When autumn arrives in Furano, the land becomes a true treasure trove of flavors. Crisp mountain air, fertile soil, and dramatic temperature shifts between day and night create the perfect environment for seasonal harvests. From fresh produce and sweet treats to award-winning wines, autumn in Furano offers something to delight every palate.
Keep reading for a journey through the tastes of Furano and Biei this season.
Seasonal Flavors of Furano & Biei
1. Biei Rice
The Furano area is one of Hokkaido’s leading rice-producing regions, with harvest season stretching from September through November. Thanks to the pure waters of Mt. Tokachi and the cool climate with strong temperature contrasts, the rice grown here develops a natural sweetness and rich flavor. Local varieties such as Asahi Musume Nanatsuboshi, Nanatsuboshi, and Yumepirika are highly regarded and worth trying at least once.
2. Grapes & Wine
Autumn is grape harvest season, making it the best time to enjoy freshly produced wine. Furano’s grapes are known for their high sugar content, and several local wineries have earned international recognition. Visitors can discover exclusive wines available only here, as well as rich, fresh-pressed grape juices—perfect as a souvenir or indulgence.
3. Furano Pumpkin
Hokkaido is Japan’s top pumpkin producer, and Furano pumpkins are especially beloved. With their dense, fluffy texture and deep natural sweetness, they’re often compared to chestnuts—earning the nickname “kuri kabocha” or chestnut pumpkin. Sweet enough to enjoy like a dessert, they’re a must-have autumn flavor.
Autumn Souvenirs from Furano
1. Furano Jam Garden
Here you’ll find jams made with seasonal ingredients such as carrots, pumpkins, and grapes. Prepared without added water, preservatives, or artificial coloring, these jams capture the pure flavor of each ingredient. Visitors can even join hands-on jam-making workshops, a popular activity for families.
2. Furano Delice
A well-known confectionery shop, Furano Delice is famous for its creamy Furano Milk Pudding and Double Fromage Cheesecake, made with locally produced milk. Autumn brings seasonal specialties like pumpkin pudding, pumpkin cheesecake, and chestnut roll cakes—all must-tries for anyone with a sweet tooth.
3. Furano Marche
Furano Marche is a local favorite for food lovers. The farmers’ market offers fresh, seasonal produce with shipping services available for travelers. In autumn, don’t miss limited-edition treats like sweet potato soft-serve and pumpkin gelato. Local potato chips, branded Furano-chi, are also a classic take-home snack.
4. Tada Farm
Known as a winery, Tada Farm also produces outstanding juices. Their Senryo Pear Juice, made from 110-year-old pear trees, and carrot juice harvested from summer to fall, are both cherished as unique, high-quality gifts.
Hands-On Harvest Experiences
1. Potato Harvesting (Shiki-no-Johokan, Biei)
Biei is one of Japan’s top potato-producing regions, with many farms supplying major snack companies. In autumn, the fields are filled with colorful varieties—pink, purple, yellow—and visitors can try harvesting them by hand. The experience is complete with freshly made jaga-butter (butter potatoes) enjoyed on the spot.
2. Jersey Cow Milking (Farms Chiyoda)
In autumn, Jersey cow milk becomes especially rich and flavorful. At Farms Chiyoda, visitors can try hands-on milking, and even make butter or ice cream using fresh milk. The farm’s location also offers sweeping views of Biei’s rolling hills and the Tokachi mountain range—an unforgettable setting for a countryside experience.
3. Chestnut Picking (Ikeda Farm)
About 90 minutes from Furano, Ikeda Farm offers the rare opportunity to harvest Hokkaido-grown chestnuts, which are seldom sold on the market. With around 700 naturally grown trees, the experience feels both authentic and special. Guests can roast their freshly gathered chestnuts in a Dutch oven, enjoying them warm and aromatic on site.
Autumn Festivals in Furano
1. Furano Wine & Grape Festival
Held in early September at Furano Station Park, this festival celebrates the grape harvest. Highlights include the traditional grape-stomping experience, tastings of freshly pressed wines and juices, and even grape-picking activities.
2. Furano Cheese Festival
On the last Sunday of September, the Furano Cheese Factory hosts this popular event. Visitors can sample dishes made with locally produced cheese and butter, including wood-fired pizza, rich ice cream, and even a rare red wine-infused cheese. Families can also enjoy pony rides and other fun activities.
3. Furano Harvest Festival
Every October, the Furano Harvest Festival takes place in Rokugo, at the famous house from the TV drama Kita no Kuni Kara. The festival celebrates local food and community spirit with activities like quiz contests, log-cutting competitions, and pumpkin weight-guessing games. Fresh produce and local dishes are also available at the market.
Autumn in Furano: A Seasonal Feast
With golden wheat fields, rolling hills painted in autumn colors, and a bounty of seasonal produce, Furano and Biei are at their most abundant in fall. At Nozo Hotel, we bring this harvest to your table, serving dishes that showcase the flavors of the season.
Join us in Furano this autumn and indulge in a culinary journey that nourishes both body and soul.
