Top 25 Must-See Attractions in Furano, Japan

Furano is a town in Hokkaido, representing a series of charming farming villages rather than a single urban center.

This region is often referred to by its nickname, ‘Belly Button Town,’ as it is located at the geographical center of Hokkaido.

Furthermore, the area is renowned for its winter sports, making it an essential destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

For those visiting in summer, Furano offers myriad attractions, including expansive fields celebrated for their lavender cultivation alongside an abundance of fresh produce like berries, melons, and pumpkins.

Regardless of the season, Furano presents a wealth of activities and is widely regarded as one of Japan’s most picturesque locations, meriting a visit for anyone exploring Hokkaido.

The following are the 25 best activities to enjoy in Furano…

1. Visit Furano Cheese Factory

For cheese aficionados, a visit to the Furano Cheese Factory is imperative.

This establishment combines both a factory and a museum, originating in the 1980s.

The name may be somewhat misleading, as they offer a variety of dairy products, where visitors can learn about production processes and purchase an array of dairy delights on-site.

A signature offering is the squid ink cheese, which boasts a striking black hue due to the squid ink, with a creamy interior reminiscent of Camembert.

Interactive experiences like churning your own cheese or ice cream are also available.

2. Get out on the river

Situated along the scenic Sorachi River, visitors during the summer months can engage in a plethora of water sports.

For the adventurous spirit, activities such as rafting or canoeing are available, along with opportunities for fishing directly from the river.

Additionally, kayak rentals allow for a relaxing way to appreciate Furano’s stunning scenery.

3. Explore Furano Brewery

Much like the rest of Hokkaido, Furano is celebrated for its beer, which can be sampled firsthand at the Furano Brewery.

Located within the Kitanomine Ski Area, the brewery offers a selection of local beers, including dark ale, light ale, and pilsner.

Visitors can explore the production process during a brewery tour, made from locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients, while sampling the beers directly.

4. Tour Farm Tomita

During the summer season, Furano is renowned for its floral displays, making Farm Tomita a must-visit attraction.

The expansive fields at Tomita Farm are adorned with a stunning array of flowers, particularly the lavender fields that extend as far as the eye can see.

This locale is also ideal for those seeking lavender-infused products, such as tea and ice cream.

5. Enjoy a harvesting experience

Famous for its agricultural products, many farms in Furano now offer ‘harvesting experiences’ that enable visitors to connect with nature.

Participants can engage in seasonal crop harvesting, such as gathering fresh asparagus or unearthing plump potatoes.

Several farms also provide berry-picking opportunities, including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.

6. Go climbing

The mountain climbing season in Furano runs from June onwards, marking it as one of Japan’s premier climbing destinations.

The Furano Ropeway provides access to the surrounding hills, where climbers can experience the vibrant summer colors and abundant floral displays.

During the season’s opening, Shinto monks perform ceremonies to ensure the safety of hikers, offering unique cultural insights for those visiting in June.

7. Tour Kami-Furano Pioneer Memorial Museum

The Kami-Furano Pioneer Memorial Museum is a quaint establishment that narrates the history of the northern region of Furano.

Visitors can explore galleries demonstrating the local area’s heritage, complemented by photographs of notable residents, along with geographical and topographical insights.

A flower garden is also present, providing a picturesque setting for relaxation and picnics.

8. Try the ramen

As is customary in Japan, Furano is renowned for its ramen noodles.

This local variation incorporates regional ingredients, particularly featuring chewy noodles topped with exquisite Furano cheese.

One noteworthy establishment to sample this unique cheesy noodle dish is Chizu Ramen-no-mise Karin, known for catering to numerous hungry patrons over the years.

9. Go skiing

Furano is acclaimed for its exceptional skiing trails, a significant draw for many visitors.

The region’s powder snow, characterized by low moisture content, ensures an unparalleled skiing experience, with approximately one meter of snow accumulation weekly during the winter season.

Skiing is available across various locations in Furano, including the Furano Zone and Kitanomine Zone, offering diverse runs suited to different skiing abilities as well as gondola and ropeway services.

10. Experience the Belly Button Festival

One of the principal annual events in Furano is the Hokkai Heso Festival, also recognized as the Belly Button Festival.

Typically held each July since its inception in 1969, the festival features processions where participants, primarily men, walk through the streets with painted bellies and costumes that highlight their midsections.

This festive occasion is complemented by various performances, including dance recitals and musical showcases, making it a prime event to coordinate with a summer visit.

11. Tour Furano Jam Garden

Furano Jam Garden, particularly popular during the summer months, is renowned for its exquisite jams.

The Auntie Jam Gift Shop offers approximately 35 distinct jam flavors, alongside hands-on opportunities to create jam yourself.

Guests can stroll through the farm to admire the berries used in production and gain insight into the jam-making process.

12. Go hiking

In the summer, Furano provides a splendid opportunity for hiking enthusiasts.

Diverse trails exist, including Furano-dake, Tokachi-dake, and Ashibetsu-dake, with free trail maps accessible at the main tourist office.

Visitors can relish the summer weather and vibrant floral scenery along the trails, while winter hikers can opt for snowshoeing opportunities on the same paths.

13. Visit a melon farm

Furano is recognized for its delectable fruits, particularly the Furano sweet melon.

Visitors can explore various melon farms to learn about cultivation practices and taste this sweet fruit during the summer.

An additional treat in Furano is the soft-serve ice cream served in bowls made from halved Furano sweet melons.

14. Go shopping for local products

Furano showcases an array of local specialties, with Ningle Terrace serving as one of the prime locations to find various regional goods.

This collection of small shops features well-known local products such as Furano wine and fresh carrot juice.

Crafters also offer items like silver jewelry, artwork, and glassware, all presented in charming traditional log cabin-style shops, enhancing the overall shopping experience.

15. Ride on a tractor

For families traveling with young children, experiential tractor rides on local farms are highly recommended.

These rides typically consist of a cart pulled by a tractor, allowing guests to relax and absorb the picturesque settings while accompanied by informative commentary about farm life in Japan.

16. Visit Furano Winery

For those interested in local wines, a visit to the Furano Winery is essential, showcasing wines made within the region.

The winery offers both white and red varieties, including a unique signature blend infused with lavender.

A lavender-infused white wine with a perfumed taste is also available, leaving a lasting impression of Furano long after your visit.

17. Go cycling

To fully appreciate the beauty of Furano, renting a bicycle is highly recommended.

A multitude of cycling paths exist, catering to varied skill levels, with options for both rugged trails suitable for mountain bikes and smooth paved roads.

This activity is particularly enjoyable during the spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant.

18. Go for a hot air balloon ride

For a unique perspective of Furano, consider a hot air balloon ride or paragliding experience.

These activities allow participants to ascend high above the region and appreciate the various landscapes, guided by professionals ensuring safety and comfort throughout the flight.

19. Visit Furano Hands On Workshop

To gain hands-on experience in creating local delicacies, the Furano Hands On Workshop is the perfect venue.

Workshops are available for crafting items like ice cream, cheese, and butter, alongside opportunities to bake bread, with the delightful reward of sampling your creations.

For those interested in handicrafts, options include making flower boxes, candles, and glass art pieces.

20. Soak in an onsen

A visit to Japan wouldn’t be complete without experiencing an onsen, the traditional Japanese hot springs.

These hot springs serve as ideal spots to unwind after a day of outdoor activities like skiing or cycling.

Several outdoor natural hot springs are available, along with an assortment of indoor options for relaxing and rejuvenating sore muscles.

21. Go wildlife spotting

Furano is home to various species unique to the region, including Ezo brown bears, Ezo deer, Northern foxes, and Ezo flying squirrels.

A variety of bird species can also be spotted, such as the Ural Owl, Hazel Grouse, and Black Woodpeckers.

Venturing into the nearby countryside will reveal an abundance of wildlife during both summer and winter seasons.

22. Attend Furano Wine Matsuri

The Furano Wine Matsuri, celebrated annually on the third Sunday of September, is a harvest festival featuring local growers displaying their products.

This event showcases a diverse array of fresh produce, alongside specialty items such as locally-made wines and jams.

23. Try the curry

To sample local culinary delights, the omu-kare, comprising rice covered in an omelet and served with rich Japanese curry, is a must-try.

Kunen-kobo Yamadori is a well-known restaurant that serves this dish, enhancing its flavor with bits of bacon in a rustic farm setting.

24. Go fishing

Furano is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, presenting a plethora of options for enjoying this beloved pastime.

Ice fishing is available in winter, while summer allows for fishing in numerous rivers and lakes scattered throughout the region.

Many hotels facilitate fishing excursions, often accompanied by local guides who set up barbecues alongside the river for freshly prepared meals.

25. Play a game of golf

Golf enthusiasts will find ample opportunity in Furano, with various courses located around the town.

The selection includes extensive 18-hole courses and smaller facilities, as well as options for those wishing to play mini-golf for a delightful way to enjoy the surrounding landscapes and florals that have made Furano famous.