Furano Cheese Factory

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Furano Cheese Factory: A Dairy Delight in the Heart of Hokkaido

Nestled in the serene landscape of Hokkaido, the Furano Cheese Factory is nothing short of a dairy lover’s dream. Picture this: lush, rolling fields dotted with content Holstein cows, happily providing the fresh milk used to create the factory’s renowned artisanal cheeses and butters. With the graceful presence of Japanese white birch trees in the background, this haven offers visitors a deep dive into the delightful world of dairy, complete with tastings, tours, and hands-on workshops. But don’t be fooled by the rustic charm—this place offers more than just a lesson in cheese; it’s an experience you’ll want to savor, literally.

A Cheese Lover’s Paradise

At Furano Cheese Factory, it’s not just about making cheese. It’s an attraction, a journey, where both young and old can indulge their senses and curiosity. Among the must-see activities are:

  • Cheese Production Tours: Peer through glass windows into the heart of the cheese-making process. Watch as artisans work their magic in the production room and age the cheeses to perfection in the cellar.
  • Cheese Tasting: Satisfy your palate with a variety of samples, including Furano’s unique Wine Cheddar and the inky marvel that is Sepia.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Fancy yourself a future cheesemaker? You can milk a model cow, learn about the history of cheese, and snap a photo dressed as a master cheese craftsman.

Signature Cheeses

And now, the pièce de résistance: Furano’s signature cheeses. Each one tells its own story, both in flavor and origin.

1. Wine Cheddar Cheese

Imagine biting into Japan’s only wine-infused cheese, a creation born in 1982 from a collaboration between Furano City and Rakuno Gakuen University. The Wine Cheddar’s marbled surface is a telltale sign of the Furano red wine that’s blended into it, delivering a flavor that’s creamy yet subtly acidic. With its roots tracing back to Italy’s Bel Paese, this cheese is perfect on its own or as the crowning jewel in your next hors d’oeuvre. Be sure to let it warm to room temperature first to unlock its full aromatic potential, or melt it for a burst of savory delight.

2. Maison de Pierre

This gem is Furano’s answer to the French Brie de Meaux. With a name that translates to “stone palace” in French, the creamy, indulgent Maison de Pierre pairs effortlessly with fruits, bread, and wine. Whether baked into a dish or melted in fondue, it offers a velvety, refined experience for cheese connoisseurs.

3. Sepia

Here’s where things get bold. Sepia is Furano’s take on Camembert, but with a twist—squid ink powder gives the cheese its black interior, symbolizing Furano’s rich soil. Its stark contrast between the white mold exterior and the inky center is as striking as its flavor: creamy, rich, and unlike anything you’ve ever tasted. Serve it on a cheese board for that “wow” factor.

4. Onion Gouda

A true multitasker, this Gouda is infused with roasted onions, delivering a savory punch with a hint of sweetness. Whether you’re tossing it into a salad, layering it on a sandwich, or melting it into a baked dish, this cheese is sure to elevate your meal.

More Than Just Cheese

The Furano Cheese Factory isn’t content with just producing world-class cheese—it also offers a selection of dairy delights, each crafted with care from the region’s finest ingredients.

  • Furano Mozzarella: Mild, smooth, and made for pizza! This cheese often finds its way onto the factory’s Neapolitan-style pies and in refreshing Caprese salads.
  • Furano Butter: Made in small batches, this butter retains the rich flavor of fresh milk. Ideal for spreading on a warm baguette or adding a touch of indulgence to your cooking.
  • Furano Milk: Non-homogenized and pasteurized at low temperatures, this milk offers a creamy, pure taste that’s bursting with natural goodness.
  • Furano Ice Milk: Light but creamy, this Italian-style gelato is a perfect low-calorie treat. Made from Furano’s agricultural bounty, it’s proof that ice cream doesn’t have to be heavy to be indulgent.

Dining at Furano Cheese Factory

While you’re here, why not make a day of it? The Furano Cheese Factory offers some seriously good eats.

Furano Pizza Factory

The pizzeria uses its signature mozzarella and locally sourced ingredients to create authentic Neapolitan pizzas. Their Margherita is a local legend, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try the Furano Cheese Special—a pizza that showcases five different factory-made cheeses. It’s a dairy extravaganza on a crust.

Ice Cream Parlor

Round out your visit with a stop at the ice cream parlor, where you can indulge in handmade scoops crafted from fresh Furano milk. Ever wanted to try asparagus-flavored ice cream? You’re in luck. Plus, there’s free cheese tastings to add to the delight.

Hands-On Workshops

For those who crave a more hands-on experience, Furano Cheese Factory hosts daily workshops where you can roll up your sleeves and craft your own:

  • Butter
  • Cheese
  • Ice Cream

Perfect for families or groups of friends, these workshops are not only educational but also incredibly fun. Reservations are recommended, and spots fill up fast!

Guided Tours

Want a deeper dive into the world of cheese? Sign up for a guided tour where you’ll learn everything from the art of pasteurizing milk to the delicate process of aging cheese. While the tours are primarily in Japanese, the universal language of cheese (and the tastings) ensure everyone has a good time.

Tips for Enjoying Furano Cheese

Furano cheeses are living, breathing delicacies that continue to mature even after you take them home. Here’s how to get the most out of them:

  • Wine Cheddar: Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to enhance the wine’s aroma and the cheese’s creamy texture. It’s also delicious melted on toast or burgers.
  • Maison de Pierre: The flavor of this white mold cheese evolves with time. Four to five weeks before its expiration date, it’s firmer and fresher. Closer to the end, it becomes creamier and more intense.
  • Sepia: Like a fine wine, Sepia’s flavor matures over time. You’ll even find it on local sushi, ramen, and okonomiyaki menus, adding an unexpected but delightful richness.

Visitor Information

  • Location: Naka5ku, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0013
  • Closest Station: Furano Station (JR Furano Line)
  • Access: Just a 9-minute drive from the station

Opening Hours

  • April to October: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • November to March: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Pizzeria: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Closed: December 31 to January 3

Pricing

  • Gelato: From ¥310
  • Cheese Soft-Serve: ¥360
  • Pizzas: From ¥1,530
  • Workshops: Starting at ¥900

Reservations

  • Phone: 0167-23-1156
  • Email: cheese@furano.ne.jp

A Must-Visit Dairy Destination

The Furano Cheese Factory is more than just a stop on your Hokkaido itinerary—it’s a full-on dairy adventure. Whether you’re crafting your own butter, sampling squid ink-infused cheese, or biting into a gooey, mozzarella-topped pizza, this factory offers something for every curious palate.