While most tourists would regard Hokkaido as winter country, Furano offers an irresistible summer allure. Its lavender fields come alive during the lavender season, and for a taste of juicy melons, there’s the Tomita Melon House, a seasonal delight. Not forgetting the famous Furano Cheese Factory Pizza, a year-round culinary gem. When crafting your Hokkaido itinerary, be sure to include Furano, which is conveniently situated at the heart of this captivating region.
Here are the five best things to do in Furano, Hokkaido.
1. Furano Cheese Factory Pizza
In the heart of Furano’s scenic beauty, you’ll stumble upon a cheese lover’s paradise.
The Furano Cheese Factory Pizza is much more than your average factory. Sure, you get to take your pick from a variety of cheeses, or indulge in their freshly-made wood-fired oven pizzas. But the real fun starts when you dive into their dairy workshops. For just ¥1,000 per lesson (that’s about $10), you get to become a dairy artisan. Three workshops are available throughout the day: butter, ice-cream, and cheese.
Location: Naka5ku, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0013, Japan
Opening hours: 9am-5pm
2. Farm Tomita
Hokkaido may be famous for its winter wonderland, but there’s a secret July rendezvous that’s equally enchanting — the blooming lavender fields of Furano.
At the heart of this floral spectacle lies the crown jewel, Farm Tomita.
Timing your visit for July ensures that you’ll be greeted by the mesmerising sight and fragrance of lavender in full bloom. But even if you find yourself here during other seasons (we visited in June, right before Lavender season), you can still envelop yourselves in at least seven other captivating flower fields.
For those with a penchant for hands-on activities, dive into a lavender soap-making session, where you can craft your own fragrant keepsake. And if you’re tempted by lavender-infused treats, don’t miss the lavender soft serve for a mere ¥300.
Location: 1５号 Kisenkita, Nakafurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 071-0704, Japan
Opening hours: 8am-6pm
3. Tomita Melon House
Right beside Farm Tomita, a sweet revelation awaits at Tomita Melon House.
Melon enthusiasts are in for a treat, with a menu that caters to every melon desire. Order a slice of melon and savour its juicy goodness directly. Or, if you’re feeling particularly indulgent, go all out and opt for a whole melon to relish at your leisure.
For a completely different experience, quench your thirst with refreshing melon drinks or cool down with melon ice cream. For those seeking heartier fare, you can also visit their bakery, offering Melon Pan, Melon Omelette, Melon Pudding, and more.
Location: 3-32 Miyamachi, Nakafurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 071-0714, Japan
Opening hours: Jun-Sep, 9am-5pm
4. The Glass Forest
Nestled in the charming Rokugo area of Furano Town lies a hidden gem that sparkles with creativity — The Glass Forest.
As you step into the main building, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a treasure trove of glassware ranging from delicate decorations to practical items. In fact, the entire space feels like an enchanting art gallery, where beauty and utility harmoniously coexist.
But the true magic of The Glass Forest lies in the opportunity for hands-on experiences. If you’re intrigued by the art of glassmaking, sign up for their workshops, where you can try your hand at free-blowing and sandblasting. These immersive sessions offer a glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into creating these mesmerizing glass pieces.
Location: 3 Rokugo Shigaichi, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0161
Opening hours: 9am-7pm
5. Smelt fishing
While Furano’s beauty knows no bounds throughout the year, there’s something particularly magical about embracing winter’s chill with a spot of smelt fishing.
Known as “hole fishing,” this smelt fishing adventure invites you to embrace the winter spirit wholeheartedly. You’ll get to drill and create your fishing hole. Then, you’ll huddle inside a cosy fishing tent.
All the equipment and transport will be provided if you book through Klook.
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