Rusutsu Resort

Rusutsu Resort is a large winter sports destination and amusement park on the island of Hokkaido, spread across multiple peaks. The facility connects three main mountains through a network of gondolas and lifts, with runs for all skill levels.

The facility started as a smaller ski area in the late 1970s and grew over several decades into a year-round recreation destination. Today it stands as one of the most recognized winter sports sites in northern Japan.

The name comes from the local word for water or stream, reflecting the landscape of the area. The resort presents itself today with Western-style hotels while combining international standards with Japanese service traditions.

The season usually runs from late fall to early spring, while the amusement park opens in summer. Shuttle buses operate from the airport and nearby city, taking about an hour and a half to arrive.

Snow conditions here are among the most consistent in Hokkaido, allowing runs through open forest between the trees. The gondolas between mountains offer clear views of surrounding volcanoes during the ride.