Rusutsu

Rusutsu is Hokkaido’s largest resort with a network of 37 runs spread over 3 mountains - East, West and Mt Isola. During Summer, it’s a theme park with roller coasters and a talking tree man. In Winter, skiers & boarders come from all over the world to experience the insane amount of snow and the vast terrain on offer. Rusutsu is also a popular day trip for skiers and boarders based in Niseko, who can either drive or take a shuttle bus to the resort.

Skiing in Rusutsu

Due to its location south of Mt Yotei, Rusutsu receives the huge dumps of snow from the storms coming in from the North West while being protected from the winds which assault Niseko. With the resort having many different aspects there is a lot to discover and those in the know will be able to uncover powder stashes.

You can think of the 3 mountains as catering to different skill levels. The West Mountain is the base for ski schools and snow play areas. Although it also has steep black runs. The East Mountain connected to the West by a gondola has long runs for intermediates and Mt Isola is  suitable for more advanced powder enthusiasts.

Rusutsu is well known for it’s incredible tree skiing. The trails are easily accessible with paths leading back to the main runs. Skiers & boarders taking their first steps in the trees can venture in a bit at a time without getting themselves in trouble. There is a manicured tree run area called ‘Natural’ on the West mountain. While experts get to pick from the extensive in bounds backcountry terrain at Mt Isola. Rusutsu’s groomed runs are also some of the best in Hokkaido. Wide and long - maxing at a thigh burning 3.5km. 

Rusutsu Ski Shops & Rentals

Being so remote, there aren’t many ski / snowboard shops in Rusutsu. The resort hotel has 4 Salomon / Atomic rental stations. Presumably this is to load balance when hordes of ski tourists get going in the morning. Amuse Sports close by is a cheaper option for rentals. You can reserve your gear with them using their online system.

What to eat in Rusutsu

Your choices are pretty much limited to in resort dining and a couple of small izakayas nearby. Rusutsu farms are known for their pork and lamb which they supply to the local restaurants. Taste the difference at one of the local izakayas or Genghis Khan BBQ joints.

Where to eat in Rusutsu

There is plenty of choice with 3 dining halls on slope and numerous takeaway joints, cafes and restaurants within the hotels and resort center. If you are after a more local experience, check out the Genghis Khan BBQ and nabe joints right outside the resort which open for dinner. Great food, value and good times. If you have wheels, Rusutsu pizza located in the roadside station is definitely worth a pit stop.

Where to stay in Rusutsu

In the past, accommodation options were limited to the large ski in / ski out Westin and Convention Rusutsu Hotel. More accommodation is starting to appear in Rusutsu village with pensions, lodges and capsule hotels catering to powder chasers who come this way. Some are within walking distance or the hotels can arrange for transport to and from the resort.

Things to do in Rusutsu

Post skiing, there are shops, eateries and arcades in the resort center and hotel to keep guests occupied.