What to do in Furano, a summer haven on Japan’s Hokkaido island flying under the radar

The Japanese island of Hokkaido is best known to people outside Japan as a winter destination full of powdery ski slopes. But it is also the perfect getaway in the warmer months. One spot in particular, overflowing with idyllic backdrops and great food, has long flown under the radar of international travellers. The city of Furano, near the centre of the island, is known for its amazing local produce. Visitors can enjoy local restaurants or, if they are staying in a serviced apartment with a fully equipped kitchen, buy ingredients and cook their own meals. “Furano is where families rediscover what summer holidays should be all about: quality time,” says Patrick Ohtani, chief operating officer of Luxe Nomad Japan, “whether it be cycling through lavender fields, dining on farm-to-table fresh Hokkaido produce, or hiking outdoors and enjoying watersports, all in a much cooler climate than Tokyo.” Part of The Luxe Nomad, Asia-Pacific’s largest luxury holiday rental management company, Luxe Nomad Japan manages Fenix West, a serviced apartment property in Furano. Ohtani says the company has seen summer bookings increase by 20 per cent in the last year because travellers are choosing more grounded experiences over checking boxes at overcrowded tourist sites. “Summer in Hokkaido gives you access to the most amazing fresh seafood and local produce, so whether you’re enjoying nearby local restaurants or cooking together in your apartment, it becomes part of the experience,” he says. While public transport and Uber are available in Furano, planning short road trips in a rented car may be a more fun option, especially for those travelling with children. But be sure to check whether the place you are staying at has parking facilities and, if not, how much nearby ones cost. Tomita Farm and Melon House A trip to Furano is not complete without a visit to Tomita Farm, one of the region’s most iconic flower destinations. From late June through July, the farm’s rolling fields burst into waves of purple as lavender blooms beside vibrant orange and red poppies. This creates a breathtaking patchwork perfect for a family stroll and photo opportunity. Visitors can also treat themselves to a floral soft-serve lavender ice cream. The shop offers everything from lavender soaps to essential oils and purple souvenirs. If visiting during melon season – which typically spans July and August – be sure to stop by Melon House right next to the farm. Hokkaido’s cantaloupes are known for their juicy, almost honey‑sweet flesh and are sold by the slice or whole, in parfaits and fruit cups. Families can sit together at the outdoor tables and dig into bright orange melons while gazing at the flower fields. Buy a cantaloupe to go and enjoy it later with some local ham or cheese. Shirogane Blue Pond This famous tourist destination in Biei, a town near Furano, is a bit overrated in our opinion. While the vistas are certainly beautiful, there is nothing to do but stand and take obligatory photos. The pond is a man-made erosion-control structure built to protect the town from volcanic mudflows, so entering the water or boating on it is strictly prohibited to preserve the environment. There is blue ice cream available that matches the pond, but the flavour is nothing special. Since admission is free, we suggest this spot as a quick stopover on the way to somewhere else rather than a destination in its own right. Furano Cheese Factory At the Furano Cheese Factory, families can watch the fascinating process of turning fresh Hokkaido milk into award-winning cheeses. The on-site cafe serves incredible pizza, creamy fondue and the region’s richest soft-serve ice cream. There are various classes, and children will love the hands-on butter-making workshop, where they churn their own spread to take home. Visitors can taste samples of various cheeses at the shop, and can buy locally made cheeses such as Brie or raclette. With a grassy picnic area that affords views of the surrounding hills, the factory grounds offer a deliciously fun afternoon combining learning, tasting and playing. Furano Winery Perched on a hillside overlooking the city, the Furano Winery is a good option for families looking for stunning vineyard views and a relaxed atmosphere. Children can run freely on the spacious lawn while adults sample locally produced reds, whites and lavender wine at the free tasting counter. The grapes grown in Hokkaido’s cool climate make for wines with a crisp, light flavour. Visitors to the winery can also join a short cellar tour to learn about winemaking, with bottles – and excellent grape juice – available to buy. Tethered balloon ride by Leisure Guide Asobiya Leisure Guide Asobiya offers seasonal tethered hot air balloon rides in Furano. Balloons take roughly five minutes to ascend to a height that affords panoramic views of the Tokachi Mountain Range and the surrounding landscape. Rides start at 6am and are subject to cancellation due to wind conditions.

What to do in Furano, a summer haven on Japan’s Hokkaido island flying under the radar

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}From beautiful lavender fields to amazing local produce, there’s plenty to see and eat in Furano during the summer holiday months

From beautiful lavender fields to amazing local produce, there’s plenty to see and eat in Furano during the summer holiday months