Colors of the hills, tranquility of the forests. A journey of relaxation through Furano & Biei, experienced with all five senses.
Contents
01
Overview
The Furano & Biei Area, located near the center of Hokkaido, is one of the region's most popular destinations, known for the pastoral, “quintessentially Hokkaido” landscapes that many travelers dream of. Furano is especially famous for its lavender fields in full bloom during summer, with vast flower farms such as Farm Tomita forming carpets of purple that fill the air with a refreshing fragrance. From abundant agricultural produce in autumn to world-class powder snow beloved by skiers and snowboarders in winter, the area has something to offer throughout all four seasons.
Biei is known as the “town of hills,” where gently rolling terrain creates geometric patterns across locations like the Patchwork Road and Panorama Road. Locations like the iconic Seven Stars Tree, as well as Shirogane Blue Pond with its bare trees and cobalt-blue waters, have made the area a globally popular, highly photogenic destination.
Vast natural landscapes, exceptional local cuisine, and crisp, clear air. The North Hokkaido Area offers a setting filled with relaxation and inspiration that helps you leave everyday life behind. We'd like to introduce a three-day model itinerary featuring sightseeing spots recommended by locals. With travel mainly by public transportation, this route is easy to navigate and well suited for international visitors.
02
[Day 1] Arrive at Asahikawa Airport / Stay in Furano City
1: Asahikawa Airport
Located near the center of Hokkaido, Asahikawa Airport serves as the main gateway to North Hokkaido, offering convenient access to popular destinations such as Asahiyama Zoo, Biei, and Furano. Inside the terminal, visitors will find a food court featuring local specialties such as Asahikawa ramen, as well as a wide selection of souvenir shops. Step outside the arrivals lobby and the crisp air reveals the majestic Daisetsuzan Mountain Range ahead. From here, board the Lavender bus and head toward Furano. Along the way, gently rolling hills and the Tokachi Mountain Range unfold outside the window. In contrast to the dense urban skyline, the wide, open sky creates a sense of release and calm. Choosing a seat on the left side allows for closer views of the scenic hills.
Head to your first destination, Furano. Purchasing a web-based ticket in advance is recommended, as it eliminates the need to pay in cash on site. This allows you to travel smoothly without using ticket machines or handling cash on the day. If you plan to pay in cash, be sure to prepare it in advance.
Online Bus Ticket | Asahikawa Airport → Furano Station (One Way)
2: Furano Area Overview
Located in the heart of Hokkaido and often called the ""Belly Button of Hokkaido,"" the Furano Area is one of the region's most iconic destinations. Surrounded by picturesque countryside with the majestic Tokachidake Mountain Range as its backdrop, it offers some of Hokkaido's most beautiful landscapes.
Furano is best known for its lavender fields, which blanket the rolling hills in brilliant shades of purple from early summer through midsummer. The flower fields at Farm Tomita, in particular, are world-famous, creating breathtaking carpets of colorful blooms.
The area is also well known as the filming location for the beloved Japanese TV drama From the North Country. Famous sites such as Goro's Stone House continue to attract fans from across Japan and beyond.
The Furano area is also one of Hokkaido's finest culinary destinations. Thanks to the dramatic temperature differences between day and night, the region produces sweet melons, fresh vegetables, Furano wine, and local specialties such as Furano Omelet Curry, offering visitors a true taste of Hokkaido's rich harvest.
A visit to Furano is a chance to experience the beauty of Hokkaido through all five senses in every season.
After about one hour by bus from Asahikawa Airport, the scenery outside gradually changes from city streets to peaceful farmland, signaling your arrival in Furano, the starting point of your journey.
On your first day, unwind from your travels while immersing yourself in Furano's unique local cuisine and enchanted forest atmosphere. Inspired by the beloved TV drama From the North Country, it's the perfect beginning to a journey that delights all five senses.
Furano is best known for its lavender fields, which blanket the rolling hills in brilliant shades of purple from early summer through midsummer. The flower fields at Farm Tomita, in particular, are world-famous, creating breathtaking carpets of colorful blooms.
The area is also well known as the filming location for the beloved Japanese TV drama From the North Country. Famous sites such as Goro's Stone House continue to attract fans from across Japan and beyond.
The Furano area is also one of Hokkaido's finest culinary destinations. Thanks to the dramatic temperature differences between day and night, the region produces sweet melons, fresh vegetables, Furano wine, and local specialties such as Furano Omelet Curry, offering visitors a true taste of Hokkaido's rich harvest.
A visit to Furano is a chance to experience the beauty of Hokkaido through all five senses in every season.
After about one hour by bus from Asahikawa Airport, the scenery outside gradually changes from city streets to peaceful farmland, signaling your arrival in Furano, the starting point of your journey.
On your first day, unwind from your travels while immersing yourself in Furano's unique local cuisine and enchanted forest atmosphere. Inspired by the beloved TV drama From the North Country, it's the perfect beginning to a journey that delights all five senses.
3: Furano Station
About an hour by bus from Asahikawa Airport, the Lavender bus arrives at Furano Station, where a nostalgic atmosphere welcomes you. Furano Station is not large, but its cozy appearance and the sound of the wind passing through quietly hint that this is the setting of the drama Kita no Kuni Kara. The tourist information center in front of the station provides detailed maps of filming locations and up-to-date local food information, so be sure to pick up the latest tips here. For convenience, use the station’s coin lockers to store large luggage. Below, we introduce recommended lunch spots and attractions near Furano Station.
1. Yuiga-Doxon – A Wildly Flavorful Dish
About a 5-minute walk from the station, this popular log-cabin-style restaurant always has a line. The homemade roux, rich and spicy with 29 different spices, pairs perfectly with a fluffy omelette and additive-free sausage. A fun feature here is that when you need more roux, you can chant the phrase “Ruurururuu” at the counter to get a free refill. Don’t be shy—enjoying this little touch of the extraordinary is part of the travel experience.
2. Kumagera – Creative Japanese Cuisine Showcasing Furano Ingredients
About a 5-minute walk from the station, this calm, stone-walled restaurant is known for its relaxing atmosphere. During the filming of the drama Kita no Kuni Kara, cast and crew frequently visited. The omelette curry here features a soft omelette over buttered rice, topped with a mild roux that blends the natural sweetness of vegetables. If you want something beyond curry, the specialty Wagyu Roast Beef Bowl is highly recommended—the rich, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness of Furano wagyu is unforgettable.
4: Furano Marche
About a 7-minute walk from Furano Station. Once your appetite is satisfied, take a stroll to Furano Marche. This is more than just a souvenir shop—it’s a hub for Furano’s agriculture and food culture. The site is divided into four zones, each offering something exciting to explore.
1. Farmers Market Ogal
A local farmers' market where growers bring in freshly harvested produce every morning. You'll find seasonal vegetables such as impressively large asparagus and exceptionally sweet cherry tomatoes, offering a true taste of Furano's rich agricultural bounty.
2. cafe SABOR
The highlight here is desserts made with Furano melons. In summer, enjoy fresh-cut melon; in other seasons, try smoothies packed with melon juice.
3. Product Center Argent
Home to over 2,000 souvenir items. Furano wine, cheese, jams, lavender goods—you can find it all here, making it the perfect place to purchase gifts efficiently.
4. Furadish
A takeout area featuring Furano ingredients. Enjoy local burgers, rich soft serve, and other sweets. This popular zone is ideal for a quick snack or a driving break while tasting Furano flavors.
5: Ningle Terrace
Take the Lavender-go Bus from Furano Station and get off at Shin Furano Prince Hotel after about 18 minutes.
After enjoying the local food around Furano Station, head to the enchanting Ningle Terrace. Online bus tickets are available in advance, and purchasing your ticket before your trip will make your journey smoother and more convenient.
Online Bus Ticket | Furano Station → Shin Furano Prince Hotel (One Way)
Located within the grounds of Shin Furano Prince Hotel, Ningle Terrace is a charming craft village inspired by the tiny forest spirits of Ainu folklore. Wooden paths wind through the forest, leading to 15 cozy log cabin shops featuring handmade crafts.
The name "Ningle" comes from the Ainu legend of wise forest spirits standing only about 15 cm (6 inches) tall. Walking through the village feels like stepping into their hidden world.
Surrounded by the cool forest air and the scent of wood, visitors can browse handcrafted works created with care by local artisans. As evening falls and the lights come on, the forest transforms into a magical and romantic setting, offering a peaceful and unforgettable experience.
1. Forest Clock Café
Located along a small forest path deeper into Ningle Terrace, Forest Clock Café was the setting for the drama Yasashii Jikan. At the counter, guests are given a mill and coffee beans to grind themselves. The rhythmic sound of grinding beans, combined with the rich aroma that fills the air and the view of the surrounding forest, creates a peaceful, luxurious moment. Even without watching the drama, this tranquil experience allows you to fully forget the bustle of everyday life.
6: Hotel Accommodation
Choosing where to stay at the end of the day is an important part of the travel experience. Here are three options based on access and atmosphere.
1. Shin Furano Prince Hotel – A Fully Equipped Resort
Located right next to Ningle Terrace and Forest Clock Café, this hotel offers the perfect location to return to your room after enjoying an evening stroll. The natural hot spring, Shisai no Yu, draws smooth water from 1,010 meters underground. The open-air bath under the starry sky is exceptional.
2. Hotel Naturwald Furano – Warm Hospitality
Get off at the Naturwald bus stop. This cozy hotel, designed with the concept of a “second home,” offers selectable amenities and colored yukata for women. The breakfast buffet, featuring abundant local ingredients, is popular for experiencing Hokkaido flavors from the morning.
3. Resort Inn North Country – A Night of Wine and Cheese
Located a 32-minute walk from the Shin-Furano Prince Hotel bus stop and 20 minutes from the Hotel Naturwald bus stop, this unique hotel operates its own winery. Dinner features original wines paired with cheese fondue. The log-cabin-style rooms allow you to sleep surrounded by the warmth of wood, a signature of Furano.
After a day filled with forest scents and satisfying meals, the night sky outside your hotel window—far from city lights—will surely be filled with stars. On Day 2, travel from Furano to Biei. Expansive flower fields and the mysterious Blue Pond await. Don’t forget to charge your camera and wear comfortable walking shoes.
03
[Day 2] A Palette of Colors: Touring Flower Fields and Blue Scenic Spots
1: Touring Scenic Hills and Passes
Take the Lavender-go Bus from Furano Station to Nakafurano Station, a journey of about 15 minutes, and begin exploring the vibrant colors that define the Furano and Biei region.
In the morning, admire sweeping fields of colorful flowers that paint the landscape. In the afternoon, discover the world-famous mysterious shades of blue that have captivated visitors from around the globe. It's a perfect day to experience two of the area's most iconic landscapes.
Then hop back on the Lavender-go Bus to visit more breathtaking viewpoints among the rolling hills.
Online bus tickets for travel from Furano Station to Nakafurano are available in advance. Purchasing your ticket beforehand will make your journey smoother and more convenient.
Online Bus Ticket | Furano Station → Nakafurano (One Way)
1. Farm Tomita
Get off at the Nakafurano bus stop and walk about 25 minutes from Nakafurano Station (or 5 minutes by taxi). At its peak in July, the hillside is covered with a purple carpet of lavender. Once at risk due to the spread of synthetic fragrances, a single calendar photo helped save these fields. Farm owner Tadao Tomita preserved the flowers simply “because they were beautiful,” and today the lavender fields are iconic in Furano. Don’t miss the multi-colored fields, where seven types of flowers paint the slopes, or the panoramic view of the Furano Basin from the hilltop while enjoying a lavender soft-serve.
2. Nakafurano Hokuseiyama Lavender Garden
Get off at the Nakafurano bus stop. The garden is about a 25-minute walk from Nakafurano Station, or about 5 minutes by taxi.
Built on the slopes of a ski resort, Hokuseiyama Lavender Garden features a scenic chairlift that takes visitors to the summit. From the top, enjoy breathtaking views of colorful flower fields at your feet, contrasted with the magnificent Tokachidake Mountain Range rising in the distance.
3. Flower Land Kamifurano
Get off at the Kamifurano bus stop and walk about 30 minutes from Kamifurano Station (or 10 minutes by taxi). A tractor bus circles the garden, making it easy to enjoy the expansive scenery. You can also join experiences like making potpourri to create lasting memories of your trip.
4. Miyama Pass
Get off at the Miyama Pass bus stop. From the Ferris wheel, you can view the Patchwork Road of Biei & Furano in its entirety. Indoor attractions include Miyama Pass Art Park and a Trick Art Museum. Lavender is also planted on the slopes, creating a stunning contrast with the mountains in July. Local vegetable-based lunches and popular gelato shops make dining while enjoying the view highly recommended.
2: Lunch — Nakafurano or Biei Station
The Nakafurano & Biei area offers a wide range of dining options. From the local specialty shrimp rice bowls and carefully crafted curries to Western-style dishes made with plenty of local vegetables, as well as ramen and soba popular with residents, there is something to suit every taste. Here, we introduce a selection of distinctive lunch spots you can choose from based on your mood.
＜Nakafurano Area＞
1. Ebisuya
About an 8-minute walk from Nakafurano Station, this local diner is popular with families and people stopping by after work, and serves authentic ramen in the Asahikawa style. The soup, made by slowly simmering fresh Kamifurano pork bones for a full day, is rich in flavor. In addition to the classic soy sauce ramen, the spicy miso ramen is also a popular choice.
2. Hokuseian
About a 5-minute walk from Nakafurano Station, this handmade soba restaurant is known for its popular soba-and-curry set meals. It is open only from 11:00 to 15:00 and is often closed on Fridays and Saturdays, so please plan accordingly.
3. Rokkasan-so
A 13-minute walk from the station, this reservation-only restaurant is produced by Rokkatei. The menu features a single omakase lunch course (around ¥3,000), showcasing dishes made with seasonal ingredients. The meal concludes with a signature Rokkatei dessert.
＜Biei Area＞
1. Junpei
A 10-minute walk from Biei Station, this restaurant is famous for Biei’s signature dish, ebi-don (shrimp rice bowl). It features oversized deep-fried shrimp that extend beyond the bowl, with a crisp coating and a rich homemade sauce.
2. Cafe Restaurant Okirakutei
A 3-minute walk from Biei Station, this restaurant serves European-style home cooking made with generous amounts of seasonal Biei vegetables. Its signature pot-au-feu, rich with natural vegetable sweetness, and piping-hot gratin are especially popular. Lunch is offered as a course with appetizers, making it a well-liked spot to enjoy quality ingredients at a relaxed pace.
3. Curry House Amadeus
A specialty shop serving mild spice curries that can be enjoyed by both children and adults. Popular gluten-free options include a light, simple chicken curry and the “Tokachidake,” a more indulgent signature dish.
3: Biei Area Introduction
Located near the center of Hokkaido, the Biei Area is one of Japan’s most scenic destinations and is known as the “Town of Hills.” Gently rolling farmland forms geometric patterns along the Patchwork Road, while Panorama Road offers sweeping views backed by the Tokachidake Mountain Range, creating pastoral landscapes reminiscent of the European countryside. Among the area’s highlights is the Shirogane Blue Pond, which exploded in popularity after being featured as an Apple wallpaper. Its vivid cobalt-blue surface and standing dead larch trees create a striking, otherworldly scene. Iconic trees such as Ken & Mary’s Tree and Seven Star Tree, once featured in television commercials, are scattered throughout the area and serve as popular photo spots. In summer, colorful flowers bloom across sites such as Shikisai no Oka, while in winter the area is transformed into a vast snowy landscape. With easy access from Asahikawa Airport, this is an ideal area to enjoy Hokkaido’s expansive nature and quiet atmosphere through driving or cycling.
4: Shirogane Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls
The Enchanting Stillness of Shirogane Blue Pond
Take the Dohoku Bus Shirogane Line for about 22 minutes to reach the Shirogane Blue Pond. Famous for its standing dead larch trees and brilliant cobalt-blue water, this man-made pond was accidentally created during erosion control works on Mt. Tokachidake.
Its distinctive blue color is caused by fine particles, including aluminum, suspended in the water that scatter sunlight. On calm, sunny days, the sky and surrounding trees are reflected on the mirror-like surface, creating a truly breathtaking view.
The Blue Pond gained worldwide recognition after being featured as an Apple desktop wallpaper. However, its beauty is even more impressive in person, as the water changes from milky blue to deep green depending on the season and weather.
Online Bus Ticket | Biei–Shirogane Area 1-Day Pass
Stunning Headwaters: Shirohige Falls
About a 30-minute walk from Blue Pond, located in the Shirogane Onsen area, is Shirohige Falls. This “subterranean waterfall," rare in Japan, features groundwater gushing forcefully through gaps in the cliff rocks, creating a “white beard” of sorts which gives the waterfall its name. The basin glows with a vivid cobalt blue, and the Biei River that flows from it is known as the “Blue River." Blue Pond and Shirohige Falls appear most vividly blue from mid-May to late June in early summer, with the best viewing around 1–2 p.m. when the sun is high. As this is an extremely popular spot, pre-purchasing web tickets—which eliminates the need for cash payment on the day—is recommended.
5: Biei
A 26-minute ride on the Dohoku Bus Shirogane Line brings you back to Biei Station. At the Shiki-no-Johokan in front of the station, you can rent a bicycle. Riding a short distance toward the entrance of the Patchwork Road behind the station, you can see familiar landscapes from commercials, such as the Ken and Mary Tree and the Seven Star Tree.
The greatest appeal of staying in Biei is having the quiet hills—once the tourists have left—almost entirely to yourself. The Patchwork Road dyed red at sunset, the star-filled night sky, and the mist-covered hills in the morning offer a unique experience available only to overnight guests.
The greatest appeal of staying in Biei is having the quiet hills—once the tourists have left—almost entirely to yourself. The Patchwork Road dyed red at sunset, the star-filled night sky, and the mist-covered hills in the morning offer a unique experience available only to overnight guests.
1. Accommodation with Panoramic Views
Pension Kunpu
Pension Kunpu
About a 5-minute taxi ride from Biei Station, near Panorama Road. All guest rooms offer views of the Daisetsuzan and Tokachi Mountain Ranges as well as the Biei Hills. The Western-style home-cooked meals, featuring seasonal local vegetables, are highly praised.
2. Auberge's Food-Focused Accommodation Style
Auberge de Provence
Auberge de Provence
Approximately a 3-minute taxi ride from Biei Station. This gourmet accommodation is inspired by the Provence region of southern France and emphasizes Biei-sourced ingredients, including bread made from local wheat and fresh vegetables from nearby farms. Repeat visitors come for the French-course dinners themed around “Food of the Hill Town.”
3. Accommodation with Unique Experiences and Scenic Views
Oka-no-Yado Jebani
Oka-no-Yado Jebani
About a 10-minute taxi ride from Biei Station. This quiet hilltop inn embraces the world of Kenji Miyazawa. The view from the windows resembles a painting. With no television and a peaceful environment, it is ideal for reading, stargazing, or simply enjoying the luxury of doing nothing.
04
[Day 3] Experience the Bounty of the Hills with All Your Senses, Before Returning Home
The mornings in Biei change by the second. When the morning mist blankets the hills and sunlight begins to shine through, even a short walk around your accomodation sharpens the senses, allowing you to feel the scent of the soil and hear the sound of the wind up close. This fresh, invigorating air itself becomes the finest souvenir of your trip.
1: Biei Senka
Return to Biei Station and visit Biei Senka, located just behind the station. Operated directly by the local agricultural cooperative, this is a select shop for Biei’s food products. You can enjoy Biei milk soft serve, croquettes made with seasonal vegetables, and puddings on site. A must-try item is the legendary corn bread. This popular product often has hours-long lines at New Chitose Airport, but the fragrant aroma greets you even at the main store (reservation and time confirmation required). Seasonal produce such as asparagus and potatoes are also available. Shipping is available, allowing you to send the vitality of Biei’s fertile soil directly to your home. Tasting Biei’s vegetables after returning will revive the memories and impressions of your trip.
2: Asahikawa Airport
Take the Furano Bus Lavender-go for 15 minutes and enjoy the hill scenery from the bus window as you head to Asahikawa Airport. Make the most of your remaining time and enjoy Hokkaido even within the airport before your flight.
1. Baikohken
Founded in 1969, this renowned restaurant helped popularize Asahikawa Ramen worldwide. Its secret “W Soup” combines animal-based stock from pork and chicken bones with seafood-based stock from kelp and dried sardines. Rich yet clean-tasting, it is a classic bowl you should try when in Asahikawa.
2. Ramen Santouka
Established in 1988, this Asahikawa ramen shop is known for its airport-exclusive premium ramen.
3. MILK STAND Esperio
Offering fresh organic milk directly from Okoppe Farm, soft-serve ice cream with rich milk flavor, fermented butter, cheeses, and freshly baked croissants and croissant sandwiches made with fermented butter daily. The additive-free soft-serve, which highlights the natural sweetness and richness of Okoppe milk, is especially popular.
4. Ice Kobo Tamura Farm
An ice cream specialty shop about a 10-minute walk from the airport, recommended for its extensive seasonal menu.
Online Bus Ticket | Biei Station → Asahikawa Airport
Online bus tickets are available in advance. We recommend purchasing your ticket before your trip for a smoother and more convenient journey.
Lavender-go Bus
The Lavender-go Bus connects major sightseeing hubs including Nakafurano, Biei, and Asahikawa Airport, making it a convenient way to explore the Furano and Biei region.
For a more comfortable journey, we recommend purchasing your online bus ticket in advance. Although seating is not reserved, having your ticket ready before you travel allows you to board more smoothly, even during the busy tourist season.
05
Summary
The colors of the hills and the quiet of the forests—time spent in the Furano & Biei Area awakens your senses beyond simply taking in the scenery. Be soothed by the scent of flowers, surprised by the flavors of the land, and reflect on yourself in the midst of tranquility. Using public transportation at a relaxed pace, without rushing, and following your own rhythm, you can simply enjoy the passage of time. Experience such a luxurious three days for yourself. The northern land is always waiting to welcome you in its deep embrace.
Writer Information
Keisuke Harada
Born in Enbetsu Town, Hokkaido. Worked in sales in Sapporo for five years. Later returned to Enbetsu Town as a regional revitalization collaborator and established the NPO Enoko. While involved in community development projects, he undertakes photography, writing, design, and illustration across Hokkaido.
Born in Enbetsu Town, Hokkaido. Worked in sales in Sapporo for five years. Later returned to Enbetsu Town as a regional revitalization collaborator and established the NPO Enoko. While involved in community development projects, he undertakes photography, writing, design, and illustration across Hokkaido.