For travelers seeking a quieter, more authentic side of Hokkaido, away from the crowded tourist spots, Minamifurano is the perfect destination. With breathtaking winter landscapes, powdery ski slopes, and unique local experiences, this charming region offers a side of Japan rarely explored by international visitors. Combining adventure, culture, and gourmet delights, a trip to Minamifurano, along with nearby Eniwa and Naganuma, promises an unforgettable journey through Hokkaido’s hidden gems.
A Skier’s Paradise: Tranquil Slopes and Fresh Powder
Hokkaido is world-famous for its pristine ski resorts, but for those looking to escape the crowds, Minamifurano is an excellent choice. The Minamifurano Ski Resort offers a peaceful skiing and snowboarding experience with quiet slopes and fresh powder, ideal for those who want to carve their way through untouched snow. For those looking for a larger-scale resort with a variety of runs, Furano Ski Resort is a fantastic alternative, featuring slopes suitable for everyone from beginners to advanced skiers.
Beyond skiing, Minamifurano’s stunning winter landscapes provide a serene backdrop for those looking to simply enjoy the natural beauty of Japan’s northernmost island. Whether you’re gliding down gentle slopes or tackling more challenging runs, the region’s powder snow and breathtaking scenery make it an ideal winter retreat.
Cultural and Culinary Delights in Minamifurano
Unlike mainstream tourist areas, Minamifurano offers a tranquil escape where visitors can fully immerse themselves in local culture and traditions. One of the most popular seasonal activities is smelt fishing on the frozen Lake Kanayama, a quintessential Hokkaido winter experience. Sitting on the ice, fishing for wakasagi ( Japanese smelt), and frying them on-site is a truly special way to connect with the region’s winter traditions.
For a deeper appreciation of local flavors, a visit to Michi-no- Eki Minamifurano (Minami Furano Roadside Station) is highly recommended. This local marketplace is a fantastic place to sample fresh Hokkaido produce, artisanal goods, and regional delicacies. Those with a taste for fine beverages will appreciate a trip to Furano Wine Factory or a sake brewery in Asahikawa, where visitors can enjoy tastings and learn about the art of Japanese wine and sake production.
For cheese lovers, Furano Cheese Factory is a must-visit. Here, you can indulge in freshly made dairy products and even participate in a hands-on cheese-making experience—a fun and educational activity that highlights the rich agricultural traditions of the region. v
A Gateway to Exploring Hokkaido
Staying at Fairfield by Marriott Hokkaido Minamifurano provides an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas while being fully immersed in Hokkaido’s natural beauty and local culture. Located next to the Michi-no-Eki Minamifurano, this accommodation is designed for travelers who want to discover the area’s hidden gems with ease. The hotel offers comfortable, well-equipped rooms with Simmons beds and rain showers, ensuring a restful stay after a day of adventure.
To further enrich your journey, consider combining your stay in Minamifurano with a visit to Fairfield by Marriott Hokkaido Eniwa or Fairfield by Marriott Hokkaido Naganuma. By starting your trip from New Chitose Airport, you can explore Eniwa and Naganuma before heading towards Minamifurano, stopping by Lake Shikotsu, Naganuma Onsen (hot springs), and local distilleries along the way. From Minamifurano, a visit to Asahikawa offers additional experiences, such as the famous Asahiyama Zoo or the enchanting Shirogane Blue Pond and Shirahige Waterfall, both of which are especially magical when covered in snow.
For Those Seeking a Peaceful Escape
If you’re looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of popular tourist hotspots, Minamifurano is the ideal retreat. Here, you can enjoy skiing without crowds, uncover hidden culinary treasures, and take in the breathtaking snowy landscapes that define Hokkaido’s winter charm.
Getting to Minamifurano is convenient, with access from New Chitose Airport (1 hour 50 minutes by car) or Asahikawa Airport (1 hour 30 minutes by car). Combining the comfort of Fairfield by Marriott Michi-no-Eki Hotels with the scenic beauty of rural Hokkaido, this journey offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery.
For those yearning for a truly authentic Hokkaido winter experience, Minamifurano and its surrounding regions await— ready to be explored beyond the well-trodden paths.
Fairfield by Marriott Hokkaido Minamifurano
Address: 555-1 Ikutora, Minamifurano-cho, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido
Tel: +81 167-56-7555
Web: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ctsfm-fairfieldhokkaido-minamifurano/
Fairfield by Marriott Hokkaido Eniwa
Address: 828-9 Minamishimamatsu, Eniwa, Hokkaido
Tel: +81 123-29-6250
Web: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ctsfe-fairfieldhokkaido-eniwa/
Fairfield by Marriott Hokkaido Naganuma
Address: 7 Higashi 10 Senminami, Naganuma-cho, Yubari-gun, Hokkaido
Tel: +81 123-76-7795
Web: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ctsfn-fairfield-hokkaido-naganuma/
* These three hotels are part of the Fairfield by Marriott Michi-no-Eki project.
■Web: https://fairfield-michinoeki-japan.com/
