Rusutsu Ski Resort ルスツリゾート
Hokkaido Powder
Located 70 km from Sapporo, Rusutsu is the largest ski resort on the island of Hokkaido: winter sports and winter sports enthusiasts will easily find what they are looking for in winter.
The small station of Rusutsu is located 75 km southwest of Sapporo , capital of Hokkaido. The northernmost island of the Japanese archipelago is indeed famous for its many ski areas, the best known to foreigners being probably Niseko , located nearby. Rusutsu enjoys good average snow cover of 13 meters per year and is highly appreciated by the Japanese for the quality of its powder snow. It is also less popular than Niseko, quickly invaded by crowds in winter.
The Rusutsu ski area covers no less than three mountains : Mount Isola, West Mountain and East Mountain. This resort enjoys a very relaxed family atmosphere , thanks in particular to the many activities offered alongside the ski slopes. Finally, note that in 2017 the resort won the "Prize for the best ski resort in Japan", organized by the World Ski Awards.
- To read: The mountain in Japan
The resort and its slopes
Equipped with 19 lifts and 37 trails , Rusutsu can be skied from 400 to 994 meters above sea level from late November to late April. The resort offers beautiful groomed slopes, perfect for beginners and intermediate skiers, but will also delight seasoned skiers with beautiful off-piste routes and between the trees.
42 kilometers of slopes are available, including 10 slopes for beginners and 15 for expert skiers. 40% of the slopes are intended for skiers with an intermediate level.
Everyone will be able to admire the splendid landscapes from the slopes , to the snow-capped mountains on the horizon.
In addition, my quality of the powder, of the slopes between the trees, and the combination of these two assets, in particular, offer snowboarders a very appreciable experience.
- To discover: Skiing in Japan
Varied activities
Apart from sliding sports on the slopes, the resort also offers a wide range of activities to enjoy the snow with family or friends.
Hiking , snowshoeing or cross-country skiing will allow you to discover the surroundings, up to nearby Lake Toya. A great way to enjoy the snow and the views the region has to offer.
Children and adults can also go horseback riding , but also try an original activity: dog sledding .
The more adventurous will enjoy discovering the snowmobile , but also the snow scooter ("snowbike"), more acrobatic. A 30-minute beginner's snowmobile session will cost you 7000 yen (55€).
For a fun activity with friends, " Snow rafting " awaits you. Towed by a snowmobile in a canoe, like a towed buoy, it's a great feeling of guaranteed speed! Finally, more "manual" activities such as ice fishing are also offered. Indoors, sports enthusiasts can also try their hand at rock climbing and take advantage of the gym. And in summer, Rusutsu remains open thanks to its large amusement park !
- Read also: Top activities to do in winter in Japan
To stay on site, the estate is home to two large hotels offering all the necessary comfort, but also apartment residences and even log cabins for rent.
To get to Rusutsu, a free shuttle bus between downtown Sapporo and the station is available to customers. From New Chitose airport, the station is accessible in 2 hours via a bus to be booked in advance.
Address, timetable & access
Address
Phone
+81 (0)136-46-3111Price
Day pass: 5,900 yen (46€)Half-day pass: 4,600 yen (36€)Half-price for children under 12Website
https://www.hokkaido-rusutsu.com/en-gb