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Price: ¥8,600 per person (elementary school age and above)
Requirements: Minimum 3 participants (elementary school age or older)
Schedule: Every Wednesday in July and August, starting at 1:30 PM
Observation-only visits are not available
Furano Beekeeping Experience Tour
Journey with Japan's Migratory Bees
Meet the Bees That Travel Across Japan
Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a beekeeper in Hokkaido's lavender country?
This summer in Furano, discover the fascinating world of migratory beekeeping at Seo Apiary, where bees and beekeepers journey together across Japan's seasons. From Shiga Prefecture in spring to Furano's lavender fields in summer, and all the way to Amami Oshima in winter—these bees are true travelers.
- Why do bees migrate to Furano?
- How are thousands of bees transported?
- What makes the queen bee special?
If you're curious about these mysteries, you're already standing at the doorway to the captivating world of beekeeping.
What Makes This Experience Unique?
Hands-On Professional Beekeeping
Don protective gear and work alongside professional beekeepers. Open real hives, observe tens of thousands of bees up close, and witness the intricate workings of a bee colony.
Authentic Honey Tasting
Sample honey varieties collected from different flowers and discover the diverse flavors that bees create from Furano's rich flora.
Expert Knowledge
Learn secrets of nature that only experienced beekeepers know, including sustainable agriculture practices and the vital role bees play in Japan's farming ecosystem.
Welcome to the extraordinary world of honeybees. Today, you become a beekeeper!
Tour Schedule
1:30 PM - Arrival & Check-in
Meet directly at the beekeeping site (adjacent to New Furano Prince Hotel / Yuuma)
1:40 PM - Experience Begins (Approximately 60 minutes)
- Don protective beekeeping suit
- Observe professional beekeeping work
- Inspect honeycomb chambers
- Participate in honey tasting session (discover the variety of honey flavors!)
- Interactive Q&A throughout
3:00 PM - Tour Concludes
Finishing time may vary depending on conditions
Experience Details
Pricing: ¥8,600 per person (elementary school age and above)
*Guardian participation required for minors traveling alone
Operating Requirements: Minimum 3 participants (elementary school age or older)
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes (may vary based on participant pace)
Season: Every Wednesday in July and August, 1:30 PM start
Location: Seo Apiary bee yard (adjacent to New Furano Prince Hotel / Yuuma)
What to Bring & Important Notes
Clothing Requirements:
- Quick-drying synthetic T-shirt and pants (cotton absorbs sweat and attracts bees)
- Closed-toe shoes (no sandals or bare feet)
- Long hair should be tied in a low style (avoid high ponytails or buns that interfere with protective netting)
What to Avoid:
- Perfumes or strongly scented hair products (may agitate bees)
What to Bring:
- Water bottle (essential for hydration)
- Heat stroke prevention items (especially for children—neck cooling gear recommended)
- Baseball cap for children (we don't have child-sized protective nets)
Facilities Note:
No restrooms available at the experience site. Please use facilities before arrival.
About Seo Apiary: Japan's Migratory Beekeepers
Seo Apiary is a second-generation family operation based in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, practicing the traditional art of migratory beekeeping.
Their Annual Journey:
- Late April: Begin gradual migration to Furano
- Early June: Full relocation before peak acacia honey season
- June-August: Honey production in Furano
- September: Preparation for return to Shiga
- November 1: Departure from Hokkaido
- December-March: Winter management in Kagoshima (bee health maintenance)
- April: Return to Otsu with cherry blossom season, new production cycle begins
Beyond honey production, Seo Apiary provides essential bee rental services to Furano's agricultural community, making them indispensable to local farming success.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make a reservation?
Booking deadline: 7 days in advance (complete reservation required)
Use the inquiry form on our website with your details. Our team will respond within a few days.
Last-minute bookings may be possible depending on availability—don't hesitate to ask!
Contact Methods:
- Phone: 090-6261-9668 (SMS available)
- Email: inquiry@urespa-furano.jp
- LINE Business: @777epuar
We may be conducting tours or outdoor work and unable to answer calls. We'll return your call as soon as possible. Email, SMS, or LINE inquiries are appreciated.
What's included in the price?
- Beekeeping experience
- Full protective gear rental (veil, work suit, boots, gloves, cap, arm guards)
Payment methods?
Individual Experiences: Cash or credit card payment at check-in on tour day
Travel Agencies: Invoice billing available (please inquire)
I'm afraid of insects. Can I still participate?
This tour is not recommended for those with extreme insect phobias.
Actions like swatting at bees, screaming, or running away can agitate the bees and create danger for all participants. If we determine your behavior poses a risk, you may be asked to withdraw mid-tour (no refund available).
If you're uncertain, please contact us to discuss.
Are there weather-related cancellations?
Bees don't like rain. During rainfall, many bees remain in the hive. When temperatures drop, bees may land on participants' backs and shoulders seeking warmth.
This increases sting risk, so during rain we'll wait in our safety tent before proceeding to the hive site.
In severe weather (typhoons, etc.) posing safety risks, we'll contact you directly.
Customer Cancellations:
Please notify us as soon as possible—no cancellation fee if sufficient notice given. However, if materials are purchased or site setup is complete, cancellation fees of 50-100% may apply.
Is transportation provided?
Available for up to 4 people.
However, if you have your own vehicle (personal car or rental), especially with young children, we recommend driving yourself. Our company vehicle is a commercial van not ideal for passenger comfort.
I have allergies or anaphylaxis concerns. Is this safe?
If you have known allergies, symptoms, or medical conditions, please consult with us before booking. We may need to decline participation in some cases for your safety.
Can preschool children participate?
The minimum age is elementary school due to the experience's nature and required maturity level.
However, every child is different in personality and maturity. We consider individual cases, so please discuss with us.
Safety Tent Available:
We provide a mesh tent "safety zone" at the site. If participants feel scared when it's time to approach the hives, they can retreat to this tent without pressure. While they may not complete the full hands-on experience, they can still enjoy honey tasting and hear the beekeeper's stories. (No refunds for partial participation.)
Please feel free to consult with us about your situation.
Book Your Beekeeper Experience Today!
Thank You for Contacting 'urespa+furano' Local Experience Tours
We typically respond to all inquiries within 48 hours. If you haven't received a reply after this time, please contact us directly at inquiry@urespa-furano.jp.
For urgent requests (within the next 3 days), please reach out via WhatsApp at +81 90 6261 9668 for faster assistance.
We look forward to helping you create memorable experiences in Furano!