Niseko and Rusutsu Ski Resort

Ever keen to pioneer new ski destinations, we are pleased to offer Hokkaido, Japan's northerly island which has some of the best powder snow in the world. This island of extinct volcanos pulls in northerly winds and fluffy snow to provide a skiing heaven. Pistes are graded along western lines and both Niseko and Rusutsu have an excellent range of runs set amongst silver birch woodlands. The Niseko mountain has four ski areas and three villages, Annupuri, Higashiyama and Grand Hirafu which are all connected at the base with a free shuttle bus. Rusutsu is situated near the foot of Mt. Yotei and is a self contained resort/hotel with skiing over three mountains and all you need in one centre.

Beginners

Both Niseko and Rusutsu have gentle green runs close to the resort and provide the perfect conditions on which to learn to turn and perfect your technique. Private lessons are available locally with English speaking instructors.

Intermediates

Beautifully groomed pistes between areas of tree skiing is really an intermediate's paradise and these resorts offer just that.

Advanced

Not all of the pistes are groomed so there is opportunity to ski powder all day. The tree skiing is amazing as you can just leave the piste and zig-zag down in powder. Glorious.

Snowboarding

Freeriders will love the open runs and powder snow on which to carve the turns. There is a snowpark in Niseko and Rusutsu with a half pipe and various obstacles to practice jumps and flips.

Apres Ski

Numerous bars and restaurants at the base of the mountains.

Activities

• Night skiing in both resorts
• Lifts open 0830-2030 in Niseko and 0900-2100 in Rusutsu
• Dog sledding
• Snow mobiling
• Snow rafting
• Snow tubing
• Day trips to Sapporo
• Saporro Ice Festival in February

Eating Out

A wide variety of restaurants serving Japanese and Western food and menus are in English. Try udon (thick white noodles), tofu dishes, tempura (battered deep fried vegetables or shrimp), ramen (chinese style noodles in a pork or chicken stock) as well as sushi, crab and shrimps. Part of the experience of visiting Japan is tasting the local food which is never more than lightly cooked to bring out the natural flavour of the ingredients. A traditional Japanese breakfast will usually include grilled and salted fish, rice, pickles, natto (fermented soya beans) and miso soup. Other popular foods to try include udon (thick white noodles), tofu dishes, tempura (battered deep fried vegetables or shrimp), ramen (chinese style noodles in a pork or chicken stock) as well as sushi, crab and shrimps.

Other Amenities

Both resorts have convenience stores and plenty of shops. Try a local onsen (outdoor natural hot springs) for which Japan is famous. There are a selection of bars and restaurants in both resorts.

Piste Map