Burton’s Official Guide to Snowboarding in Rusutsu

Rusutsu Resort is one of Hokkaido’s premier ski destinations, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, varied terrain, and incredible snow conditions. Just a 90-minute drive from Sapporo, it offers a fantastic winter experience with plenty of terrain, fewer crowds than Niseko, and a wide range of amenities and activities.

A Brief History

Rusutsu began as a small ski area in the 1960s, but it was in the 1980s that it truly started to grow. The development of a massive resort complex by the Kamori Kanko Group transformed Rusutsu into one of Japan’s leading winter destinations. The addition of the Rusutsu Resort Hotel in 1989 brought a new level of luxury to the area, offering a ski-in, ski-out experience along with a wide array of indoor attractions, restaurants, and even an amusement park. Over the years, Rusutsu has built a strong reputation for its quality snow, well-maintained slopes, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

A World-Class Resort with Varied Terrain

Rusutsu offers three mountains of skiing—West Mountain, East Mountain, and Mt. Isola—all connected by lifts and gondolas. With 42 kilometers (26 miles) of runs spread over 820 acres of skiable terrain, Rusutsu is one of Hokkaido’s largest ski resorts.

● West Mountain:
This area is close to the main resort complex and is perfect for beginners, families, and those wanting to enjoy a leisurely ride. It’s home to wide, gentle slopes, as well as a fun terrain park with jumps, boxes, and rails for freestyle riders.

● East Mountain and Mt. Isola:
These offer longer, more challenging runs for intermediate and advanced skiers. With some of the best tree runs and off-piste terrain in Japan, it’s a paradise for powder lovers. Mt. Isola, in particular, is known for its steeper slopes, deep powder fields, and spectacular views of Lake Toya and Mt. Yotei.

Powder and Snow Conditions

Rusutsu receives an average of 13-14 meters (42-46 feet) of snow per season, providing a steady supply of deep, dry powder throughout the winter. The resort’s north-facing slopes help maintain excellent snow quality, with light, fluffy powder that’s perfect for carving through trees and cruising down groomed runs.

Resort Facilities and Activities

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Rusutsu offers a wide range of activities and facilities, making it a true all-in-one destination. The Rusutsu Resort Hotel and The Westin Rusutsu Resort provide a variety of accommodation options, from luxury suites to more affordable rooms. The resort complex features numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering everything from traditional Japanese cuisine to international fare.

Off the slopes, Rusutsu provides a host of winter activities, including dog sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and a full-scale amusement park that transforms into a winter wonderland. There are also excellent onsen facilities within the resort, perfect for soaking your muscles after a day of skiing.

Rusutsu is perfect for those seeking a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere than Niseko, with plenty of terrain variety to keep all levels of skiers and snowboarders happy. It’s an ideal choice for both beginners looking for gentle slopes and powder enthusiasts eager to dive into deep, untouched snow. The resort’s wide-open layout, scenic beauty, and top-notch facilities make it one of Hokkaido’s most well-rounded ski destinations.

1.Direct Ski Buses from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport

● From New Chitose Airport:
The most popular way to reach Rusutsu is by taking a direct ski bus from New Chitose Airport (Sapporo’s main international airport). The ride takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Buses are frequent during the ski season, departing from both domestic and international terminals. They typically run from early morning to late afternoon to accommodate arriving flights.

● From Sapporo City:
There are also regular ski buses departing from central Sapporo (around Sapporo Station). The trip takes about 2 hours, making it a convenient option for those staying in Sapporo who want to head out for a day or multi-day trip to Rusutsu.

2. Train and Shuttle Bus Combination

Option via Kutchan Station:
If you prefer to travel by train, you can take the JR Rapid Airport train from New Chitose to Otaru Station or Kutchan Station. From Kutchan, you can then catch a connecting shuttle bus or taxi to Rusutsu Resort, which takes about 30-45 minutes. While this option is slightly longer, it offers scenic views of Hokkaido’s winter landscapes.

3. Car Rental

● From New Chitose Airport:
Renting a car is a good option for those seeking more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore multiple areas in Hokkaido. The drive from New Chitose to Rusutsu takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions. The roads are generally well-maintained, but 4WD and winter tires are highly recommended for safer driving on snowy or icy roads.

● From Sapporo City:
If you’re staying in Sapporo, renting a car is also an option, with a driving time of about 2 hours to Rusutsu Resort. Be sure to check the weather and road conditions before setting off.

4. Private Transfer Services

● If you prefer more comfort and a personalized experience, private transfer services are available from both New Chitose Airport and Sapporo. These transfers can be booked in advance, and they offer direct, door-to-door service to your accommodation at Rusutsu.

1.Ski-In, Ski-Out Convenience

● By staying at Rusutsu Resort, you’ll enjoy ski-in, and ski-out access right from your accommodation. This means more time on the slopes and less time spent on commuting or shuttles. You can hit the first lifts, take breaks in your room, and return to the slopes quickly—all without leaving the resort.

2. Less Crowded Slopes

● Rusutsu generally sees fewer crowds than Niseko, allowing you to experience more untracked powder and shorter lift lines. By staying at the resort, you can take full advantage of the lighter crowds, especially in the early mornings and on weekdays.

3. Access to All Three Mountains

● Staying on-site gives you easy access to all three mountains: West Mountain, East Mountain, and Mt. Isola. This provides a huge variety of terrain, including gentle beginner slopes, long cruisers, and exciting off-piste powder fields. There’s more time to explore the resort’s diverse runs without feeling rushed.

4. Night Skiing and Nighttime Activities

Rusutsu offers excellent night skiing on West Mountain, and being based at the resort means you can enjoy it to the fullest. After skiing, there are a variety of nighttime activities, including dining at the resort’s restaurants, unwinding in the onsen, or even exploring the winter amusement park—all without needing to travel.

5. All-Inclusive Resort Amenities

● The resort’s extensive amenities, like onsen facilities, restaurants, indoor pool, shops, and even a wave pool, are all at your fingertips when you stay on-site. You’ll have more time to relax and enjoy these facilities, adding to the overall experience of your trip.

6. Variety of Accommodation Options

● Rusutsu offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly rooms to luxury suites at the Westin Rusutsu Resort. You can choose the lodging that best suits your budget and needs, with all options offering close proximity to the lifts.

7. Snow Quality and Less Tracked Terrain

● Since fewer people ride at Rusutsu compared to Niseko, the snow tends to stay fresher longer. By staying at the resort, you can maximize your time exploring untracked powder in the sidecountry and backcountry areas, particularly on Mt. Isola.

8. Easier Logistics and More Relaxation

● Commuting from Niseko to Rusutsu can take up to 1.5 hours each way, which means losing precious ski time. Staying at Rusutsu eliminates the commute entirely, giving you more time to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other activities—and to relax after a day on the slopes.

Rusutsu Resort, nestled in Hokkaido, Japan, is renowned for its exceptional snowfall, making it a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Here's a monthly breakdown of average snowfall at Rusutsu:

● December: Approximately 103 cm

● January: Around 223 cm

● February: About 279 cm

● March: Near 253 cm

● April: Approximately 80 cm

These figures represent monthly snow accumulation averages over recent years

Skiing Hokkaido

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Cumulatively, Rusutsu receives an average annual snowfall of about 13 meters, offering consistent powder conditions throughout the ski season

Hokkaido Snow Sports

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The resort's inland location contributes to the dryness and lightness of its snow, enhancing the experience for skiers and snowboarders

Skiing Hokkaido

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Typically, the ski season at Rusutsu spans from December through April, with January and February often providing the deepest snowpacks and prime powder conditions.

For the most current snow conditions and weather forecasts, it's advisable to consult Rusutsu Resort's official website or trusted snow forecast platforms as your trip approaches.

Rusutsu, located in Hokkaido, is renowned for its exceptional powder snow, attracting skiers and snowboarders from around the globe. The snow here is typically light, dry, and fluffy, often compared to the famed "Japow" found across the island. What makes Rusutsu particularly unique is its proximity to Lake Toya, a large caldera lake just south of the resort.

This proximity creates a “lake effect” that influences local snowfall patterns. When cold air masses move over the warmer waters of Lake Toya, they pick up moisture, which then condenses and falls as snow when it reaches the colder land around Rusutsu. This process can lead to more frequent and heavier snowfall, enhancing the overall snowpack with fresh layers of moist, yet relatively light powder.

This combination of ample snowfall, consistent replenishment from lake-effect storms, and cold temperatures allows Rusutsu to maintain a deep, high-quality snowpack throughout the winter season, making it an ideal destination for those seeking world-class powder conditions.

Resort（Riding Level, Lift Open, Lift pass, URL）

・Rusutsu（Burton Store Rusutsu）

Rusutsu Resort Official Website

rusutsu.com

Rusutsu Resort, located in Hokkaido, Japan, is renowned for its extensive ski terrain, high-quality snow, and excellent facilities. Here's an overview to help you plan your visit:

● Ski Areas: The resort spans three mountains—West Mountain, East Mountain, and Mount Isola—offering a total of 37 courses suitable for beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders.
Rusutsu Resort

Lift System: Rusutsu boasts an efficient lift network, including 4 gondolas and 14 lifts, ensuring easy access to various slopes and minimizing wait times.
Rusutsu Resort

● Season Dates: The ski season typically runs from late November to early April. For the 2024/2025 season, the estimated dates are November 28, 2024, to April 6, 2025; however, these are subject to change based on weather and snowfall conditions
SnowPak

Daily Operations: Lifts generally operate from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with night skiing available until 8:00 PM. Please note that during the early season and from March 31 onwards, lifts may close at 5:00 PM
Skiing Hokkaido

Rusutsu Resort offers various lift ticket options to suit different needs:

● 5-Hour Ticket: Valid for a continuous 5-hour period from the first gate pass.

○ Adult (19-64): ¥10,000 (Online: ¥8,500)

○ Senior (65+): ¥7,200 (Online: ¥6,000)

○ Student (13-18): ¥7,200 (Online: ¥6,000)

○ Child (4-12): ¥4,300 (Online: ¥3,500)

● 1-Day Ticket: Provides access from opening until closing.

○ Adult (19-64): ¥11,500 (Online: ¥9,700)

○ Senior (65+): ¥8,600 (Online: ¥7,200)

○ Student (13-18): ¥8,600 (Online: ¥7,200)

○ Child (4-12): ¥5,700 (Online: ¥4,700)

● 25-Hour Ticket: A flexible option allowing 25 hours of access in one-hour increments, usable across multiple days during the season.

○ Adult (19-64): ¥33,000 (Online: ¥31,500)

○ Senior (65+): ¥27,500 (Online: ¥26,300)

○ Student (13-18): ¥27,500 (Online: ¥26,300)

○ Child (4-12): ¥16,500 (Online: ¥15,800)

Purchasing tickets online can offer discounts, and the 25-hour ticket provides a cost-effective and flexible option for extended stays

Rusutsu Resort

For snowboarding enthusiasts, Rusutsu Resort features a Burton Store located in the North Wing of the Rusutsu Resort Hotel & Convention. This store offers a comprehensive selection of Burton snowboarding gear, including boards, boots, apparel, and accessories. It's an excellent spot to equip yourself with top-quality gear or to test the latest models

Rusutsu Resort

● Ski Lessons: Rusutsu provides international ski and snowboard lessons in English, catering to various skill levels to enhance your experience on the slopes.
Rusutsu Resort

Accommodations: The resort offers a range of lodging options, from luxury hotels to more budget-friendly accommodations, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.
Rusutsu Resort

For the most up-to-date information and to plan your visit, please refer to the Rusutsu Resort Official Website.

Rusutsu Resort offers a diverse array of dining and entertainment venues to cater to various tastes and preferences. Here's an overview of notable options within the resort:

A casual café by day, Pub Cricket transforms into a lively pub at night, featuring its original craft beer "Rusutsu Love Beer" and a selection of grilled dishes. The relaxed atmosphere, complemented by high tables and multiple screens showcasing sports events, makes it an ideal spot for both dining and entertainment

Rusutsu Resort

Located in the South Wing of the Rusutsu Resort Hotel, Main Bar - Obrist provides an opulent setting to enjoy carefully crafted cocktails, vintage liquors, and Hokkaido’s finest whiskies. It's perfect for a relaxing evening with friends or a quiet solo drink

Rusutsu Resort

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Situated on the first floor of The Westin Rusutsu Resort, this venue offers a serene environment to unwind with a drink after a day on the slopes. The menu features a variety of cocktails, whiskies, and light snacks, making it a great place to relax and socialize.

A local winter bar known for its cozy atmosphere and extensive selection of drinks, including spirits, wine, beer, sake, rum, and whiskey. Guests can enjoy various games and activities, as well as live music shows and themed nights throughout the winter season

Tripadvisor

Day 1: Arrival & Adventure

● Morning:
Depart from Sapporo and arrive at Rusutsu Resort after a scenic drive of about 90 minutes. Upon arrival, get ready for a full day of snowboarding on Isola and East Mountain, renowned for their expansive terrain and light, dry powder snow. Spend your morning exploring these mountains’ backcountry areas and wide groomed runs, taking in the breathtaking views of Mount Yotei.

● Afternoon:
After an adrenaline-filled morning, transition to an exhilarating snowmobile adventure tour. This guided tour offers a chance to explore the untouched areas of Rusutsu’s winter wonderland while enjoying the thrill of riding across open snowfields.

● Evening:
Unwind with a hearty dinner at Pub Cricket, where you can try the resort’s original craft beer, “Rusutsu Love Beer,” and enjoy a burger or a grilled dish in a casual, lively atmosphere.
After dinner, head to the recently opened Onsen (Hot Spring) for a relaxing soak, soothing your muscles from the day's activities while taking in views of the snow-covered landscape

Day 2: West Mountain & Lake Toya

● Early Morning:
Begin your day with some early runs on West Mountain, which offers convenient ski-in/ski-out access from the hotel. The well-groomed runs here are perfect for warming up and working on your carving skills. You can also try out the terrain parks if you’re feeling adventurous.

● Afternoon:
After lunch, take a scenic drive to Lake Toya, located just a short distance from the resort. This caldera lake is famous for its serene beauty and offers picturesque winter views. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the lakeside before heading back to the resort.

● Evening:
Return to the slopes for some night snowboarding under the lights, taking advantage of the fresh tracks and different atmosphere of the illuminated runs. Wrap up the night with a visit to the Obrist Main Bar in the South Wing, where you can savor a fine selection of Hokkaido whiskies or a classic cocktail in a sophisticated, laid-back setting.

Day 3: Shopping & Departure

● Morning:
Start your final morning with a stroll along Rusutsu Resort’s Shopping Street, where you’ll find a variety of shops offering local souvenirs, sweets, and snow gear. Don’t miss a ride on the indoor Merry-Go-Round, a charming touch that adds to the resort's family-friendly atmosphere.
Visit the Burton Store to pick up some premium snowboard gear or gifts for loved ones. It's a great spot to find the latest Burton gear and exclusive Rusutsu merchandise.

● Late Morning:
Enjoy one last coffee or snack at a café before preparing to depart Rusutsu and return to Sapporo.

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Text: Neil Hartmann