Activities & Tours
Rusutsu Activities
Rusutsu is a modern resort with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Sure you can't play golf or go on the roller coaster during winter, but there are lots of other things to do. The activities are all organised through the resort, and most don't come cheaply.
Energetic Rusutsu Winter Activities
The resort offers a cross-country ski tour that the Japanese like to call fitness skiing! They also offer snowshoe nature tours around the forest area.
Rusutsu has snowmobiling tours if you feel the need for a hoon amongst the powder. Snowmobile trips range from 5 minutes to 40 minutes.
They also have dog sledding tours that in classical Japanese style they call dog sledging (!! Hey you ugly dog, you’ve got dog’s breath)! They just provide a taste of dog-sledding with 15-20 minute trips.
Rusutsu Family Activities
Unfortunately the amusement park isn’t operational during winter (or fortunately!) but you can still have a go on the double-decker indoor merry-go-round.
The Kids Snow Park on West Mountain not far from the Resort Hotel is activity central for young children. The area has playground equipment and a magic carpet for tubing and sledding (aka sledging!). The LL tubing course is next door if the adults also want a giggle.
Snowmobile powered snow rafting is also a lot of fun for the kids or the young at heart.
The resort has a great wave pool which also has a waterslide.
There is also a vast array of indoor activities to enjoy including handicrafts such as leather working and glass craft. Or make food such as ice cream, potato cakes, caramel or cheese.
Relaxation
The swimming pool has a spa area. It is quite a sight sitting in a pool at about 34 degrees looking out at people night skiing where it can be minus 20 degrees. Anyone can use these facilities for just a few dollars and it is a great way to relax after a day’s skiing.
Rusutsu also has two indoor hot springs (onsens). The rejuvenating waters apparently cure all ailments and make you gorgeous! Either way, a soak in the onsen is another great way to finish a hard day on the slopes.