Mt Furano &
Mt Kamifurano

Beautiful peaks overshadowed by their angry neighbour

Mt Furano (Japanese: 富良野岳) and the nearby Mt Kamifurano (上富良野岳) rise at the western edge of the Tokachi Volcanic Group in central Hokkaido. They form part of a broad, elegant stratovolcano whose open ridges and flower‑covered slopes make them some of the most beloved peaks in the Daisetsuzan region. Furano is a dormant nihyakumeizan* volcano shaped by long erosion rather than recent activity, giving it a gentler, more expansive form than its more dramatic neighbour, Mt Tokachi (十勝岳). The topography is defined by wide, rolling ridges, rocky outcrops and expansive upper slopes. Furano stands slightly apart from the main volcanic core, its summit overlooking both alpine terrain and the great Furano basin below. Kami-Furano is closer to Tokachi and its rugged slopes show more evidence of volcanic activity.

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Mt Furano marks the transition between the volcanic highlands of Daisetsuzan and the agricultural plains of central Hokkaido, offering one of the clearest panoramas of the region’s geography. It is also a celebrated flower mountain, especially in in early summer. As part of Daisetsuzan National Park, it forms a key link in the long ridge system connecting Kamifurano and the greater Tokachi massif.

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I especially enjoyed the variety of this hike. I started at Fukiage Onsen, climbing through forest before emerging onto open volcanic slopes, where the trail becomes a mix of gravel, rock and ridge walking. It was especially enjoyable to continue along to the dramatic volcanic landscape of Kamifurano, and looking north towards Tokachi. This ridge traverse was the highlight of the hike, with its broad ridges, flower fields and dramatic scenery.

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* 200 famous mountains of Japan

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(All information here is based on personal observations and experiences. Check official sources before planning or starting any hikes.)