Furano Ski Resort

Furano Ski Resort is a popular ski resort located in the town of Furano, Hokkaido, Japan. It is known for its excellent powder snow and wide-open ski runs. The skiable terrain of Furano Ski Resort is approximately 975 hectares (2,408 […]

Furano Ski Resort is a popular ski resort located in the town of Furano, Hokkaido, Japan. It is known for its excellent powder snow and wide-open ski runs.

The skiable terrain of Furano Ski Resort is approximately 975 hectares (2,408 acres), with a total of 23 runs, including 9 beginner runs, 7 intermediate runs, and 7 advanced runs. The resort has a vertical drop of 950 meters (3,117 feet) and the highest point is at an elevation of 1,209 meters (3,967 feet).

Furano Ski Resort offers a variety of skiing and snowboarding experiences, from beginner to advanced terrain. The resort also features a terrain park with jumps and rails for freestyle enthusiasts.

Here is the website URL for Furano Ski Resort: https://www.snowfurano.com/

What Type of Skiing and Snowboarding Experience is Furano Resort Renowned For?

Furano Ski Resort is renowned for its powder snow and wide-open ski runs, making it a great destination for intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders. The resort has a good mix of groomed trails, off-piste areas, and tree runs that cater to skiers and snowboarders of different levels of expertise.

The resort also has excellent lift infrastructure and well-maintained slopes, which provide a smooth and enjoyable skiing and snowboarding experience for visitors. Additionally, Furano Ski Resort has a variety of on-mountain services, including ski and snowboard rental shops, restaurants, and cafes, which make it a comfortable and convenient place to ski and snowboard.

What is the Snow Quality like at Furano Ski Resort?

The typical ski season at Furano Ski Resort runs from late November to early May. However, exact opening and closing dates may vary depending on snow conditions each year. The best time to ski or snowboard at Furano is usually from mid-December to early April when the snow conditions are at their peak.

The snow quality at Furano Ski Resort is generally excellent, with an average annual snowfall of around 9 meters (30 feet). The region is known for its light, dry powder snow, which is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Due to its location in Hokkaido, which is known for its cold and snowy winters, the snow at Furano is typically very dry and fluffy, making for great skiing and snowboarding conditions.

The resort also has a sophisticated snow-making system, which supplements natural snowfall in case of a dry spell, ensuring consistent snow coverage throughout the season.

What Types of Ski Runs Does Furano Ski Resort Have?

Here is a breakdown of the types of ski runs at Furano Ski Resort, including the percentage of runs that are classified as beginner, intermediate, and advanced:

• Beginner runs: 39% of total runs
• Intermediate runs: 30% of total runs
• Advanced runs: 31% of total runs

Furano Ski Resort has a total of 23 runs, which are divided into the following types:

• Groomed runs: These are runs that are regularly groomed by the resort’s snow grooming machines to maintain smooth and consistent snow surfaces. These runs are ideal for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders who prefer a predictable and comfortable skiing experience. Furano Ski Resort has 12 groomed runs, comprising 52% of the total runs.
• Off-piste runs: These are runs that are not regularly groomed and are left in their natural state. They are usually ungroomed, deep powder runs that are ideal for advanced skiers and snowboarders looking for a more challenging skiing experience. Furano Ski Resort has several off-piste runs that make up 22% of the total runs.
• Tree runs: These are runs that run through the trees, offering a unique and exciting skiing experience. Furano Ski Resort has several tree runs that are ideal for advanced skiers and snowboarders. These runs make up 26% of the total runs.

 

How Many Ski Lifts (and What Type) Does Furano Ski Resort Have?

Furano Ski Resort has a total of 10 ski lifts, which are designed to transport skiers and snowboarders around the resort quickly and efficiently. The lifts are spread across the resort’s two main mountains, Furano Zone and Kitanomine Zone, and include a mix of chairlifts, gondolas, and ropeways.

Here is a breakdown of the types of lifts at Furano Ski Resort:

• Chairlifts: The resort has six chairlifts, including four quad chairlifts, one triple chairlift, and one double chairlift. These lifts are designed to transport skiers and snowboarders up the mountain quickly and efficiently.
• Gondolas: The resort has two gondolas, including one that runs from the base to the top of the mountain and another that runs from the base to midway up the mountain. The gondolas provide a comfortable and scenic ride, with great views of the surrounding mountains and landscape.
• Ropeways: The resort has two ropeways, including one that connects Furano Zone and Kitanomine Zone and another that takes skiers and snowboarders to the summit of Furano Zone. The ropeways provide a quick and efficient way to move around the resort, while also offering great views of the surrounding scenery.

 

What Other Features are Available at Furano Ski Resort?

Furano Ski Resort has a range of features and amenities to ensure visitors have an enjoyable and comfortable skiing or snowboarding experience. Here are some of the main features and amenities available at the resort:

• Terrain park: Furano Ski Resort has a terrain park, which is located on the upper part of the Kitanomine Zone. The park includes a range of features and obstacles, such as rails, jumps, and boxes, which are designed to challenge and entertain riders of all skill levels.
• Cafés and restaurants: The resort has several cafés and restaurants located across both the Furano Zone and Kitanomine Zone. These establishments offer a range of food and drink options, including Japanese cuisine, international dishes, and snacks and beverages.
• Ski school: Furano Ski Resort has a ski school, which offers lessons and instruction for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and skill levels. The ski school has a team of experienced instructors who can provide group or private lessons, as well as specialized lessons for children and beginners.
• Ski rentals: The resort has several ski rental shops located across both the Furano Zone and Kitanomine Zone. These shops offer a range of rental equipment, including skis, snowboards, boots, helmets, and other accessories.
• Lockers: Furano Ski Resort has lockers available for rent, which are located at various points across both the Furano Zone and Kitanomine Zone. These lockers provide a secure and convenient place for visitors to store their equipment and belongings while they are skiing or snowboarding.
• Other amenities: The resort also has a range of other amenities, including souvenir shops, hot springs, and a medical center. The hot springs, or onsens, are a popular attraction in the area and provide a relaxing way to unwind after a day on the slopes.

 

Where Are The Best Places to Stay When Skiing at Furano Ski Resorts?

There are a variety of accommodation options located near Furano Ski Resort, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are ten recommended options, listed in no particular order, with some brief information and a link to their website:

1. Chalet Fuyuri – A luxury chalet located near the Kitanomine Zone, offering spacious rooms and high-end amenities. Website: https://www.chaletfuyuri.com/
2. Pension Hoshi Ni Negaiwo – A cozy bed and breakfast located in Furano town, offering comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. Website: https://hoshine.com/
3. Hotel Naturwald Furano – A modern hotel located near the base of the Furano Zone, offering a range of room options and on-site dining. Website: https://www.naturwald-furano.com/
4. Pension Snow Flake – A budget-friendly guesthouse located in Furano town, offering simple rooms and a shared lounge. Website: https://snowflakefurano.com/
5. New Furano Prince Hotel – A large hotel located near the base of the Furano Zone, offering a range of room options and on-site amenities, including restaurants and hot springs. Website: https://www.princehotels.com/en/furano/
6. Hotel Naturlich – A stylish boutique hotel located near the Kitanomine Zone, offering comfortable rooms and on-site dining. Website: https://www.naturlich.jp/
7. Pension Lavender – A small guesthouse located in Furano town, offering cozy rooms and a shared lounge. Website: https://www.lavender-furano.com/
8. Furano Resort Orika – A modern hotel located near the base of the Furano Zone, offering a range of room options and on-site amenities, including a spa and hot springs. Website: https://www.furano-orika.com/en/
9. Chalet Biei – A luxury chalet located in Biei, a nearby town to Furano, offering spacious rooms and high-end amenities. Website: https://chaletbiei.com/
10. Furano Lodge Tsuruga – A popular hotel located near the Kitanomine Zone, offering a range of room options and on-site amenities, including restaurants and hot springs. Website: https://www.tsuruga.com/lodges/furano/

 

Where are the Best Places to Eat When Skiing at Furano Ski Resort?

There are many great restaurants and entertainment options in and around Furano Ski Resort. Here are ten recommended options, listed in no particular order, with some brief information and a link to their website:

1. Kumagera – A popular Japanese restaurant located in Furano town, known for its delicious seafood dishes and cozy atmosphere. Suitable for couples and families. Website: https://kumagera.com/
2. Pizzeria Lupicia – A casual Italian restaurant located in Furano town, offering delicious wood-fired pizzas and other Italian favorites. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. Website: https://www.pizzeria-lupicia.com/
3. Kamifurano Restaurant Kai – A charming restaurant located in the nearby town of Kamifurano, known for its local ingredients and traditional Japanese cuisine. Suitable for couples and families. Website: http://www.restaurant-kai.com/
4. Bar Kaku – A popular bar located in Furano town, offering a wide selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere. Suitable for singles and couples. Website: https://www.facebook.com/BARKAKU.Furano/
5. Shokudo Yama-no-ie – A casual restaurant located near the base of the Kitanomine Zone, offering a variety of Japanese and Western dishes. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. Website: https://www.furanoyamanonie.com/en/
6. Ramen Izakaya Kuma – A cozy restaurant located in Furano town, offering delicious ramen and other Japanese comfort food. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. Website: https://www.facebook.com/ラーメン居酒屋-くま-1445311194839472/
7. Ohashi Cafe – A charming cafe located in Furano town, known for its delicious coffee and homemade baked goods. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. Website: https://www.facebook.com/ohashicafe.furano/
8. Furano Marche – A bustling market located in Furano town, offering a variety of local food and drink products. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. Website: https://furano-marche.jp/
9. Cheese Factory Furano – A popular attraction located in Furano town, offering tours of a local cheese factory and a restaurant serving cheese-themed dishes. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. Website: https://www.furano-cheese.com/en/
10. Lavender East – A shopping and entertainment complex located in Furano town, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and activities. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. Website: https://www.furano.ne.jp/lavendereast/en/

 

What are the Best Bars and Entertainment Venues When Skiing near Furano Ski Resort?

here are ten popular bars and entertainment options in and around Furano Ski Resort, listed in no particular order, with some brief information and a link to their website:

1. Bar Kaku – A popular bar located in Furano town, offering a wide selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere. Suitable for singles and couples. Website: https://www.facebook.com/BARKAKU.Furano/
2. Furano Taproom – A cozy bar located in Furano town, offering a variety of craft beers and pub food. Suitable for singles and couples. Website: https://www.furano-taproom.com/
3. Furanui – A trendy bar located in Furano town, known for its creative cocktails and stylish decor. Suitable for singles and couples. Website: https://www.facebook.com/furanui.furano/
4. Wine House Hokkaido – A wine bar and shop located in Furano town, offering a wide selection of wines from around the world. Suitable for singles and couples. Website: https://www.winehousehokkaido.com/
5. Snow Pub – A cozy bar located in the Kitanomine Zone of Furano Ski Resort, offering a variety of drinks and light snacks. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. Website: https://www.princehotels.com/en/ski/furano/stay/snow-pub/
6. D’s Diner – A lively restaurant and bar located in Furano town, offering a variety of drinks and comfort food. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. Website: https://www.facebook.com/dsdiner.furano/
7. Cafe Morinoya – A charming cafe located in Furano town, known for its delicious coffee and homemade desserts. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. Website: https://cafemorinoya.com/
8. Tsubara Tsubara – A popular karaoke bar located in Furano town, offering private karaoke rooms and a selection of drinks and snacks. Suitable for groups of friends and families. Website: https://tsubara-tsubara.com/
9. Anata no Warehouse – A unique entertainment complex located in nearby Asahikawa, offering a variety of activities including bowling, darts, and arcade games. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. Website: https://anata.jp/
10. Lavender East – A shopping and entertainment complex located in Furano town, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and activities including a cinema and live music events. Suitable for singles, couples, and families. Website: https://www.furano.ne.jp/lavendereast/en/

 

What Are Some Other Things to Do When Skiing At Furano Ski Resort?

Aside from skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty of other activities and attractions to enjoy in and around Furano Ski Resort. Here are some suggestions:

1. Snowshoeing – Explore the winter landscape at a slower pace by taking a snowshoeing tour. There are several tour operators in the area that offer guided snowshoe walks through the snowy forests and fields.
2. Ice Fishing – Experience the traditional Japanese winter activity of ice fishing on one of the nearby frozen lakes or rivers. You can catch various types of fish, including trout and salmon.
3. Hot Springs (Onsen) – Soak in a natural hot spring after a day on the slopes. There are several hot springs located in and around Furano Ski Resort, including the nearby Tomamu Hot Springs and Furano Natural Onsen.
4. Snowmobiling – Take a thrilling ride through the snow on a snowmobile tour. There are various tour operators in the area that offer guided snowmobile rides for all levels of experience.
5. Sake Tasting – Discover the world of Japanese sake at a local brewery. Many of the breweries offer tours and tastings where you can learn about the brewing process and sample different types of sake.
6. Winter Festivals – Experience the unique winter festivals that take place in Hokkaido during the winter months. The Sapporo Snow Festival is the largest and most famous, but there are also smaller festivals in other towns and cities.
7. Snow Sculpture Viewing – See some of the amazing snow sculptures that are created each winter in towns and cities throughout Hokkaido. The Asahikawa Winter Festival and Otaru Snow Light Path Festival are two of the most popular.
8. Food and Drink – Hokkaido is known for its delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood, local meats, and dairy products. Take the opportunity to sample some of the local specialties at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the area.

 

How to Get to Furano Ski Resort?

Furano Ski Resort is located in the town of Furano in the central part of Hokkaido, Japan. Here are some transportation options for getting to the resort from the region’s most popular airport, train station, and bus station:

From New Chitose Airport:

1. By Rental Car: The most convenient way to get to Furano from New Chitose Airport is by renting a car. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours and there are several rental car companies located at the airport.
2. By Airport Shuttle: There are several shuttle services that operate between New Chitose Airport and Furano Ski Resort. These shuttles run several times a day and take approximately 3 hours. Some of the shuttle services available include the Furano Resort Liner and Hokkaido Resort Liner.

From Sapporo Train Station:

1. By Train: Take the JR Limited Express train from Sapporo Train Station to Furano Train Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and there are several trains running each day.
2. By Bus: Take the Hokkaido Chuo Bus from Sapporo Bus Terminal to Furano Bus Terminal. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours and there are several buses running each day.

From Asahikawa Airport:

1. By Rental Car: The most convenient way to get to Furano from Asahikawa Airport is by renting a car. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and there are several rental car companies located at the airport.
2. By Bus: Take the Hokkaido Chuo Bus from Asahikawa Airport to Furano Bus Terminal. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours and there are several buses running each day.

Furano Ski Resort caters to a wide range of skiers and snowboarders, from beginners to advanced riders. However, the resort is particularly renowned among intermediate skiers and snowboarders who enjoy the long groomed runs and varied terrain. The resort’s challenging ungroomed runs and off-piste areas also attract advanced skiers and snowboarders looking for a more challenging experience. The resort’s terrain park, Half Pipe, and cross-country skiing trails appeal to freestyle and Nordic skiers respectively. Overall, Furano Ski Resort is a great destination for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels looking for a fun and varied winter sports experience.

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