Exploring the lavender fields of Hokkaido in northern Japan offers a unique mix of gentle hiking and seasonal colour. Around Furano, well-marked trails pass through rolling farmland where the terrain is easy to moderate, making it accessible for most hikers. Along the way, you’ll find local farms, scenic viewpoints, and opportunities to learn about lavender cultivation and regional agriculture. While a day trip from Sapporo is feasible, staying overnight gives you a chance to slow down and explore more fields.
HOW TO GET THERE
Fly ANA, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, etc. from various Indian cities to Tokyo. From here, ANA, Japan Airlines, and Air Do connect to New Chitose Airport near Sapporo or Asahikawa Airport (the latter is closer to Furano). From New Chitose Airport, take a JR train to Sapporo and an onward train, or a direct bus to Furano (2–3 hours); from Asahikawa Airport take the Lavender bus (1 hour) to Furano station, from where you can hop on local buses to various lavender farms.
VISA
Indian passport holders require a visitor visa for Japan, fees about Rs1,250 (including VFS services charges). Apply through VFS Global; biometrics not required and visas are typically processed within 15 days.
WEATHER
Lavender blooming time is in July, which is peak summer. Expect warm days with slight humidity; short showers are also possible.
AIRFARE
ANA flights from Mumbai to Sapporo (via Tokyo) from Rs50,000; from Delhi at Rs61,000; and from Bengaluru at Rs80,0000 (prices indicative of July 2026).
TOP THINGS TO DO
Hike through Farm Tomita (the most popular lavender farm in the area) for sweeping purple fields, fragrant trails, and iconic photo spots. Then, stop at Kanno Farm for a quieter, colourful stroll and a picnic with mountain views. Don’t miss Hinode Park for hilltop vistas and the perfect sunset.
ROOMS FROM
Rs25,000 at either the chic Nozo Hotel or the station-adjacent Furano Natulux Hotel or Rs32,000 onwards at La Vista Furano Hills where you can enjoy a traditional Japanese onsen experience. Alternatively, stay at Hotel Sosei Sapporo MGallery, a maximalist marvel in downtown Sapporo featuring bold, art-filled interiors; from Rs20,000.
ALSO EXPECT TO PAY FOR
Airport transfers by bus or train between Rs1,000 and Rs2,000, plus local bus pass about Rs600. Most lavender farms are free to visit but some may have entry fees, around Rs300.
EXPECT TO SPEND
Rs.3,000 per person per day over and above your stay for transfers and food (don’t miss sampling lavender-infused sweet treats like soft serve ice cream, cookies, and pastries).
EXPERT TIP
“Get there before the sun bakes the essential oils (this is around 2-2.30PM) and you can breathe in the calming lavender. If you get there later, the visual is there, but the scent would have faded,” says Vinitaa Rawat, director of Amazing Vacations. “Skip the main road and hike up Hokuseiyama. Most people take the ski lift, but the walking trail through the flowers offers better photography angles of the Biei ‘patchwork’ quilts in the distance.”
AloJapan.com