Things To Do
in Kamifurano

Kamifurano is a tranquil rural town in central Hokkaido, set amid rolling farmland and a dramatic mountain backdrop. It sits in the Furano region, beloved for seasonal flower fields, dairy and produce, and easy access to nearby Biei and Furano for day trips. The town offers a quiet, unhurried atmosphere with welcoming farms, artisanal cafés, and seasonal markets.

Throughout the year, the landscapes invite photography, cycling, and serene countryside exploring.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Kamifurano
morning
:

Arrive at Kamifurano Station, where the stunning countryside welcomes you. Take a leisurely stroll around the charming town to experience the local culture and hospitality. Settle into your accommodation, soaking in the serene surroundings.

afternoon
:

Head to the Kamifurano Flower Park to admire the beautifully arranged seasonal flowers. Participate in a guided tour to learn about the different types of flora and the region's agricultural practices. Enjoy lunch at the park’s café, where you can savor local delicacies while surrounded by vibrant blooms.

evening
:

Wind down your first day by dining at a local izakaya, trying out seasonal dishes paired with sake. The warm, inviting atmosphere offers a taste of local life and cuisine. Spend the evening relaxing at your accommodation, taking in the peaceful night sky.

day 2
Exploring the Lavender Fields
morning
:

Visit Farm Tomita, famous for its breathtaking lavender fields that stretch as far as the eye can see. Spend your morning walking through the rows of fragrant lavender while capturing stunning photographs. Enjoy a lavender-flavored ice cream treat as you soak in the serene landscape.

afternoon
:

Delve into the local craft culture by visiting the nearby lavender production facility. Participate in a workshop to create your own lavender sachet to take home as a memento. Savor lunch at the farm’s restaurant, featuring dishes infused with fresh lavender.

evening
:

As the sun sets, take a scenic drive to nearby Biei to view the rolling hills and picturesque countryside. Enjoy a picnic dinner under the stars, surrounded by nature’s artistry. Return to Kamifurano to rest, reflecting on a day filled with beauty.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🍽️Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant$25-40
🛏️Mid-range hotel per night$90-150
🚆Local transit day pass$6-12
🧀Dairy product or snack$3-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning seasonal scenery and accessible day trips to Furano and Biei
  • Excellent dairy product experiences and farm-to-table cuisine
  • Low crime and safe, peaceful surroundings with a welcoming local culture
  • Walkable, bike-friendly countryside with scenic viewpoints
  • Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale attractions within Kamifurano itself
  • Public transport can be infrequent; best with a car or organized tours
  • Weather can be unpredictable; plan for rapid changes and pack layers
  • "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "Onegaishimasu" - Please / I would like
  • "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you
  • "Koko wa doko desu ka?" - Where is this?
  • "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Toire wa doko desu ka?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Kamifurano

Visit one of these nice places.

Shirogane Blue Pond (near Biei)

A striking cobalt-blue pond framed by birch trees and evergreens; reflections change with light and season, great for early-morning or golden-hour photography.

Patchwork Road Viewpoints (Biei)

Rolling fields creating a patchwork quilt of greens and yellows, with distant hills and farms; best during sunrise or late afternoon.

Farm Tomita Lavender Fields (Furano)

Iconic, vibrant lavender fields with Mt. Tokachidake in the distance; stunning in mid-summer when blooms peak.

Kamifurano Panorama Hill

A vantage point over farmland and distant mountains, especially striking at sunset or blue hour.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kamifurano

Kamifurano and the wider Furano region celebrate rich dairy, potatoes, corn, and seasonal produce. Expect hearty, comforting dishes and plenty of fresh dairy products, especially in summer and autumn.

Kamifurano Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Soup Curry

A flavorful, chunky curry with vegetables and meat; widely available at local eateries and cafes.

Must-Try!

Jingisukan (Genghis Khan)

Lamb barbecue served with dipping sauces; a Hokkaido staple found at many casual restaurants and izakayas.

Milk-based Desserts

Ice cream, soft serve, and soft desserts made from local dairy at farms and cafés.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kamifurano Farmer's Market

Seasonal market with fresh dairy, vegetables, honey, and baked goods; best on weekend mornings.

Furano Produce Stalls

Small stalls along main roads offering seasonal produce, jams, and snacks from nearby farms.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kamifurano experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Summers are generally pleasant (often 20-25°C), while winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing with heavy snowfall. Spring brings gradually warming days and rain; autumn offers cool, crisp air and vibrant foliage. Weather can shift quickly, so layering is advised year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and conduct

A gentle bow or nod is common. Speak softly in public spaces; avoid loud behavior on trains and in residential areas.

Onsens and bathing

Always wash before entering; tattoos may be restricted in some baths. No swimsuits in traditional onsens; check local rules.

Queueing and sharing

Respect queues at markets and public transit; share sidewalks politely; keep noise to a minimum in residential areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

The area is generally very safe with low crime. Exercise standard travel precautions: dress for cold weather in winter, drive carefully on icy roads, and be mindful of wildlife in rural areas. Carry emergency contact numbers and have a basic map or offline navigation when venturing off main routes.

Tipping in Kamifurano

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in Japan and is generally not expected in Kamifurano. If offered, it can be awkward—let service charges stand and express thanks instead.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, especially at markets and small shops. Credit cards are common in hotels and larger eateries; some rural spots may be cash-only. IC cards and mobile payments are increasingly accepted in towns with tourism infrastructure.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Lavender blooms across Furano and surrounding areas; warm days with cool evenings. Peak photography and farm activities; carry sunscreen and water; prepare for crowds in popular spots.

Autumn

Golden fields and autumn foliage provide rich colors; crisp air and clear skies. Great for scenic drives and harvest markets.

Winter

Heavy snowfall and icy roads; magical snowy landscapes and hot springs nearby. Dress warmly; some routes may be limited by weather.

Spring

Mild temperatures and blossoming trees; greener fields and longer days. Some paths may be wet from melting snow; layers recommended.

Nightlife Guide

Kamifurano at Night

Kamifurano offers a quiet nightlife scene with cozy cafés, small bars, and seasonal community events. Expect peaceful evenings, occasional live music at community venues, and stargazing on clear nights. For a livelier scene, head to nearby Furano or Asahikawa, where bars and clubs concentrate in city areas.

Hiking in Kamifurano

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Daisetsuzan National Park – Asahidake Trail

Alpine trails with panoramic views and summer wildflowers; prepare for higher elevations and variable weather.

Furano and Biei hill trails

Gentle to moderate hiking options offering views of patchwork fields and distant mountains; accessible for most visitors.

Airports

How to reach Kamifurano by plane.

New Chitose Airport (CTS)

Sapporo’s international gateway; about 2.5-3 hours by train and road to Kamifurano.

Asahikawa Airport (AKJ)

Closest regional airport to the Furano area; convenient for domestic travel and car/rental access.

Okadama Airport (OKD)

Sapporo domestic airport with limited routes; often used for quick hops to the region; not the primary international gateway.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kamifurano is a small town with compact centers and pleasant countryside paths. Some sights and farms are a short drive away, and walking between fields and viewpoints is feasible in good weather. In winter, pathways can be slippery, so caution and appropriate footwear are important.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Farmers and families

A strong agricultural community with multi-generational farms; many locals are involved in dairy, crops, and seasonal work.

Seasonal tourists

Visitors come for lavender (summer), foliage (autumn), and snow activities (winter), giving the town a seasonal rhythm.

Retirees

Quiet community with a slower pace, common among longtime residents and seasonal residents.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Popular in winter due to heavy snowfall, with nearby slopes accessible from Furano and Asahikawa.

Hiking

Year-round activity in the surrounding hills and national parks, especially in summer and autumn.

Cycling

Gentle rural roads ideal for day trips and photography routes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is usually light in Kamifurano, with more congestion on weekends and during harvest seasons when visitors arrive from cities. In winter, snow and ice can slow travel; use winter tires and drive with caution. Public transit (buses and trains) serves the region but may require planning for timetables.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kamifurano.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many places emphasize dairy and vegetables; look for vegetable ramen, tofu dishes, miso-based soups, and cheese plates. Communicate dietary needs clearly; some menus are seasonal.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are local clinics in Kamifurano and nearby towns; for more extensive medical care, hospitals in Furano City are the main options. Carry basic medications, and ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical needs. Emergency services use standard Japanese numbers (119 for ambulance, 110 for police).

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

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