Rusutsu Resort, Hokkaido, Japan is EPIC

Emma Wilson 14.05.2025

Hokkaido’s premier all-season destination

Just 90 minutes from New Chitose Airport, Rusutsu resort receives an average of 14 metres of light, dry powder each season. With three mountain peaks, beautiful tree skiing, extensive side country, and short lift queues, it’s a paradise for skiers and snowboarders.

Japan’s Best Ski Resort

Rusutsu Resort has been honoured with the title of Japan’s Best Ski Resort five times, in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, and most recently in 2024. This achievement marks it as the first ski resort in Japan to receive this accolade five times.The Vale Rusutsu hotel within the resort was awarded Japan’s Best Ski Hotel 2024, highlighting the resort’s commitment to providing top-tier accommodation. Rusutsu has also won awards from skiresort.info for Top Slope Offering, Top Snow Reliability Top Slope Preparation Top Staff Friendliness Top Resort for Families Top for Beginners, Top for Advanced Skiers/Freerides Top Snow Park Offering and Top Eco-friendly Operations.

Bring your Epic pass

Rusutsu Resort is a proud partner of the Epic Pass and a winner of the World Ski Award for Japan’s Best Ski Resort. Epic Pass holders receive five consecutive days of lift pass use, making Rusutsu a top choice for international travellers seeking world-class snow.

Great for families

Families will appreciate the ski schools and slopes in the outdoors as well as enjoy a wide range of activities, such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, snow rafting, or relax in a tent sauna followed by a plunge in the snow to cool down.

Indoors, why not try local crafting and Japanese cooking experiences?

Rusutsu has a range of accommodation—from luxury hotels to ski-in/ski-out apartments. With eight restaurants, cozy cafés, craft beer and whisky bars, and a lively shopping street, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, Rusutsu offers an unforgettable winter experience in the heart of Hokkaido.