New international lifestyle retreat Nozo Hotel is presenting a new season of spring and summer attractions at Hokkaido’s picturesque rural town of Furano.
As the ski season comes to an end, the homely new 78-room resort hotel transforms from a powder paradise winter ski resort to a delightful year-round escape amid the rolling hills and alpine pastures of central Hokkaido.
With the snow melting in spring, gushing rivers attract thrill-seekers for heart-pumping white water river rafting and kayaking along the Sorachi River—or laid-back paddling and canoeing with a guide in gentle stretches.
For those who fancy mountain sports, the Yubari and Tokachidake mountain ranges towering over Furano are networked with ancient trails of glorious, and some of the world’s most exhilarating mountain bike tracks. From May to June, a variety of activities and ceremonies are held at trailheads to celebrate the beginning of this year’s mountaineering season.
Surrounded by mountains, Furano is blessed with a unique basin climate. Great temperature variations between day and night significantly improve the sweetness in locally grown vegetables, harvested from Furano’s fertile soil.
During the summer season, especially between late May and late August, don’t miss Furano’s famous Yubari melon, renowned for its rich, refreshing, sweet flavors and succulent texture. A more interesting way to explore Furano is to visit a local farm for a fun fruit and vegetable-picking experience.
In this beautiful season, Furano also welcomes visitors with a mirage of flowers that begin blooming in May with lupines and tulips, and then blue salvia and poppies in June. The much-anticipated, dreamy lavender season starts in late June, and mid-July to early August will see the violet flowers in full bloom extending into the horizon.
For a spectacular view of vast lavender fields, visit popular spots such as Farm Tomita, Choei Lavender Farm & Nakafurano Flower Park, Hinode Lavender Garden, and Highland Furano, all not far away from the hotel. From mid-July, the annual blooming of lavender fields is also celebrated with stage shows, fireworks, and a colorful lantern parade through the town.
For the ultimate bird’s eye view of Furano’s natural beauty, nothing beats flying over in a hot-air balloon, drifting serenely and silently over a feast of seasonal colors, forests, and flowing rivers from the majestic mountains—comprehensively capturing the spectacular views of this destination for all seasons in a one-of-a-kind experience.
Guests who stay at Nozo Hotel can book directly through the hotel to experience a wide array of local activities. Meanwhile, hotel guests can also enjoy the property’s extensive facilities, from the spacious Sugi Spa to in-house dining menus featuring specialty ingredients from nearby fields and pastures. The retreat immerses both international and Japanese guests in the charms of Furano.
Guests booking directly via the hotel’s website for a 3-night consecutive stay for stays until 31 Aug. 31 will receive 20 percent off the regular price if they book 30 days in advance with the last booking day being Aug. 1.
Visit nozohotel.com for more information.