Furano and Biei

Furano and Biei are in central Hokkaido, in an agricultural basin between the Tokachi mountains and the Asahikawa plains. The landscape is made of cultivated fields: wheat, potatoes, sugar beet, corn and flowers planted in bands of different colors over gentle hills, with lines of trees and isolated barns. The scenery became famous in Japan through photographs, TV dramas and advertisements, and draws most visitors in summer.

In Furano, lavender began to be planted in the 1950s for the perfume industry. When demand fell, Tomita Farm kept the fields, which became the region’s symbol; blooming usually peaks in July. In winter, Furano turns into a ski town, with dry snow and runs that have hosted World Cup stages.

Biei, about 30 km to the north, is known for its hills. The Patchwork Road, north of the center, passes trees and fields that became photo spots, and the Panorama Road, to the south, leads to Shikisai-no-oka, a hill covered in flower beds. Farther inland toward Mount Tokachi, Shirogane’s Blue Pond shows a milky-blue water among dead trunks, near Shirahige Falls.

The area is for people who like rural scenery, driving or cycling slowly and eating local produce: melon, potatoes, cheese, milk and curry with local vegetables. The fields are privately owned: local rules ask visitors not to enter the crops.

This destination brings together 2 cities: Furano, Biei.