Furano: Best Things to Do & Top Attractions
Located in Hokkaido, this city is renowned for its charming lavender fields, especially in summer. It offers skiing in winter and has a gorgeous countryside that showcases the beauty of all four seasons.
- Population
- 23,000
- Train Station
- Furano Station
- Est. Visit Days
- 2 days
Overview
Furano, a city in the Hokkaido prefecture of Japan, is renowned for its beautiful lavender fields and ski resorts, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and winter sports enthusiasts. The city's distinct four seasons offer diverse experiences, from flower viewing in summer to skiing in winter. However, Furano can be quite crowded during peak tourist seasons, which might detract from the experience for some visitors. Additionally, public transportation options in the area are somewhat limited, which could pose challenges for those looking to explore beyond the city center. Despite these issues, Furano's natural beauty and outdoor activities make it a worthwhile visit.
Traffic & Transport
The city's compact size and well-maintained roads make it ideal for exploring by bicycle, which is a popular and efficient mode of transport for tourists. Rental bicycles are available at various shops and hotels, offering visitors the flexibility to navigate the city at their own pace. For longer distances or to reach more remote areas, buses are a convenient option, with a reliable network connecting major attractions. Additionally, the local train station serves as a central hub for those arriving by rail, providing access to nearby areas. For those preferring taxi services, several reliable taxi companies operate in the city, offering both on-demand and pre-booking options. Additionally, the use of taxi-booking apps like ** and ** provides a convenient way to secure a ride, with the added benefit of tracking the journey and paying electronically.
History
Historically, the city was established in 1907 through the merger of several villages. It developed as a center for herring fishing and trade during the Edo period. The area also played a significant role in the development of the textile industry in the late 19th century. During World War II, it was a strategic location for the production of military supplies. In more recent times, it has become renowned for its lavender fields, which have significantly boosted tourism and the local economy.
Itinerary Sample
Explore the highlights of Furano, Japan over two days with this simple itinerary:
– First day: Visit Farm Tomita to see the lavender fields, then explore the Furano Cheese Factory and end your day at the Furano Winery.
– Second day: Spend the morning at the Furano Ski Resort, followed by an afternoon at the Ningle Terrace for local crafts and a peaceful forest walk.
Near Excursion
This city is a great starting point for several exciting day trips. Here are some suggestions:
– Biei at 30 km: Famous for its pleasant landscapes and flower fields.
– Asahiyama Zoo at 50 km: A popular zoo known for its unique animal enclosures.
– Blue Pond at 40 km: A striking blue pond with beautiful reflections, especially in summer.
– Sounkyo Gorge at 120 km: Offers remarkable waterfalls and hot springs in a scenic mountain setting.
– Tomita Farm at 10 km: Renowned for its beautiful lavender fields and flower gardens.
Attraction
Known for its beautiful landscapes and seasonal flower fields, this city offers a variety of attractions for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
– Farm Tomita: Famous for its beautiful lavender fields, especially nice in summer.
– Ningle Terrace: A charming shopping area with handcrafted goods in a forest setting.
– Furano Ski Resort: Popular for winter sports with excellent slopes and facilities.
– Furano Cheese Factory: Offers cheese-making workshops and delicious dairy products.
– Shikisai no Oka: A panoramic flower garden with seasonal blooms and tractor rides.
– Furano Winery: Provides tours and tastings of locally produced wines.
Activity
In Furano, travelers can enjoy lavender fields, hot air balloon rides, and skiing in winter.
– Lavender Fields: Visit Farm Tomita for stunning lavender views in summer.
– Hot Air Balloon Rides: Experience Furano's landscapes from above.
– Skiing at Furano Ski Resort: Enjoy winter sports in a scenic setting.
– Ningle Terrace: Unique shopping area with handcrafted goods in a forest setting.
– Wine Tasting at Furano Winery: Sample local wines in a gorgeous vineyard setting.
Cuisine
The city is known for its fresh local produce and dairy products, offering a variety of unique and flavorful dishes. Some of the city's most famous dishes include:
– Furano Omurice: Fluffy omelette served over fried rice, often topped with a savory sauce.
– Furano Cheese: Locally produced cheese, known for its rich and creamy texture.
– Furano Wine: Locally produced wine, made from grapes grown in the region's vineyards.
– Lavender Ice Cream: Ice cream flavored with locally grown lavender, offering a unique floral taste.
– Furano Melon: Sweet and juicy melon, a popular local fruit.
– Furano Milk: Fresh, high-quality milk from local dairy farms, often enjoyed on its own or in desserts.
Shopping
In the city, tourists can enjoy shopping for local crafts and products that reflect the region's culture. Popular gifts include lavender-infused products like essential oils and soaps, due to the area's famous lavender fields. Handcrafted woodwork and ceramics are also unique finds, showcasing local artisan skills. Additionally, purchasing local wines and cheeses offers a taste of the region's agricultural produce. The Ningle Terrace offers a charming shopping experience with its collection of boutique shops set in a forested area. These items make thoughtful and distinctive gifts or souvenirs.
Arts & Culture
The city hosts the annual Lavender Festival, celebrating the peak blooming season of its famous lavender fields with various events and activities. It is also known for its involvement in the arts, particularly through the "Drama Festival," which showcases local and national theatrical performances. Additionally, the city has a unique cultural venue, the Ningle Terrace, where visitors can explore workshops and boutiques of local artisans set in a charming forest setting. The Furano Wine Festival is another notable event, highlighting local wines and vineyards.