When you travel, some of the best experiences come not from guidebooks but from locals who know the area best. At Nozo Hotel, our team doesn’t just welcome guests—they live, explore, and enjoy everything Furano has to offer. From cozy cafés and hidden workshops to powdery slopes and lively festivals, our staff members have their own favorite ways to spend time here.
We asked four members of our team—Nina, Victoria, Sajun and Kurata-san—to share their personal recommendations with guests. Here is what they had to say!
Part 1: Nina & Victoria — Discovering Furano’s Hidden Gems and Winter Fun
Nina – Front Desk Staff
Originally from Bali, Nina experienced her first winter last year in Furano. She has a passion for local culture, hidden spots, and the small details that make Furano special.
Top Recommendations:
- Creative & Hidden Gems: Don’t miss the Doll Workshop near the staff dorms, run by a craftswoman with over 50 years of experience. Open just once a week, it feels like stepping into a private museum. Nearby, the Nekotokitori Café (“Cat and Little Bird Café”) offers a cozy atmosphere, good food, and even occasional deer sightings.
- Seasonal Sights: Nina loves the lavender fields at Farm Tomita, along with the famous melon cream bread and lavender ice cream. She also recommends the Blue Pond in Biei for its otherworldly blue water.
- Local Culture: She enjoys Furano’s festivals, where visitors can join the dancing with a simple registration—an authentic way to feel part of the community. She also points out the small craft markets featuring handmade jams, vegan cookies, and candles.
- Dining: For a hearty meal, Nina suggests Majo Spoon Curry Café, a local favorite with generous salads and curry. At the hotel, she loves the vegan hamburg steak, which showcases Furano’s fresh produce.
Victoria – Front Desk Staff
From Jakarta, Victoria came to Furano after living in Tokyo. She loves the contrast between city life and Furano’s slower pace, and she especially enjoys Furano in the winter.
Top Recommendations:
- Snow Adventures: Victoria’s favorite is snowboarding at Kitanomine. She recommends the steeper slope after riding the second lift up the mountian—soft powder makes it safe even for beginners. She also highlights local ski schools and backcountry guides like Whiteroom and Summit.
- Local Eats on the Slopes: She loves stopping at the small coffee hut on the mountain for coffee, biscuits, or even a warm spiked drink before or after skiing.
- Festivals & Seasons: Victoria had a great time at the Heso Matsuri (Belly Button) Festival, which brings the entire town together in summer. For winter fun, she recommends the nearby Asahikawa Snow Festival, especially for families.
- Summer Beauty: Beyond Farm Tomita, she suggests Lavender East, a less crowded alternative with better photo opportunities, and Shikisai no Oka, a colorful hillside of flowers in nearby Biei.
- Nightlife & Culture: In town, she enjoys live music pubs and especially K-Bar, a karaoke bar where locals gather after work.
🌿 Coming Next: Part 2 — Sajun & Kurata’s Furano
From Sajun’s love for outdoor adventures and hot springs to Kurata’s deep local knowledge and warm hospitality, discover more ways to experience Furano like a true local.
👉 Stay tuned for Part 2: “Sajun & Kurata — Connecting with Nature and Local Spirit.
