Things to Do
Furano, Hokkaido: An Overview of Activities and Attractions
Located in the heart of Hokkaido, Furano is a captivating destination that offers a diverse array of experiences throughout the year. From exhilarating outdoor adventures to serene natural landscapes, cultural festivals, and culinary delights, Furano has something for every traveler.
Below is a glimpse into the endless activities and attractions that make Furano an unmissable destination for adventurous spirits and curious wanderers alike. For those eager to explore more deeply, links are provided to detailed guides, ensuring you have all the insights needed to plan a truly unforgettable journey.
Adventure & Outdoor Activities
Furano’s varied terrain and natural beauty make it an ideal playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Ski & Snowboard: Renowned for its light, dry powder snow, Furano Ski Resort offers 28 courses catering to all skill levels. The resort comprises two zones: the Kitanomine Zone, known for its gentle slopes, and the Furano Zone, which features more challenging runs. The ski season typically runs from late November to early May, with peak conditions in January and February.
Cycling: Spring through autumn transforms Furano into a cyclist’s paradise. The area’s rolling hills and expansive fields provide picturesque routes, such as the 32-kilometer journey from Furano to Biei, which showcases vibrant flower fields and rural landscapes.
Hiking & Mountaineering: The nearby Tokachi Mountain Range offers numerous hiking trails, with Mount Tokachi being a popular choice. The ascent from Tokachidake Onsen to the summit and back takes approximately seven hours, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the volcanic landscape.
Rafting: The Sorachi River provides excellent conditions for rafting, especially during the snowmelt in spring and early summer. Local operators offer guided tours suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters, ensuring a thrilling yet safe experience.
Stargazing: Furano’s clear skies and low light pollution make it an ideal location for stargazing. Several spots, including the Furano Ski Resort during off-peak seasons, offer night tours where visitors can marvel at the celestial display.
Golf: The Furano Golf Course, set against a backdrop of mountains and forests, provides a scenic and challenging experience for golfers. The course is typically open from late April to October, depending on weather conditions.
Hot Air Ballooning: For a unique perspective of Furano’s landscapes, hot air balloon rides are available, particularly during the summer months. These flights offer breathtaking views of the patchwork fields and distant mountain ranges.
Canyoning: Adventurers can explore Furano’s canyons through guided tours that involve descending waterfalls, sliding down natural water slides, and swimming in clear pools. These activities are generally available from late spring to early autumn.
Dog Sledding: In winter, dog sledding provides an exhilarating way to traverse the snowy landscapes. Local operators offer experiences ranging from short rides to half-day excursions, allowing participants to learn the basics of mushing.
Ice-Fishing: During the colder months, ice-fishing becomes a popular pastime. Lakes such as Lake Kanayama freeze over, providing opportunities to catch species like smelt. Equipment rental and guidance are typically available on-site.
Local Attractions
Furano boasts a variety of attractions that highlight its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Daisetsuzan National Park: As Japan’s largest national park, Daisetsuzan encompasses diverse ecosystems, including alpine meadows, forests, and volcanic landscapes. It’s a haven for hikers, wildlife watchers, and those seeking natural hot springs.
Tokachi Mountain Range: This volcanic mountain range offers stunning vistas, hiking opportunities, and hot springs. Mount Tokachi, an active volcano, is a notable peak within the range, attracting climbers and nature enthusiasts.
Shikisai-no-oka: This expansive flower park in Biei features rolling fields planted with a variety of flowers, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors from spring to autumn. Visitors can explore the fields on foot or via tractor-drawn carts.
Farm Tomita: Famous for its lavender fields, Farm Tomita offers picturesque landscapes, especially during the lavender blooming season in July. The farm also produces lavender-based products and has a café serving lavender-flavored soft serve ice cream.
Shirogane Blue Pond: Located in Biei, this man-made pond is renowned for its striking blue color, a result of natural minerals dissolved in the water. The pond’s appearance changes with the seasons, offering unique photographic opportunities year-round.
Shirahige Waterfalls: Near the Blue Pond, the Shirahige (White Beard) Waterfalls cascade into the Biei River, with the mineral-rich waters creating a beautiful blue hue in the river below. The falls are particularly picturesque in winter when surrounded by snow.
Furano Cheese Factory: Visitors can observe the cheese-making process, sample various cheeses, and even participate in workshops to make their own butter or ice cream. The factory also offers a range of dairy products made from local milk.
Ningle Terrace: This charming collection of log cabins nestled in a forest offers handcrafted goods and souvenirs. Each cabin houses a different artisan shop, and the area is beautifully illuminated in the evenings, creating a magical atmosphere.
Torinuma Park: A serene park featuring a clear pond surrounded by lush greenery, Torinuma Park is ideal for leisurely walks and birdwatching. The pond’s crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding trees, offering a tranquil setting.
Glass Forest In Furano: This glass workshop and gallery showcase intricate glass art inspired by the natural beauty of Furano. Visitors can purchase unique glassware and even participate in workshops to create their own pieces.
Goro’s Stone House: A filming location for the popular Japanese drama “From the Northern Country,” this rustic stone house offers fans a glimpse into the show’s setting. The site has been preserved as it appeared in the series and is open to visitors.
Furano Jam Garden: Specializing in locally made jams, this facility offers tastings and workshops where visitors can create their own jam. The garden also features a café serving delicious desserts and fresh coffee.
Anpanman Shop Furano: A delightful stop for families, this shop is dedicated to Anpanman, a beloved Japanese children’s character. It features themed merchandise, a play area, and snacks inspired by the animated series, making it a hit with kids and nostalgic adults alike.
Rokugo Viewing Platform: This elevated platform offers sweeping views of the Furano countryside, including the Rokugo Forest and surrounding mountains. It’s a prime spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Furano Music Box Museum: Home to an impressive collection of music boxes, this museum invites visitors to explore the history of these intricate instruments. Workshops are available for crafting your own music box, making for a memorable souvenir.
Ohashi Cherry Farm: A paradise for fruit lovers, this farm specializes in sweet cherries. Visitors can enjoy cherry-picking during the summer and taste fresh, sun-ripened fruits straight from the trees.
Lake Kanayama: A serene lake surrounded by dense forests, Lake Kanayama is a haven for nature lovers. It’s perfect for kayaking, fishing, and picnicking in the warmer months, with colorful foliage in autumn adding to its charm.
Onsen (Hot Springs)
Furano’s geothermal activity gives rise to a variety of relaxing onsen, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
Fukiage Onsen: A rustic outdoor onsen tucked away in the mountains, offering breathtaking views and a natural, unpolished atmosphere. This free, mixed-gender bath is popular with hikers and adventurers.
Hakuginso Onsen: Located near Mount Tokachi, this hot spring facility is known for its therapeutic waters and tranquil setting. It’s particularly inviting during winter when snow blankets the surrounding landscape.
Ryounkaku Onsen: Perched at one of the highest altitudes in the area, Ryounkaku Onsen offers panoramic views of the Tokachi Mountain Range, paired with rejuvenating mineral-rich waters.
Highland Furano Onsen: This modern facility features indoor and outdoor baths, as well as a sauna. The outdoor baths provide a stunning view of the Furano Basin.
Furano La Terre Onsen: A luxurious option with private baths and upscale amenities. It’s perfect for those seeking a more refined hot spring experience.
Kamihoroso Onsen: Nestled in the mountains, this onsen is known for its sulfur-rich waters, said to have numerous health benefits. It’s a favorite among locals for its authentic, unpretentious vibe.
Frontier Furanui Onsen: Located in central Furano, this onsen offers convenient access and a wide range of facilities, including a restaurant and massage services.
Biei Shirogane Onsen: A short drive from Furano, this onsen features milky-white waters rich in minerals, surrounded by lush forests. It’s an excellent base for exploring the Blue Pond and Shirahige Waterfalls.
Breweries & Vineyards
Furano’s fertile soil and climate make it a burgeoning hub for winemaking and brewing.
Furano Winery: Renowned for its lavender wine, this winery offers guided tours, tastings, and a restaurant with panoramic vineyard views. The on-site shop sells wine and local specialties.
Domaine Raison: A boutique winery with a focus on sustainability, Domaine Raison produces a variety of wines and ciders. Visitors can tour the vineyards, sample products, and relax in the cozy tasting room.
Tada Winery: A family-run vineyard producing artisanal wines. Tada Winery emphasizes small-batch production, ensuring high quality. Tours provide insight into their winemaking philosophy.
Yama no Dokuson: This craft brewery is a hidden gem for beer enthusiasts. It specializes in small-batch beers, including unique seasonal brews that reflect the flavors of Hokkaido.
Festivals (Matsuri)
Furano’s lively festivals showcase its cultural vibrancy and community spirit.
Kito no Daimonji Wildfire Festival: A dramatic New Year’s event where a massive bonfire in the shape of the kanji “大” (dai) is lit on a mountainside, symbolizing community unity.
Furano Ski Festival: A winter extravaganza in February, with ski competitions, torchlight parades, and entertainment for all.
Kamifurano Snow Festival: Held in February, this event celebrates winter with snow sculptures, sledding, and fireworks, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
Yamabe Cherry Blossom Festival: A springtime celebration held under blooming cherry trees, with traditional music, dance, and food.
Four Seasons Festival of Flowers and Flames: This unique event combines floral displays with traditional fire ceremonies, paying homage to Furano’s natural and cultural heritage.
Furano Bellybutton Festival: A whimsical July celebration where locals paint faces on their stomachs and dance through the streets in a quirky display of creativity.
Furano Fireworks Festival: A summer spectacle featuring dazzling fireworks, food stalls, and entertainment by the Sorachi River.
Furano Wine and Grape Festival: A September celebration of Furano’s winemaking heritage, featuring tastings, grape-stomping competitions, and live music.
Furano Cheese Festival: This quirky festival in September highlights the region’s love of cheese with workshops, tastings, and cooking demonstrations.
Seasonal Events
Great Earth Furano: A cycling event held in autumn, taking participants through scenic routes adorned with fall foliage.
Flower Viewing: Spring and summer bring vibrant blooms to Furano, with lavender, tulips, and sunflowers among the highlights.
Fruit Picking: Visitors can pick seasonal fruits like cherries, melons, and grapes at local orchards and farms.
Furano Lavender Express: This seasonal train service offers a scenic ride through lavender fields, providing stunning views of the countryside.
Furano-Biei Norokko Train: An iconic slow train that traverses Furano and Biei, offering panoramic views of the flower fields and rolling hills.
Furano Kan Kan Mura: A winter wonderland featuring snow sculptures, ice slides, and illuminated igloos, creating a magical experience for visitors.
Wildlife Spotting
Furano’s diverse ecosystems are home to fascinating wildlife. Keep an eye out for:
- Brown Bear
- Sakhalin Fox
- Yezo Sika Deer
- White-Tailed Eagle
- Tanuki (Japanese raccoon dogs)
- Pika (small mountain rodents)
- Ezo Red Squirrel
- Black Woodpecker
- Hazel Grouse
- Ezo Momonga (flying squirrels)
- Shima Enaga (adorable long-tailed tits)
- Red-Crowned Crane
- Blakiston’s Fish Owl
- Ezo Ural Owl
- Steller’s Sea Eagle
Final Thoughts
With its blend of natural wonders, cultural treasures, and thrilling activities, Furano offers an unforgettable experience in every season. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, this Hokkaido gem invites exploration at every turn.