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Things To Do in Rusutsu
In Rusutsu Resort the most popular thing to do is skiing and snowboarding but there are many more activities including snowmobiling, snow rafting, dog sledding, nature tours and ice fishing. You can also enjoy scenic guided tours, and unique activities like snow train rides and tent saunas. Japan Ski Experience is a Rusutsu accommodation specialist, with one of the largest selections of stays.
Top Things to Do in Rusutsu
- Skiing and snowboarding
- Snowmobile rides
- Snow rafting
- Dog sledding
- Snow train rides
- Nature snow tours
- Winter river rafting
- Ice fishing
- Snow drifting & driving experiences
- Horse riding
- Tent sauna & snow dive
- Onsen
Skiing & Snowboarding
Rusutsu Resort is considered one of the best ski resorts in Japan with excellent powder, groomed runs, tree runs, and easy lift access.
- Best for: Skiers & snowboarders of all levels
- Where: Rusutsu Resort base area
- Time needed: Half day to full day
- Booking needed: Recommended (lift passes, rental, lessons)
Snowmobile Rides
Rusutsu’s snowmobile tours let you ride across wide snowfields, birch forests, and off-track terrain with professional guides. Tours vary in length from 30 minutes to 2 hours and include options for beginners and more experienced riders.
- Best for: Adventure seekers, groups, families with older children (13+)
- Where: Snow Activity Land, Rusutsu Resort
- Time needed: 30 minutes to 2 hours (depending on course)
- Booking needed: Yes (advance reservation strongly recommended)
Snow Rafting
Snow rafting is a family-friendly winter ride where you sit in an inflatable raft towed by a snowmobile across the snowfields. It’s a fun way to experience speed and snowy landscape with minimal effort.
- Best for: Families, mixed groups
- Where: Snow Activity Land, Rusutsu Resort
- Time needed: ~10–15 minutes per ride
- Booking needed: Yes
Dog Sledding
Experience the excitement of dog sledding as a team of dogs pulls you along a snowy course. It’s quick, exhilarating and suitable for many ages.
- Best for: Families, animal lovers, first-time winter explorers
- Where: Dog sledding course near Snow Activity Land
- Time needed: ~15–20 minutes total
- Booking needed: Yes (advance required)
Snow Train Ride
The snow train offers a relaxed, scenic ride across the snowfields behind a large snowmobile, perfect for casual sightseeing without skiing.
- Best for: All ages, non-skiers, scenic views
- Where: Snow Activity Land, Rusutsu Resort
- Time needed: ~10–15 minutes
- Booking needed: No (walk-up available in season)
Nature Snow Tours
Guided nature tours on snowshoes take you through rusutsu’s winter forest, with opportunities to spot wildlife tracks and learn about the snowy landscape. Tours usually include a short break with refreshments.
- Best for: Nature lovers, non-skiers, rest days
- Where: Forest trails around Rusutsu Resort
- Time needed: ~2 hours
- Booking needed: Yes
Winter River Rafting
This gentle rafting trip takes you down the Shiribetsu River on a rubber boat (not whitewater), showcasing serene winter scenery and snow-covered riverbanks.
- Best for: Scenic tours, non-skiers, rest days
- Where: Shiribetsu River (meeting point at Snow Activity Land)
- Time needed: ~1–1.5 hours
- Booking needed: Yes
Ice Fishing
Try ice fishing on a frozen pond with rainbow trout under the ice. Tents and gear are provided, letting you fish comfortably even in cold conditions.
- Best for: Families with older children (5+), groups looking for a mellow outdoor activity
- Where: Ice fishing pond near Rusutsu Resort
- Time needed: ~2–3 hours (including travel)
- Booking needed: Yes
Snow Drifting & Driving Experiences
Rusutsu offers snow drifting and snow driving experiences where you can ride along or learn to drift a car on a snow/ice course with professional guidance.
- Best for: Thrill seekers
- Where: Snow drifting course near Riverwood Golf Course (Rusutsu area)
- Time needed: ~4 mins per ride | up to ~1 hour for driving courses
- Booking needed: Yes
Horse Riding - Lake Toya
Enjoy horseback riding with views of Lake Toya on guided rides suitable for beginners and families. Free transport to the ranch is included.
- Best for: Families, scenic non-snow activities
- Where: Lake Toya Ranch (transport provided)
- Time needed: ~2 hours (including travel)
- Booking needed: Yes
Tent Sauna & Kamakura Snow Dive
This unique seasonal experience combines a tent sauna with a cold plunge into snow — a contrast bathing experience that finishes with warm onsen access at The Westin Rusutsu Resort.
- Best for: Relaxation
- Where: Snow Activity Land / The Westin Rusutsu Resort
- Time needed: ~1.5–2 hours
- Booking needed: Yes
Onsen & Wellness
Rusutsu has two onsens on site for post-ski relaxation and bath experiences. Taking a dip in an onsen is a great way to relax after a day on the slopes.
- Best for: Non-ski days, recovery, couples
- Where: Hotel onsen facilities within Rusutsu Resort
- Time needed: 1–2 hours
- Booking needed: Varies by facility
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Rusutsu Guides & Information
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Rusutsu besides skiing?
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, popular Rusutsu activities include snowmobile rides, snow rafting, dog sledding, snow train rides, nature tours, ice fishing, snow drifting, and wellness experiences.
Are there good options for non-skiers in Rusutsu?
Yes. Non-skiers can enjoy snowmobiling, snow rafting, snow train scenic rides, dog sledding, nature tours, winter river trips, ice fishing, and resort dining.
What are the best things to do in Rusutsu on a rest day?
Rest-day favourites include nature snow tours, ice fishing, snow train rides, tent sauna + snow dive, day visits to onsen facilities, and leisurely dining in resort cafés.
Which Rusutsu activities are best for families?
Family favourites include snow rafting, dog sledding, snow train rides, snowmobile rides (two-seat), snow play zones, and gentle nature tours. Always check age requirements for each activity.
Do I need to book activities in advance?
Many Rusutsu resort snow activities require advance booking (snowmobile rides, dog sledding, nature tours, winter river trips, tent sauna), especially during peak season (Dec–Feb). Some activities (e.g., snow train rides) accept walk-ups.
Are there activities suitable for children?
Yes. Snow rafting, dog sledding (certain ages), snow train rides, and beginner snow play areas are well suited to children. Always check age and safety requirements for specific activities.
Is ice fishing appropriate for beginners?
Yes. Ice fishing at Rusutsu includes guidance and equipment, making it suitable for first-timers and visitors without prior fishing experience.
When is the best time to visit Rusutsu for winter activities?
Rusutsu’s winter season typically runs from December to early April. January and February are popular for snow conditions, while festival season in early February can be a good time to combine skiing with events in Sapporo.
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