Furano Flower Fields

What to know

Lavender has been grown in Hokkaido since the 1940s. When cheaper imported lavender reduced demand for Hokkaido's lavender in the 1960s and 1970s, the local lavender's main role shifted from agricultural product to tourist attraction.

Today, Furano's lavender fields draw huge crowds every summer when the plants are in full bloom. Most lavender starts blooming in late June and peaks from mid-July to early August. Less common, later-blooming varieties stay in flower until mid-August.

Many other flowers make Furano a great destination even outside lavender season. The viewing season runs from June to September, though some flowers bloom earlier or later. Blooms include rape blossoms, poppies, and lupins from June; lilies from July; and sunflowers, salvias, and cosmos from August and September.

There are numerous flower fields of various sizes across Furano. The best spot for lavender is Farm Tomita, whose fields with the Tokachi mountain range as a backdrop are spectacular. The popular farm is free to enter and, besides flower fields, has cafes and shops selling a wide range of lavender products. Naturally, it gets quite busy during peak season.

In 2008, Farm Tomita opened a second farm, Lavender East, to the public. Located about four kilometers east of Farm Tomita, Lavender East has by far the largest lavender fields in Furano, covering 14 hectares. Besides a shop, cafe, and observation deck, the farm offers paid 15-minute rides on the "Lavender Bus" through the fields.

Another popular farm for lavender and other flowers is Flower Land Kamifurano. Its hillside location offers beautiful views of the Tokachi mountain range combined with flower fields. Attractions include tractor-pulled cart rides through the fields and hands-on experiences like lavender cutting and flower pressing.