Nestled in the central region of Hokkaido, the areas of Furano, Biei, and Asahikawa are celebrated for their scenic landscapes, vibrant flower fields, and cultural richness. From picturesque lavender farms to innovative museums, here are ten must-visit spots that showcase the natural beauty and artistic spirit of this enchanting region.
Farm Tomita
- Address: 15 Kisen Kita, Nakafurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 071-0704, Japan
- Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM (May vary by day)
- Closed Days: Open year-round, but flower viewing is seasonal (best in July and August)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Website URL: Farm Tomita
Farm Tomita is one of the most iconic lavender farms in the region, celebrated for its vibrant and expansive flower fields. The farm features multiple types of lavender, as well as other seasonal flowers, arranged in stunning displays. Visitors can also explore the on-site distillery to see how lavender oil is made and stop by the cafe to try lavender-flavored treats.
Blue Pond
- Address: Shirogane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan
- Business Hours: Open 24/7
- Closed Days: N/A
- Admission Fee: Free
- Website URL: N/A
Blue Pond, known for its vivid blue color that varies with the weather and seasons, became famous after being used as a wallpaper in Apple’s macOS. Surrounded by a serene forest, the pond’s mysterious, milky blue water is due to natural minerals dissolved in it. The site is a popular destination for photographers looking for a perfect shot of its ethereal beauty.
Asahiyama Zoo
- Address: Kuranuma, Higashi-Asahikawa-cho, Asahikawa-shi, Hokkaido 078-8205
- Business Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:15 PM (Summer), varies seasonally
- Closed Days: Closed for several days between seasons for maintenance
- Admission Fee: ¥1,000 for adults
- Website URL: Asahiyama Zoo
Asahiyama Zoo is innovative in its approach to animal habitats, designed to encourage natural behavior from its inhabitants and provide unique viewing experiences for visitors. It is particularly famous for its polar bear and penguin exhibits, which allow guests to observe these animals from multiple angles, including underwater.
Shikisai no Oka
- Address: No.3, Shinsei, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido 071-0473, Japan
- Business Hours: Varies by month so please check the website
- Closed Days: December to April
- Admission Fee: Free; fees for optional activities like buggy rides (July to September: ¥500 for adults)
- Website URL: Shikisai no Oka
Shikisai no Oka offers a panoramic view of rolling hills covered in colorful flower gardens that bloom seasonally. The site provides a stunning landscape perfect for walking tours or cart rides, and its hilltop location offers magnificent views of the surrounding countryside, making it a photographer’s paradise.
Furano Cheese Factory
- Address: Nakagoku, Furano-shi, Hokkaido 076-0013 Japan
- Business Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed Days: Year-end and New Year holidays
- Admission Fee: Free; workshops require a fee
- Website URL: Furano Cheese Factory
Furano Cheese Factory gives visitors an insight into the cheese-making process with opportunities to watch production, participate in cheese-making workshops, and sample various dairy products. The factory is known for its rich, locally produced cheeses and ice cream, all made using milk from nearby farms.
Biei Patchwork Road
- Address: Mida, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido 071-0222
- Business Hours: Open 24/7
- Closed Days: N/A
- Admission Fee: Free
- Website URL: N/A
Biei Patchwork Road is famed for its scenic landscape resembling a patchwork quilt, made up of variously shaped and colored fields, including crops and flowers. This picturesque road offers stunning views throughout the year, with each season bringing its own unique palette to the vista.
Lake Shikaribetsu
- Address: Shikaoi, Kato District, Hokkaido 081-0344, Japan
- Business Hours: Open 24/7
- Closed Days: N/A
- Admission Fee: Free; fees for activities and accommodations in the Ice Village
- Website URL: N/A
Lake Shikaribetsu is the highest lake in Hokkaido, located in a remote, mountainous area. It is renowned for its clear waters and the natural hot springs along its shores. In winter, the lake hosts a unique ice village, complete with igloos and outdoor hot spring baths carved from ice.
Naitai Highlands
- Address: Kamiyoshi, Kamishiho-cho, Kawahigashi-gun, Hokkaido, 080-1407
- Business Hours: Open 24/7
- Closed Days: N/A
- Admission Fee: Free
- Website URL: Naitai Highland
Naitai Highlands offers expansive views of the surrounding plains from the highest viewpoint in the area. The highlands are an ideal spot for stargazing and bird watching, with their unobstructed horizons and peaceful natural setting. The area is also popular for its walking and hiking trails.
Otokoyama Sake Brewery Museum
- Address: 1-33, Nagayama 2-jo 7-chome, Asahikawa-shi, Hokkaido 079-8412, Japan
- Business Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Sake brewery open day: 2nd Sunday in February from 10:00 to 15:00)
- Closed Days: Year-end and New Year holidays
- Admission Fee: Free
- Website URL: Otokoyama Sake Brewery Museum
Otokoyama Sake Brewery Museum showcases the traditional art of sake brewing with a history stretching back over 340 years. Visitors can learn about the brewing process, view ancient sake-making tools, and sample some of the finest sakes produced, which have been refined over centuries.
Kanayama Lake
- Address: Minamifurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 079-2401, Japan
- Business Hours: Open 24/7
- Closed Days: N/A
- Admission Fee: Free; fees for camping and some activities
- Website URL: N/A
Kanayama Lake is a serene spot known for its crystal-clear waters and the beautiful forests that surround it. Ideal for camping, fishing, and boating, the lake is a peaceful retreat where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The lake also features trails and picnic spots around its perimeter.
These destinations in Furano, Biei, and Asahikawa offer visitors a diverse range of experiences, from enjoying the natural beauty of Hokkaido’s landscapes to engaging in cultural and culinary explorations. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or a history buff, this region has something special to offer. Be sure to check the latest information from official sources or websites provided before planning your visit to ensure a fulfilling journey through this picturesque area of Japan.
