The Japanese island of Hokkaido is best known to people outside Japan as a winter destination full of powdery ski slopes. But it is also the perfect getaway in the warmer months. One spot in particular, overflowing with idyllic backdrops and great food, has long flown under the radar of international travellers.
The city of Furano, near the centre of the island, is known for its amazing local produce. Visitors can enjoy local restaurants or, if they are staying in a serviced apartment with a fully equipped kitchen, buy ingredients and cook their own meals.
“Furano is where families rediscover what summer holidays should be all about: quality time,” says Patrick Ohtani, chief operating officer of Luxe Nomad Japan, “whether it be cycling through lavender fields, dining on farm-to-table fresh Hokkaido produce, or hiking outdoors and enjoying watersports, all in a much cooler climate than Tokyo.”
Part of The Luxe Nomad, Asia-Pacific’s largest luxury holiday rental management company, Luxe Nomad Japan manages Fenix West, a serviced apartment property in Furano.
A kitchen area in one of the units at Fenix West in Furano, Hokkaido. Photo: Fenix WestOhtani says the company has seen summer bookings increase by 20 per cent in the last year because travellers are choosing more grounded experiences over checking boxes at overcrowded tourist sites.
AloJapan.com