When to see lavender in Hokkaido? In general, from mid-July to late July is the sweet spot!
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 2026?
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 ÂĄ200 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 2026
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.
Hi, I am planning to Hokkaido in 12 July to 18 July 2016.
Can I see lavender during this period ?
Is it better to see lavender in last week July 2016.
Hi, If you are planning to visit Hokkaido from July 12 to July 18, then I would definitely say “YES” – in fact, that’s the best time to see lavender.
However, if you are unable to get there during that time then still you have a chance to see lavender at different flower farms in Furano and Biei. But make sure you arrive in Furano either in July 22 or 23, 2016. I hope lavender would not get harvested before that time. Good luck.
Hello,
Would it be possible for you to recommend me an itinerary for 3-4 weeks in Hokkaido? Travelling period is about from mid June to mid July. Thank you very much!
I enjoy reading your articles! Can’t wait to go to Hokkaido!
Hello,
Well, I would try my best to do it. Thanks!
And hopefully, to make your journey unforgettable I would be sharing more articles based on Hokkaido in future. Have a good day.
Hi,
My name ia Yvonne from Malaysia. My friend and I shall be traveling to Hokkaido from 20 to 29 June 2016. The main purpose is for sightseeing especially lavender.
Glad to know that you have answered one of the comment that lavender actually start blooming on early June. Although understand the best time would be early July to early August.
Btw heard that the transportation is not convenient surrounding Hokkaido as most tourist would have rented a car.
Since only me and my friend which I think it’s not economic for only two person to rent a car. Any possibility to survive with only JR pass to travel on the places that you have suggested to Kit as below:
Furano & Biei – Visit the best flower farms I have mentioned here in this article
Summer Outdoor Activity – Rafting in Sorachi River, Furano
Asahiyama Zoo – Head to this great Zoo which is seen to be the number 1 Zoo in all over Japan
Noboribetsu – A great place for hot springs
Shiraoi Ainu Museum
Lake Toya
Hakodate City Night View from Mt. Hakodate -The best night sight view city in Japan
Unkai Terrace (sea of clouds) in Tomamu Resort
Sapporo – Capital City of Hokkaido has so many things to do in summer
Misakidai Park – Best place for watching the sunset in Hokkaido
Nemuro – Best place for watching the first sunrise in Japan
Akan National Park – Enjoy the amazing view of three beautiful lakes: Lake Akan, Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo
Daisetsuzan National Park – in June becomes pretty beautiful with variety wild flowers and it has many hiking trails to enjoy the nature
Kushiro – Best for viewing graceful Japanese Cranes or so called Red-crowned cranes
I have been to Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and etc during spring on April 2014. Wonderful experience to view the cherry blossom.
We have bought 7 days JR pass to travel most location but there are certain location is not covered under JR pass. So we’re wondering is it recommended to buy the 7 day JR pass to travel around Hokkaido?
Btw impressed on your writing and the pictures that you’d shared. Hope to hear from you.
Thanks,
Yvonne Tan
Hi Yvonne,
Thanks for visiting this article. At first, if you intend to travel to Hokkaido from 20 to 29 June 2016, then you would miss lavender, but others flowers would be there to please you. Actually, people say that “transportation is not convenient” because they really don’t know about it. When you are to travel to a specific part of Japan then always first think of its regional Rail Pass rather than a JR Pass. Please visit here: http://www2.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/ and it will help you to understand why you should buy a Hokkaido Rail Pass. And most of the destinations I have suggested can be accessed by a Hokkaido Rail Pass.
That was great then! I want you to travel to Tohoku during spring season, you will be thrilled, check out here: https://www.kyuhoshi.com/2016/02/08/10-best-cherry-blossom-viewing-spots-in-tohoku/
Yes Buy JR pass but it has to be Hokkaido Rail Pass, not Japan Rail Pass. This page will help you to get some useful information: http://www2.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/english/faq/faq03.html
Thank you very much.
Sorry to dive in but I think JR Rail Pass includes all the JR Trains and Buses. While the Hokkaido JR Pass includes limited/rapid trains it doesn’t include coverage to JR Buses, and it cost a lot too since the 3day pass is already 16,500yen.
Hokkaido Rail Pass is the best when you just intend to visit Hokkaido by train. If you have any doubt why Hokkaido visitors should use it ask someone who has visited Hokkaido before. I am not a foreigner so I don’t care of it much! And visit this page for more information: http://jprail.com/destinations/hokkaido-area/hokkaido-rail-pass-the-best-deal-for-rail-trip-in-hokkaido-for-oversea-visitors.html – They are the expert who can answer your questions regarding transportation in Japan. Thank you.
What a paradise!!! Somewhat the same with Kochia Hills but in purple. Would you recommend me going around last week of July? And what clothes should I bring? Are goods expensive in Sapporo? Lastly, may I ask for your itinerary during your stay. Sorry for asking too much 🙂
Thanks for visiting Kyuhoshi.com.
Yes, of course, you can go there around last week of July as flower fields there in Furano and Biei look stunning. Furano’s weather in summer is pretty cool, just bring usual clothes as you wear during summer. And to me that is not expensive, it is quite similar to Tokyo. If I could manage time then I would send you the itinerary to your email. Thanks a lot. Have fun!
Thanks! can you also include the train fares if that’s okay with you. Thanks again.
Hi! I will be going to Hokkaido end of Aug. Would there still be Lavenders to see during that time?
Hi, if you have luck you still can experience lavender there but most of them will be harvested! However, except lavenders there are other flowers especially sunflower, cosmos and lilies that look gorgeous. Please don’t miss Shikisai-no-oka flower gardens when you visit Furano and Biei. Thank you.
I will visit Sapporo on 2nd Apr 2016.
Any flowers during that time ?
Any recommendation ?
Hi,
I don’t know why you would like to visit Sapporo in April. Probably it is for official matter, and if not then could you change the schedule? April is still cold in Hokkaido/Sapporo, snow starts melting! You won’t see any flower there in April. Though, there are other sightseeing spots for you such as: Mt. Moiwa Ropeway, Sapporo TV Tower, Odori Park, Sapporo Beer Museum, Shiroi Koibito Park, Maruyama Zoo, Hokkaido Shrine, Sapporo Clock Tower, and Moerenuma Park. Enjoy your time and thank you.
Hi.. Just fallen in love with Hokkaido, thanks to your post and super awesome pictures !
Will there be absolutely anything in Hokkaido in march ? Thats when I have a plan to be in japan . Thanks
Hi, Oh really! I want everyone should fall in love with Hokkaido just like you. Hokkaido in mach means there is still snow and a lot of winter activities to do at various ski resorts throughout Hokkaido region. Though, there is no flower festival or something like that in March. Spring flowers start blooming in early spring when the weather start getting warmer. If you really want to visit Hokkaido in March, then I would like you to visit Central and Southern Hokkaido especially two cities, Sapporo and Hakodate. Enjoy their historic landmarks, local delicacies, shopping malls, and hot-springs. If you have any question then please let me know. Thank you.
Hi, thanks for the information. Will be in Japan 15aug16 for a week. Just wondering what happens after the peak season early July to early Aug? Do we still get to see the lavender field and what alternatives do we have?
Thank you.
Hello, you are welcome!
Can I suggest you one thing? You can get to Furano in early August and that would be great. I hope you can view late blooming lavender at that time. After the peak season, farmers usually start harvesting lavender flower.
Yes you have alternatives! For example you can head to Hokuryu to see its massive sunflower field. Find out more here: https://www.kyuhoshi.com/2015/08/03/hokuryu-cho-sunflower-village/
Though, if your intension is to stay near Furano and Biei then I would like to suggest you to visit best summer flower viewing gardens such as Farm Tomita, Kanno Farm, Shikisai-no-Oka, Flower Land Kamifurano, Saika-no-Sato, The Hills of Zerubu & Atom and etc.
Visit this page https://www.kyuhoshi.com/2015/05/22/things-to-do-in-furano/
And find out the best thing to do in Furano. Good luck and thanks for visiting this article.
Hi,
I will be spending about a week (from mid of May 2016, spring) in Hokkaido with my family (wife + 2 teenagers). Perhaps a couple of days in Biei. A lot of activities had been mentioned for summer/winter in the internet, but no much about Spring. Would be very much appreciate you can advice me for this trip, e.g. place of interests. etc
Thanks a million…
Hi,
I just sent you a message to your email address. I hope my message would help you and make your spring trip a lot easier. Wish you good luck, explore spring Hokkaido! 🙂
Thank you.
Hi Takkhis :
Beautiful Hokkaido, much appreciated if you could help me to plan a perfect vacation in Hokkaido which my travel date are from 14 to 19 August solely in Hokkaido, may I know how should I plan ensure not to skip any attractive place, meal, Spa and accommodation. and how much should I budget out.
Hi, you would miss viewing lavender in Furano but there are other flower gardens that could make your trip unforgettable in August. Alright, I will send you a message to your email with a useful Hokkaido travel guide. But you have to wait for few days to get it. Thank you.
Enjoyed reading your comprehensive coverage:) I would like to bring my 2 aunts & my mum to visit Hokkaido for about 10 days @ mid-June. Would it be possible to enjoy the flower / lavender farms / parks at this time? I noticed you mention the peak season starts in July. What else would you advise for a 9-10 day itinerary? Welcome your feedback and ideas. Thanks!
Hello,
You are most welcome 🙂
10 days trip to Hokkaido! Wow – that’s going to be an unforgettable trip for you then if you are guided properly. No worries, I would be helping you.
Yes, it is possible to enjoy the flower gardens including the ones with tons of lavenders. Even though peak season of viewing lavender in July, they start blooming in Furano in early June. Therefore, you would experience it along with other flower gardens.
Hokkaido is a big region, a lot to explore! As you will be staying in Hokkaido for 9-10 days I think I would like to share some best places you could visit in mid June. You can cover all these attractions within 10 days but it will be a rush trip. Please bear in mind that a-10 days trip to Furano & Biei is quite possible including other sightseeing spots near these two towns. Below are the best attractions you could visit along with viewing flower farm in Furano & Biei. Good luck.
Furano & Biei – Visit the best flower farms I have mentioned here in this article
Summer Outdoor Activity – Rafting in Sorachi River, Furano
Asahiyama Zoo – Head to this great Zoo which is seen to be the number 1 Zoo in all over Japan
Noboribetsu – A great place for hot springs
Shiraoi Ainu Museum
Lake Toya
Hakodate City Night View from Mt. Hakodate -The best night sight view city in Japan
Unkai Terrace (sea of clouds) in Tomamu Resort
Sapporo – Capital City of Hokkaido has so many things to do in summer
Misakidai Park – Best place for watching the sunset in Hokkaido
Nemuro – Best place for watching the first sunrise in Japan
Akan National Park – Enjoy the amazing view of three beautiful lakes: Lake Akan, Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo
Daisetsuzan National Park – in June becomes pretty beautiful with variety wild flowers and it has many hiking trails to enjoy the nature
Kushiro – Best for viewing graceful Japanese Cranes or so called Red-crowned cranes
Oh don’t forget to buy a regional JR Hokkaido pass it will ease your trip. Please ask me again if you have any doubt. Be more specific when asking question and it will be easy for me to answer then.
Thank you very much.
Hi I wold like to know when is then best time to visit Hokkaido? We going in a big family with my four kids (9 to 21 years old) and my mum (76yrs old), we can only go on school holiday which is March, September and December …. Thank you very much for your advise !
Hi Sharon,
thanks for visiting Kyuhoshi.
I always have thought that the best time to visit Hokkaido is either in summer or in winter. Though, Hokkaido is a place which can be traveled all year round. To see different kind of beautiful flower gardens in Hokkaido you must get there in summer from June to August. While on the other hand, Hokkaido hosts a number of best winter festivals in winter especially in February. If you would like to celebrate your Christmas Holidays in Sapporo then that is a very good choice. In fact you can experience a lot of things there in December and January.
I assume that you are from Singapore. I hope you would not bother traveling Hokkaido during winter season. A lot of winter fun activities await you there! As you have told me that you only could have a trip to Hokkaido on school holidays so I hope winter (December) is the best option for you. Though, it would be pretty nice if you could manage a week of Holidays to have a trip to Hokkaido either in July or in February.
Take a look at the best places to visit during winter in Hokkaido:
Niseko – One of the best ski resorts in Japan
Asahiyama Zoo – Best Zoo in Japan
Sapporo – Magical City of Winter in Japan
Kushiro – Paradise for Japanese Crane (Red-crowned Crane)
Nemuro – Famous for watching the First Sunrise/New Year Sunrise and Steller’s sea eagle
Noboribetsu – Top Hot Spring Resort in Hokkaido
Shiraoi Ainu Museum
Otaru Canal
If you have any question, please ask me again.
Thank you very much.
Im planning to visit Hokkaido mid March for one week – more days if needed. I have never visited Japan. Would appreciate your suggestion of what to do and see. I prefer to stay in a Japanese inn. Thank ou
Hi Doris,
I have sent you a long message to your email, please check it out.
I hope my travel tips and ideas would help you to enjoy beautiful Hokkaido.
Please contact us again if you have any question. Thank you.
Hi I will be going Tokyo and Kyoto in April 2016.
I am thinking of going again in autumn? What is nice to see during autumn in Hokkaido? Or other parts of Japan? September or October?
Regards
Hi,
Visiting Tokyo and Kyoto in April would be awesome because that’s the proper time for celebrating Hanami in Japan.
Hokkaido is not the famous place to see autumn leaves in Japan comparing to Kyoto, Nikko or Tohoku. Though, you would be surprised to know that Japan’s first autumn foliage is seen here on this 2nd largest island of Japan. Here is the list of the best fall foliage spots of Hokkaido: Kosetsuen Park, in Hakodate, Hokkaido University, Daisetsuzan National Park and Mt. Asahi. Please visit this page to know all the answers of your questions: https://www.kyuhoshi.com/autumn/
Thank you.
I am planning to go around August 2016, can i still see the flowers at Lavender Farm ?
Hi Yen,
Good morning! Yes, it is possible to see flowers at lavender farm in August but remember that EARLY AUGUST would be the superior time.
Thank you.
Very good write up article about Hokkaido.
I wish to know what is nice to see if visit Hokkaido in late November to first week December.
Hokkaido is an amazing winter destination and quite renowned for ski resorts, winter festival, Kushiro town, and Akan National Park. Traveling in Hokkaido in December is quite interesting if you want to see a lot of snows out there. I think you could visit some renowned ski resorts to have fun and Kushiro town to view Japanese cranes and their dance. Japanese cranes are endangered and quite beautiful to look at especially when they dance! Read more about the Japanese cranes – https://www.kyuhoshi.com/2014/09/09/japanese-crane-in-hokkaido/
Your name seems to me that you are from Southeast Asia. So, witnessing snowy weather in Japan could overwhelm you. Thanks for visiting this article. Have a good day. 🙂
Hi,
May I know if 31st July – 12 Aug 2016 period is a good time to view lavender and also sunflowers? I am planning to book my flight soon. Hope to get your reply soon. TQ
Hi there,
Thanks for reading this article. Yes, you can still enjoy the view of lavender and sunflower. However, the best place to see sunflower in Hokkaido region is called Hokuryu-cho Sunflower Village. You could find more information here about this site.
Thank you.
Hi there,
I am planning to visit Hokkaido for only 2 days- am looking at visiting Farm Tomita & Lake Okotanpe/Lake Shikotsu/Lake Toya (which one of the lakes would you recommend/is nearest to Farm Tomita?).
I was just wondering though, would I still be able to still see lavender during these dates? 26-29 Aug? Thanks 🙂
Also on a side note, I arrive in Tokyo on 26 Aug and will take a train to Hokkaido immediately. Was wondering if I should just purchase the 7 day JR pass? Is this how I should get to Hokkaido from Narita? Narita > Tokyo, Tokyo > Hokkaido
Or just Narita > Hokkaido straight?
It would be great if you could respond to me via email as this is quite lengthy. Thank you for your patience and help 🙂
Thanks!
Charmaine
Hi Charmaine,
I am happy to know that you will be visiting Hokkaido soon. Just to inform you that I have sent you an email to your email address with all the answers and travel tips to Hokkaido. Thanks 🙂
Thank you for your information. I have a question, is there any other train that stop at “Lavender Batake Station”? Or only Furano-Biei Norokko train stop there?
I apologies for the late response to your comment. Well, only Furano-Biei Norokko train stops at Lavender Batake Station.
I hope this helps you and thanks for visiting this article.
Thank you very much for this very informative write up about Hokkaida. It convinced me to go with my daughter this July. We have booked in Sapporo, which i supposed we can use as our home based when we go around Hokkaida? Would appreciate a reply. Thanks!
It is my pleasure! 🙂 Well, that’s a good idea to go to Hokkaido in July and it is the perfect time to visit this beautiful largest island. As Sapporo is the capital city of Hokkaido you can easily get good transportation service from there to go around. But if you really want to see lavender and other flower gardens in Furano and Biei then I suggest you to stay at least a night in Furano town. Indeed, there is a lot to explore such as lavender and flower field, hand craft activities, museum, sightseeing farms, TV drama locations and etc. Hopefully, you will enjoy your whole trip. Thanks for taking the time to read this article.
It is a paradise
I agree with you. Thanks!