Autumn arrives earlier in Hokkaido (北海道) than anywhere else in Japan! Starting from mid-September, the leaves of the Daisetsuzan (大雪山) mountain range will begin to change colour, allowing you to experience the season ahead of the rest of the country. The lively summer atmosphere gives way to a serene stillness, and the crisp, cool air makes the deepening autumn all the more tangible.
This is also the season of harvest, offering an abundance of fresh, seasonal gourmet delights, when can savour the local flavours to your heart’s content. Another charm of visiting in autumn is the ability to enjoy nature at a relaxed pace, away from the crowds. Among the best places to enjoy this early autumn are the Furano (富良野) and Biei (美瑛) areas, known for their vast natural landscapes and breathtaking views. So why not refresh your mind and body in Hokkaido this fall, where a treasure trove of stunning scenery and delicious foods awaits you?
Shikisai no Oka (Biei)
In Hokkaido, autumn paints the landscape not only in red but also in vibrant shades of green, yellow, and orange—like a natural canvas. Especially stunning are the golden larch trees in Biei, which shine brilliantly against the backdrop of the snow-capped Daisetsuzan mountain range, creating a breathtaking view. Shikisai no Oka is one of the best spots to take in this majestic scenery, offering spectacular photo opportunities. The peak viewing season is around late October, when you can fully enjoy the colorful autumn landscape.
Shikisai no Oka
Address: Shinsei, Biei, Kamikawa District 071-0473
Access: Approximately 25 minutes on foot from Bibaushi Station (JR Furano Line)
Blue Pond（Aoike）
Aoike (青い池, Blue Pond) is one of Biei’s most iconic scenic spots. As autumn arrives, the trees begin to change colour in early October, and the vivid autumn foliage reflected on the surface of the clear blue water creates a breathtaking, painting-like scene. The sight of the colourful leaves mirrored in the pond is especially stunning and promises an unforgettable visual experience. The pond is accessible by local bus from Biei Station, making it easy to include in your travel itinerary. Be sure to check out the model course in the following link to enjoy this enchanting landscape!
Glass Forest in FURANO
Located in the Rokugō area, Glass Forest in FURANO is a glass workshop renowned for its original brand “Shibare Glass,” inspired by Furano’s iconic winter phenomenon—diamond dust.
Inside the shop, you’ll find a stunning display and sale of handcrafted glassworks that showcase the artisans’ exceptional skills. There are also hands-on experiences where you can create your own original glass item, making for a truly special and personal souvenir!
Glass Forest in FURANO
Address: 3 Rokugō Shigaichi, Furano City
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Furano Ropeway
Operating exclusively in October, the Furano Ropeway is a popular spot for viewing autumn foliage. This high-speed ropeway with a capacity for 101 passengers can swiftly take you up to an elevation of 900 meters, and offers a sweeping panoramic view of the Furano Basin, the Tokachidake Mountain Range, and the Taisetsuzan Mountains.
Why not enjoy an aerial stroll in the crisp morning air and take in the breathtaking scenery?
Furano Ropeway
Address: Nakagoryo, Furano City, Hokkaido 076-0016
Access: 22 minutes on the Asahikawa Bus Line from JR Furano Station
Torinuma Park
A hidden gem in Furano, Torinuma Park is known for its crystal-clear pond and the stunning reflections of the surrounding trees. As the seasons change, the trees turn into brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a watercolour-like scene mirrored on the water’s surface.
The carpet of fallen leaves and the earthy scent of autumn fill the air, gently wrapping you in a peaceful, serene atmosphere.
Torinuma Park
Address: Higashitorinuma, Furano City, Hokkaido 076-0041
Access: 22 minutes on the Rokugou Bus Line from JR Furano Station, followed by a 10-minute walk
Autumn Gourmet Delights! Savour the Flavours of Furano
Mori no Tokei (The Forest Clock Café)
Featured in the TV drama “Yasashii Jikan” (written by So Kuramoto), Mori no Tokei is a café nestled quietly in the forest, as if the world of the drama still lingers there. Guests can enjoy the changing scenery of the forest with each season, and even try grinding coffee beans by hand at the counter. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the show and enjoy a peaceful, refreshing moment—especially when you need a break from the hustle of daily life.
Mori no Tokei
Address: Nakagoryo, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0016 (inside the New Furano Prince Hotel)
Access: About 10 minutes by car from JR Furano Station
Campana Rokkatei
At Campana Rokkatei, you can enjoy sweets made with local Furano ingredients. One of its charms is the ability to savour these treats while gazing out at the ever-changing seasonal landscapes of Furano. In addition to desserts, the café also offers a variety of lunch and meal options. The view of the mountains dyed in autumn colours is simply breathtaking—you might just lose track of time!
Campana Rokkatei
Address: 1161 Shimizuyama, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0048
Access: About 10 minutes by car from JR Furano Station
Souvenir Hunting in Furano – A Must-Do on Your Trip!
No trip to Furano is complete without picking up some local specialties and souvenirs. Here’s a recommended treat that captures the flavor and warmth of Furano—perfect to take home with your travel memories.
Shinya Confectionery – Furano Yukidoke Cheesecake
A beloved Hokkaido souvenir, the Yukidoke Cheesecake is the signature creation of Shinya, a long-established confectioner. Inspired by the snowy landscapes of Furano, this delicacy is carefully handmade over three days.
It features a delightful three-layer structure: fluffy whipped cream, rich cheese, and tangy berry jam atop a tart crust. You can enjoy different textures and flavors depending on whether it’s half-thawed or fully thawed. It also comes in individually wrapped portions—easy to share and enjoy!
Shinya Confectionery
Address: 4-7 Asahimachi, Furano City
Access: About 5 minutes on foot from JR Furano Station
Furano’s Drama Pilgrimage Spots
Furano has served as the setting for many beloved Japanese TV dramas, making it a must-visit destination for drama fans. It’s a treasure trove of “seichi junrei” (pilgrimage to filming locations), where you can walk in the footsteps of your favorite characters.
Rokugō Observatory
One of the highlights is touring the filming locations of “From the Northern Country” (Kita no Kuni Kara), a legendary Japanese drama. The Rokugō Observatory offers a panoramic view of the Rokugō area, where the series was set.
This location has also been selected as one of the “Top 100 Rural Landscapes of Japan.” Adjacent to the observatory is Irodori no Hiroba (Colorful Plaza), where seasonal flowers such as lavender, poppies, sunflowers, and canola blossoms bloom throughout the year.
Rokugō Observatory
Address: 3 Higashirokugo, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0162
Access: 30 minutes by car from JR Furano Station
Access from Sapporo to Furano & Money-Saving Rail Passes
There are several convenient routes from Sapporo to Furano:
Via Asahikawa:
Take the Limited Express Kamui or Lilac from Sapporo to Asahikawa Station (approx. 1 hour 25 minutes), then transfer to a local train to Biei (approx. 30 minutes), and from there, another local train to Furano (approx. 30 minutes).
Via Takikawa:
Take a Limited Express train from Sapporo to Takikawa Station (approx. 50 minutes), then transfer to a local train to Furano Station (approx. 1 hour).
For travelers, the Sapporo-Furano Area Pass is a great deal! This 4-day unlimited ride pass allows for smooth travel and helps keep your trip budget-friendly.
Why Visit Furano & Biei in Autumn?
Autumn in Furano and Biei is filled with natural beauty and heartwarming scenery. The colorful foliage, expansive rolling hills, and dreamlike landscapes captivate every visitor. With breathtaking views, delicious local cuisine, and peaceful surroundings, this is the perfect season to explore and unwind. Don’t miss the chance to experience it for yourself!
Say Hello to Hokkaido with JAPAN RAIL CLUB!
If you can’t wait until autumn to get your hands on a piece of Hokkaido, then we have something to tide you over! With this month’s JAPAN RAIL CLUB Omiyage Snack Box of June, Hello Hokkaido!
Curated with snack recommendations from JR Hokkaido, this month’s snack box captures all of the rich flavours of the north, featuring fresh dairy-based snacks and seasonal produce.
Header Image Credit: JR Hokkaido
