富良野スキー場, Furano ski resort, ふらのスキー場

Furano lies in central Hokkaido, well inland from the coast, and that position gives it a particular reputation: some of the driest, coldest, lightest powder in Japan. The resort is arranged in two connected zones on the mountain above the town, offering a good spread of long, well-pitched pistes as well as tree skiing and off-piste when conditions allow. Unlike the more internationalised Hokkaido resorts, Furano is anchored by a genuine working Japanese town, giving it a more traditional, less packaged atmosphere. The mountain has long hosted top-level races, a nod to the quality of its grooming and terrain. It appeals to skiers who want superb snow with a strong sense of place.

Furano is for skiers chasing dry inland powder without the crowds and hype of the coastal resorts, and who value experiencing a real Hokkaido town alongside their skiing. Its two zones give plenty of variety, its pistes are long and beautifully groomed, and its snow is famously light. It suits intermediates and advanced skiers who enjoy both cruising and hunting powder, and anyone who prefers authenticity over an international resort scene.

Being inland, Furano tends to be colder and drier than the coastal Hokkaido resorts, so its powder is exceptionally light and its groomers hold their quality. Snow arrives frequently through midwinter, and clear, cold spells between systems are more common here than in the storm-battered coastal areas, often bringing better light and views. The tree runs and off-piste come into their own after fresh falls.