Furano is located in Central Hokkaido – around 100 km from the coast in almost any direction. Two airports provide easy access to the Furano area – New Chitose Airport (International and Domestic flights) and Asahidake Airport (Domestic flights only).
- Bus: Regular bus services to Furano operate from Sapporo as well as New Chitose and Asahidake airports.
- Train: Access to Furano resort is possible from both Asahikawa Railway Station and Furano Railway station. Trains to Asahikawa from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport operate on a regular basis.
- Ferry: Because of its central location, Furano is not easily accessed by ferry.
- Car: Rental cars are available at New Chitose Airport, Asahikawa Airport and in Sapporo. However, as the Furano area has one of the highest traffic fatality rates for accidents in Japan, if you are not familiar with driving in winter conditions – this is not the place to start.
All timetables (timetables to come) provided in this section are accurate for the 2005 – 2006 winter season.
Bus
From New Chitose Airport
From December to April, two bus companies (Goodsports Whiteliner and Hokkaido Resort Liner) offer regular buses from New Chitose – Furano . Bookings are required in advance. The trip takes 3 – 4 hours, depending on weather conditions. Fare is 2500 yen (one way).
From Sapporo
Throughout the year, Chuo Bus Co. runs on an hourly basis from Sapporo Central bus station (under the Sapporo JR Station) between 8 am and 6 pm. During winter, the trip takes around 3 hours. Fare – 2100 yen (one way), 3950 yen (Return). Children under 12 – half price.
From Asahikawa / Asahikawa Airport
The “Lavender Go” bus connect Furano to the near by city of Asahikawa all year round. The bus travels via to Furano via Asahikawa Airport and takes approximately 1 hour in summer and 1.5 hours in winter. Payment is taken as you get off the bus.
By Train
Furano is easily accessed by train. Passengers must be aware they will need to change trains at least once. Airport Rapid trains operate between New Chitose Airport – Sapporo station – Asahikawa Station on an hourly basis throughout the year. Fare is 3290 yen per adult.
Additional limited express trains operate between Sapporo and Asahikawa. Fare is 2420 yen per adult. From Asahikawa station, you can change to a Local Train for the final leg to Furano (approximately 1040 yen per adult) or you can catch the “Lavender-go” bus (see bus section for more details).
Detailed Timetables are available on the JR Hokkaido Web page.