What to Wear and Bring for a River Trip in Furano
The question we hear most from first-timers is a simple one: what should I wear? Here's how to think about clothing and kit for a river activity in the Furano area.
First rule: follow the details you're sent when you book
The important thing to understand is that what you wear and bring changes with the trip and the season. On the same river, early summer and late summer differ in both water and air temperature. Whether equipment is provided varies from one trip to another too.
So the safe approach is simply to follow the list you're given when you book. At HOO, we send full details of what to wear and bring for your day.
A few principles worth knowing
That said, some things hold true for river trips generally.
- Assume you'll get wet. On the water, you will catch some spray at the very least. Don't wear or carry anything you'd hate to soak.
- Cotton stays wet. Wet cotton pulls heat out of you, which is why synthetics are the usual choice on the river.
- Hokkaido's rivers run cold. Even in midsummer, most people find the water colder than they expected. Ask when you book how best to stay warm.
- Have a plan for valuables. Work out in advance what happens to your phone and wallet, and how things are looked after at the meeting point.
Handy extras
A change of clothes and a towel for afterwards are needed on almost any river trip. If you're driving, a plastic bag for wet things is worth having too.
When in doubt, just ask
What do I do about glasses? Are contact lenses okay? For the small stuff, ask the operator directly. At HOO, we're happy to answer questions before your trip through the contact form or by phone.
You can read more about our river trips in Furano on the Furano Relax Downriver page.
Ready to experience Furano?
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Furano Relax Downriver
Our flagship river activity: a boat trip down the rivers of Furano, taking in the scenery from water level alongside an experienced guide.
- Price
- JPY 7,700per person, tax included
- Minimum group size
- From 2 people