For a few glorious weeks each July, the hills around Furano turn purple as Hokkaido’s famous lavender fields come into bloom — one of Japan’s great summer sights. Rows of fragrant lavender sweep toward the mountains, joined by rainbow ribbons of poppies, salvia and marigolds, all under crisp northern skies. The legendary Farm Tomita leads a cluster of flower farms offering viewing, lavender soft cream and sweets, picking experiences and festivals. It’s a fragrant, photogenic highlight of a Hokkaido summer.

This guide covers the best time, the top farms, the festival and how to get there.

🗓️ Quick Reference
Where Furano & Nakafurano, central Hokkaido
Best time Early to late July (peak mid-July)
Top farm Farm Tomita (free entry)
Don’t miss Lavender soft cream & rainbow fields
Good for Flowers, photography, summer travel

Best time to see lavender

  • Lavender peaks roughly mid-July, with the broader bloom from early to late July.
  • The season is short — check current bloom reports and aim for mid-month.
  • Mornings are calm and great for photos before the crowds and heat.

The top farms

  • Farm Tomita (Nakafurano): the most famous — vast lavender and rainbow flower fields, free entry, plus lavender soft cream, sweets and a perfume house.
  • Tomita Melon House and nearby farms add melon, other flowers and viewpoints.
  • The Hokuseiyama Lavender Garden in Furano has a lift to a hilltop field with town views.

The lavender festival & tips

  • Furano holds summer flower/lavender festivals in July, sometimes with fireworks — check the year’s dates.
  • It gets busy in peak season; arrive early and consider weekdays.
  • Combine with the Norokko sightseeing train (seasonal “Lavender Farm” station serves Farm Tomita).

Combine your visit

Lavender season is the gateway to central Hokkaido’s countryside:

How to get there

  • JR to Naka-Furano/Lavender Farm (seasonal) via Asahikawa/Furano; ~2–2.5 hours total from Sapporo.
  • A rental car is ideal for visiting several farms and viewpoints.