Furano is quickly becoming recognized as a world class ski resort with perfect powder conditions. The township is nestled in a valley on the edge of the picturesque Taisetsu Mountain ranges in the very heart of Hokkaido. This significant Mountain range and the region surrounding Furano is often referred to as the “roof of Hokkaido”. This perfect location shelters the resort from the high winds found in the west of Hokkaido and results in many long blue-sky days. This weather allows spectacular panoramic views of nearby Mt Tochidake and a distant smoking volcano. Best of all exceptionally dry powder snow is dumped on the resort almost daily. Just how much snow falls? On average the nearby town of Takikawa is blanketed by 10 metres of snow annually with even more falling on the resort. Data compiled by the Sapporo City Council shows that this area has some of the highest snow-falls of any city in the world!

The beautifully light and dry powder and huge snow base make for an unbelievable ski experience. The resort comprises of two major ski areas the Kitanomine zone and the Furano zone, both of which can be skied/boarded using one convenient lift pass. The resort offers a well-designed lift system with easy access to the upper slopes either by the Furano New Prince Ropeway or via the high speed Kitanomine Gondola (located just 30 metres from Furano Fresh Powder). The wide variety of beginner to advanced runs has made Furano a favourite destination for Japanese skiers however with all the publicity surrounding Hokkaido’s other famous resort, Niseko, relatively few westerners have been fortunate enough to experience the steep terrain and long groomers. These long runs and steep terrain have resulted in the FIS hosting 10 world cup events in Furano. Traditionally the resort plays host to this event in March, and top class competitors from around the world descend on the resort for a week of festivities.

The local volunteer Ski and Snowboard Mountain Guides define Furano hospitality. The guides ranging from 16 to 70 years of age, meet guests to show them their mountain and explain the many wonders that Furano has to offer. All the guides are long term locals who have a wealth of knowledge not only about the ski runs but also about everything in Furano. The Mountain Guides meet guests at the base of the lifts and guide them around the mountain.Furano Tourist Association.

The Volunteer ski hosts quickly access skiers abilities and guide you according to your ability. This incredible service is completely free and is a wonderful way to explore the mountain, find the best places to eat lunch, ask advice about sightseeing or even get tips on the local Furano culture. The meeting point is diagonally opposite Furano Fresh Powder at the Furano Tourist Association Office on the ground floor of the Kitanomine Gondola at 9:50am. We recommend you head over to the Gondola a few minutes earlier to introduce yourself and enjoy a morning with them. If you miss the tour but would still like to meet and use a host you can. Please grab a host as they come past you in one of the runs or as they get onto one of the lifts. Guests are welcome and encouraged to use the hosts more than once if they so desire. Guests and groups are also welcome to arrange a guide prior to their arrival to ensure they can have a private tour by on of the local Mountain Guides. For more information and booking requests please contact Furano Tourist Association.