Golden Week is one of the best times to experience Furano as it shifts from winter into spring. Snow begins to melt, fresh greenery starts to appear, and the landscape takes on a softer look. Snow-capped mountains sit in the background while fields slowly come back to life.
It’s still a bit early for lavender, but that’s part of the appeal. The scenery feels calm, the pace is slower, and it’s easier to explore without the crowds. From scenic drives and local food to hands-on experiences, here’s how to spend Golden Week in Furano.
Take in Hokkaido’s Early Spring Landscapes
If you want to experience Hokkaido’s open scenery, this is a great time to get out and explore.
Patchwork Road (Biei)
The hills of Biei are known for their “patchwork” landscapes, where fields stretch across the horizon in soft layers of color. Around Golden Week, the snow has mostly melted, leaving a mix of earthy tones and early spring green.
On clear days, the Tokachidake mountain range is still dusted with snow, creating a strong contrast against the sky. You’ll also pass well-known spots like Ken & Mary’s Tree and Seven Stars Tree along the way.
Shikisai no Oka
While peak flower season comes later, spring still brings color to Shikisai no Oka. Muscari, tulips, and pansies begin to bloom across the wide open fields.
There’s also an alpaca farm on-site where you can feed and interact with the animals, which makes it an easy stop for families. Local snacks and simple foods are available, including croquettes made with Hokkaido potatoes.
Blue Pond & Shirahige Falls
Spring is one of the best times to visit the Blue Pond. The cobalt-blue water stands out against the remaining snow and the fresh green of the trees.
Early morning is the best time to go, when the light is softer and reflections are clearer. Just nearby, Shirahige Falls offers a different kind of view, with streams of water flowing down into the same blue river below.
Step Into Something a Little Different
Golden Week is also a good time to slow down and try something a bit different from your usual routine.
Furano Music Box Museum
Located in the forested Rokugo area, this small museum and shop offers a quiet, relaxed experience. You can create your own music box in about an hour using a variety of decorative parts.
Inside, more than 1,000 music boxes fill the space with soft sound. The shop also serves rich soft-serve ice cream made with local milk.
Glass Forest in Furano
This glass workshop and gallery features handcrafted pieces inspired by Hokkaido’s natural environment. One of the highlights is “shibare glass,” designed to reflect the look of frozen air and winter light.
Visitors can also try making their own glass items, which makes for a memorable takeaway.
Hot Air Balloon Experience
Early morning balloon rides offer a simple but memorable view over Furano. The balloon is tethered and rises gently, giving you a full view of the basin, surrounding mountains, and open fields.
Traveling with Family
Furano has a good mix of outdoor and hands-on activities that work well for both kids and adults.
Tree Adventure Furano
This outdoor course runs through the forest and includes rope elements and zip lines. It’s suitable for anyone over 120 cm tall and works well for families looking to stay active.
There’s also a smaller play area for younger children.
Farms Chiyoda (Petting Farm)
This farm offers a relaxed setting where you can interact with animals like ponies, sheep, goats, rabbits, and llamas. Activities include feeding, horseback riding, and milking.
The farm restaurant is also known for its Biei wagyu beef curry.
Furano Jam Garden
Located next to the Anpanman Shop, this spot is known for its handmade jams made without additives or artificial coloring.
There are around 40 varieties, many available to taste. You can also try making your own jam or stop by the café for simple desserts.
Enjoy Hokkaido’s Dairy Culture
Hokkaido is known for its dairy, and Furano is a great place to try it.
Furano Cheese Factory
Surrounded by forest, this facility lets you see how cheese is made and even try making your own butter or cheese.
There’s also a pizza workshop using fresh cheese and an ice cream shop with gelato and soft serve.
Furano Delice
A popular dessert shop that focuses on simple, high-quality ingredients. Their milk pudding and double fromage cheesecake are well known.
On clear days, the terrace seating overlooks the Furano plains.
Biei Dairy Farm
This farm raises several breeds of cows in an open environment. Their milk products have a clean, rich flavor, especially the soft serve.
The hilltop location also offers wide views over Biei.
Explore Famous Filming Locations
Furano has been the setting for several well-known Japanese dramas.
Garden of Wind
Located on the grounds of the New Furano Prince Hotel, this English-style garden features seasonal flowers along quiet walking paths.
Goro’s Stone House
Featured in Kita no Kuni kara, this preserved home recreates the original setting from the series.
Ningle Terrace & Mori no Tokei
A short walk through a wooded path leads to Mori no Tokei, a café known for its calm atmosphere. You can grind your own coffee beans and take your time.
Nearby, Ningle Terrace is a collection of small cabins selling handmade crafts.
Kaikugama Pottery Studio
Set in the forest in Biei, this pottery studio offers hands-on experiences where you can create your own ceramics.
Unwind at Nozo Hotel
Golden Week is a comfortable time to visit, with fewer crowds and a good balance of activities and quiet moments.
After a day exploring Furano, return to a slower pace at Nozo Hotel. Surrounded by nature, it’s a place to reset, relax, and take in the season at your own pace.
We look forward to welcoming you for a stay that feels easy, comfortable, and memorable.
**Images are for illustrative purposes only and may not reflect the exact locations or current conditions.
