Guida
Rusutsu Resort is one of the world's leading snow resorts located in Rusutsu Village, Hokkaido. It has achieved international acclaim, winning the 'Best Ski Resort in Japan' category at the 2025 World Ski Awards for a record-breaking 6th time. The vast area consists of three peaks (West Mt., East Mt., and Mt. Isola) and features 4 gondolas and 14 lifts, offering 37 diverse courses suitable for everyone from beginners to advanced skiers. Due to its geographical position southeast of Mt. Yotei, the resort is famous for its high-quality, light-weight dry powder snow.
The development of Rusutsu Resort dates back to 1972. Originally starting as the 'Yamato Rusutsu Ski Resort,' it has evolved through various management changes and is currently operated by the Kamori Kanko Group. It has developed into a year-round resort that includes an amusement park, golf course, and luxury accommodations, rather than just a seasonal ski area. The history of its strategic development to maximize winter tourism and contribute to the local economy has established its status as a premier leisure facility in Hokkaido.
The greatest appeal of Rusutsu Resort lies in its diverse terrain and exceptional snow quality. Each of the three areas—West Mt., East Mt., and Mt. Isola—offers a unique character. The course layout ranges from wide, gentle slopes for beginners to aggressive runs that satisfy advanced enthusiasts. Additionally, due to the climate near the Pacific coast, on clear days, visitors can enjoy a stunning contrast between the beautiful white powder and the bright blue sky. Whether skiing or snowboarding, the time spent within the resort facilities is a special experience in itself.
The winter season (starting mid-November) is the best time to enjoy authentic winter sports. January and February are particularly recommended, as they offer the most significant snow accumulation and the highest expectations for exquisite dry powder. In contrast, during the summer, the summit of West Mountain opens as the 'Yotei Panorama Terrace,' allowing visitors to enjoy different scenery throughout the four seasons. At night, the illuminated slopes and the glowing scenery of the resort provide a magical atmosphere.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers comprehensive snow schools. There are SAJ (Ski Association of Japan) certified ski schools and JSBA (Japan Snowboard Association) certified snowboard schools to help you improve your skills. Following your runs, you can relax at the hot spring facilities based on the 'Rusutsu Wellness' concept. The resort also features various shopping and dining options, allowing for a complete, high-end resort lifestyle including dining and leisure.
The resort offers diverse accommodation options, such as the Westin Rusutsu Resort and the North & South Wing Hotel. Furthermore, the resort is located near famous hot spring areas like Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Onsen, making it an excellent base for exploring Hokkaido. It is easily accessible, located approximately 90 minutes by car from Sapporo city and New Chitose Airport.
When visiting in winter, high-performance thermal wear, gloves, goggles, and a helmet are essential. For those without gear, the 'Salomon & Atomic Rental Station' provides the latest equipment. For payments, major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) are widely accepted alongside cash. To accommodate international visitors, English signage and English-speaking staff are available to ensure a smooth experience.