| population | 19,362 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 600.71 km² |
| population density | 32.2 peoples/km² |
Located almost in the center of Hokkaido, Furano City is a picturesque town surrounded by stunning mountains and vast farmlands. It’s widely known as the filming location of the beloved Japanese TV drama “From the North Country (Kita no Kuni Kara)”, which brought nationwide fame to this serene rural landscape. The city’s charm lies in its perfect balance between natural beauty and human warmth. In summer, the hills turn purple with blooming lavender, while winter transforms the region into a snow paradise of powdery white. With agriculture as its backbone and tourism, art, and gastronomy as growing industries, Furano represents one of Hokkaido’s most diverse and attractive regional cities. Its vibrant festivals, delicious farm produce, and warm-hearted residents make it a destination loved by visitors from all over the world.
Culture & Traditions
Furano’s identity is deeply rooted in its pioneering history and breathtaking natural surroundings. It became famous as the filming site of “From the North Country”, written by playwright So Kuramoto. The filming site in the Rokugo Forest still preserves the original sets and draws many visitors every year. The citizens of Furano live closely with nature, celebrating the rhythm of the four seasons through local festivals and agricultural traditions. Winter events such as the Hokkai Heso Festival and Furano Kan-kan Village turn the snow-covered city into a wonderland of lights and laughter. The local dialect, known as Furano-ben, has a soft, friendly tone that reflects the warm character of its people. In recent years, the city has also developed as a cultural hub, featuring attractions like the “Garden of the Wind” and the Furano Art Forest, where art and nature beautifully coexist.
Local Specialties
- Furano Melon: Famous throughout Japan for its rich sweetness and fragrant aroma, Furano’s red-fleshed melon is harvested in midsummer (July–August). (View on Map)
- Furano Wine: Benefiting from a cool climate ideal for grape cultivation, Furano produces award-winning wines at the Furano Wine Factory. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting while overlooking the Furano Basin.
- Furano Cheese: At the Furano Cheese Factory, visitors can watch the production of natural cheese, butter, and ice cream, and even try hands-on cheese-making experiences.
- Furano Vegetables: Locally grown tomatoes, onions, asparagus, and carrots thrive in Furano’s cool climate. These farm-fresh products can be purchased at Furano Marche in the city center.
- Furano Lavender: The symbol of Furano’s summer. At Farm Tomita, visitors can enjoy vast fields of lavender, as well as lavender-themed products like soft-serve ice cream, oils, and dried flower crafts.
Annual Events
- Hokkai Heso Festival (July 28–29): “Heso” means “bellybutton” in Japanese. Celebrating Furano’s central location in Hokkaido, participants paint faces on their stomachs and dance through the streets — a unique and humorous summer festival. (Festival Venue)
- Furano Wine Festival (September): A harvest celebration where freshly pressed local wine is served alongside regional cuisine and live performances. It’s one of the biggest annual events in autumn.
- Furano Kan-kan Village (December–March): A winter village built of ice and snow near Furano Ski Resort. Visitors can enjoy ice bars, snow tubing, and snowmobile rides under a starry sky.
- Lavender Festival (July): Held at Hinode Park and Farm Tomita, visitors can stroll through blooming lavender fields and enjoy flower-picking, photo spots, and local lavender goods.
- Furano Gourmet Festival (Autumn): A local food festival where restaurants and farms collaborate to serve dishes made from Furano’s finest ingredients, including the famous Furano Omucurry and Furano Burger.
Access
- By Bus from New Chitose Airport: Direct highway buses take about 2.5 hours to Furano City. Comfortable and reliable, this is one of the easiest options for travelers.
- By Train from New Chitose Airport: Take the JR Chitose Line and Nemuro Main Line toward Asahikawa. The total travel time is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes, with scenic views along the way.
- By Bus from Asahikawa Airport: A direct bus to Furano Station takes about one hour, with frequent departures throughout the day.
- By Car from Asahikawa Airport: About one hour via National Route 237, offering a scenic drive along the Tokachi Mountain Range.
- By Train from Sapporo: The JR Furano Line connects Sapporo to Furano in about 2.5 hours. Some limited express services operate directly without transfers.
Tourist Attractions
- Furano Ski Resort – One of Japan’s premier ski destinations, renowned for its world-class powder snow and scenic slopes suitable for all levels.
- Garden of the Wind – A beautiful English-style garden featured in the drama “Garden of the Wind.” Seasonal flowers and peaceful paths make it a tranquil retreat.
- Ningle Terrace – A fairy-tale-like village of log-cabin shops nestled in the forest. Handmade crafts and nighttime illumination create a magical atmosphere.
- Furano Wine Factory – Offers tours, tastings, and panoramic views of the Furano Basin from its observation deck.
- Furano Cheese Factory – Experience cheese-making, sample dairy products, and enjoy locally produced gelato made from fresh Hokkaido milk.
