Lake Akan. If Lake Akan is your last destination before heading to Sapporo then I would not recommend this place to you because the distance between Lake Akan and Sapporo is very long! I could organize your trip fully though you could do it yourself seeing mine here. Thank you.
Hello!!!
Your itinerary is very informative.
My family is good to go for hiking. So Asahidake will be a good choice right? Then should I skip Sounkyo?
And perhaps allocate a day for Noboribetsu?
Day 1: Sapporo
Day 2: Asahikawa
Day 3: Asahikawa – Asahidake
Day 4: Asahidake – Biei
Day 5: Biei – Furano
Day 6: Furano
Day 7: Furano – Norobeitsu
Day 8: Notobeitsu – Lake Toya
Day 9: Lake Toya – CTS
Many thanks!
Hi,
Thank you very much!
That’s great! Then I believe that Asahidake is the right choice for you. Without having any doubt in mind please skip Sounkyo trip.
I think you should stay a night in Noboribetsu, perhaps in a Ryokan that provides hot spring baths. Also it will be easier to get to Lake Toya from there. Well, in my opinion, this itienray sounds good to me. Hopefully everything will work perfectly.
Thank you and have a good time in Hokkaido 🙂
Hi!
Your posts are great!
My bf and I will be visiting Hokkaido from 5th – 17th May. We are hoping to see cherry blossoms – do you think that would be possible?
Also, I realised there are not many activities mentioned for spring, and also many people said it is better to drive yourself around Hokkaido – is that true? We would appreciate if you could advise us on activities/places to visit in Spring, and yes, we are okay with driving if it’s a good choice- if you have any recommendations on car companies etc too would be amazing!
Thanks so much
C
Hi, thanks for visiting Kyuhoshi.com.
That’s cool that you have chosen the perfect time to see sakura in Hokkaido. Yes that would be possible as hanami begins in Hokkaido on early May. I am sure you would be astonished seeing the cherry blossoms at Fort Goryokaku in Hakodate, Matsumae Park & Castle in Matsumae, and Odori Park in Sapporo.
I don’t know why you have realized such, I could change it right now, please visit here: https://www.kyuhoshi.com/2016/01/29/10-best-things-to-do-during-spring-in-hokkaido/
I hope that article reveals the best spring attractions of Hokkaido and please also don’t forget to visit Higashimokoto Shibazakura Festival as well.
Yes, that’s true! Exploring Hokkaido’s best tourist attractions by a rental car is the best option and you should rely on it. Well, Toyota rental car service is pretty good, visit here for more info: https://www.toyotarentacar.net/english/
Hopefully, you have got the answers that you were searching for to make your Hokkaido trip successful. Thank you.
Hello,
thank you very much for your reply!
I saw in your spring post – to visit Furano/Biei. Would you also recommend a farmstay experience? It is our first time there and there’s so many choices to make!
We saw this farmstay which seems quite popular:
https://www.tripadvisor.com.sg/ShowUserReviews-g1120352-d1146807-r210709179-Guesthouse_Akane_yado-Nakafurano_cho_Sorachi_gun_Hokkaido.html
and was wondering whether to proceed. Do you maybe have a rough plan of the top MUST-SEEs in Hokkaido for a 12 day trip? We love seafood especially alaskan king crab – is there a place/restuarants you’d recommend to eat lots of seafood? Perhaps Hakodate market?
So far: We def want to see Shibazakura festival as you recommended, cherry blossoms, furano/biei, and we are considering Tomamu Mountains – this seems like a popular choice.
Thank you in advance!
C
Hello,
Sorry for taking time to reply you back this time! I was busy.
Yes! If you really want to have a Farmstay experience in Furano area then who cares! To be honest with you, if you are serious of it please reserve your room as early as possible. Visit here: http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/akaneyado.en-us.html?aid=811066 – I hope it will be great for you to stay there.
Yes I have and I would try my best to send you an itinerary for 12 days. You are right, Hakodate market is one of the best places in Hokkaido to have fresh delicious king crab. And they are not expensive there! Although, there is a popular restaurant that serves king crab dishes in Sapporo, visit here: http://www.kani-honke.jp/e/menu/index.html and you can book your table online.
When you are to visit the Shibzakura festival, make sure you also visit Kamiyubetsu Tulip Park.
Have a good day!
Thank you takkhis! I will look for more info about the farmstay and others and I eagerly await your itinerary response! Thank you so much 🙂
You are welcome Candi! Alright, good luck to you and wait for the itinerary. Have a good day 🙂
Hello Candi, please check out this itinerary: https://www.kyuhoshi.com/2016/04/07/hokkaido-spring-itinerary/
I hope you find it useful. Good luck.
hi Takkhis
Thank you so so much. It’s very useful! We are grateful. Have a wonderful Sunday!
You’re welcome! Have a good day.
Hi,
Thank you so much for the great information. I am going to Biei and Furano on Jul 18 and 19 this year. I am thinking about renting a car, but 18 Jul is the public holiday. Would it significantly cause the traffic jam during 18-19 Jul? Thank you again.
Hello,
You’re welcome. And yes that would cause the traffic jam during the public holiday as everyone wants to have a lovely day trip to Furano and Biei. Though, I hope it would not be severe but it is better to be careful always. Thank you.
Hi,
I enjoyed reading your article / replies – very informative. I am thinking to have a trip to Hokkaido to see flowers in the summer, and would like to know the “best time” to see BOTH lavender AND sun flowers. Many thanks!
May
Hi,
I appreciate it. And, the best time to see both lavender and sun flowers is in late July. If you want to see tons of sunflowers then visit Hokuryu!
https://www.kyuhoshi.com/2015/08/03/sunflower-field-in-hokuryu/
Thank you very much.
Noted. Thank you very much!
May
Hi again
Should I consider to see lavender in last week of July 2016 instead of 12 July – 19 July 2016.