Visitors often ask us, “Where’s a good place to eat in Furano?”
But honestly, it’s not an easy question to answer—and as locals, we sometimes struggle with it too.
Why? It’s simple: the water and rice in Furano are so good that, while tastes may vary, it’s hard to go wrong with most places.
So in this article, we’ll share some local tips on how to get the most out of Furano’s food scene.
Start with what you like
When someone asks us where to eat, we usually ask back:
“What kind of food do you like?”
Are you in the mood for ramen? Or maybe curry?
Want to dive into Furano’s dairy delights with pizza, cheese, or ice cream?
How about grilled meat and a cold beer in the afternoon? (Sagari from Kamifurano? Or classic Jingisukan?)
Maybe you’re curious about local vegetable-based dishes?
Your answer makes all the difference.
And don’t forget to mention what you don’t like—equally important!
For instance, recommending sushi to someone who dislikes raw fish wouldn’t be thoughtful.
(Furano’s sushi is genuinely delicious, but… if it’s not your thing, it’s not your thing!)
Letting locals know your likes and dislikes helps us guide you to a much more satisfying food experience.
Spring and autumn—Furano’s underrated food seasons
While summer is peak tourist season in Furano, spring and autumn are the real gems for food lovers.
Spring brings the season of local asparagus—fresh, crisp, and full of flavor.
Autumn is when the new rice is harvested, and root vegetables like pumpkin and potatoes reach their peak.
Local eateries serve these seasonal ingredients in simple yet stunning dishes that highlight the natural flavors. You’ll be amazed at how good “ordinary” food can taste.
Traveling with food as your theme
Exploring Furano’s food culture isn’t just about finding “a good restaurant.”
We recommend planning a food-themed trip that helps you connect with the region on a deeper level.
Here are some ideas:
- A local delicacy tour: Cheese-making workshops, fruit picking, shopping at local markets, and hosting a home party at a rental with a kitchen.
- Farm experience tours: Harvest asparagus and enjoy it for lunch at a café, visit working farms, and meet the growers.
- A Furano bar crawl: Great drinks and tasty bites—what else do you really need? 😄
Planning around seasonal ingredients can deepen your appreciation for the food.
This style of travel works wonderfully for families and is also perfect for solo travelers looking to refresh and reconnect.
In summary: how to enjoy Furano’s food even more
To truly savor Furano’s food, know your preferences and follow the seasons.
Try visiting in spring or autumn—you’ll discover a richness that summer crowds might miss.
Make your dining choices the centerpiece of your trip, and you’ll likely stumble upon something unforgettable.
Sure, you can chase top-rated or Instagrammable spots—but why not enjoy a journey based on what you really want to eat?
Even a humble meal set at a local diner in Furano (or perhaps especially at a local diner!) can be incredibly satisfying.
The photo here is of the gyoza set meal at Yamaka Shokudo—
You can choose your soup: miso, ramen, udon, or soba. A perfect place for hungry folks!
This article was written by.
fujimoto
A practitioner of acupuncture based in Shimanoshita. I mainly provide mobile acupuncture services. On this site, I work as a domestic travel business administrator, handling travel arrangements & consultations, as well as planning, managing, & programming for the web magazine. As a cycling enthusiast, I enjoy cycling around Furano & have completed long rides between Furano & Wakkanai. I also enjoy international travel, visiting places like Chiang Mai & Taiwan. Additionally, I am a coffee Nerd & manage “Kuroneko Coffee Roastery.”
