Winter transforms Furano into a landscape defined by snow, clear air, and wide-open scenery. The colder months bring a range of outdoor adventures alongside indoor cultural experiences, making Furano a well-rounded destination throughout the season. From snow sports to hands-on workshops and local food experiences, winter here offers activities shaped by the region’s climate and natural setting.
Below is an overview of some of the best ways to experience Furano in winter.
Outdoor Activities in Furano’s Winter Landscape
Skiing and Snowboarding
Furano is widely known for its dry, light powder snow and consistently good conditions throughout the winter. Furano Ski Resort offers a variety of terrain, with gentle slopes for beginners and longer, more technical runs for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Designated areas for sledding and snow play are also available, making the resort suitable for families as well as serious winter sports enthusiasts.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing allows visitors to explore Furano’s winter scenery at a slower pace. With snowshoes, it’s easy to walk across deep snow while exploring forests, hills, and rural landscapes. Routes often include areas such as the hills of Biei, birch forests, and Rokugo, a countryside area known as the filming location for the television series From the North Country. Guided tours are available and include explanations of the local environment and wildlife.
Dog Sledding
Dog sledding experiences in Furano are led by Siberian Huskies trained for winter conditions. After an introduction to the dogs and basic handling instructions, participants guide the sled across open snow-covered fields. The experience concludes with time to interact with and reward the dogs, offering insight into a traditional winter activity of northern regions.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
Hot air balloon rides provide a view of Furano’s winter landscape from above, including snow-covered farmland and the Tokachidake Mountain Range. On clear mornings, flights may offer views of diamond dust, a natural phenomenon where ice crystals reflect sunlight. Some flights operate as free flights, reaching heights of up to 1,000 meters.
Ice Fishing at Kanayama Lake
Ice fishing for smelt at Kanayama Lake is a simple activity that requires no prior experience. Participants fish through holes cut into the frozen lake surface. The freshly caught fish can be prepared and eaten on-site, typically as tempura or fried dishes, making the experience both recreational and culinary.
Stargazing
Furano is known for its low light pollution and clear winter skies. Areas such as Higashiyama and Rokugo are popular stargazing spots among locals. On clear nights, many stars are visible without a telescope, offering a different perspective from urban night skies.
Furano Kan-Kan Village (Seasonal)
Furano Kan-Kan Village operates seasonally from late December through mid-March. The venue offers a variety of snow-based activities, including snow tubing, dog sledding, snow rafting, and snowmobiling. In the evening, the area is illuminated with tens of thousands of lights. A snow dome café, constructed entirely of snow and ice, serves hot drinks and alcoholic beverages.
Indoor Activities for Cold Days
Kaikuugama Pottery Studio
Located between Furano and Biei, Kaikuugama is a pottery studio set among larch and birch trees. Visitors can create original bowls or cups using clay, or choose a course inspired by items featured in the television drama Yasashii Jikan. Finished pieces are fired at the studio and shipped to the participant’s home. An attached gallery displays works inspired by northern landscapes.
Furano Music Box Hall
Furano Music Box Hall in Rokugo combines a specialty shop with a workshop space. Visitors can design and assemble their own music boxes by selecting a melody and decorative parts. The building houses thousands of music boxes, including hand-cranked models and pipe organs, making it both a shop and a small exhibition space.
Furano Cheese Factory
Surrounded by forest, the Furano Cheese Factory produces dairy products using local milk. Visitors can sample cheese, ice cream, and pizza baked in a traditional oven. Hands-on workshops for making butter, cheese, and ice cream are available with same-day registration, making it suitable for families and groups.
Furano Wine Factory
The Furano Wine Factory allows visitors to learn about the wine production process, including fermentation, aging, and bottling. The underground cellar can be toured, and wine tastings are available with views of the Furano Basin and the surrounding mountains. The shop also sells wine-related products such as jams and sweets.
Furano Jam Garden
At Furano Jam Garden, visitors can bottle preservative-free jams made from local ingredients and design their own labels. The shop offers a wide variety of flavors, all available for tasting. It’s a good stop for learning about local produce and purchasing souvenirs.
Miyama Pass Art Park
Miyama Pass Art Park is a hands-on complex centered around a trick art museum, where optical illusions create three-dimensional effects. The surrounding area includes shops offering craft experiences and local sweets. A Ferris wheel rises approximately 50 meters above ground, offering views of the Tokachidake mountains.
Relaxing After a Day of Winter Activities
After spending the day exploring Furano, Nozo Hotel provides a comfortable place to rest and recharge. Guest rooms feature warm wood interiors, and the hotel restaurant focuses on dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The large public bath offers a way to relax tired muscles after outdoor activities.
Conveniently located near Furano Station, Nozo Hotel offers easy access to sightseeing spots and activity areas, making it a practical base for a winter stay in Furano.
