Furano Kan Kan Mura
Furano Kan Kan Mura: A Winter Wonderland for the Whole Family
Tucked away next to the New Furano Prince Hotel, in the snow-smothered wonderland of Hokkaido, Japan, lies the irresistible Furano Kan Kan Mura. It’s not just any winter park—this is a haven where snow and ice turn into your playground. Imagine a place where you can hurtle down snow-covered slopes, glide through icy tunnels, and marvel at glittering sculptures, all while your breath freezes midair. Open from late December through early March, Furano Kan Kan Mura invites visitors to embrace the frosty fun and the dazzling beauty of winter.
Attractions and Activities
Now, let’s get to the good part: the activities. One of the crowning jewels of the park is Japan’s longest snow tubing course—a heart-pounding 200-meter toboggan run that is guaranteed to make you feel like a kid again. But if you’re after more variety, there’s snowmobiling for thrill-seekers, dog sledding for the adventurers, and snow rafting for those who want to experience the feeling of a chilly rollercoaster.
However, not everything here is designed to turn your knuckles white with adrenaline. For those who prefer their winter wonderland experiences with a bit more serenity, Furano Kan Kan Mura offers leisurely snow-sculpture-lined walks. These artistic ice displays offer a delightful dose of whimsy and wonder, with highlights that include:
- Ice lanterns softly glowing in the snow
- Mysterious snow tunnels begging to be explored
- Dazzling ice sculptures, carefully crafted and mesmerizing
- Snowmen, standing sentinel with their frosty grins
This magical ambiance reaches its peak during the Icefall Festival, and if you happen to visit on a weekend, brace yourself for the added treat of fireworks lighting up the night sky.
Snow Night Fantasy
Now, what would a winter adventure be without some evening magic? Enter Snow Night Fantasy, the park’s signature nighttime event. Picture this: you’re wandering through an illuminated snow forest, where the ice sculptures shimmer like frozen fire, casting an otherworldly glow. The night doesn’t end there—why not take a long slide down that famous tubing course or try snow rafting under the starlit sky? When the cold finally starts to nip at your toes, the Ice Café is there to rescue you. Made entirely from 2,000 blocks of ice, this glacial watering hole offers warmth in the form of hot drinks, served up in an ambiance so cool it’s quite literally frozen.
Practical Information
Planning a visit to this frosty paradise? Here’s the lowdown:
- Operating Dates: The park swings into action in late December, with precise opening dates subject to snowfall.
- Operating Hours: The fun kicks off each day from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, though you’ll want to arrive by 7:30 PM to make the most of it.
- Admission Fee: At just 300 yen per person, it’s a steal—and that includes a complimentary tubing ride! (Children aged 12 and under can slip in for free, as long as they’ve got a guardian in tow.)
- Location: You’ll find Furano Kan Kan Mura nestled right next to the New Furano Prince Hotel, conveniently near Ningle Terrace, in Nakagoryo, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0016.
Café and Snow Dome
No winter escapade is complete without a cozy retreat, and Furano Kan Kan Mura has you covered—or rather, encased in ice. The themed Ice Café, situated inside a miniature igloo village, is a popular spot for thawing out after a day of frosty fun. Its icy walls and frosted windows add to the ambiance, making the hot drinks inside feel all the warmer. The surrounding snow dome and sculptures complete the experience, but be warned—temperatures can plummet to a bone-rattling -30°C, so dress like you’re gearing up for an arctic expedition!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re zipping down Japan’s longest snow tubing course or marveling at the shimmering ice sculptures, Furano Kan Kan Mura promises an unforgettable blend of excitement and enchantment. Between the adrenaline rush of the activities and the quiet beauty of the illuminated sculptures, it’s the perfect place to embrace the icy charms of Hokkaido’s winter. So, grab your coat, pull on your thickest gloves, and prepare to dive headfirst into a snowy adventure you won’t soon forget.