Furano is famous for flower fields filled with lavender in the summer and ski resorts in the winter.
Furano is known for its flowers, television dramas, and
for its ski resort. The city is located in the middle of
Hokkaido and has been given the nickname of “The
Bellybutton of Hokkaido.” The name of the city comes
from the Ainu word “Furanui,” which translates to “stinky
flame.” This name can be referenced to the sulfuric
fumaroles near Tokachi Peak, which is close to Furano.
The first pioneers of the area came in 1897 from Mie
Prefecture and settled in the present day Ogiyama area
of the city. Shitafurano Village received town status in
1919 and was renamed Furano Town. Since the climate
in Furano is similar to Provence in southern France, they
also produce wine and cheese. The most popular flower
to see in the area, when in season, is the lavender. In the
summertime, there are fields full of the purple colored
flower. The sight of them can take your breath away.
During a decline of tourism in Furano, screenwriter
Kuramoto Soh wrote a story that was set in Furano. In
1982, the drama “Kita no Kuni Kara,” From the Northern
Country, aired with the support of the people of Furano.
The drama was the most popular show of the time and
Furano temporarily became a tourist spot for people to
visit the sets. Even though the tourist boom did not last
long, Kuramoto Soh preserved the buildings and gardens
used in Kita no Kuni Kara so that visitors who watched
the series can relive those moments. The sets are
located in Rokugo no Mori and are still there to this day.
In the nearby areas of Furano, there is the Miyamatoge
Art Park, where you can visit the Trick Art Museum, ride
the Ferris wheel, visit the BBQ terrace and ice cream
factory. The Trick Art Museum has artwork that gives the
illusion that it is 3D. It is a place for fun photo
opportunities. Also at the Miyama Pass people can go
see the flower fields.
Hokkaido | Furano
Lavender in Furano
Expansive Lavender fields in Furano are a popular sight for tourists visiting the city.
Hokkaido | Furano
Furano Cheese Factory
Uses fresh milk to make a variety of cheeses, dairy products, and bread for people to enjoy.
Hokkaido | Furano
Furano Winery
Operated directly by Furano’s government which handles the entire production process.
Hokkaido | Furano
Farm Tomita
Farm Tomita is one of the best places to see lavender as well as enjoy a variety of flower fields.