Hokkaido is known for its thrilling ski destinations, including the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival. However, the lavender and other flower fields in summer are equally worth seeing. Furano and Biei are the top sightseeing locations in Hokkaido, where you can see lavender, pansies and other colorful blossoms.
In the past, there was no direct service from Sapporo to Furano. Passengers got on an express train to Asahikawa or Takikawa and changed to a local train. The entire journey took approximately three hours. Thanks to the new Furano Lavender Express train launched by Hokkaido Railway Company, the special Limited Express train brings visitors from Sapporo to Furano directly in less than two hours with no transfer.
Inside the Train
Photo by: PIXTA/ STUDIO EST Ticket reservations are available online as well as at JR station ticket counters.
Operating since 2021, the train comes in an attractive purple color at the head, symbolic of the lavender fields. There are five coaches: two non-reserved and reserved each, and a lounge car. The first car, the lounge car, has free seating for all passengers. With brown-colored seats, the coach consists of spacious box seats and large tables, which are recommended for groups. Some seats are window-facing with long counters to grasp the full view of the panorama. Cars 2 and 3 are reserved seats and Cars 4 and 5 are non-reserved seats. All four coaches are upholstered in purple with multi-colored back cushions, fulfilling the true ambiance of the journey. There is also a barrier-free space for wheelchairs. The leg room is quite spacious and all seats have power outlets for charging your phone and computer devices.
The train service hands out souvenir picture cards of the train. Passengers can also purchase other memorabilia, such as masks, pin badges and key holders. Lavender ice cream is also available.
Route and Calendar
Photo by: PIXTA/ denkei Take in a field of flowers as you make your way to the end of the line.
The Lavender Express stops at Iwamizawa, Takikawa, Ashibetsu and its final halt is Furano. The leisurely trip provides a scenic experience of the valley next to the Takisato Lake through the route of the Sorachi River. As the special train operates only in summer, from June to September, plan your adventure and check the operation calendar online. Generally, there is only one departure time in the morning from Sapporo and one return trip on the way back from Furano.
