Furano is best known for its sweeping lavender fields and majestic mountain landscapes, but summer here isn’t just about being outside. Whether you’re looking to escape the midday heat or the weather isn’t cooperating, Furano offers a surprising number of memorable indoor activities—and Nozo Hotel is the perfect base to enjoy them all.
From hands-on culinary experiences and nostalgic drama filming locations to immersive art exhibits and cozy local cafés, Furano’s indoor scene is full of ways to connect with the region’s charm, creativity, and culture—no matter the forecast.
Taste and Create: Food-Centered Experiences in Furano
Summer in Furano brings fresh ingredients, and several spots let you dive right in with hands-on workshops.
One of the most popular is the Furano Cheese Factory, where guests can try their hand at making butter, ice cream, or cheese using fresh, local milk. Right next door, the Pizza Factory serves handmade pizzas topped with their signature cheeses—a satisfying way to wrap up the experience.
Another must-visit is Auntie Jam’s Workshop, where you can make your own additive-free jam using local fruits and vegetables, based on a secret homemade recipe. The experience includes designing your own label, so you’ll leave with a truly one-of-a-kind souvenir.
Step Into a Drama: Furano’s Famous Filming Locations
Furano is also the setting for some of Japan’s most beloved TV dramas. For fans or those simply looking for a peaceful creative escape, two indoor locations offer special experiences.
At the Music Box Museum (Orugoru-dō)—a filming site for From the North Country—you’ll find over 8,500 music boxes on display. The soothing sounds and nostalgic atmosphere are unforgettable. You can even create your own custom music box by selecting the melody and parts.
At Kaikūgama Pottery Studio, another drama location featured in Yasashii Jikan (A Gentle Time), you can craft your own ceramic mug in the same workshop the main character worked in. Get your hands in the clay and enjoy a quiet moment of reflection as you shape something truly personal.
Indoor Art & Photography: Where Imagination Meets Nature
Families, friends, and curious creatives will enjoy the quirky and fun Miyama Pass Art Park, home to dozens of optical illusion artworks. Take part in a guided tour to learn how the illusions work, and don’t forget to snap a few photos for your memories. In summer, the park also opens a covered BBQ terrace, offering a taste of Furano’s seasonal flavors.
For a more contemplative indoor experience, visit Takushinkan, a former elementary school turned photo gallery. The space features stunning landscape photography that captures the essence of the Biei and Furano region. Many of these iconic images have appeared in films and advertising, and they offer a quiet moment of appreciation for Hokkaido’s natural beauty.
Slow Down and Savor: Cafés and Wineries in Furano
When you’re ready to relax, explore Furano’s inviting collection of cafés and sweets shops.
Furano Delice is a standout, famous for its soft puddings and cakes made with fresh milk and eggs from local farms. Light, creamy, and comforting—they’re the perfect treat after a long day of exploring.
Nearby, Campana Rokkatei offers scenic indulgence: a sunlit café surrounded by vineyards and overlooking the mountains, where you can enjoy limited-edition sweets you won’t find anywhere else.
Wine lovers will want to check out Furano Wine, a local winery that has won numerous awards in Japan and abroad. Take a guided tour of their barrel cellar and learn more about the wine-making process—or enjoy their popular 100% grape juice if you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option. In summer, the nearby lavender fields are in full bloom, making the visit even more special.
For a more hands-on wine experience, visit Domaine Raison, a unique winery where goats are part of the vineyard ecosystem. The goats help manage the grass and fertilize the soil, and guests can even feed them. It’s a fun and memorable stop for both kids and adults, offering tastings of several wines and a fresh look at sustainable agriculture.
Your Summer Home Base: Nozo Hotel
At Nozo Hotel, we believe summer in Furano should be enjoyed at your own pace—indoors or out. Our central location makes it easy to access all the area’s best attractions, while our calming, greenery-filled interiors offer a peaceful retreat after a day of adventure.
After exploring, relax in our-house Spa, which includes a cold plunge and sauna—perfect for unwinding tired muscles. Whether the sun is shining or the skies are cloudy, Furano offers rich, immersive indoor experiences that celebrate the region’s creativity, culture, and flavor.
This summer, let Nozo Hotel be your base for discovering the quieter, cozier side of Furano.
