Kamifurano Town in Hokkaido resonates in people’s hearts as a place that echoes the remnants of the pioneering era and attracts many cultural figures. The reason lies in the rich natural environment created by the beautiful lavender fields that spread across the landscape and the seasonal scenery. Here, agriculture is the main industry, with lavender cultivation in summer being a defining feature of the town. However, that’s not all. In Kamifurano, a lifestyle coexisting with nature is practiced, allowing people to enjoy the changing scenery throughout the seasons. Additionally, the Hokkaido dialect is spoken, and unique local cuisine can be savored. Throughout the year, many attractive events such as the Lavender Festival and the Winter Snow Festival are held, bringing vibrancy to the town each time. The charm of Kamifurano goes beyond this, continuously offering new discoveries and emotions to its visitors. Moreover, buildings and museums that evoke the town’s history are scattered throughout, conveying the history of pioneering to those who visit. Furthermore, there are many restaurants and cafes where one can enjoy dishes made with fresh local vegetables and dairy products, delighting the taste buds of visitors.
Culture and Customs
Kamifurano Town in Hokkaido is an attractive region where the coexistence with nature and the history of pioneering are alive. The town’s development dates back to the pioneering era, and its remnants still remain vividly. Additionally, due to the beauty of its landscape, many cultural figures visit and convey its charm. The main industry of the town is agriculture, particularly lavender cultivation, which is distinctive. The beautiful lavender fields have become a symbol of the town, alongside the seasonal scenery. During the season when the lavender blooms in full glory, the Lavender Festival is held, bustling with many tourists. Life in Kamifurano is deeply connected to nature, allowing residents to enjoy the changing seasons while reaping the blessings of nature. The Hokkaido dialect is used, and local specialties can also be enjoyed. Winter brings harsh cold, but the snow-covered landscape that colors the town is breathtaking, and the winter snow festival is also popular. Kamifurano, where nature, history, and culture intertwine, has an unforgettable charm for those who visit. The local people value living in harmony with nature, and their lifestyle offers new perspectives to visitors. Additionally, it is possible to enjoy the seasonal sights while going about daily life.
Local Specialties
- Lavender: The symbolic flower of Kamifurano Town, the lavender fields that spread throughout the town have become a tourist attraction. Products made from its fragrance and flowers are popular local specialties.
- Melon: The melons from Kamifurano Town, known for their perfect sweetness and juiciness, are especially popular among tourists during the summer.
- Wine: Wine made from locally grown grapes can be enjoyed not only as a drink but also used in cooking, allowing one to savor local flavors.
- Dairy Products: The area around Kamifurano Town is dotted with farms, and the cheese and butter made from fresh milk are exceptional in taste.
- Tomatoes: The tomatoes grown in Kamifurano Town are characterized by their vibrant color and sweetness, making them delicious to eat raw and commonly used in cooking.
Annual Events
- Furano Wine Festival: Held every summer, visitors can taste locally produced wines and enjoy local ingredients paired with the wine.
- Lavender Festival: Taking place in July, this event coincides with the time when the lavender fields are dyed purple, featuring local specialty markets and concerts.
- Furano Winter Festival: Held in winter, this festival offers winter-specific events such as snow sculptures, ice slides, and fireworks.
- Furano Marathon: Held every August, this marathon, which runs through the great outdoors, attracts many runners from both Japan and abroad.
- Furano Potato Festival: Held in autumn, this event allows participants to experience potato harvesting and taste potato dishes.
Access Methods
- Airplane: Use Hokkaido’s New Chitose Airport. From New Chitose Airport to Kamifurano, you can travel by rental car, train, or bus.
- Train: Use the Kamifurano Station on the JR Furano Line. From major cities, access is available by transferring from JR at New Chitose Airport or Sapporo Station.
- Bus: Direct buses are also available from New Chitose Airport. The travel time is about 4 hours, and prior reservation is required.
- Rental Car: Renting a car from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo City is also recommended. With a car, you can enjoy Kamifurano at your own pace.
- Private Car: If using a car, keep in mind that long-distance travel is necessary in Hokkaido, so plan your drive and manage your health carefully.
Tourist Attractions
- Furano Wine Factory – A popular tourist destination where you can taste delicious wines.
- Lavender East – A tourist spot known for its beautiful lavender fields.
- Tomamu Resort – A resort area where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding.
- Furano Cheese Factory – You can observe the process of handmade cheese production.
- Furano Scenery – Famous as a filming location for the drama “From the Northern Country.”
