■ Morning 1 (From Sapporo → Furano (Car: 116 km, Bus: 2 hours and 28 minutes))
・Sample route (by car): Take the Sapporo IC → Mikasa IC → Route 116 → Bibo Furano Line → National Highway No. 38

If you take a rental car from Sapporo and leave early in the morning, a sightseeing trip to Furano/Biei can be made in one day.

Alternatively, you can take a train or bus to Furano and move by renting a car near JR Furano Station. In that case, see if they will allow you to return the vehicle at JR Biei station, to optimize your tour. From Sapporo, first, go to Biei, then from there, you can take the scenic route to Furano.

In summer, the sightseeing buses are run by Hokkaido Chuo Bus, which goes around the tourist area of Furano and Biei. These depart from the Sapporo Station Bus Terminal.

Sightseeing is also possible from the stations along JR's tourist train called the Furano Biei Norokko Train, which travels between Ashikawa, Biei, and Furano stations.

■Morning 2
Sample route (by car): Farm Tomita → Flower Land Kamifurano

First head to Furano's famous sightseeing spot Farm Tomita. However, keep in mind that the best season to visit Farm Tomita is from July to mid-August, but be ready for a crowd.

Be careful if you intend to travel using a rental car, as you might get caught in a traffic jam on the surrounding roads or in the parking lots. If possible, plan your trip ahead and arrive the night before.

If you do stay at a hotel or other lodging around Furano, you can arrive early at Farm Tomita which will make for a smooth sightseeing experience.

There are many other gardens in Furano, and if you move quickly, it is possible to visit the neighboring gardens such as Flower Land Kamifurano.

■ Must-Eat Lunch
Biei's scenic view Cafe & Restaurant / Biei Curry Udon

This establishment is located near JR Furano Station, so if you stop here after seeing the sights you’ll lose a lot of time. It is better to find a spot for lunch as you move toward Biei. Although there are many restaurants around JR Biei Station, the best ones are often located away from the station. The local gourmet of Biei is the "Biei Curry Udon” which is available at “Biei Road Station,” Kura Hill, “The Wheat Restaurant" and other stores around JR Biei Station. There are shops and eateries inside the tourist facilities as well.

■ Afternoon 1
Sample route (by car): Flower Land Kamifurano → Aoiike Blue Pond → Shikisai-no-oka Flower Gardens → Chiyoda Hill Lookout → San-ai-no-Oka view park → Shinei-no-Oka Observatory Park

After visiting the Biei Platinum Blue Pond (Aoiike), a magnificent sightseeing spot of Biei, drive the popular Panoramic Road where you can enjoy the panoramic flower gardens of Shikisai-no-oka, Chiyoda Hill Lookout, San-ai-no-Oka view park, and Shinei-no-Oka Observatory Park.

Please enjoy the sights of these hills, but remember as these are privately owned lands, refrain from parking on the streets or entering the fields.

■ Afternoon 2
From Biei → Sapporo (Car: 166 km, train: 2 hours)

If you are using a rental car, it is best to return the way you came. If you rented a car in Furano, return the rental car near Biei Station and head toward Sapporo by train.

On the way, transfer at JR Asahikawa Station. Be sure to check the connecting train times in advance. Diners in Biei City close early, so we recommend dinner after returning to Sapporo.

■ If you have extra time:
● Things to do in Furano
Lavender East / Sunrise Park / Furano Winery / Furano Marche

Gardens are scattered along National Highway No. 237. Nonetheless, this garden area is vast, leaving only time for 2-3 gardens if you are on a one day trip. If you enjoy gardens, it may be better to keep your trip centered on the Furano area.

Furano Marche, where you can find all of Furano's special products and souvenirs, is located near JR Furano Station and is a great spot to check out if you have the time. It also offers many eat-in gourmet restaurants.

● Biei
Patchwork road / Biei selection

The route that goes around these photogenic trees and hills are scattered on the north side of JR Biei Station is called Patchwork Road, and can be circled in an hour or two. If you are looking for souvenirs, stop by "Biei Selection" near JR Biei Station.

*Times and distances are a reference guide

You can enjoy a variety of fun snow activities in this area in winter, including skiing and snowboarding. To save money and hassle, we recommend booking lift tickets in advance. Enjoy the unique winter landscapes and outstanding sense of openness that snow resorts afford, while also avoiding the crowds.