Early summer is one of the best times to experience Furano. With daytime temperatures typically ranging from the low to mid-70s°F (around 20–25°C), the weather is comfortable, the countryside is vibrant with fresh greenery, and colorful flowers begin to bloom across the region.
From scenic outdoor adventures to hands-on local experiences, Furano and nearby Biei offer plenty of family-friendly activities surrounded by some of Hokkaido’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re traveling with young children or planning a multi-generational getaway, there’s no shortage of ways to create lasting memories together.
Take in Furano’s Stunning Natural Scenery
One of the highlights of visiting Furano is simply experiencing the scale and beauty of the landscape itself.
For a truly unforgettable view, start the day with a hot air balloon ride over Furano’s countryside. These tethered early-morning flights gently lift you above the fields and rolling hills, offering panoramic views of the Tokachidake mountain range and the surrounding farmland. The crisp morning air and wide-open scenery make for a peaceful and memorable experience, and many tours even include professional photo opportunities to capture the moment.
Cycling is another great way to explore the area as a family. Biei’s famous countryside roads wind through wide-open farmland and scenic hills, with routes ranging from relaxed countryside rides to more challenging terrain. Popular courses like Patchwork Road and Roller Coaster Road showcase the iconic rural scenery that makes Hokkaido so unique.
No trip to the area is complete without visiting Biei’s famous Blue Pond. Known for its striking blue water and mirror-like reflections, the pond is especially vibrant in early summer as snowmelt flowing from the mountains enhances its vivid color. The contrast between the bright blue water, white birch trees, and fresh green foliage creates one of the region’s most photogenic landscapes. Since this period falls just before peak summer tourism, visitors can often enjoy the scenery in a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.
Just a short walk from the Blue Pond is Shirahige Falls, where streams of white water cascade through the rocks into the cobalt-blue Biei River below. The combination of rushing water and dramatic color makes it another must-see stop in the area.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities for the Whole Family
Families looking for more active experiences will find plenty of ways to enjoy Furano’s outdoors.
Horse trekking is a popular option, especially for families with children. Guided tours allow even beginners to comfortably explore Furano’s natural surroundings at a relaxed pace while riding through open countryside and forested trails.
For something more adventurous, tree trekking courses offer obstacle-filled aerial routes through the forest complete with harnesses and rope challenges. Larger athletic courses are available for older children and adults, while smaller play areas designed for younger kids make it easy for the entire family to participate together.
Water activities are another great way to enjoy Furano in early summer. Family-friendly rafting tours are available for a wide range of ages, including young children and seniors. Many operators offer private tours, allowing families to enjoy the river at their own pace. Kayaking and Canadian canoe experiences are also popular throughout the region.
Fishing enthusiasts can even try river fishing combined with a traditional Hokkaido-style BBQ experience. Catching and cooking fresh fish beside Furano’s clear streams offers a fun and uniquely local outdoor activity surrounded by nature.
Meet Animals and Explore Furano’s Countryside
For families traveling with children, Furano and Biei also offer plenty of opportunities to interact with animals while enjoying the countryside.
At Shikisai no Oka, colorful flower fields stretch across rolling hills even before lavender season reaches its peak. Tractor bus rides through the gardens are especially popular with families, offering wide views of the surrounding landscape. The park is also home to an alpaca farm where children can feed and interact with the animals. After exploring, many visitors stop for soft serve ice cream made with locally produced Biei milk, with flavors like melon and lavender among the favorites.
Another memorable stop is Domaine Raison, an award-winning winery built around the idea of harmony between nature and agriculture. Goats roam freely throughout the property and naturally help maintain the vineyards by grazing the grass. Adults can enjoy wine tastings while children interact with the animals, making it an easy destination for the entire family to enjoy together. Their goat milk soft serve is also worth trying during your visit.
Try Hands-On Experiences Unique to Furano
Furano also offers a variety of hands-on workshops and craft experiences that make great family memories.
At the Furano Cheese Factory, visitors can participate in workshops to make cheese, butter, or ice cream using fresh local milk. Reservations are required, so planning ahead is recommended. Families can also watch the cheese-making process through viewing windows and try a hands-on milking experience using cow models. The factory’s fresh cheese pizza is especially popular and makes a perfect lunch stop.
Flowerland Kamifurano is another scenic destination where seasonal flower fields spread across the landscape with the Tokachidake and Daisetsuzan mountain ranges in the background. Visitors can create handmade souvenirs such as lavender sachet sleep pillows or pressed flower postcards and crafts.
For a more nostalgic experience, Furano Music Box Museum in the Rokugo area — famous as the setting of the classic Japanese drama From the North Country — allows guests to create their own custom music boxes by selecting melodies and decorative glass pieces. During the warmer months from May through October, their rich soft serve ice cream is also a local favorite.
Explore Furano from Nozo Hotel
Conveniently located in the heart of Furano, Nozo Hotel is an ideal base for exploring both Furano and Biei. After a full day of sightseeing, outdoor adventures, and family activities, guests can return to spacious guest rooms designed with warm natural wood accents and relaxing interiors inspired by Hokkaido’s landscape.
For a slower pace after a day outdoors, Sugi Spa offers a peaceful place to unwind and recharge both body and mind. Families traveling with children can also enjoy the hotel’s kids’ corner, where younger guests can play while parents relax nearby.
From breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures to local food and hands-on experiences, early summer in Furano offers the perfect setting for a memorable family getaway. Enjoy the fresh air, wide-open landscapes, and unforgettable moments that make this season in Hokkaido so special.
※Images are for illustrative purposes only.
