Furano & Biei Hills
Hokkaido's Patchwork Quilt of Lavender Fields and Rolling Farmland
The Furano and Biei region transformed from simple agricultural land into a tourist destination largely due to its natural beauty captured in photographs and artwork. The area's distinctive patchwork appearance comes from different crops planted in strips across the gently rolling hills - a farming technique that also prevents soil erosion.
Furano's lavender cultivation began in the 1950s when farmer Tadao Tokiwa started growing lavender for perfume oil production. By the 1970s, a photograph by Masakazu Mizushima and a JR calendar featuring Furano's lavender fields sparked national interest. Farm Tomita, established in 1958, became the region's most famous lavender farm and continues to attract millions of visitors annually.
Biei gained fame separately through the 'Mild Seven Hill' (now called Ken and Mary Tree), featured in a cigarette commercial in 1977. Since then, numerous trees and fields in the area have been named after commercials and photographs. The region has become synonymous with Hokkaido's natural beauty, particularly during July when lavender blooms reach their peak.
Key Highlights
- Farm Tomita established in 1958, pioneer of lavender tourism
- Peak lavender season in mid-July attracts millions of visitors
- Biei's patchwork hills featured in countless advertisements and artworks
- Shikisai-no-Oka flower garden spans 15 hectares with seasonal blooms
- Blue Pond: striking blue water created accidentally from dam construction
- Famous lone trees: Ken and Mary Tree, Parent-Child Tree, Philosopher's Tree
Access Information
Location
Furano and Biei region, Central Hokkaido, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Furano Station (JR Nemuro Main Line)
- • Biei Station (JR Furano Line)
- • Lavender Batake Station (JR Furano Line - seasonal summer only)
Opening Hours
Outdoor viewing areas open 24 hours | Farm Tomita: 8:30-18:00 (summer), 9:00-16:30 (other seasons) | Shikisai-no-Oka: Apr-Oct 8:30-18:00, Nov-Mar 9:00-17:00
Admission Fee
Free to view landscapes and most fields | Farm Tomita: Free admission | Shikisai-no-Oka: ¥500 (flowers blooming season only)
How to Get There
From Sapporo
JR Limited Express to Asahikawa, then JR Furano Line
2 hours
From Asahikawa
JR Furano Line to Biei or Furano
30-45 minutes
From New Chitose Airport
Train to Sapporo, then express to Asahikawa and local line
2.5 hours
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Lavender Season: Mid-July
The peak lavender blooming period is typically July 15-25, though early varieties bloom from late June. This is also the busiest tourist period with significant crowds at Farm Tomita and other popular sites.
Car Rental Highly Recommended
While accessible by train, the best viewpoints and fields are spread across a wide rural area. Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace and access remote scenic spots.
Photography Paradise
Early morning offers the best light and fewer crowds. The iconic Blue Pond is most photogenic in early morning. Respect private farmland - many scenic fields are working farms, not tourist attractions.
Local Specialties
Try Furano's famous products: lavender soft cream, Furano wine, Furano melon, and Furano curry. Many farms have restaurants or stands offering local produce and dairy products.
Winter Beauty Too
While summer is most famous, winter offers stunning snow-covered landscapes and the Blue Pond takes on a different character when partially frozen. Far fewer tourists and beautiful skiing conditions.
Suggested Route
Start in Biei (Blue Pond, Patchwork Road, Panorama Road), then move to Furano (Farm Tomita, Shikisai-no-Oka). Allow a full day to enjoy the area without rushing.
Respect Working Farms
Many picturesque fields are private property and active farmland. Do not enter fields without permission, damage crops, or block farm vehicles. Some famous trees have been cut down due to tourist problems.
Farm Tomita Shopping
Farm Tomita offers extensive lavender products: essential oils, soaps, sachets, and cosmetics. Products are made from lavender grown on-site. Also features a melon house with fresh Furano melons.
FAQ
How long should I spend in Furano and Biei?
A full day (8-10 hours) is ideal to explore both areas without rushing. If you want to visit multiple farms, drive scenic routes, and enjoy meals, consider staying overnight. Rushing through in half a day means missing many photogenic spots and the relaxed rural atmosphere that makes this region special.
Do I need a car to explore Furano and Biei?
Yes, a car is highly recommended. While trains reach Furano and Biei towns, the best viewpoints, flower fields, and scenic routes are spread across rural areas with limited or no public transportation. Tour buses are available but restrict your flexibility and photography opportunities.
Are there guided tour bus options?
Yes, several tour companies offer day trips from Sapporo covering major highlights like Farm Tomita, Blue Pond, and Shikisai-no-Oka. Tours typically cost ¥8,000-12,000 and last 10-12 hours. While convenient without a car, you'll have limited time at each location and can't explore off-the-beaten-path spots.
When exactly is lavender season?
Peak lavender blooms from mid-July (approximately July 15-25), with early varieties starting late June. Farm Tomita's most spectacular displays occur during this peak period. Late varieties continue into early August but are less impressive. Book accommodation months in advance for mid-July visits as hotels fill up quickly.
Is Furano worth visiting outside lavender season?
Absolutely! Spring offers tulips and other flowers (May-June), summer has sunflowers and various blooms beyond lavender (June-September), autumn brings golden fields and fall colors (September-October), and winter offers stunning snowy landscapes and the mystical frozen Blue Pond (December-February) without crowds.
What time should I visit Blue Pond for best photos?
Early morning (6-8 AM) offers the best light, fewer crowds, and calmest water for clearer reflections. The pond's blue color is most vibrant in morning light. Overcast days actually enhance the blue tone. Avoid midday when harsh sunlight washes out colors and crowds peak.
How crowded is Farm Tomita during peak season?
Extremely crowded from mid-July, especially weekends and the peak lavender period (July 15-25). Expect large tour groups, packed parking lots, and difficulty taking photos without people. Arrive before 9 AM or after 4 PM to avoid worst crowds. Weekdays are significantly less busy than weekends.
Is Furano and Biei suitable for young children?
Yes, very family-friendly! Most flower fields are stroller-accessible on paved paths. Kids enjoy tractor rides at Shikisai-no-Oka, soft cream tastings, and wide-open spaces to run. However, long drives between spots may tire young children. Bring snacks and entertainment for car rides.
Where should I stay - Furano or Biei?
Both work well. Furano offers more accommodation options, restaurants, and is closer to Farm Tomita. Biei is quieter, more rural, and closer to Blue Pond and patchwork roads. Staying one night in each lets you enjoy both areas thoroughly and catch sunrise/sunset at different locations.
Can I store luggage while sightseeing?
Yes, coin lockers are available at Furano Station and Biei Station (¥300-600). Most hotels allow luggage storage before check-in and after check-out. If renting a car, you can leave bags in the vehicle. For large groups, ask hotels about temporary storage even if not staying there.
What are must-visit spots besides Farm Tomita?
Don't miss Blue Pond (Biei's most iconic spot), Shikisai-no-Oka flower gardens, Patchwork Road and Panorama Road scenic drives, Tomita Melon House for fresh melons, and the Ken and Mary Tree. Each offers unique photo opportunities and experiences beyond the famous lavender fields.
Are there good restaurants in the area?
Yes, but options are limited compared to cities. Furano is known for curry, omuraisu (omelette rice), and local vegetables. Many farms have restaurants featuring their produce. Biei has fewer options - eat in Furano or at farm cafes. Reservations recommended for dinner during peak season as popular places fill up.
Can I visit in winter and what can I see?
Yes! Winter (December-March) offers a completely different experience: the Blue Pond partially freezes creating ethereal ice formations, snow-covered fields create pristine white landscapes, and nearby ski resorts are accessible. Far fewer tourists mean peaceful photography. Dress warmly and be prepared for snowy driving conditions.
Which is better - Patchwork Road or Panorama Road?
Both are worth driving. Patchwork Road (north of Biei) is shorter with famous trees and colorful crop fields creating a quilt-like pattern. Panorama Road (southeast of Biei) offers wider vistas and rolling hills. Drive both if time permits - combined route takes about 2-3 hours with photo stops.
Do I need to book flower farm entry in advance?
No advance booking needed for Farm Tomita or Shikisai-no-Oka. However, parking at Farm Tomita during peak lavender season can fill by mid-morning. Consider paid parking lots nearby if the main lot is full. Arriving early (before 9 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) avoids parking stress.
Are there English signs and information?
Major attractions like Farm Tomita and Shikisai-no-Oka have English signage and maps. GPS and translation apps work well. Rural roads may have Japanese-only signs, so download offline maps beforehand. Most farm staff speak limited English but are helpful. Having destination names in Japanese characters helps with navigation.
What photography equipment should I bring?
A wide-angle lens captures expansive field landscapes, while a telephoto lens works for isolated tree shots and Blue Pond details. Tripods are allowed at most locations but may be restricted during crowded periods at Farm Tomita. Polarizing filter enhances the Blue Pond's color. Drone photography is restricted in many areas.
Can I buy fresh lavender products?
Yes, Farm Tomita's shop offers extensive lavender products: essential oils, dried lavender sachets, soaps, lotions, and perfumes made from locally-grown lavender. Shikisai-no-Oka also has lavender items. Fresh lavender bunches are available during bloom season (July). Products make excellent, fragrant souvenirs unique to Furano.
Is the area accessible for elderly or mobility-impaired visitors?
Partially accessible. Farm Tomita's main lavender fields have paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and walkers, though some gradients exist. Shikisai-no-Oka offers a tractor bus (¥500) for those unable to walk the gardens. Blue Pond has a short walk from parking. Rural driving allows viewing scenery without extensive walking.
What's the best single-day itinerary from Sapporo?
Depart Sapporo early (7 AM), stop at Blue Pond (9 AM), drive Patchwork and Panorama Roads (10-11:30 AM), lunch in Biei, visit Shikisai-no-Oka (1-2:30 PM), then Farm Tomita (3-5 PM), return to Sapporo (arrive 7-8 PM). This hits major highlights but is rushed. Overnight stay allows more relaxed exploration and sunset photography.
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