Discover Furano ski resort, a hidden gem amidst Japan’s renowned ski destinations. With quiet slopes and an authentic Japanese atmosphere, Furano offers a refreshing escape from the crowds. Nestled on the west of Furano Town right in the centre of Hokkaido (earning it the comical nickname ‘the belly-button city’), the resort boasts stunning views of the Tokachi and Yubari Mountains. Furano’s central location means milder weather than more westerly resorts, while its Hokkaido location ensures pristine snow conditions, resulting in a prevalence of those highly sought after bluebird powder days.
Furano has been a beloved skiing destination since 1931, and has proudly hosted renowned events. Notably, Furano holds a coveted spot on the FIS Downhill World Cup circuit, cementing its reputation as a premier skiing destination. From majestic snow-capped mountains to vibrant flower fields in the warmer months, it is a year-round destination. With two ski zones, Furano and Kitanomine, and a family-friendly atmosphere (kids 12 and under ski for free!), it is the perfect resort for skiers and snowboarders in search of great conditions and cruisy runs. Recent developments in terms of backcountry access and newly built premium accommodation options are creating a lot of buzz around Furano as the most up and coming ski area in Japan.

Furano ski resort
Lifts & Terrain
With two distinct zones, Kitanomine and Furano, visitors can explore 25 km of pristine slopes. The ski season typically kicks off from November in the Furano Zone and December in the Kitanomine Zone. And the fun doesn’t need to stop at sundown as Furano also offers excellent night skiing. There are nine ski lifts in operation across the two zones, including 5 pair lifts, 2 quad lifts, 1 gondola and 1 ropeway. The ropeway, located in the Furano Zone, offers a particularly exciting ride to the top of the mountain. Travelling at a speedy ten metres per second, it is the fastest ski-lift transport in Japan! From its base altitude of 235 metres to 1074 metres, Furano offers more vertical than most Hokkaido resorts, and its longest course spans an impressive 4 kilometres.
Whether you’re beginner, intermediate, or expert level, Furano has the terrain to suit. The majority of slopes (80%) are tailored to beginners and intermediates, making Furano a classic destination for families. From wide, well-groomed beginner runs at the base of the ski zones, to extended slopes with thrilling descents for intermediate skiers craving a bit more speed, everyone will find their stride.

“Whether you’re beginner, intermediate, or expert level, Furano has the terrain to suit.”
Advanced skiers seeking an adrenaline rush will not be disappointed, Furano is one of the few Japanese ski resorts to offer double black diamond runs. But the ultimate reason to visit Furano for expert skiers is the addition of side-country and back-country skiing, which was prohibited in Furano until recent years. The resort now operates a gate system which facilitates some of the best lift-accessed off-piste powder in Japan, enabling Furano to finally realise its potential as a resort for all levels of ability.
Whilst Furano itself presents enough excitement for a lengthy stay, it also serves as a fantastic base to venture out and explore some of Hokkaido’s most remote and exhilarating backcountry terrain. Daisetsuzan National Park lies at Furano’s doorstep, making Furano a common base for tourers heading to the volcanic mountain terrain of Kurodake and Asahidake. Day trips to these renowned backcountry ski areas can be booked in advance (see below).
Snowfall
Furano receives approximately 8 metres of high quality snow a year, a modest amount by Hokkaido standards owing to Furano’s sheltered and central location. This comes with the silver lining that while western resorts that accumulate more snow can experience frequent lift closures brought about by adverse weather, Furano experiences far less with lower runs remaining particularly sheltered. In addition, the 8 metres of snow that falls in Furano offers some of the best 8 metres of powder snow you could ask for. With Furano located further from the coast and experiencing cold temperatures, the central Hokkaido powder here is incredibly light and dry. Coupled with blue skies, modest snowfall can be seen as a worthwhile trade-off, if not a benefit.
Accommodation
No matter which Furano ski area you choose, the array of accommodation options will leave you spoilt for choice. With a variety of hotels, apartments, cosy lodges and chalets on offer, you will discover a ski retreat to cater to your preferences. Whether you seek self-contained chalets, ski-in ski-out accommodation, or the camaraderie of backpacking hostels, Furano provides a diverse range of choices.
Hotels
Two classic hotels which have long dominated the Furano hotel scene are the Furano Prince Hotel, located at the base of the Kitanomine Zone, and the New Furano Prince Hotel located at the base of the Furano Zone. Prices at these hotels start at 24,250 yen per night and 38,400 yen per night respectively. With their convenient positioning and ski-in ski-out access, they present a great option for those looking to maximise time on the slopes whilst enjoying spacious accommodation and a plethora of onsite amenities. The New Furano Prince Hotel is a fantastic family-focused hotel where children can be sure of a magical stay. As well as offering its own unique family activities, such as fun treasure hunts, it is set just a two minute walk from the Waku Waku Family Snow Land with its array of exciting activities.

New Furano Prince Hotel
Two captivating additions to the Furano accommodation scene are the remarkable and newly launched condominium hotels of Fenix Furano and Fenix West, situated conveniently nearby the Kitanomine Gondola. Fenix Furano offers ski-in ski-out convenience while Fenix West is located just over the road. Both complexes offer luxury and convenience which is unparalleled in Furano, and have already become trailblazers in the realm of premium Furano accommodation. Delighting guests with a range of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom luxury apartments, complete with all the amenities you would expect from a top-notch ski hotel, these exquisite sister hotels offer contemporary and spacious designs, accompanied by breathtaking interiors. Expect to pay prices starting from 38,400 yen per night for Fenix Furano and 33,600 yen per night at Fenix West. Occupying prime locations with sweeping panoramic views, Fenix Furano and Fenix West are already attracting a new wave of discerning travellers to the region.
Chalets
Momiji Chalets are a small development of 2 and 3 bedroom chalets, situated in the heart of the Kitanomine area. Offering a convenient location just a short stroll from the lifts, as well as spacious open-plan living, ensuite bathrooms and modern interiors, these chalets are ideal for families or small groups looking for self-contained accommodation with a ‘home from home’ vibe. Prices start from 49,000 yen per night.
Many stand-alone lodges and chalets, of varying sizes, can be found across Furano – the 4 bedroom Furano Lodge Ten, the 5 bedroom Furano Lookout and the 3 bedroom Asanoha to name just a few.
Apartments
Art House Furano is a contemporary apartment block offering 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. Whilst located in a quiet area on the edge of town, many highly-rated restaurants and shops are in easy reach and the ski area only 600 metres away. Perfect for families, friends and couples, these apartments start from 29,000 yen per night.

Arthouse Furano. Image: h2life.com
Backpackers
Hostel Tomar located in the heart of Furano Town, is a highly-rated option for backpackers in search of budget accommodation.
Search Furano accommodation
Services and Facilities
Ski schools
Furano boasts two prominent ski schools that cater to the diverse needs of skiers and snowboarders. The first is the renowned ‘Furano Snow School,’ where individuals can choose between group lessons and private sessions. The second option is the exclusive ‘Furano International Snowsports School,’ which specialises in private lessons. Both schools operate in both ski zones and provide instruction in skiing and snowboarding. English-speaking instructors are available but it is advisable to pre-book. These comprehensive ski programs cater to all skill levels, from beginners to the more advanced. Parents seeking quality time on the slopes can take advantage of the convenient English-speaking childcare services provided at the Furano International Snowsports School’s dedicated child-care centre, conveniently located within the Kitanomine Gondola Building.
Ski shops and rentals
There are plenty of ski shops and rentals to be found in Furano, offering varying qualities of ski gear. Whilst it is easy to find many brands of basic snow gear at shops around the base of the main ski areas, it may be harder to find equipment suitable for more advanced or discerning skiers. The best bet is to head to the new and exciting Fenix West Hotel in the Kitanomine Zone. Here you will find Rhythm Furano, which stocks many premium brands of ski gear in addition to standard products. With an array of outerwear, skis, snowboards, boots, accessories and equipment available, including avalanche safety gear, it is a useful one stop shop to kit out the family.
Backcountry guiding and tours
For the ultimate ski/snowboarding experience, Furano has experienced ski guides ready to take you off piste. You can find the best untouched powder and go backcountry touring with the help of the guides’ expert knowledge. Tour guides can tailor your adventure perfectly to suit the abilities and desires of your group, on mountain, through Furano’s newly accessible backcountry gates, and in neighbouring ski areas in Daisetsuzan National Park.
Shops and ATMs
There are a few supermarkets to be found across Furano, stocked with well priced groceries. One of the largest is the ‘Forest Store’ which can be found towards the centre of Furano as you head into town from the Kitanomine Area. If you don’t wish to venture into the main town, there is a handy 7 Eleven in the Kitanomine Zone where you can pick up some basic groceries and snacks, whilst in the Furano Zone, the onsite shop located in the New Furano Prince Hotel is probably your best bet. ATMs can be found at a few different locations including the 7-Eleven and New Furano Prince Hotel as well as the post office and Furano Marche in Town.
Activities
Furano offers a multitude of fun attractions that cater to visitors of all ages and interests. In the Kitanomine Zone, adventure awaits at the ‘Snow Park’, where you can enjoy snow activities to test your skills. At the ‘Waku Waku Family Snow Land’, located at the base of the Kitanomine Zone, families can create memories with an array of exciting experiences on offer. From snow rafting and sledding to snowmobiling and banana boating, there’s no shortage of adventure. Younger visitors will delight in the nearby children’s playground, conveniently located near the Kitanomine gondola. In Furano, the impressive range of activities goes on to include cat skiing, ice hole fishing, and even snow scooting. ‘Asahiyama Zoo’, featuring some very cute snow animals, is also well worth a visit, especially if you have children or animal lovers in your group. From Furano, you can easily reach Asahiyama Zoo by shuttle bus and it makes for a delightful family day out.

“From Furano, you can easily reach Asahiyama Zoo by shuttle bus and it makes for a delightful family day out”
Food & Nightlife
In the vibrant downtown Furano you will find an array of restaurants, shops and cafes as well as a few lively bars. This bustling district and its many amenities can be reached in just ten minutes by bus shuttle from the main Furano ski areas. Restaurants can be found dotted around the streets and alleyways of Furano Town, inviting you to explore and discover your own hidden gems, but see below for a few recommendations to get you started.
Restaurants
One of the top-rated restaurants in Furano is the Masaya Teppanyaki restaurant located in the Hinodemachi area of Furano Town. Offering a varied menu and a welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant appeals to English speaking tourists for its incredible service, English speaking staff, and delicious food, including flaming grilled pork steak and fried noodles!
There are multiple Izakaya restaurants to be found scattered across Furano, where you can indulge in traditional Japanese Izakaya dining for a sociable and relaxed experience, sampling small Japanese tapas-style dishes alongside drinks. Located down an alleyway in downtown Furano, Robata is a small, welcoming, family-run Izakaya restaurant, offering a lively atmosphere and delicious home cooked Japanese food. It is advisable to book ahead due to its popularity, but don’t expect to find English menus at this authentic Japanese gem!

Kaiten Sushi Topikaru. Image: topical-sushi.jp/
If you’re a fan of sushi, Kaiten Sushi Topikaru is a great sushi restaurant in Wakamatsucho, Furano Town. Catering well to English speaking tourists, it delivers a tempting range of fresh sushi at affordable prices.
Located just outside the main town of Furano, amidst breathtaking views of the valley and mountains, is the ‘Furano Wine House’. Serving international and European style food, such as steaks and pastas, alongside some delicious wines, it is great for families seeking an alternative to traditional Japanese cuisine. Its renowned cheese fondue is a particular highlight!
If staying in the Kitanomine area, Cafe Bakusyu will be sure to tempt you in, with tantalising smells of freshly cooked pizza wafting out of the front door. You can choose to take-out or eat-in and with a wide range of western food on offer such as burgers and ribs, in addition to wood-fired pizzas, you will be spoilt for choice.
On the Slopes …
Handily, there are some dining options available at the slopes of the Furano ski area. One restaurant can be found at the top of the ropeway in the Furano Zone, and two at the base of the ropeway – one Japanese and one Chinese. The New Furano Prince Hotel, at the base of the Furano Zone, houses a few different dinner options including a sushi restaurant. Alongside the New Furano Prince Hotel, you will also find the Prince Bakery Pan Kobo, offering many delectable lunch-time treats or the hotel itself offers a more substantial buffet-style lunch. Its sister hotel, the Furano Prince Hotel, located in the Kitanomine Zone, also offers a tasty lunch with convenient ski-in access.
Bars & pubs
While Furano does have a few bars and pubs, the night-life on offer is generally low key. If you thrive on an energetic nightlife scene, Furano may not be for you as the vibe here is generally laid back.
In Kitanomine a great apres-ski sports bar is Ajito. With a pool table, darts, large screen TVs, and a lively atmosphere, it is a great option for some light-hearted fun. Enjoy a cold beer and tuck into some traditional pub food at affordable prices.
To sample a range of home-brewed and local craft beers head to the Furano Brewery at Yama no Doxon, also located in Kitanomine.

Bar Kemuri. Image: kemuri-baru.com
For karaoke fans, the Dream House Kingyo in central Furano is the place to go. With a fun, lively atmosphere it sets the scene to let your hair down and sing your heart out! With a dance area and ‘all you can drink’ offers, it can make for a fun night.
If you’re looking for something with more of an up-market vibe Bar Kemuri in Furano Town is a great little bar to sample a delicious cocktail or an exclusive range of whiskies, brandies and wines.
Additionally, positioned on the top floor of the New Furano Prince Hotel, with mesmerising views across the forest, is the Top of Furano lounge bar, serving a wide range of beverages from delectable wines to hand-crafted cocktails.
Culture and Ambiance
A favourite with families, due to its free ski passes for kids and prevalence of beginner and intermediate slopes, Furano does not fall short when it comes to cultural offerings. In fact culture is one of the reasons Furano sits as some peoples’ favoured Japanese ski resort. Furano is an authentic town which has been less affected by tourism than some of the alternative Japanese resorts. Although it caters well to English speaking guests, it has by no means lost touch with its Japanese culture. An array of Japanese restaurants can be found in Furano town offering up a diverse and authentic Japanese culinary experience. Fairly priced authentic food attracts many locals into the town as well as those on holiday.
Traditional Japanese onsens can be found in the locality for those looking to experience the ultimate in Japanese-style relaxation. The New Furano Prince Hotel allows non-residents to make use of its onsite therapeutic, hot-spring onsen after an action packed day on the slopes. Tours to other nearby onsens are also available. Approximately 1 hour away, in the south of Daisetsuzan National Park, you can find the renowned Ryounkaku onsen, situated half-way up the mountain with stunning views of the Tokachidake Volcano. A striking feature of Ryounkaku onsen is the reddish brown colour of the water. The spring water is in fact clear, it is only when it comes into contact with the air that a reaction occurs forming the intriguing colour!

“A striking feature of Ryounkaku onsen is the reddish brown colour of the water.” Image: www.ryounkaku.jp
In the summer, a trip to the Ryounkaku onsen can be combined with a visit to some of the famous Furano lavender fields located at Farm Tomita nearby. Throughout the summer months, Furano is bursting with vivid colour. As well as lavender, fields of flowers such as pansies, poppies, sunflowers, dahlias, blue salvia and German irises, pop up around Furano, transforming the landscape into a visual feast! Farm Tomita also opens in winter offering a wonderful day trip for skiers and snowboarders.
With excursions ranging from wine tasting to visiting the local cheese factory or jam garden, there is much to be explored. Furano Winery can be found 2 kilometres from downtown Furano (close to the Furano Wine House). Built in the mountains, the Furano Winery is an old red brick building housing wineries, wine cellars and shops. As well as observing the wine-making in action, you are free to sample a variety of the delicious wines, made on-site from local grapes. You can also visit the grape juice factory down the road for a more family-friendly option! Experience all things cheese at the Furano Cheese Factory, from cheese production to a cheese exhibition, to sampling the cheeses, cheese lovers will surely be in heaven. Furano in fact specialises in cheese products made from fresh local milk. The red wine cheese made at the factory is certainly a novelty! The Furano Jam Garden can be found a little further out of town on Kyohsai Farm. As well as sampling the jams, there are fun opportunities to make your own jam if you so wish. With its 30 or more unique varieties of Japanese jam on offer, made with fresh fruit from the farm, be sure to pick up a jar as a souvenir. An Anpanman shop and art gallery is also found at the Jam Garden – Anpanman is a Japanese super hero from a famous range of children’s books.

“With its 30 or more unique varieties of Japanese jam on offer, made with fresh fruit from the farm, be sure to pick up a jar as a souvenir.” Image: furanojam.com
Located nearby the New Furano Prince Hotel, amidst serene forest, is Ningle Terrace. Comprising boutique gift shops in cute log cabins, it presents a lovely opportunity to buy locally hand-crafted souvenirs of your Furano stay. It is particularly charming to visit when lit up in the evening after the sun has gone down.
Getting to Furano
You can access Furano by train by travelling to Furano train station on the Nemuro Honsen Line. From there you can get a taxi to take you to the Kitanomine Zone, approximately 3km away, or the Furano Zone, approximately 6 km away. Alternatively, car rental hire is available near the station.
International visitors will fly to Shin Chitose Airport, which is approximately 125km away. Shuttles run to Furano, and stop at the main resort hotels. For the most stress free arrival, you can also book a private transfer from the airport with meet and greet. Guests booking via specialised travel companies such as Japan Ski Experience will have coach or private transfers arranged for them in advance at no extra cost. If you wish to hire a car and drive to Furano ski area yourself, car rentals are available at both airports.
If travelling by car, following Route 38 will bring you to within 0.9km of Furano. Many car rentals come with English GPS which will help you find your way to your particular hotel or accommodation. For those staying in Furano town, having a rental car on hand can be a convenient way of accessing the slopes and parking can be found located at the base areas in Furano.
For those without a rental car, when it comes to exploring the area taxis are readily available in Furano and accept credit card payment. Bus shuttles conveniently run in the evenings to take you from the ski resorts into Furano Town if you’re looking to venture out for dinner.
Runs (total): 28
Runs (km): 32
Lifts: 9 (1 Ropeway, 1 Gondola, 2 Quads, 5 Pair Lifts)
Top elevation: 1074 m
Base elevation 235 m
Vertical: 839 m
Nearest international airport: Asahikawa (AKJ) Airport (37km) / New Chitose (84 km)
Transport: Train, private transfer, hire car
Trail Map
Furano Map
The Breakdown | A complete guide to Furano – bluebird powder, pristine pistes & free skiing for kids!
Bluebird powder, pristine pistes & free skiing for kids!
While western Hokkaido resorts such as Niseko and Rusutsu are renowned for immense snowfall attracting powderhounds from all over the world, Furano offers a distinctly different atmosphere. With less extreme quantities of snow, you can expect milder conditions, more blue sky days, shorter lift lines and quieter slopes, without compromising on snow quality. These attributes have long made Furano an excellent choice for families, cemented by the offer of free skiing for children under 13 years of age.
While Furano used to be a strictly on-piste resort with a high prevalence of beginner and intermediate runs, it lacked appeal for advanced skiers and snowboarders. The opening of back-country terrain via a gate system has created a thrilling opportunity for riders to access high quality, relatively untracked powder with little effort. Coupled with luxurious new accommodation options which have elevated standards for international guests, you can expect to see and hear more about Furano.