The home to picturesque lavender fields is also come winter, a haven of powder snow and stunning ski slopes. With a versatility that enlivens the city throughout four seasons, Furano invites visitors all year round to relish its slice of Japan’s wonders. Burrowed right in the centre of Hokkaido, this unique belly button town holds a distinct quaint town atmosphere which sets it apart from its bustling sibling town, Niseko. Furano is ideal for seekers of authentic Japanese skiing experience, enveloped in nature’s beauty.
It’s finally February, which means it is Furano’s peak powder season. If you’re looking to explore this wintry wonder, here’s a little curated list of luxurious abodes just in time for Japan’s snow season. Lug your skis and excitement as these stays promise ski trips with a lavish touch.
Shin Furano Prince Hotel
The beating pulse of Hokkaido, Prince Hotel’s Shin Furano is a resort hotel enveloped by a lush landscape and spectacular mountains. Featuring a selection of hotel rooms and suites, the hotel acts as a perfect ski-in ski-out accommodation which houses a skiing ground that has hosted multiple global tournaments. To make your stay all the more memorable, Shin Furano also offers its guests a splendid taste of Japan with its authentic restaurant. Then, when a break from the slopes calls, hot springs and relaxation facilities await to pamper.
Nozo Hotel
Proudly declared as the first international lifestyle hotel, the freshly opened Nozo Hotel is Furano’s newest gem. The hotel is a mere three-minute walk from the glorious slopes of the Kitanomine ski zone where you can indulge in all the skiing and snowboarding that your heart desires. This stylish 78-room resort hotel is a minimalist retreat – natural hues and materials combine to create this embodiment of Furano’s spirit. Undoubtedly the place to be, Nozo Hotel complements your skiing adventure unlike any other.
Chalet Burlap Furanui
A quaint ski pension resting at the north base of Mt. Furano-Nishi, Chalet Burlap Furanui houses 29 well-furnished rooms and its own onsen. Located on a quiet street that is a mere five minutes walk away from the ski slopes, the chalet provides ski-to-door access, a spacious ski storage, and a ski pass vendor, establishing it a convenient option for ski lovers. The chalet features pleasant amenities such as a sauna, an in-house restaurant as well as a cosy common area that is perfect for lounging. It is the place to be for a guaranteed comfortable stay.
Fenix Furano Hotel
A luxury ski in ski out condo, Fenix Furano is a stellar property of its kind. With an ideal location directly next to the mountain and Kitanomine Gondola ski lifts, Fenix is purpose-designed and houses 62 full-service units ranging from elegant suites to comfortable penthouses. With access to remarkable amenities provided through eco-friendly arrangements, a ski stay in Fenix is akin to a gift wrapped in stunning scenery.
Furano Lodge 10
This exclusive double storey ski chalet is all things fancy. Set on foothills that overlook breathtaking Furano, the privately-owned chalet sleeps 10 guests at a time. Within it, you can find lounge and kitchen facilities, making it a self-contained accommodation of fine quality. The chalet is adorned with aesthetic furnishings and offers a large sauna for those who simply wish to sit back and refresh. A wonderful option for those who wish to hit the slopes and at the same time, enjoy homey luxury.
Furano Prince Hotel
Another ski-in ski-out hotel by Prince Hotels, this hotel is situated at the bottom of the Furano Zone. Donning a cosy European chalet-style exterior, this 112-room lavish spot is surrounded by magnificent views. The stay also offers a public bath – for a true Japanese experience. A jewel of Furano just like its sibling hotel, Furano Prince Hotel is an iconic location to realise your skiing dreams – a place that exudes style and class, without compromising on the thrill.
Hotel Naturwald Furano
The embodiment of a fine quality family-friendly hotel, Hotel Naturwald Furano strives to become ‘a second home’ for its guests. Staring right at the ski slopes of Kitanomine Zone, the hotel also provides ski storage and rental of both ski and snowboard equipment, adding some much-needed convenience to ski adventures. The hotel serves as a tranquil getaway site for travellers, offering stunning panorama of the mountains. Boasting a fresh concept, the hotel contains both Japanese style rooms (with tatami mats) and Western style rooms to accommodate to a range of guests’ styles. Featuring a dedicated play area for kids and family rooms, the hotel proves a great choice for families who seek to spend a memorable family ski vacation. A wholly unique Japanese style experience and warm hospitality awaits at Hotel Naturwald Furano, the definite winter happy place.