Things To Do
in Furano

Furano is a picturesque city located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its stunning landscapes, particularly its lavender fields that bloom in the summer. The region is also famous for its agricultural produce, including melons and grapes, making it a popular destination for food lovers. It serves as a gateway to outdoor activities year-round, from skiing in the winter to hiking in the summer.

With its charming rural atmosphere and breathtaking natural scenery, Furano attracts visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Lavender Fields
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Farm Tomita, famous for its vibrant lavender fields. Enjoy a leisurely stroll among the flowers and take in the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

afternoon
:

Visit the Furano Cheese Factory where you can learn about cheese production and sample some fresh cheeses. Afterwards, head to the Furano Wine House for lunch and enjoy local wines.

evening
:

Wrap up your day by dining at a local izakaya, experiencing traditional Japanese cuisine and hospitality.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin your day with a scenic hot air balloon ride over the Furano landscape, offering breathtaking views of the countryside.

afternoon
:

Take a hike on the nearby Daisetsuzan National Park trails, experiencing the region's rich flora and fauna.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Hokkaido seafood, such as fresh crab and sushi.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$25
🥬Local Salad$10
Coffee$4
🍺Beer$6
🏨Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and landscapes.
  • Rich agricultural and culinary experiences.
  • Wide range of outdoor activities year-round.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport options may be limited.
  • Language barrier may be challenging for some visitors.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Furano

Visit one of these nice places.

Farm Tomita

Famous for its vast lavender fields, providing stunning photo opportunities, especially in summer.

Furano Ski Resort

Offers breathtaking winter landscapes, perfect for capturing snowy scenery and action shots.

Biei Blue Pond

A short drive from Furano, this unique blue pond is a must-visit for its mesmerizing color and tranquil scenery.

Culinary Guide

Food in Furano

Furano offers a delectable array of local dishes that highlight the region's rich agricultural heritage, especially its dairy and produce.

Furano Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Furano Melon

A sweet and juicy melon that is a local specialty, perfect for summer.

Must-Try!

Furano Cheese

Artisan cheeses made from fresh milk, often enjoyed with local wines.

Genghis Khan (Jingisukan)

A grilled mutton dish that is a Hokkaido favorite, often enjoyed in a social setting.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Furano Farmers Market

A vibrant market featuring fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade goods.

Street Food at Lavender Festival

Offers seasonal treats such as lavender ice cream and grilled corn during the festival.

Climate Guide

Weather

Furano experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, averaging around 25°C (77°F), perfect for outdoor activities. Winters are cold, with average temperatures around -5°C (23°F), bringing plenty of snow ideal for skiing. Spring and autumn are transitional, offering mild temperatures and beautiful natural scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always greet with a bow and say 'arigatou gozaimasu' (thank you) to show appreciation.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional accommodations.

Quietness in Public

Maintain a low volume in public spaces, as loud conversations may be frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Furano is considered a very safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions, such as securing personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Additionally, during winter, ensure you are equipped for icy conditions when walking or driving.

Tipping in Furano

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is expected and included in the price.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places now accept credit cards; it’s advisable to carry yen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and the blooming of cherry blossoms, making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather ideal for visiting lavender fields and enjoying outdoor festivals; it's also the peak tourist season.

Autumn

Experience stunning fall foliage with vibrant colors, perfect for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures suitable for skiing and winter sports; the area transforms into a winter wonderland.

Nightlife Guide

Furano at Night

Furano's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger Japanese cities, offering a cozy atmosphere with a few izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots. Local establishments often feature live music and serve regional drinks, such as sake and local craft beers. Most nightlife options are centered around socializing over food and drinks, making it a great place to relax after a day of activities.

Hiking in Furano

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Furano Hiking Trails

These trails offer various levels of difficulty, leading through beautiful landscapes and providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Daisetsuzan National Park

A short drive from Furano, this park features several hiking routes suitable for all skill levels, showcasing diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Furano by plane.

Asahikawa Airport

Located about 40 minutes from Furano, this airport connects to major cities like Tokyo and Sapporo, offering convenient access for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Furano is a relatively walkable city, especially in the downtown area where attractions, restaurants, and shops are concentrated. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many points of interest can be reached on foot. However, for further attractions like the ski resort or farms, public transport or rental cars are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

A significant part of Furano's economy relies on agriculture, with many local farmers producing high-quality fruits and vegetables.

Tourists

Furano attracts domestic and international tourists, particularly in the summer for its lavender fields and winter for skiing.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

Furano is known for its excellent skiing conditions, attracting winter sports enthusiasts from around the world.

Cycling

The region is also popular for cycling, with scenic routes that showcase the beautiful landscapes of Hokkaido.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Furano is generally light, making it easy to navigate the city by car or bike. Public transportation options include buses that connect key attractions, though they may not be as frequent as in larger cities. Renting a car is often recommended for accessing more remote locations and ensuring flexibility in travel plans.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Furano.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes using seasonal vegetables.

Gluten-Free Options

Some establishments provide gluten-free meals, but it's advisable to communicate your needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Furano is generally good, with several clinics and a hospital available for emergencies. Travelers are advised to have health insurance that covers overseas medical expenses. English-speaking medical staff may be limited, so having basic Japanese phrases or a translation app can be helpful in case of medical needs.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide