Furano & Biei Customised Private Day Tour (Up to 15 Pax/9 Hours)

Exploring Hokkaido’s Natural Beauty on a Private Day Tour from Sapporo

This Furano & Biei customised private day tour offers a comfortable and flexible way to experience some of Japan’s most stunning landscapes. Designed for groups of up to 15, it combines scenic beauty with a touch of local flavor—think lavender fields, the iconic Blue Pond, and dairy delights—all within a manageable 9-hour window. What makes this tour stand out is undoubtedly its private nature; you won’t be part of a large, noisy crowd but instead enjoying a tailored experience with your own vehicle and guide.

One of the main advantages we love is the ease of transportation. Navigating Hokkaido’s scenic spots can be tricky without a car, and this tour’s private vehicle ensures you’re comfortable, with Wi-Fi and climate control to keep things convenient. However, a possible consideration is that it’s not a guided tour—so if you’re after historical insights or detailed commentary, you might need to arrange for additional guides or info.

This tour best suits nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a peaceful escape from Sapporo with minimal hassle. It’s ideal for small groups or families who want a personalized day out, especially if you prefer a flexible schedule and the comfort of private transportation.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: Tailored for groups up to 15 with a dedicated vehicle ensuring comfort and convenience.
• Scenic highlights: Visits to Furano’s cheese factory, lavender fields, and the surreal Blue Pond.
• Ease of travel: Pickup from Sapporo and no need to worry about driving or navigating.
• Authentic local experiences: Cheese tasting and capturing iconic views, all without the crowds.
• Modern comforts: Wi-Fi in the vehicle, climate control, and child seats available.
• Cost-value balance: Priced at $718.47 for the whole group, making it a practical choice for families or groups seeking a curated day trip.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Furano Cheese Factory: A Dairy Delight

Your day begins at the Furano Cheese Factory, a charming spot where you can witness the cheese-making process firsthand. Here, visitors praise the opportunity to see traditional methods while sampling fresh cheeses and dairy products. The factory shop offers an array of cheese and butter, making it easy to pick up souvenirs or enjoy a snack on-site. The 30-minute stop is short but sweet, giving you just enough time to appreciate the craftsmanship and maybe snap a few photos of the rustic dairy setup.

One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the cheese was crafted right in front of us, and tasting the fresh dairy was a highlight.” It’s a genuine taste of Hokkaido’s local produce, and the straightforward, no-cost admission makes it a worthwhile start.

Farm Tomita: Vibrant Blooms and Aromatic Herbs

Next, you’ll head to Farm Tomita, renowned for its sprawling lavender fields, especially in peak bloom from mid-June to late July. While the lavender is the star, the farm also boasts tulip fields in spring and sunflowers in autumn—so it’s picturesque year-round. The one-hour visit allows ample time to stroll through the vibrant flower gardens, enjoy the scent of fresh herbs, and take countless photos with panoramic mountain backgrounds.

Reviewers often comment on how “the lavender fields are breathtaking,” and many appreciate the variety of seasonal flowers. The farm’s gentle charm and vibrant colors appeal equally to photographers and nature lovers. This stop is perfect for those wanting a relaxed, scenic experience amid fragrant blooms.

Aoi Pond (Blue Pond): Surreal Waters and Reflective Vistas

The final main stop is a visit to Aoi Ike, or Blue Pond, an icon of Hokkaido’s natural wonders. The pond’s striking cerulean waters, caused by mineral deposits, create a fantastical scene. Surrounded by birch trees and mountain views, the pond looks different in every season, but autumn’s vibrant foliage makes it particularly photogenic.

According to visitors, “the water’s color is mesmerizing,” and many find it hard to believe such a surreal sight exists. The 30-minute stop is enough to soak in the scene, take photos, and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. Parking fees apply, but the free admission makes it an accessible highlight.

Transportation and Comfort

The private vehicle is a significant perk of this tour. It’s a climate-controlled van with Wi-Fi, making long drives comfortable and productive—especially for those wanting to stay connected or get quick updates on their social media. The vehicle can accommodate up to 15 passengers, making it a good fit for families, friends, or small tour groups.

The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off within a 5-kilometer radius within Sapporo adds to its practicality. Pre-booking baby or child seats is required, so families traveling with little ones can be reassured about safety.

Additional Costs and Arrangements

While the tour covers driver, fuel, insurance, and taxes, extras like parking and highway tolls are paid separately by your. If you want an English-speaking driver, it’s available upon request, though not guaranteed—so if language support is a priority, it’s best to confirm at booking.

Driver accommodation is organized at ¥12,000 per night or can be arranged by yourself, which is useful to know if you’re considering extending your trip or planning other excursions.

How Does It Compare in Value?

At $718.47 for up to 15 passengers, the per-person cost drops to under $50—a reasonable rate considering the private, tailored experience and the inclusion of transportation and hotel pickup. Given the ability to skip public transit and navigate scenic spots comfortably, many travelers find this offers good value, especially for small groups wanting a hassle-free day.

It’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include guide commentary or extra stops—so if you’re seeking detailed local stories or historical context, you might need to arrange additional arrangements. Still, for straightforward sightseeing and relaxing scenery, it hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

This Furano & Biei private tour offers a blend of stunning visual treats and the convenience of private transport. You’ll appreciate the flexibility to enjoy each site at your own pace, with comfort and ease from start to finish. The stops—cheese factory, lavender fields, and Blue Pond—are all iconic highlights of Hokkaido, perfect for capturing memories or simply soaking in the views.

Suitable for families, groups, or anyone who prefers a curated experience without the hassle of driving or navigating on their own. The tour’s price is fair when considering its private nature and included comforts, making it an attractive option for those wanting a relaxed, scenic day.

In essence, this tour delivers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Hokkaido’s natural beauty, with enough flexibility to suit your pace. Whether you’re there for the stunning landscapes, delicious dairy, or surreal waters, you’ll come away with plenty of photos and memories—and probably a few lavender-scented souvenirs.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered within 5 kilometers of Sapporo, making it easy to start your day comfortably.

How many stops are included in the tour?
There are three main stops: Furano Cheese Factory, Farm Tomita, and Blue Pond.

Are there any entrance fees?
No, all stops listed are free to enter. You might want to set aside funds for parking fees at Blue Pond.

Can I bring children on this tour?
Yes, baby and child seats can be pre-booked, making it family-friendly.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, including transportation and stops.

Is a guide included?
No, this is a private activity without a guide. Support staff who speak English are available to assist.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included; you can plan to bring snacks or eat during breaks.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 15 passengers, ideal for small groups or families.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
You’ll need to cover parking fees, highway tolls, and driver accommodation if needed.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 23 days before, but it’s wise to reserve earlier during peak seasons.

This private tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Hokkaido’s most famous sights with comfort and style. Perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic, and uniquely tailored experience in one of Japan’s most beautiful regions.