Farm Tomita (Lavender Farms)

Farm Tomita stands as one of Hokkaido's most celebrated flower farms in Nakafurano. The farm's origins date back to 1903 when Tokuma Tomita began cultivating the wilderness of Nakafurano, though lavender farming itself commenced around 1958. The farm faced decades of hardship during the 1960s and 1970s when cheaper imported lavender threatened the local industry, yet owner Tadao Tomita and his wife persevered in keeping their lavender cultivation alive. The turning point came in 1978 when Farm Tomita's Traditional Lavender Field appeared on a JR calendar, triggering tourism to the area.

The farm has evolved into a major tourist destination that attracts more than a million visitors annually from Japan and around the globe. In 2008, Farm Tomita expanded with the opening of Lavender East, covering 14 hectares and making it one of Japan's largest lavender farms, located four kilometers east of the main farm. Today, the combined operations span 29 hectares.

Visitors encounter over 10 distinct flower fields and gardens, each designed with unique characteristics. The iconic Irodori Field presents a rainbow effect created by seven color species planted in rows: purple lavender varieties, white baby's breath, red and orange poppies, yellow mustard, and pink garden catchflies. The majority of lavender blooms from late June, reaching peak beauty from mid-July to early August, while different flowers ensure year-round color, from lupines and rugosa roses in June to salvias and marigolds in September. The Traditional Lavender Field holds historical significance as one of the oldest lavender plantations in Japan.

Beyond flower viewing, Farm Tomita operates as a working agricultural facility. The Distillation House functions as Japan's only lavender oil extraction factory, conducting distillation work from early July to mid-August. Multiple cafes and shops dot the property, offering distinctive products including lavender soft-serve ice cream, melon soft-serve, and an extensive selection of lavender-based goods ranging from essential oils to soaps and perfumes. The Hanabito House features exhibitions on lavender cultivation history in Japan and Farm Tomita's development, with a free experience making scented bookmarks from lavender oil.

Admission to Farm Tomita is completely free, with approximately 500 parking spaces for regular vehicles and 30 for buses available at no charge. The farm is accessible multiple ways: during summer, the seasonal Furano-Biei Norokko train stops at Lavender-Batake Station, a 5-10 minute walk from the farm (20 minutes and 320 yen from Furano or 35 minutes and 580 yen from Biei). Alternatively, visitors can walk 25 minutes from JR Furano Station or take a 7-minute walk from Nakafurano Station. By car, the farm is approximately 45 minutes from Asahikawa Airport or 2.5 hours from Sapporo city via the Mikasa IC on the Doo Expressway.