Summer & Autumn in Niseko and Furano: Your Guide to Hiking, Flowers & Fall Colors

While famous for its winter powder, Hokkaido transforms into a lush paradise outside of the snowy months. The green season in Niseko and Furano reveals a stunning landscape of emerald fields, accessible mountain trails, and wildflower-covered hills, followed by a breathtaking display of golden autumn foliage. This guide will show you the best of summer and autumn in Hokkaido, from iconic flower fields to serene forest hikes, helping you plan a memorable escape with H2Life.

1. Summer Highlights in Niseko & Furano

Summer brings comfortable cool climates, perfect for immersing yourself in the great outdoors.

Hiking for All Levels: The region offers trails for every ability.

• Niseko Annupuri: As the main peak, a hike to the summit (1.5-2 hours one-way) rewards you with breathtaking views of Mt. Yotei and the potential to see a stunning "sea of clouds" at sunrise. The official climbing season runs from June to October.‍
• Family-Friendly Trails: For a more accessible option, the trail up Mt. Iwaonupuri (approx. 2 hours round trip) offers panoramic views, while the wooden footpaths of Shinsen-numa Marsh provide a flat, easy walk perfect for all ages.

Vibrant Flower Fields: Summer is synonymous with stunning floral displays in Furano.

• Lavender Fields: Farm Tomita in Nakafurano is the iconic destination, where lavender typically peaks from early July to early August . The Irodori Field at the same farm creates a rainbow with multiple flower species from mid-to-late July.‍
• Panoramic Flower Fields: For a wider variety, Shikisai-no-oka in Biei offers expansive, colorful flower fields with a backdrop of the Daisetsu mountain range from spring through autumn.

Outdoor Activities

Niseko is a hub for adrenaline-pumping adventures like whitewater rafting and lift-served mountain biking, while Furano offers more serene, scenic experiences on calm lakes and picturesque cycling routes.

Mountain Biking and Cycling‍

• ‍In Niseko: The mountain biking is lift-served and trail-focused. Resorts like Grand Hirafu and Hanazono operate their gondolas in summer, providing access to a network of professionally built trails, from gentle "green" runs for beginners to technical "black diamond" trails for experts. For those who prefer a longer ride, the Twin Peaks area offers kilometers of free, dedicated mountain bike trails.
• In Furano: The experience is centered on scenic exploration. The Furano Biei Cycling Course spans approximately 80 km through the towns of Furano, Nakafurano, and Kamifurano, offering breathtaking rides through lavender fields, farms, and rolling hills. E-bikes are a popular rental option to effortlessly cover the distance and enjoy the views.

Rafting in Niseko

The Shiribetsu River, renowned for its clear water, is the centerpiece of Niseko's rafting scene. The experience changes with the seasons:

• Spring (approx. April-June): High water from snowmelt creates powerful, high-adrenaline Class 3-4 rapids, typically for teens and adults.‍
• Summer (approx. June-October): Water levels recede, offering milder, family-friendly Class 2 rapids suitable for younger children. Operators run specific "Family Rafting" tours on calmer sections for children as young as three.

Kayaking and Canoeing

• In Furano: The experience centers on peaceful, calm-water exploration. Lake Kanayama offers guided canoeing tours lasting approximately 1.5 hours, perfect for beginners and families looking to enjoy Hokkaido's graceful nature from the water.
• In Niseko: The adventure takes on a more dynamic character. River kayaking and "Ducky" tours on the Shiribetsu River provide a personal and challenging way to navigate the rapids.

Summer BBQ

The Ultimate Summer Experience: After a day of adventure, experience Hokkaido’s green season with a relaxed outdoor BBQ at your H2 Life stay — we provide the equipment, you bring the flavours.

2. Chasing Autumn Colors: A Hokkaido Fall Foliage Guide

Autumn in Hokkaido is a spectacular display of nature, with vibrant koyo (fall colors) painting the landscapes of Niseko and Furano in shades of red, orange, and gold. The season starts as early as mid-September in the high mountains, creating a long window for leaf-peeping adventures through October.

Vibrant Fall Colors (Koyo)

The autumn foliage in Hokkaido is one of Japan's earliest and most brilliant. The vibrant transformation sweeps down from the peaks of Daisetsuzan National Park to the forests surrounding Lake Toya, offering a long season for viewing.

Perfect Mild Weather

The season brings cool, comfortable days with crisp air, creating the ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. It's the perfect weather for hiking, photography, and scenic drives without the summer humidity or winter chill.

Unforgettable Photography Spots

From the reflective surfaces of Lake Toya to the volcanic craters of Onuma Quasi-National Park, the region is a paradise for photographers. Capture stunning shots of fiery maple trees against the backdrop of Mt. Yotei or the serene beauty of Onuma Park's iconic bridges and islands.

3. The Perfect Base for Your Longer Seasonal Stay

Summer and autumn are ideal for an extended Hokkaido holiday, offering a peaceful retreat with unparalleled natural beauty. A longer stay allows you to fully immerse yourself in the rhythm of the green and golden seasons.

Summer and autumn in Niseko and Furano offers:

• Tranquil Surroundings: Experience Niseko and Furano without the winter crowds, enjoying a sense of peace and solitude.
• Breathing Natural Views: Wake up to panoramic views of lush green valleys or golden autumn forests right from your window.‍
• Comfortable Temperatures: Enjoy the mild, pleasant climate perfect for all-day outdoor activities.

Ideal for Relaxed Long Stays: Many H2 Life accommodations include full kitchens, in-unit laundry, and spacious living areas — providing the comfort and convenience of a home away from home. Take advantage of our exclusive off-season offers, with savings of up to 80% on long stay bookings.