This premium sightseeing course brings together two of Hokkaido’s signature attractions, Asahiyama Zoo in Asahikawa and the Shirogane Blue Pond, in a single day.
The journey begins in Sapporo, traveling to Asahiyama Zoo for approximately two hours of exploration, followed by a visit to the Shirogane Blue Pond. While the route covers a considerable distance, the experience remains engaging aboard a guided sightseeing bus. A stop is also included at Sunagawa Highway Oasis, offering time to rest and shop. This hub for Sorachi specialties is an excellent place to pick up local souvenirs and sweets.
Asahiyama Zoo is designed to showcase the animals’ natural abilities and behaviors to their fullest. Known as “behavioral exhibits,” these features allow close observation of dynamic scenes, from orangutans crossing overhead ropes to polar bears diving and swimming in pools, all in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats.
After the zoo visit, the tour continues to the Shirogane Blue Pond in Shirogane, a scene of striking, almost painterly beauty. Depending on the weather and angle of light, the water shifts between cobalt and emerald blue, with standing larch trees rising from its surface, creating a truly mesmerizing natural landscape.
The return journey features sweeping views of Biei’s hills, the Patchwork Road, and the iconic Seven Stars Tree, offering classic Hokkaido scenery from the window.
Covering nearly 320 km, this route would be demanding to drive independently. A scheduled sightseeing bus allows the journey to unfold comfortably under the care of professional drivers. Discover Hokkaido’s green season with ease and comfort.
Tag Archives: Blue Pond
Scenic View of Biei’s Rolling Hills and the Iconic Seven Stars Tree from the Window
Farm Tomita, Shikisai-no-Oka and Blue Pond Tour (Multilingual Audio Tour)
*Farm Tomita : Enjoy the history of lavender and flowers in season at Farm Tomita, a tourist lavender farm in Japan. In the gift shops on site seasonal flowers, soaps, perfume and other original products made of lavender.
*Shikisai-no-Oka Hills: The vast fields of flowers that bloom over the hills of Shikisai-no-Oka make up the beautiful patchwork scenery of Biei. Between 30 to 40 varieties of flowers are planted in the fields that were once owned by farmers, which bloom every year between May and late October. Peak season is between late July and late September. The sight of rolling hills covered in colorful flowers is absolutely spectacular! The first Alpacas to be raised in Hokkaido, are being raised on Shikisai-no-Oka. They are quickly becoming popular mascots to children who visit from all over the world.
*Blue Pond : In recent years, the Blue Pond has become a super popular site in the Biei area. The dead Japanese larch trees that stand amidst the milky blue water of the pond create a mysterious atmosphere.
*Furano Wine House: The Furano Wine House is located on a hill overlooking the city of Furano, the lavender fields, vast pastoral landscapes and the panoramic view of the Tokachidake Mountain Range. It is a “”local production for local consumption,”" restaurant where guests can enjoy delicious Western food while taking in the amazing view. The 100% Furano Grape Juice, the brainchild of wine-making experience, products made with lavender, and many other original items are sold.
Lunch menu consists of Furano Wine House famous “”Petite Fondue + Hamburger Steak + Rice + Coffee or Tea.
Highland Furano, Farm Tomita and Blue Pond Tour (Multilingual Audio Tour)
●Highland Furano: A large hot spring and accommodation facility situated near vast forests and lavender fields. Visitors can enjoy views of the impressive Tokachidake Mountain Range and a bright purple “sea of lavender.” A footpath leads through the forest, where visitors can enjoy “forest bathing,” bird-watching and viewing wildflowers. For lunch we will enjoy petite fondue + hamburger steak + rice * coffee or tea. We especially recommend the petite fondue.
●Farm Tomita: The oldest and most historic lavender farm in Japan. Discover the history of lavender and seasonal flowers. At the gift shop on site, you can purchase seasonal flowers, soaps, perfumes and other original items made from lavender.
●Blue Pond: One of the most popular sights of Biei in recent years. The mysterious pond appears blue on the surface, with dead pine trees creating an eerie and fantastic atmosphere.
