© Ninja Ski Packages Japan
Ninja Ski Packages

Mountain Facts

Number of lifts 18 Number of courses 36 Vertical 595 mtrs Highest point 994 mtrs Steepest run 40 c Difficulty o Advanced 30% o Intermediate 41% o Beginner 29% Annual snowfall 14.5 mtrs Night ski Yes Terrain park Yes Kid’s park Yes Kiddies daycare Yes
Rusutsu Ski Resort Japan  Image courtesy of Rusutsu Ski Resort    Click to see larger image

Rusutsu Ski Resort

Hokkaido, Japan

Some would say Rusutsu ski resort is Niseko's little sister. It does bear many similarities; incredible tree and off piste runs, semmingly endless top ups of powder overnight and a great choice of runs. However it is far less crowded than Niseko so not only is there less time in the queues, also the snow stays untracked longer. None of the runs are that steep, meaning it is a good place for intermediate riders to get the hang of off piste skiing. Rusutsu is actually 3 mountains and there are many lifts providing fast modern access. Mt East probably has the best lines but Mt Isola also has many good ones too including Heavenly Ridge and Steamboat B which both provide great fall line riding. There is very little in the way of budget accomodation so your best bet is to do a day trip/s from Niseko. A good way to see Rusutsu, Niseko and other resorts is to book one of the tours (see left) or you can do a guided off piste day trip. Guided day trip from Niseko 10 day Hokkaido Unplugged tour 11 day Ultimate powder tour" tour

Rusutsu Ski Resort Reviews

Guide
Powder Hunter ¥15,900
1 day guided tour This day trip from Niseko will take you to the back bowls of Niseko if conditions permit otherwise it will take you off piste to another ski resort such as Rusutsu or Kiroro.
Ultimate Powder ¥329,000
11 day hosted tour Chasing Japow all over Hokkaido 10 nights accommodation 8 guided ski days 7 days lift tickets All transfers Furano,Asahidake, Kamui Tomamu, Niseko back bowls Shiribetsu or Rusutsu Sapporo Kokusai, Backcountry gear
Power tour  ¥249,000
8 day hard core tour for advanced riders 7 nights accommodation 6 day guided days 1 way airport transfer Resort transfers Roadside pillow lines 2 backcountry guides Max 8 guests