Ski Furano

Facts

x-c tracks: 2.5km Approx snow depth: 1-1.7 metres Back-country access: gate system Off-piste policy: gate system

Lifts: 2 × gondolas, 2 × quad chairs, 3 × double chairs, 3 × single chairs

The Furano ski resort lies at the very centre of Hokkaido and is reknowned for its long runs, magnificent views and the ever present Hokkaido powder, with falls of up to 8 metres per season on average. Furano resort has been the venue for world cup races with many of the world's great skiers having tested its steep and fast ski runs.

Backcountry and side country skiing is welcomed through a gate system. The resort once had a strict policy against leaving the piste but they are now proud of how popular Furano is among backcountry snow riders.

You'll find Furano has many sunny days and the colder temperatures of central Hokkaido results in superb quality snow. When the powder is on, it is, quite simply, the best. Add to this the distinct lack of crowds and express lifts that take you to the top of 4.5km runs in a little over ten minutes and you have a recipe for leg burning skiing.

Amenities include banks, cafes, bars and restaurants. The resort and the town of Furano combined have about 100 eateries. You can also explore the winery and cheese factory. There is a modern ski school with group or private lessons as well as snow mobile and ski rides. The Master’s beer house & bakery, known as Yama no doxon is reknowned and is a must visit while skiing in Furano. The main town is a five minute taxi ride from the resort.

Cross country skiers have tracks cut for both classical and skating about 5 minutes walk from the resort. There are also ample areas for exploring by cross country skis in the vicinity of the resort.

Ski area lifts include the 6 person Kitanomine Gondola which goes 2.95km giving runs up to 4.5 km in length, the 100 person Furano Ropeway which covers 2.5km in 5 minutes! The central valleys have superb powder and the views of the central ranges of Hokkaido are spectacular.

Furano is well known for it’s lack of crowds adding to your enjoyment of this former world cup resort. There are ample beginner/intermediate runs at the base of each side of the mountain, with the steeper and deeper runs up high.