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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Furano.
Nestled amongst Hokkaido’s rolling fields of lavender, lies a paradise for all who love the outdoors and breathtaking views.
From the vibrant colors of the flower fields to the snow-capped mountains, Furano is a picturesque escape waiting to be explored.
With endless possibilities for adventure and relaxation, the town offers a perfect destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in natural beauty.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Furano:
1. Furano Cheese Factory
A cheese factory located in Furano, Japan, known for producing high-quality cheese using fresh, locally sourced milk.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour to see how cheese is made, visit the observation deck for stunning views of the surrounding hills, and browse the shop for a variety of cheese products and souvenirs.
Don’t miss: Trying the freshly made cheese and ice cream, both of which are made on site and are absolutely delicious.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the day for the best selection of cheese products, and consider bringing a cooler or insulated bag to keep your purchases fresh during your travels.
If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to try the limited edition lavender cheese, made using locally grown lavender flowers.
2. Furano Wine Factory
A winery located in Japan’s Furano city, known for producing award-winning wines.
What to see or do: Take a tour of the winery, witness the grape-to-wine making process, and taste a variety of wines at the tasting room.
Don’t miss: Trying out their signature wine, Furano Nouveau, which is a limited edition that is only available for a short period each year.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning to visit during the summer, make sure to attend the Furano Wine Festival, held annually in July, where you can enjoy local food, live music, and of course, a lot of wine.
Also, consider renting a bicycle to explore the beautiful vineyards and countryside surrounding the winery.
3. Tomita Farm
A popular lavender farm located in the town of Furano.
What to see or do: Tomita Farm is known for its sprawling fields of lavender, which are usually in full bloom from late June to early August.
Visitors can walk through the fields and take in the vibrant colors and fragrant smells. The farm also features a range of other flowers, including poppies and lupines.
There are several shops on site, selling lavender-themed products and souvenirs.
Don’t miss: The farm’s main field, which is filled with rows upon rows of vibrant lavender. Be sure to snap a few photos of the stunning scenery!
Insider travel tips: Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, so consider visiting the farm during the week if possible.
If you’re traveling by car, arrive early in the morning to secure a good parking spot, as the lot can fill up quickly.
Don’t forget to try some of the delicious lavender-flavored treats, such as lavender ice cream or lavender-infused honey.
4. Asahigaoka Sogotoro
Asahigaoka Sogotoro is a beautiful lavender farm located in Furano, a town in the center of Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the sight and scent of stunning lavender fields during the summer months of July and August. Additionally, the farm offers various activities such as horseback riding and handcrafted workshops.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Tomita Farm, which is another stunning lavender field and one of the most popular spots in Furano.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and fully savor the peacefulness of the fields.
Also, be sure to try the various lavender-infused products available for purchase, such as ice cream and soap.
5. Garden of Wind
A beautiful garden located in Furano, Hokkaido, Japan, known for its colorful flora and tranquil atmosphere.
What to see or do: – Take a stroll through the vast gardens and admire the various flowers and plants, including lavender, baby’s breath, sunflowers, and more.
Don’t miss: The “Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park,” a blooming hillside covered with 7 million shades of moss phlox in early May.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the garden during the lavender season (late June to August) when the beautiful purple flowers are in full bloom.
6. Farm Tomita Lavender East
A lavender farm in the rural town of Furano, Japan that draws tourists from all over the world.
What to see or do: Enjoy a picturesque view of the lavender fields, check out various flower gardens, and learn about the history and process of lavender farming.
You can also purchase various lavender products, including oils, soaps, and perfumes, as well as other local goods.
Don’t miss: The stunning view of the lavender fields during the peak season in July and August.
The farm also has a variety of flowers that bloom throughout the year, so be sure to check the seasonal schedule for what’s in bloom.
Insider travel tips: Visit the farm early in the morning to avoid crowds and be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the colorful landscapes!
If driving, take a detour to the nearby hillside towns of Biei and Kamifurano, which offer beautiful scenic views and hot springs.
7. Campana Rokkatei
A confectionery company and museum in Furano, Hokkaido.
What to see or do: Visitors can see how Campana Rokkatei makes their famous sweets and taste samples. The museum also showcases the history of the company and the local Furano area.
Don’t miss: The souvenir shop where you can buy the company’s famous sweets like langue de chat cookies and strawberry chocolate. The cafe also serves seasonal sweets and drinks.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to try the seasonal sweets that are only available at the cafe. It’s recommended to visit in the morning when the samples are freshly made and the crowds are smaller.
8. Furano Ski Resort
Furano Ski Resort, located in the Hokkaido region of Japan, is a popular skiing destination that offers world-class slopes and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
What to see or do: Hit the slopes and experience some of the best skiing Japan has to offer. With 23 different runs catering to skiers of all abilities, there’s something for everyone at Furano Ski Resort.
For those who aren’t into skiing, the resort also offers snowshoe tours, hot air balloon rides, and even ice fishing.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a ride on the Kitanomine Gondola for some spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
Another must-see attraction is the Furano Ropeway, which will take you up to the peak of the resort for even more stunning views.
Insider travel tips: For the best skiing experience, try to avoid the weekends when the resort can get quite crowded. Instead, visit during the week when the slopes are quieter.
Additionally, make sure to dress warmly as temperatures can get quite cold, especially at higher elevations.
Finally, be sure to sample some of Hokkaido’s famous cuisine, such as ramen or fresh seafood, while you’re in the area.
9. Furano Marche
A market in Furano, Japan that showcases local produce and crafts.
What to see or do: Browse the wide selection of fresh vegetables, fruits, and flowers grown in the Furano area. Check out the unique crafts made by local artisans, including souvenirs and household goods.
Don’t miss: The Hokkaido melons, which are famous for their sweetness and make for a delicious and refreshing snack.
Insider travel tips: Get there early to avoid the crowds and have first pick of the fresh produce. Don’t be afraid to try some of the more unusual foods, such as the purple sweet potatoes.
And if you’re lucky, you may even get to see a traditional Japanese drum performance in the courtyard.
10. Furano Jam Garden
A unique jam factory and store located in Furano, Japan.
What to see or do: Visit the factory to see the jam-making process firsthand, and enjoy tasting the various jams available for purchase in the store.
Don’t miss: Trying the famous Furano melon jam, made from locally grown melons that are known for their exceptional sweetness.
Insider travel tips: – The jam factory also offers workshops where visitors can learn to make their own jam.
11. Furano Ski Museum
The Furano Ski Museum is a small but informative museum dedicated to the history of skiing and ski resorts in Furano and Hokkaido.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the evolution of skiing in Hokkaido through exhibits showcasing vintage equipment, clothing, and photos.
There are also multimedia displays offering insights into the development of the Furano ski resort and the athletes who have trained and competed there.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to try on a vintage ski outfit and snap a photo for a fun keepsake. There is also a small gift shop selling ski-themed souvenirs.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should take note that the Furano Ski Museum is only open during the winter ski season, typically from December to late March.
It’s recommended to combine a visit to the museum with a day of skiing at the Furano resort.
12. Ningle Terrace
Ningle Terrace is a collection of 15 log cabins all on one level and connected by winding wooden walkways.
What to see or do: At Ningle Terrace, visitors can shop for unique handicrafts that are made by local artisans. The log cabins are each dedicated to different crafts, such as pottery, wood carving, and glasswork.
Guests can watch the skilled craftsmen at work and purchase one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home.
Don’t miss: Be sure to try the local hot chocolate, made fresh with Hokkaido milk and topped with whipped cream.
Insider travel tips: Ningle Terrace is open year-round, but winter is the most festive time to visit. The entire area is beautifully illuminated, making for a magical and romantic atmosphere.
Also, note that parking can be limited, so it’s best to arrive early or take the shuttle bus from Furano station.
13. Furano Ski Gondola
Furano Ski Gondola is a cable car ride that takes skiers and visitors up the mountain for some spectacular views of the Furano Ski Resort.
What to see or do: Take a breathtaking ride on the Furano Ski Gondola and marvel at the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
From the top station, skiers and snowboarders can access some of the best runs on the mountain while visitors can relax at the restaurant with a hot cup of cocoa.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning views of the Daisetsuzan mountain range from the top of the Gondola.
Insider travel tips: Try to avoid weekends and holidays as the Gondola gets busier during these times. Opt for a weekday visit for a more peaceful experience.
Also, remember to wear suitable clothing as it can get cold and windy at the top.
14. Furano ski area
Furano ski area is a popular ski resort located in Furano town on Hokkaido island, Japan.
What to see or do: – Ski and snowboard on the slopes, which cater to all levels from beginners to experts.
Don’t miss: – The famous Furano Snow Monsters, or “juhyo,” which are snow-covered trees that look like giant sculptures.
Insider travel tips: – Rent a car to easily explore the area and visit nearby attractions such as the Blue Pond and Biei town.
15. Furano Wine Beer Grape Juice Factory
A popular tourist destination in Furano, Hokkaido, Japan that provides visitors an opportunity to see how wine, beer and grape juice are produced.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the factory and learn about the wine, beer and grape juice production process. Taste test some of their most famous products, including their dry red wine and grape juice.
Grab some souvenirs at their gift shop, including bottles of wine and grape juice, t-shirts and other merchandise.
Don’t miss: The tasting area where you can sample wines, beers, and other beverages. Do not forget to try their signature purple grape juice made from the locally grown grapes.
Insider travel tips: The factory is busiest during the summer and winter months so plan your visit accordingly.