Furano Resort Guide

The Skiing

Furano's ski area is divided up into two zones, both covered on the same lift pass - the Kitanomine Zone and the Furano Zone - and you can ski between the two. Both areas have plenty of beginner and intermediate terrain and the ski school caters for English speakers. For intermediates, there are some lovely long cruisers with stunning views of the Furano valley. The groomed runs are kept in excellent condition and, with 40% of the mountain rated as intermediate, it is a real dream. Advanced skiers or snowboarders need to head to the top half of the mountain where there is a range of groomed and un-groomed steeps to keep you entertained.

When there is a huge snowfall, there are usually a number of slopes left un-groomed, which provides a great opportunity to get your powder fix. there are four points in the resort from where you can access off-piste outside of the resort boundaries, but you need to register with ski patrol before going. For more adventurous skiers, there are a number of guiding options to take you to nearby mountains Ashidake, Tomamu and Kamui.

Night skiing is available in both areas, and the views of the night lights of the town are spectacular.

Off the Slopes

Once you are done skiing there is a huge amount to do in Furano. Family Snowland is a winter activity park offering snowmobiling, snowshoeing, sledding and a host of other snow based fun. If all that action is getting a bit much for you then many of the hotels have relaxing onsen or hot springs and there are also a number of trips to nearby sites. Furano City is well worth a visit and there are often traditional cultural events taking place. There is a big range of places to eat and drink in both the ski area and Furano City, including a number of snow dome ice bars which are perfect for an après ski cocktail.