Kitanomine Zone: Furano's Powder Paradise

4.3 (278)

Experience Hokkaido's best-kept secret: Kitanomine Zone in Furano, where powder snow and stunning views await skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

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Kitanomine Zone

Kitanomine Zone is one of the two main areas of the Furano Ski Resort in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its excellent powder snow and variety of slopes suitable for all skill levels. With a history of hosting international ski competitions, Kitanomine offers a unique blend of challenging terrain and Japanese hospitality.

A brief summary to Kitanomine Zone

18-6 Kitanominecho, Furano, Kitanominecho, Hokkaido, 076-8511, JP
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Local tips

Check the Furano Tourism Association website for local events and cultural experiences during your visit.
Consider hiring a local guide for backcountry skiing to ensure safety and make the most of the terrain.
Take advantage of the Furano Evening Shuttle Bus to explore dining options in Furano town.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Furano Station, take the Furano [Lavender] Bus. The ride to the Kitanomine Gondola area takes approximately 10 minutes. A single ride will cost around ¥270. Check the bus timetable at the Furano Information Center or your hotel.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available from Furano Station. The taxi ride to Kitanomine Zone takes about 5-10 minutes and costs approximately ¥1,700 to ¥2,500. Ensure you have your destination written in Japanese, as many taxi drivers may not speak English.
Driving

From the Hokkaido Expressway, take the Takikawa exit. Follow well-maintained roads to Kitanomine Zone, approximately 53 km and an hour's drive from the exit. Free parking is available at the base station. During winter, a 4WD vehicle is recommended.

Discover more about Kitanomine Zone

Kitanomine Zone, forming part of the renowned Furano Ski Resort, offers a fantastic winter sports experience on the northern slopes of Furano-Nishidake Mountain. Skiing in Furano dates back to 1931, with the first ski lift in the Kitanomine area opening in 1962. This area has a rich history, having hosted the FIS World Cup Alpine Ski competitions.Kitanomine boasts 28 ski runs with varied terrain for all levels. The resort is known for its quality powder snow, thanks to Furano's location in a basin where temperatures remain low. Advanced skiers can enjoy ungroomed powder runs, while beginners have access to gentle slopes. However, some reviewers note that the beginner runs may be more suited for almost intermediate-level skiers.Besides skiing and snowboarding, Kitanomine offers other winter activities. From the summit, visitors can enjoy views of the Tokachi mountain range. The Kitanomine Zone is also close to Furano town, providing access to restaurants, bars, and cultural experiences.