The Ski Resort
Located in the center of the island Hokkaido, Furano is one of Japan's most famous ski resorts. Beginners and adcanced skier alike will find suitables runs according to their skill level. 24 runs are found in the area, the longest of them is four kilometers (2,5 miles) long. Especially powder fans will enjoy the slopes here. Due to its location in the center of the island, Furano benefits from Siberian wind systems. The winds coming from the ocean drop light and dry snow over the Northern island, making it a paradise for deep snow skiers.
The area is divided into the Furano Zone and the Kitanomine Zone. A beginner-level run and a common lift connect the two zones. Both are open until 8 pm and offer lighted runs for nightskiing.
Interesting facts
- It is among the 10 most family-friendly ski Resorts in Japan.
- The vertical drop from summit to base is 839 m. The average difference in altitude between base and summit of Ski Resorts in Japan is 882 m. The high point of the ski resort is located at an elevation of 1,074 m.
- Average snow depth during the season is 188 cm at summit elevation and 92 cm at base elevation. Snow coverage is usually best during February, offering an average snow depth of 248 cm at summit elevation and 136 cm at the base.
- Furano features 5 sunny days on average per season. The average for all ski Resorts in Japan is 6 sunny days. April is the sunniest month with an average of 3 sunny days. This makes the ski resort one of the 3 sunniest in Japan.
On Mountain Dining
During the winter season, a number of restaurants and cafes are open directly in the ski area. More restaurants are located at the foot of the Kitanomine gondola and the Furano ropeway.
Must-Ski Runs
Most Difficult Runs
Longest Runs
Nightskiing
Videos
Activities
After a day of skiing, head out to the Snow Dome Festival Site at the foot of the Kitanomine gondola. Get some snacks and drinks while enjoying the festival's atmosphere.
Restaurants, bars and cafes are waiting to be discovered in the city's center. Here, visitors can take part in Japanese tea ceremonies and try on traditional kimonos. During the winter season, English-speaking volunteers offer free guided tours around the ski area every morning. Regular bus tours to Tourist attractions such as hot mountain springs, Asahiyama Zoo and local art galleries are also available.
Getting here
By public transport
From Asahikawa Airport there public bus services available, the 'lavenders'. Additionally, the Hokkaido Resort Liner offers transfers as well, which must be reserved in advance. The Hokkaido Resort Liner also transports visitors from the New Chitose Airport to Furano.
The train connections Furano Line (from Asahikawa) and JR Nemuro Main Line (from New Chitose Airport, Sapporo and Takikawa) also stop at Furano Station.
By car
The national highway 237 connects Asahikawa and Furano, passing the Asahikawa Airport.
