Furano is best known for its summer lavender, but late August and September bring their own character to the region.
The first signs of fall begin to appear in the mountains, crops near harvest, flower gardens move into their late-season displays, and local vineyards prepare to pick their grapes. The shift happens gradually, with summer still lingering in the valleys as autumn begins to arrive at higher elevations.
For travelers visiting during these weeks, it is an especially rewarding time to explore Furano’s countryside and see the landscape begin to change.
The First Fall Colors in the Tokachidake Mountains
Fall arrives early in the mountains around Furano.
Starting in late August, trees at higher elevations in the Tokachidake range begin to turn red and yellow. As September progresses, the color slowly makes its way down the mountainsides.
The nearby Daisetsuzan mountain range is known for some of the earliest fall foliage in Japan. Around Furano, the first autumn colors can appear in the mountains while the lower elevations are still green.
It is a short window when the mountains begin to look like fall, even though summer has not completely disappeared from the landscape below.
Furano’s Fields Begin to Turn Gold
The change is also easy to see across Furano’s rolling farmland.
Fields that were deep green during the summer begin to take on warmer tones as crops reach harvest. Golden fields spread across the hills, with pockets of red and yellow appearing throughout the countryside.
Because each field changes at a slightly different pace, several colors can often be seen at once. Green fields, ripening crops, and distant mountains create the layered views that make driving through Furano so memorable at this time of year.
Late August and September are ideal months to slow down, take the scenic route, and enjoy the countryside as harvest season gets underway.
Fall Flowers Fill the Gardens
Lavender season may be over, but Furano’s flower gardens still have plenty to see.
From late August through September, salvia, celosia, marigolds, dahlias, cosmos, and other late-season flowers come into bloom. Reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks bring a new mix of color to the fields and gardens.
The scenery feels noticeably different from early summer, when lavender dominates the landscape. By September, the gardens are filled with a wider range of flowers, giving visitors another look at Furano’s long growing season.
Early Autumn at Biei’s Blue Pond
Nearby Biei also begins to show signs of fall, including at its famous Blue Pond.
In August, the pond is often a bright blue. During September, the water can appear deeper and clearer as the surrounding landscape begins to change.
Around mid-September, the birch and larch trees near the pond gradually start to turn. Their early fall colors frame the blue water and give this familiar sightseeing spot a different feel from the summer months.
If you are traveling between Furano and Biei, September is a beautiful time to include the Blue Pond in your route.
September Brings the Grape Harvest
September is harvest season in Furano, and the vineyards are part of the action.
Farms across the region begin gathering a variety of crops, including grapes grown for local wine. Clusters of deep purple grapes fill the vines, and depending on the timing of your visit, you may see growers at work during the harvest.
It is a chance to see the agricultural side of Furano up close and get a sense of the work behind many of the region’s local products.
On Sunday, September 6, 2026, the Furano Wine Grape Festival will be held at Shimizuyama in Furano. Four local wineries will take part: Furano Wine, Tada Vineyard, Domaine Raison, and Winery Kamui Metot Nupuri.
Visitors can enjoy local wine and food while celebrating the grape harvest with producers from around the area. For wine lovers visiting Furano in September, it is well worth adding to the itinerary.
Experience Furano as the Seasons Change
Late August and September are a special time to be in Furano.
The first fall colors appear in the mountains, crops reach harvest, late-season flowers fill the gardens, and vineyards enter one of their busiest times of year. The scenery can look a little different from one week to the next, which is part of what makes this season so interesting to explore.
For guests staying at Nozo Hotel, our team is always happy to share recommendations. Whether you’re looking for a scenic drive, a quiet place to enjoy the changing landscape, or a few local spots to add to your day, stop by the front desk and ask.
We look forward to welcoming you to Nozo Hotel.
