Hokkaido Dreaming: Rain or Shine in Asahikawa, Biei & Nakafurano 🌦️💜

Part 4 of my epic solo trip across Japan, heading from Tokyo all the way up to Hokkaido! On this chapter, I booked another day tour to hit some super Insta-famous spots in Asahikawa, Biei, and Nakafurano—and honestly, no weather could stop the vibes! 🌧️➡️☀️

First stop: Asahiyama Zoo (〒078-8205 Higashiasahikawachokuranuma, Asahikawa-shi). Got a solid 2 hours to explore and say hi to the cutest residents. Penguins, seals, and polar bears were all showing off—even with the early rain. Pro tip: It’s open from 09:30-17:15 (admission wraps at 16:00) from Sep 18-Oct 15, and tickets are included in my tour! This spot is a total must if you love animals with personality. 🐧💙

Next up, we drove down to Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike), Biei (Shirogane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan). Even with clouds hanging around, seeing that electric blue water in person is absolutely mind-blowing! 😱🌊 Open all year from 07:00 to 19:00, and there’s zero entry fee—nature flexing on us for free.

On the drive, we passed the iconic “Big Ben Tree” (yep, just like it shows up in all the classic Hokkaido roadtrip reels). Epic photo op moment! 📸🌲

Final destination: Farm Tomita (15 Kisenkita, Nakafurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 071-0704, Japan)—the lavender fields here are straight outta a dream. By now the sun was out, making the colors extra POP! Farm Tomita is vibe central from 08:30 to 17:30, year round, and entry is free. If you’re big on flower fields and that sweet, sweet lavender ice cream...this place is basically heaven. 💜🍦

Even with the moody weather, every stop on this day trip delivered those iconic Hokkaido summer vibes. Bookmark these spots for your next trip, and don’t forget to check trip.com for deals and tours—trust me, you’ll want every minute on this route!

Catch you on the next leg of my journey! ✈️

Post by Tex-Traveling Diary | Sep 18, 2025