Rusutsu

Powder & tree skiing heaven in Hokkaido

If you would like a quieter option than Niseko, Snowscene highly recommends staying further afield in beautiful Rusutsu (30-40 min drive from Hirafu). Rusutsu ski resort stretches across 3 main mountains: West, East & Isola. Rusutsu resort complex is at the base of West Mountain where the beginner areas, night skiing and some of Japan’s best tree skiing can be found here. For longer runs and more advanced terrain head over to Isola and East Mountains.

On average this ski resort gets 10-14 metres per season, one of the snowiest places in Hokkaido! As the resort is protected by the trees, it has a high open rate rarely closed days more time on the slopes for you.

Rusutsu’s 1,000 acres of lift accessed off-piste terrain, with powder and tree skiing easily ranks alongside the best in the world. Snowscene also gives Rusutsu the tick of approval for its diverse terrain suitable for snowboarders and skiers of all abilities. The well-developed lift infrastructure is also worthy of mention. Rusutsu ski resort has 19 lifts (4 gondolas and 5 fast quad chairs with hoods which make it much easier to stay warm).

Rusutsu now has a kids ski school, children 4-14 years can now go into English speaking ski school which is new since 2024. Also a brand new kids snow park. The children’s groups are structured from 4-7 and 8-14 years, outside of this there are private lessons and mountain guides available. All of which must be pre booked as part of your Snowscene Travel Specialist as the ski instructors do book out with growing demand of this ski resort and call out for lessons. For children not yet of skiing age there is a nursey however this runs on set days and sells out quickly so parents can also enjoy their day on the slopes.

Rusutsu is a resort destination with outstanding facilities including an indoor wave pool & spa, 3 onsens & spas, over 20 restaurants and bars located within two main hotels, Rusutsu Resort Hotel & The Westin Rusutsu Resort and a few outside in the small village. Restaurants rang from buffet, to fine dining, gourmet high end sushi & sashimi and for the adults whisky bars & craft beer to enjoy.

During peak periods of ski season there is live music and jazz most nights from 7pm and in festive season times fireworks. Children can join in and ski in the torchlight descent which will be a lifelong memory for the whole family not just the kids. There are also experiences in which you can join in and learn about the Japanese culture with Japanese calligraphy, painting and tea ceremonies.

When you aren’t on the slopes you can enjoy snow drifting, ice fishing, snow rafting, dog sledding, horse sleigh rides, snowmobile and even a snow tent sauna and BBQ in an igloo. It is recommended to pre book these amazing experiences so you don’t miss out.