Niseko & Furano
3 Spots
Niseko and Furano represent the two faces of Hokkaido's outdoor paradise. Niseko is a world-renowned ski resort famous for its legendary powder snow — some of the lightest, driest snow on earth draws skiers and snowboarders from across the globe each winter. In summer, the area transforms into an adventure playground with rafting, hiking, and cycling. Furano, meanwhile, is Hokkaido's flower capital — its rolling lavender fields burst into purple waves every July, creating one of Japan's most photographed summer landscapes. Nearby Biei adds surreal beauty with the luminous Blue Pond and patchwork hills.
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Niseko Grand Hirafu
Niseko Grand Hirafu is the largest of four interconnected ski resorts forming Niseko United. With over 14 metres of annual cumulative snowfall, it boasts some of the finest powder snow on the planet — light, dry, and seemingly endless. Over 30 runs cater to all levels, from gentle groomers to challenging off-piste terrain. On clear days, the majestic silhouette of Mt. Yotei (the "Ezo Fuji") provides a breathtaking backdrop to every run. The Hirafu Village at the base is cosmopolitan, with international restaurants, craft beer bars, and onsen. In summer, mountain biking, golf, and rafting take centre stage.
Furano Lavender Fields
The Furano Lavender Fields are Hokkaido's quintessential summer landscape — every July, rolling hills transform into waves of purple stretching to the horizon. Farm Tomita is the most famous, featuring not just lavender but rainbow-striped flower fields of poppies, marigolds, and baby's breath creating the stunning "Irodori Field." Lavender soft-serve ice cream and essential oils are beloved souvenirs. Nearby, the Nakafurano Municipal Lavender Garden offers chairlift rides for aerial views, and fans of the drama "Kita no Kuni kara" can visit filming locations scattered throughout the area.
Blue Pond
The Blue Pond (Aoiike) in the town of Biei is a man-made reservoir whose surface glows an ethereal cobalt blue. The mesmerising colour occurs when aluminium-rich water from nearby Shirogane Onsen mixes with the Biei River, creating colloidal particles that scatter sunlight. Dead larch trunks protruding from the luminous water create an otherworldly scene that has captivated photographers worldwide. The pond gained international fame when Apple selected it as a default macOS wallpaper. In winter, spectacular illumination events transform the snow-covered pond into a magical light show.