Departing Sapporo at 11:50: Biei Blue Pond Illumination and Furano's Ningle Terrace Day Tour

Start with a Leisurely Breakfast, Then Head for Winter in Biei and Furano

This day bus tour from Sapporo puts the evening illuminations center stage, with a late-morning departure. You'll visit the hills of Biei and Shirafuji Falls (Shirahige Falls), then enjoy scenery glowing with lights at the Shirogane Blue Pond and Furano's Ningle Terrace.

The bus departs at 11:50. That leaves time to enjoy your hotel's famous breakfast buffet or have breakfast at a local market before meeting up. Savor a relaxed morning and a beautiful night, both part of your trip memories. It's a day that flows from a slow morning in Sapporo to a winter evening in Biei and Furano.

Snowy Views and Winter Fun at Shikisai no Oka

At Shikisai no Oka ("Hill of the Four Seasons"), you'll look out over Biei's snow-covered rolling hills. Take in the gentle swells of the white landscape and the distant mountain ranges, and you'll see a side of the area very different from its flower-field season.

If you'd like to glide across the snow, you can also try a snowmobile ride (extra fee). It's a stop where you can add a bit of classic winter fun to your sightseeing. Availability depends on snow conditions and operating status.

Photograph the Christmas Tree Standing in the Snowfield

Biei's "Christmas Tree" is a single tree standing on a gentle hill. Against the snow-covered land, its silhouette makes a classic Biei winter photo.

You can frame a wide landscape shot or focus on the shape of the tree itself. From the designated viewing area, enjoy it together with the scenery around it.

Winter Scenery of Snow and River at Shirahige Falls

At Shirahige Falls ("White Beard Falls"), water pours out from between the rocks into a bluish river. In winter, snow gathers all around and icicles hang from the rock faces, creating scenery you'll only find in the cold season.

From the bridge, look across the gorge and you'll see white snow set against the color of the river. It's another winter side of Biei, quite different from the open views of the hills.

Winter Night Views Painted in Light at the Shirogane Blue Pond

At the Shirogane Blue Pond (Shirogane Aoiike), the color and angle of the lighting shift, bringing out the silhouettes of the trees standing in the pond and the shadows across the snow. Watching the changing light and looking for your favorite moment is part of the fun.

As winter deepens, the pond freezes and is covered with snow, revealing a scene quite different from its blue waters. Tree shadows falling on the snow and shifts in light and shade create an expression found only in winter.

Some participants have said that the illuminations in falling snow left the strongest impression. Whether the night is clear or snowy, take in the scene created by that day's sky and lights.

Glowing Forest Cabins at Ningle Terrace

Furano's Ningle Terrace is a shopping area of small log cabins nestled in the forest. At night, lights glow along the cabins and wooden walkways, giving the winter forest a warm atmosphere.

Stroll past snow-topped roofs and lights glimmering between the trees. Your photos will change depending on where you walk, whether you get close to a cabin or include a wooden path leading deeper into the woods.

Shops that are open sell nature-inspired handicrafts. Between enjoying the views, look for a small souvenir that feels like Furano.

Frequently Asked Questions

■ What time does the tour depart and return? The bus departs from Exit 31 of Odori Station at 11:50 and is scheduled to return around 22:10. In winter, road conditions may delay the return.

■ Is the snowmobile experience included in the price? No. Participants who wish to join can do so at Shikisai no Oka for an additional fee. Availability depends on snow conditions and operating status.

■ Can I see the Blue Pond's blue water in winter? After the pond freezes and snow accumulates, the water surface is covered with snow. The winter illumination lights up the snow and trees instead.

■ Can the destinations change? If Shikisai no Oka is closed, the tour will visit Chiyoda Farm instead. From April 1, 2027, the stop at Shikisai no Oka will change to free time to explore around Biei Station.

Before You Book

• Please check the previous day's announcement and arrive 10 minutes before departure.
• Please confirm availability of your preferred guide language when booking.
• Bring warm clothing and non-slip shoes.
• Meals are not included in the price.
• Please check the additional fees and conditions for large luggage.
• Do not enter the fields or snowfields around the Christmas Tree.
• Please check the operating conditions and cancellation policy before booking.
• Leave some flexibility in your plans after returning.

If fewer than 6 participants sign up, the date will be changed, and you can choose to join on the new date or receive a refund. Dates and itineraries may change due to weather and other factors, so please check the latest information on the booking page.

Summary

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast, tour Biei's snowfields and waterfall, then end the day with the lights of the Shirogane Blue Pond and Ningle Terrace. With its later departure, this day tour from Sapporo connects a leisurely morning with winter night views.

Tree silhouettes drawn by light, and the warm glow of cabins in the forest. Why not add a winter night in Biei and Furano to your next Hokkaido trip?

Check the details of the Shirogane Blue Pond & Forest Spirit Terrace Night Illumination Experience.