Furano Dining Guide: Where to Eat in Hokkaido’s Cosy Ski Town

Make a detour from Hokkaido’s bigger-name resorts and visit Furano, a charming Japanese ski town shaped by farmers, winemakers, and families who have cared for this valley for generations.

Summer may be all about gelatos, flower fields and soft serves, while winter brings a flurry of deeply comforting dishes like soup curry that’s been perfected over decades and handmade noodles served steaming hot. Here are the top restaurants to visit to savour the very best of Furano.

Why Visit: For post-ski soup curry that warms you from the inside out

Ask anyone where to eat in Furano, and chances are they’ll say Furanoya. This local favourite is best known for its hearty soup curry that is rich, flavourful; exactly what you need after a morning on the slopes. Spice levels range from a gentle warmth to tongue-tingling fire, and you can upsize your rice portion, depending on your appetite. Go for the signature chicken-leg soup curry, or opt for the vegetable version if you’re meat-free.

Address: 1-46 Yayoicho, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0018

Reservations: Walk-in only

Why Visit: For that unmistakable old-Japan izakaya buzz

Hidden down a narrow alley, Robata is as fun and atmospheric as it gets. With glowing charcoal grills at the centre and shelves lined with sake bottles, it feels straight out of an older Japan. The menu covers all the izakaya essentials — skewers, grilled fish, and seasonal vegetables — all cooked perfectly over open flame. Book well ahead: this tiny spot fills up fast.

Address: 12-33 Hinodemachi, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0025

Reservations: +81 167-23-4776

Why Visit: For a bubbling hot pot with delicious thinly-sliced meats

An unassuming spot with a cult following, Sennari is often hailed as the best shabu shabu in Furano. The menu keeps it simple: thinly sliced beef or lamb, fresh vegetables and a bubbling broth at the centre of the table. Beloved by both locals and visitors, this must-try offers excellent value and is the ultimate winter warmer. Book well in advance, as it’s one of Furano’s most in-demand tables — and don’t forget, cash only.

Address: 1-19 Asahimachi, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0026

Reservations: +81 167-22-2376

Why Visit: For fine and fresh modern French plates, rooted in local produce 

For something a little more elevated, Furano French Take brings a Gallic sensibility to Hokkaido’s freshest local ingredients. The menu thoughtfully showcases the region’s produce from vegetables grown by area farmers to meats and cheeses sourced nearby. Reservations are relatively easy compared to other Furano favourites, and the entire restaurant can even be booked for private parties.

Address: 10-1 Saiwaicho, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0024

Reservations: +81 167-22-0385 or message on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/furano_french_take/?hl=en

Why Visit: For an elegant, kaiseki-style seafood spread

Right across from Furano station, Furano waBisuke brings a touch of fine dining to town. The focus is on seasonal ingredients — especially seafood sourced directly from Hokkaido’s fishing ports — crafted into beautifully plated dishes. The highlight is the WaSuke Kaiseki, a nine-course journey through sashimi, simmered and grilled plates, meats, rice, soup and dessert. With counter seats, tables, and private rooms, it works just as well for a quiet solo dinner as it does for a celebratory night out.

Address: 7-1 Hinodemachi, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0025

Reservations: +81 167-56-9501

Why Visit: For perfectly crisp, straight-off-the-pan gyoza

Step into this no-frills spot, where you’ll be met with warm smiles and the irresistible aroma of sizzling gyoza. Stuffed with local vegetables and minced pork, wrapped in delicate dough and pan-fried to golden crispness, Shirona’s dumplings are a Furano favourite. Dip them in the house-made sauce and pair with your drink of choice — whether that’s a draught beer, a crisp highball or a Japanese whisky or sake.

Address: 7-20 Hinodemachi, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0025

Reservations: +81 167-56-9467

Additional text by Kissa Castañeda and Marbbie Tagabucba