Ningle Terrace
Ningle Terrace: A Fairy-Tale Craft Village in Furano
Imagine, if you will, stepping into a living postcard. You’ve just finished an exquisite meal at the New Furano Prince Hotel, and the crisp Hokkaido air beckons you outside. What lies across from you is not merely a cluster of log cabins, but Ningle Terrace—a whimsical hideaway that feels less like a real place and more like a setting out of a fairy tale. And, dear reader, it very nearly is.
A Unique Escape into Nature
Ningle Terrace is a tiny world unto itself, a collection of around ten charming wooden cottages, each sheltering its own slice of local craftsmanship. These cozy cabins are not your run-of-the-mill souvenir shops. No, here you’ll find kaleidoscopes, candles, and intricate paper crafts—handmade creations that will leave you wondering why you don’t live in a cabin, too, fashioning wooden spoons or dyeing silk by the light of a crackling fire. The real magic happens at dusk, when the forest pathways are illuminated, bathing the village in a soft, amber glow that makes it feel as though woodland sprites could leap from behind any tree at any moment.
If you’re after a peaceful evening walk or simply want to lose yourself in the whimsical world of Japanese craftsmanship, this is the place to be. Oh, and it’s an Instagrammer’s dream—every corner practically begs for a photo.
What Awaits You: The Key Features
Let me paint a clearer picture. What can one actually do at Ningle Terrace, besides taking dreamy photos?
- Scenic Forest Setting: Tucked into the trees, it offers the kind of natural beauty that quiets even the most chaotic of minds.
- Handmade Crafts: You won’t find cheap, mass-produced trinkets here. Instead, each shop is a treasure trove of lovingly made goods—candles, kaleidoscopes, leather crafts, and more.
- Romantic Evening Ambiance: As the sun sets, soft lights twinkle along the pathways, casting a glow that can only be described as heart-melting. Ideal for a peaceful stroll or maybe even a well-timed proposal.
Must-Visit Shops at Ningle Terrace
Of course, you can’t just visit and not pop into the shops, where each door opens to something distinctively special. Here are a few that deserve a mention:
- Takuya Hanaba no Ie: A brand-new gem, opening in August 2024, where Hokkaido’s flora takes center stage. Using plant materials, they create bundle dye works, transferring the colors and shapes of local plants onto fabric—nature’s very own art.
- Mori No Rousokuya (Forest Candle Shop): Not your ordinary candles. These are wooden masterpieces inspired by Hokkaido’s wildlife, intricately carved and scented with the earthy notes of the forest.
- Fukurou No Ie (Owl House): You might not have realized you needed an owl figurine, but after a visit here, you’ll be convinced otherwise. Featuring beautifully crafted wooden and ceramic owls, it’s a fitting homage to Hokkaido’s iconic bird.
- Kaleidoscope House: Prepare to be a child again, even if just for a few minutes. These handmade kaleidoscopes capture the essence of Furano’s natural landscape, offering a playful and artistic perspective.
- Mori No Kawakoubou (Forest Leather Workshop): Here, deerskin and cowhide are transformed into elegant leather goods. The designs are simple, but the textures tell a tale of rugged, natural beauty.
- Snowflake Furano Silver Craft: These delicate silver accessories are modeled after Furano’s uniquely shaped snowflakes, offering you the chance to take home a little sparkle of Hokkaido’s winter wonderland.
What to Do Beyond Shopping
Should the excitement of souvenir-hunting wane, Ningle Terrace offers more than just shopping. You can indulge in a leisurely forest walk, or relax at one of the quaint cafés, perhaps sipping a locally roasted coffee as the evening glow dances through the trees. The terrace’s location, a mere two-minute stroll from the New Furano Prince Hotel, makes it convenient for an after-dinner outing.
Nearby Attractions for the Adventurous
Feeling adventurous? Just beyond Ningle Terrace, you’ll find a few more delights, including seasonal hot air balloon rides and a miniature golf course. Yes, you could float above the idyllic landscape or challenge your friends to a mini-golf match (though do check availability as these activities are seasonal).
Practicalities: What You Need to Know
Now, before you go skipping off into this woodsy wonderland, there are a few things you ought to know.
- Hours: Ningle Terrace opens its charming doors from 11:00 AM to 7:45 PM, though in July and August you can enjoy the experience from 10:00 AM to 8:45 PM. However, not all shops keep the same hours, and some take random days off—because, well, why not?
- Accessibility: While the village does offer the rustic beauty of stairs, it may present a challenge for elderly visitors. Fear not! There’s a wheelchair-accessible parking lot for those who need it.
- Entry Fee: Free! Yes, this entire fairytale experience is entirely free of charge—though, if you’re like most visitors, you’ll leave with your arms full of crafts and souvenirs.
The Perfect Time to Visit
If you want the ultimate Ningle Terrace experience, time your visit around 5:00 PM. This gives you a good window to explore the shops, grab a coffee, and take in the scenery as the lights begin to flicker to life. By 8:45 PM, most shops will have closed, so arriving earlier ensures you won’t miss out on any treasures.
How to Get There
If you’re staying at the New Furano Prince Hotel, consider yourself lucky—Ningle Terrace is a mere two-minute walk away. But if you’re a bit farther afield in Furano, renting a bike to pedal your way there is a popular option. Be warned, though—public buses stop running later in the evening, so plan accordingly, unless you enjoy moonlit strolls of considerable distance.
Address: Nakagoryo, Furano, Hokkaido 076-8511
Phone: 0167-22-1111 (New Furano Prince Hotel)
Final Thoughts
In a world that often feels cluttered and chaotic, Ningle Terrace is a rare gem, offering a serene escape into nature and artistry. Whether you’re on the hunt for a handmade treasure, keen on capturing the evening light filtering through the trees, or just want to bask in a bit of peace, Ningle Terrace will make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. Do yourself a favor and add it to your Furano itinerary. It’s the kind of place you didn’t know you needed to visit until you’re already there, enchanted and very much wishing you could stay forever.