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Rusutsu is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, particularly in winter. In addition to winter sports, you can enjoy hiking, zip-lining, and exploring the Rusutsu Resort, which has various attractions including an amusement park and hot springs. The resort also offers scenic views of Mount Yotei and Lake Toya.
Rusutsu Ski Resort is the largest ski resort in Hokkaido. It is only a half-hour drive from Sapporo. Rusutsu Ski Resort is located in the southwest of Hokkaido and is a ski resort familiar to ski enthusiasts.
Hokkaido's largest ski resort is located here in winter, while summer offers opportunities for golf and amusement park experiences. This massive resort boasts world-class ski slopes, exciting snowboarding, banana boat rides, sledding, and more. With 37 trails across three snow-capped mountains, it's perfect for all levels of skiing, from beginners to veterans.
Rusutsu Resort is the largest single ski resort in Hokkaido (Niseko United consists of four ski resorts and can only be regarded as a ski area). It has 37 ski slopes with a total length of 42 kilometers. It consists of three slopes: Higashiyama, Nishiyama and Isola. It is considered a large ski resort in Japan.
Rusutsu holds several firsts in Hokkaido. Besides being the largest ski resort, it also boasts top-tier lifts and a top-tier capacity. Most importantly, compared to Niseko, it's less crowded and quieter, with more snow and more fun. With its light, floaty powder, comprehensive resort facilities, a wealth of instructors, and a children's playground, coupled with its proximity to Sapporo, it's an unparalleled choice for a Hokkaido ski vacation.
Temperate maritime climate; the best time to travel is from December to April.
It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours
One-day ski pass 5,000 yen/person
10:00～16:30
Rusutsu, located in Hokkaido, Japan, is renowned for its excellent ski resorts. The area has become a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts due to its consistent snowfall and variety of slopes. Beyond winter, it offers a range of outdoor activities, making it a year-round destination for adventure seekers.
Rusutsu is located on the island of Hokkaido, Japan. It is approximately 80 km from Sapporo, and the easiest way to reach it is by bus or taxi from New Chitose Airport. Alternatively, you can take a train from Sapporo to Rusutsu Station and then a short taxi ride to the resort.
The resort is open year-round, but the best time to visit for skiing and snowboarding is during the winter months, from December to March. Summer is great for hiking and outdoor activities, with pleasant weather from June to September.
For skiing, ticket prices for lift passes vary depending on the season, ranging from ¥4,000 to ¥8,000 per day. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online via the resort’s official website. Other attractions like the amusement park may require separate admission fees.
It’s recommended to book tickets for ski passes and other attractions in advance, particularly during peak seasons like Christmas and New Year. Booking 1 to 2 weeks ahead should be sufficient, but for peak times, booking a month in advance is advisable.
A visit to Rusutsu can last anywhere from 1 to 3 days, depending on whether you are there for skiing, outdoor activities, or just exploring the resort. A day is typically enough for skiing, but you may want additional time to enjoy hiking or other attractions.
The main highlights are the ski slopes and the Rusutsu Resort itself, which includes an amusement park, a variety of restaurants, and relaxing hot springs. Also, don’t miss the stunning views of Mount Yotei and nearby Lake Toya.
Guided tours are available, particularly during the summer for hiking. These are typically offered in Japanese and English, but availability may vary depending on the season.
The best viewpoints are from the ski slopes where you can capture the panoramic views of Mount Yotei. In summer, hiking trails around the area offer fantastic photo opportunities of the surrounding nature and Lake Toya.
For skiers, start your day with the ski lifts, enjoying the slopes early in the morning. Afterward, take a break at one of the resort's cafés. In the afternoon, explore the amusement park or relax in the hot springs. If visiting during the summer, a hike around the nearby mountains or a boat tour on Lake Toya makes for a great afternoon activity.
There are no specific night light shows, but the resort offers nighttime skiing on some slopes during winter. The amusement park also stays open in the evening during peak seasons. Special winter events like fireworks can also occur, depending on the time of year.
Rusutsu can be crowded during the peak winter season, particularly around Christmas and New Year. To avoid the crowds, visit in early December or late March, when the ski slopes are still good but fewer tourists are around. Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends.
The resort offers plenty of facilities including restrooms, food courts, water fountains, and a selection of shops selling ski gear and souvenirs. There are also multiple restaurants catering to various tastes, from quick bites to more upscale dining options.
Yes, Rusutsu is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available at most key locations. There are also activities suited for children, such as the amusement park and easy slopes for beginners.
Cards and mobile payments (like Apple Pay and Google Pay) are widely accepted at most locations within Rusutsu. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or outdoor activities.
There are several dining options within Rusutsu Resort, ranging from casual cafés to upscale restaurants offering both Japanese and international cuisine. Nearby, in the town of Rusutsu, there are additional local eateries serving Hokkaido specialties like fresh seafood and ramen.
There are vegetarian and vegan options at most restaurants within the resort, but halal options may be limited. It’s advisable to check with restaurants in advance to confirm availability of halal meals.
Rusutsu Resort offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, lodges, and ski-in/ski-out resorts. Nearby, there are additional hotels in the town of Rusutsu, providing options for all budgets.
Nearby attractions include Lake Toya, famous for its hot springs and scenic beauty. The Noboribetsu Onsen, a famous hot spring area, is also within a short drive, as well as the stunning Mount Yotei.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops within Rusutsu Resort selling ski gear, local crafts, and Hokkaido specialty foods. Typical souvenirs include handcrafted goods, souvenirs featuring Mount Yotei, and local confectionery.
After visiting Rusutsu, you can take a bus or taxi to nearby towns such as Sapporo, Noboribetsu, or Lake Toya. Rental cars are also a good option for exploring the region at your own pace.
