Otherworldly vistas unique to Hokkaido can be seen year-round, earning it the nickname “The Land That Challenges You.” One of summer’s iconic scenes is the lavender fields of Furano.
This July, at peak bloom, I toured Furano’s most beautiful lavender spots with a friend as my guide!
Farm Tomita: The Birthplace of Furano’s Lavender Tourism
First stop: Farm Tomita, the pioneer that put Furano on the map for lavender tourism.
Probably the most famous lavender site in Furano, it was packed with tourists from across Japan and Asia on that Sunday.
Rows of touring bikes from Kansai were parked out front—summer Hokkaido is a motorcyclist’s dream.
I fueled up with melon slices (¥250)—an everyday snack here, though a luxury elsewhere.
On July 12, early-blooming lavender was in full color, while late varieties were just starting. The fields will deepen in purple soon.
The “Colorful Fields” section was nearly ready to bloom.
Lavender framed by the Tokachi Mountain Range and farmland—pure Hokkaido.
Despite being Hokkaido, the sun pushed temperatures near 30°C—seeking shade was a relief.
Clouds scattered allowed crisp mountain ridges to appear, unseen during my winter visit.
Deep purple early-lavender glowed vibrantly—absolutely breathtaking.
I even caught a bee landing on a bloom—no easy feat!
Early lavenders peak only 1–2 weeks, so timing July 12 was perfect.
Zooming in gave postcard-worthy shots under clear skies.
I filled frames entirely with lavender—no skill needed when the scenery is this spectacular.
Though parking areas were busy, the vast grounds never felt crowded.
No other place in Hokkaido offers this view—truly Furano’s signature.
Fields of marigolds and other blooms add bursts of color alongside lavender.
Staff tending the fields ensured this beauty—thank you to all who maintain these gardens.
Saika-no-Sato: A Lavender Haven with Rare Varieties
Next, Saika-no-Sato—another large lavender farm boasting rare cultivars.
Unfortunately, a Chinese crew was filming a commercial, blocking much of the view, so I moved on early.
Still, Saika-no-Sato remains a beautiful, less crowded alternative to Farm Tomita.
Sunrise Lavender Garden: Panoramas and the Bell of Love
Finally, I visited Kamitomifurano Sunrise Lavender Garden.
A lookout platform crowns a gentle hill, overlooking rows of deep purple lavender.
Fewer visitors at that hour allowed for a serene experience.
A small hut framed the lavender—postcard perfection.
The “Bell of Love,” which couples ring for eternal devotion, offered a romantic touch—though two guys ringing it wasn’t very scenic.
With more sun and full blooms, this spot promises even greater views.
Afterword
Even in late July, late-blooming lavender remains in season. If you can make the trip from New Chitose, these breathtaking fields are worth every mile!
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