Summer Scenic Cycling and Photography Trip: A 4-Night, 5-Day Course from Furano and Biei to Tokachi Arrive at New Chitose Airport and depart from Asahikawa Airport

To make the most of the day, arrive at New Chitose Airport on a morning flight to kick off your journey. From the airport, take an express bus to Obihiro city. Upon arriving in Obihirlo, make your way to the Itadakimasu Company, a located about 20 minutes by car from the city center. Operating under the theme of "Connecting fields to dining tables, and nurturing the spirit of gratitude," this facility offers Japan's first "farm guide" led farm picnics, where you can explore vast fields.

After exploring the farm, savor the fresh seasonal vegetables grown in Tokachi's fertile lands and connect with the thoughts and intentions of its producers.

At night, check into an onsen inn at Tokachigawa Onsen, home to the world's rare "moor springs." With many appealing onsen inns like Kangetsuen, Hoshutei, and Toyotei, choosing just one is tricky. The abundance of natural organic matter characterizes moor springs more than other hot springs. It resulted from plants and vegetation that have decomposed in the water over centuries and then leached into the groundwater. Relax and soak in the rich benefits of the moor spring, preparing your body for tomorrow's cycling.

Enjoy scenic cycling on the Tokapuchi 400, Hokkaido's iconic cycling route on the second day. The Tokapuchi 400 spans 403 km, taking you around the Tokachi region in a figure-eight, starting from Obihiro City. It is recognized as one of the national cycle routes in Japan. Along the way, you'll encounter Hokkaido's unique mountain range, the Hidaka Mountains, a majestic view of the Pacific Ocean, and the clear stream of the Tokachi River, among many other beautiful natural sceneries.

The Tokapuchi 400 offers a variety of courses, from easy routes suitable for beginners to challenging mountain passes for the more adventurous, so that you can choose according to your fitness level and experience.

Along the cycling route, there are not only rest stops and dining options but also attractions like Roadside Station Garden Spa Tokachigawa Onsen, which has spas and markets, the beautiful garden atop a hill – Tokachi Hills, Obihiro's famous Banei Tokachi, and popular sweet shops like Rokkatei and Ryugetsu. Using rental bicycles to easily explore these highlights, from relaxation to gourmet delights, is highly recommended.

After enjoying the grandeur of Hokkaido with your own two wheels, return to your inn at Tokachigawa Onsen to pamper your weary body with the moor springs and delicious cuisine.

After check out, take the express bus from Obihiro Station to the Biei-Furano area, known for its beautiful flower fields and blue skies. A roughly 3.5-hour bus ride brings you to Biei. The first stop is Takushinkan, created by Shinzo Maeda, a photographer who played a pivotal role in popularizing the scenic hills of Biei. He renovated an abandoned elementary school into a photo gallery showcasing stunning captures of Hokkaido's grand nature. Enjoy viewing these magnificent works and exploring the nostalgic building and its surroundings.

In the afternoon, join a photo tour around the beautiful flower fields. Biei and Furano offer photo tours capturing the majestic nature as your subject and where you can learn tips and tricks from local photographers. Aim for that perfect shot!

Especially during the green season, Biei's colorful flower fields and Furano's lavender fields offer plenty of picturesque landscapes. Strive for the best shot that can only be captured on this day!

As the day ends, spend the night in an auberge-style hotel in Furano, combining comfort and luxury as your home away from home. Furano boasts several restaurants that serve dishes and wines made from local ingredients, so it's worth checking them out. After a fulfilling day for your heart and body, let yourself be lulled into a peaceful sleep.

The next half of the journey takes us to Asahikawa, Hokkaido's second-largest city. Depart in the morning by express bus and head to Asahikawa. After about 1 hour and 40 minutes, the first destination is the Asahikawa Design Center. Interestingly, Asahikawa is recognized as one of Japan's top five furniture-producing areas, renowned for its wooden furniture.

The Asahikawa Design Center is a hub for furniture sales from over 30 manufacturers in Asahikawa, and it features a vast showroom. Here, not only can you shop, but you can also participate in woodworking workshops and view exhibitions of exceptionally intricate furniture, touching upon the spirit of craftsmanship nurtured in Hokkaido's rich natural environment.

When hunger strikes, head to Asahikawa Ramen Village, home to popular ramen restaurants representing Asahikawa.

Asahikawa ramen is known for its rich double soup made from seafood and animal products. At Asahikawa Ramen Village, you can sample a variety of local ramen flavors, so you'll surely find one that matches your palate!

After a satisfying meal, visit Ueno Farm, a garden attraction featuring a variety of gorgeous plants and flowers beautifully framed in different landscapes. Ueno Farm is known for its "Hokkaido Garden" style, developed through trial and error and focused on plants that thrive in Hokkaido's unique climate. Lose track of time as you leisurely stroll and admire the beautiful seasonal flowers and themed landscapes.

End your eventful day at a hot spring inn in Asahikawa City, and reflect and unwind on the memories shared with your travel companions over the past few days.

On the final leg of our journey, check out of the inn and head to Asahiyama Zoo. Capture the adorable moments of animals and enjoy a moment of healing. Afterward, take a bus to Asahikawa Airport. The airport shops offer a wide selection of popular local sweets, delicacies, and traditional crafts. Purchase souvenirs for your loved ones, then begin the journey home, bringing priceless memories and experiences to last a lifetime.

In this journey, you will visit areas such as Obihiro, Tokachi, Biei, Furano, and Asahikawa, where you will experience Hokkaido's vast landscapes and breadth. The beauty of its nature, the depth of traditions, and the richness of food are all part of this plan that leads to discoveries and inspirations, not only for first-time visitors but also for returning travelers. Challenge yourself and set out for Hokkaido to create unforgettable memories and cultivate a new version of yourself that is more attuned to nature and sustainable living.