The northern part of Furano Ski Resort is known as the “Kitanomine Zone,” and it’s the closest ski area to Furano Station.
This ski resort is globally renowned, much like Niseko. Over 30 years ago, it hosted the FIS World Cup Alpine Ski competitions annually. Similar to Niseko, the snow quality at this resort is exceptional, often referred to as powder snow.
During January and February, which are the coldest months in Hokkaido, you can experience powder snow at nearly all ski resorts in the region. This period is considered the peak ski season.
While Niseko’s powder snow is typically found at higher elevations, at Furano Ski Resort, you can experience powder snow across the entire mountain. Due to Furano being a basin, temperatures remain low, ensuring excellent snow quality even on lower slopes.
Backcountry skiing is possible here, but there has been an increase in accidents involving tourists unfamiliar with local weather and terrain. It’s advisable to engage local guides for backcountry excursions.
On clear days, the views from the summit are spectacular. Facing away from the ski slopes, you’ll see the majestic Tokachi mountain range, with visible steam rising from the peaks on calm days.
Access
Car from Sapporo
If you are unfamiliar with driving in Hokkaido or if the weather is snowy, it’s recommended to take the route via Takikawa Interchange and Route 38 when traveling from Sapporo.
The Mikasa route is not advisable for tourists and novice drivers during winter. It’s advisable to rent a 4WD vehicle like a SUBARU as this route can be challenging in the winter months.
- Take DO-O Express way to Takikawa I.C. and route 38. It takes about 2 hours 20 minutes.
- Take DO-O Express way to Mikasa I.C. and route 452, route 135, route 38. It takes about 2 hours.
Car from Asahikawa
- Take route 237. It takes 1 hour 25 minutes.
Car from Obihiro
- Take route 38. It takes 2 hours 25 minutes.
JR Train
Get a taxi from Furano JR Station. It costs about 1,700 yen and 10 minutes.
- Take a train for Asahikawa at Sapporo St. and transfer at Takikawa. It takes 2 hours.
- It takes 60 minutes from Asahikawa.
- It takes 2 hours 30 minutes from Obihiro.
Bus
Furano Bus from Asahikawa Airport, which takes 1 hour 20 munites.
