Things To Do
in Furano
Furano is a charming town located in the center of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island. Known for its stunning lavender fields that bloom in the summer, Furano is a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers. The town also offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the winter, with powder snow and picturesque mountain landscapes.
Visitors can also enjoy delicious local cuisine, such as fresh seafood and Hokkaido specialties like dairy products and ramen.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the powder snow and well-groomed slopes at the nearby ski resorts like Furano Ski Resort and Tomamu Ski Resort.
During summer, visit the beautiful lavender fields in Furano which are in full bloom from late June to early August.
Explore the scenic beauty of Furano by hiking along the various nature trails and pristine landscapes.
Rent a bicycle and ride through the picturesque countryside and fields surrounding Furano.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early by visiting the famous Furano flower fields. The vibrant colors and sweet scents provide the perfect backdrop for stunning photographs.
After a light lunch, explore the local lavender farms and learn about the processes of lavender oil production. Don’t forget to sample some lavender-flavored ice cream!
As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant renowned for its farm-to-table cuisine. Take a leisurely stroll through the flower fields to catch the last glimpse of daylight.
Hit the slopes at Furano Ski Resort, known for its variety of runs suitable for all skill levels. Rent your gear early to maximize your time on the mountain.
Take a break at one of the on-site cafés and warm up with hot drinks. After lunch, continue skiing or try snowboarding for a change of pace.
Return to your accommodation to unwind, then head out for a casual dinner at a nearby izakaya. Share stories about your adventurous day with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, especially during the flower season and winter months.
- Known for its excellent skiing facilities and outdoor activities.
- Rich cultural heritage with local festivals and traditions.
- Delicious local cuisine, including fresh produce and dairy products.
- Friendly community and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, affecting the overall experience.
- Some areas may be less accessible for those with mobility challenges.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options outside of seasonal festivals.
- Higher costs for accommodations and activities in popular tourist areas.
Places to Visit in Furano
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous flower fields with stunning views of lavender and other blooms
Scenic road with beautiful patchwork-like landscape of fields and hills
Picturesque town with panoramic views of flower fields and Mount Tokachi
Food in Furano
Furano Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local dish featuring grilled lamb or mutton, typically enjoyed with fresh vegetables and served with a savory sauce. Recommended places to try Genghis Khan include Kamifurano and Ningle Terrace.
Must-Try!
Furano is renowned for its wineries, producing exceptional wines from locally grown grapes. The Furano Winery is a must-visit to savor the region's fine wines.
Indulge in the delectable Furano cheese, known for its rich flavor and creamy texture. You can find a variety of Furano cheeses at local dairy farms and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Furano Farmers Market to discover an array of fresh local produce, artisanal food products, and traditional snacks. Don't miss the opportunity to sample freshly prepared street food such as yakitori (grilled skewered chicken) and corn on the cob.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Furano, it is important to maintain a respectful distance from others and avoid invasion of personal space.
When entering homes, traditional inns, or certain buildings in Furano, it is customary to remove shoes before stepping inside.
When meeting someone in Furano, it is polite to bow slightly and use honorific language as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Furano
Ensure a smooth experience
In Furano, Japan, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or required to tip at restaurants, hotels, or for services. Instead, excellent service is usually expressed through courteous gestures and politeness.
Payment in Furano, Japan is primarily done through cash. While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger establishments, it is still advisable to carry enough cash for smaller shops, markets, and local restaurants. Foreign visitors should also be aware that some places may not accept international credit cards, so it's best to inquire beforehand or have cash on hand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossom viewing and mild temperatures. Expect beautiful pink and white cherry blossoms in bloom.
Best time to visit for vibrant flower fields, particularly lavender. Expect warm temperatures and colorful blooms.
Best time to visit for stunning autumn foliage. Expect vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves.
Best time to visit for skiing and snow activities. Expect snowy landscapes and winter sports.
Furano at Night
Hiking in Furano
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
In the summer, Furano Ski Resort transforms into a hiking destination with scenic trails offering views of the Furano Valley and the beautiful Tokachidake mountain range.
Located a short drive from Furano, this national park offers extensive hiking opportunities with stunning landscapes, including volcanic mountains, alpine flora, and diverse wildlife.
A moderate hiking trail situated in Furano, known for its panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. It's a great spot for families and casual hikers.
Famous for its hot springs and beautiful trails, Tokachidake offers a more challenging terrain with opportunities to hike to the mountain summit and enjoy hot spring baths after.
A stunning area with various trails, providing routes for both beginners and experienced hikers. The trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints and natural attractions.
Aiports
How to reach Furano by plane.
New Chitose Airport is the largest international airport serving Hokkaido, located approximately 36 kilometers from Furano. It offers a range of domestic and international flights.
Asahikawa Airport is located about 60 kilometers from Furano and primarily serves domestic flights, with limited international services.
Kushiro Airport is situated approximately 160 kilometers from Furano, providing domestic flights and some international connections.
Hakodate Airport is roughly 190 kilometers from Furano and serves both domestic and a few international routes.
Obihiro Airport is located about 100 kilometers from Furano, focusing on domestic flights but with some limited international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary demographic group, consisting of individuals who are citizens of Japan, including those born in Furano and other regions.
A smaller group of expatriates and immigrants from various countries living in Furano, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the community.
Visitors from both domestic and international locations, particularly during peak seasons such as winter for skiing and summer for flower viewing.
Individuals who come to Furano temporarily for work, especially in the agriculture and tourism sectors, during peak seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Furano is known for its exceptional skiing conditions, attracting many visitors to its ski resorts during the winter season.
Along with skiing, snowboarding is a popular winter sport in Furano, with well-maintained slopes suitable for different skill levels.
In the summer months, mountain biking becomes a favored activity, with numerous trails available in the surrounding mountainous terrain.
Furano's beautiful natural scenery and diverse trails make hiking a popular outdoor activity during the warmer months.
Furano has several golf courses that are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, particularly in the summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Furano.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine often features meat and fish, many eateries in Furano offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as vegetable tempura, sushi with vegetable fillings, and tofu-based meals.
Travelers with gluten intolerances can opt for rice-based dishes like sushi and sashimi, as well as gluten-free soba noodles. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs to ensure a pleasant dining experience.