The shivering cold winter season has arrived in Furano!
Temperatures are typically below 0°C (32°F) for most days which might be hard to believe for those who are not from Hokkaido.

But don’t worry!
There are plenty of activities that a local Furano recommends exclusive to the months of December, January and February!

Weather Guide: December, January, February

If you are visiting Furano during the winter season, a down jacket or something equivalent is a must.
Ideally, you would want to wear 3 layers of clothing underneath the jacket and wear a pair of nonslip shoes too. 

When you’re walking on an icy road, keep the center of your gravity over the front leg as if you’re ice skating.
Lifting your leg up high will cause slippage. 
Slippage accidents can be prevented with precaution and wearing layers of warm clothes will best prepare you for a fun time in Furano.

Ski in Furano

 

There is nothing to be afraid of Furano in winter as long as you’re educated and prepared. 

While there are many winter activities, our first recommendation is skiing in powder snow!
Snowboard has become very popular as of late, but skiing remains the number one snow activity among the locals.
In fact, there are locals that have never done snowboarding. 

The snow condition in Furano is considered top class among all of Hokkaido and is sought after by skiers.
You don’t have to worry about the snow condition being poor here!

Furano Ski Resort – Perfect for All

Quoted：ふらのindex 富良野スキー場

Furano Ski Resort is a perfect area to enjoy ski activities.
The lift tickets are free for children under elementary school age which makes it even better for families. 

The various types of slopes accommodate all skiers from beginners to advanced.
Each level of slopes is separated so you’ll be skiing with others that are more or less the same skill level.
There are plenty of rental gears so don’t worry about bringing your own!

It is located an hour and a half drive from the Asahikawa Airport so it’ll take you roughly 1/2 day from Tokyo.
Accessibility is one of the key aspects of the resort.  Come ski in the highest quality snow for an exhilarating experience!

“Snow Theme Park”

Quoted：LINERWEB

Skiing is fun but you can’t ski forever as it requires energy and stamina.
Lucky for you, there is the Kan Kan Mura, a snow-theme amusement park, inside the Furano Ski Resort. 

It opens in the evening and there are snow dome cafes that offer hot drinks such as honey lemon drink and hot wine.
Take photos of the beautifully illuminated kamakura (ice hut) and enjoy snow tubing and banana boat rides.
Enjoy a date night with your partner or take your family out as there are activities for all ages. 

Non-Skiing Activity

Cruise on a Snowmobile

Have you already had enough ski and snowboarding and looking for something else or are you simply not a skier? A snowmobile is an excellent solution!

Snowmobiles are motorcycle equivalent on the snow, but it’s an activity for everyone as no special license is required for a ride. Jump on a snowmobile to cruise through the wintery landscape is a unique experience. It is very simple to operate; all you need to know is the gas, brake, and handle for direction control. Think of go-carts at amusement parks. 

The snowmobile will be more of a private experience compared to skiing where slopes and lift rides can get crowded.

Newest Winter Sport? – Airboard

If you’re looking for something different, consider trying the airboard.
The best way to describe the Switzerland-born sport would be a bodyboard only inches off the snow. 

An airboard ride can gain speed rapidly as you’re lying flat on an inflatable sled moving head down, therefore will only be used on secured slopes to ensure safety.

Furano has several places to airboard and tutorials are given for beginners.
There is also a plan that includes a hot spring visit to unwind and warm your body.
The thrilling excitement of rapidly moving down a slop as you feel the snow lashing your face and the adrenaline rise is definitely a one-of-a-kind experience!

Adventure Like No Other – Dog Sledding

Many people think of dog sledding only available in countries outside of Japan, but it is available in Furano.
In fact, Furano is one of the only few spots in Hokkaido that offers dog sledding. 

The dogs will navigate through the snow with your voice commands at a speed of 15km – 20km.
Listen to the padding of dogs running and look around to admire the beautiful views.
A little excursion with cute dogs will promise you a memorable experience.

For more information regarding dog sledding

Winter Hot Air Balloon

The vast view of the Furano from 1,000m above ground on a hot air balloon is breathtaking.
You’re literally flying in a basket unstrapped for a quiet thrilling experience as if you’re a bird.
The 360-degree panoramic view can only be seen in a hot air balloon. 

This activity is only limited during the winter season.
Don’t miss your chance for a thrilling and enchanting lifetime experience!

Furano December – February Summary

There’s nothing to hide that the weather will be cold (really cold) when you’re visiting Furano in December through February.
Furano winter can be best described as “Silver World” as it is beautifully covered in snow and many activities are available making it a snowy paradise for entertainment.

Put work behind and come enjoy Furano.
Let the beautiful nature help you relax.

 

For Hokkaido activity experiences visit Basho Trip