Complete Guide to Rusutsu Ski Resort Accommodation: Hotels Compared for Families

We had the opportunity to explore Rusutsu Ski Resort with our 2 kids in tow. Perhaps it was a blessing in disguise though. And we only had 2 days to plan for this trip due to a sudden change in plans.

A Brief Overview of Rusutsu

30 mins away from Niseko, 2 Hours from Chitose Airport, there is this Rusutsu Ski Resort that always pop up with Niseko.

So, they have 2 Mountains - East Mountain and West Mountain.

In particular, 3 major hotel and numerous Airbnb and Apartment stays.

Surrounding the ski resorts, there are:

• Numerous convenience stores (within 5mins walk)
• A butchery (within 5 mins drive)
• Various eateries (within 10 mins walk)
• Supermarket (within 10 mins drive)

Let's Break Down Each Option

1. Rusutsu Resort Hotel & Convention (North & South Wing)

Rusutsu Resort Hotel is the main building with direct ski-in/ski-out access to both West and East mountains. It houses the indoor carousel, game center and most of the resort restaurants, making it super convenient for families. The rooms are older (built in the 80s) but were partially renovated in 2015, with both Western and Japanese-style options available.

This is the OG hotel that started it all. Bit dated from the 1980s but surprisingly well-maintained!

Everything under one roof! Got kids? This place is a dream. There's a merry-go-round right in the hotel lobby, arcade games scattered throughout, and even a wave pool with water slides. The childcare facilities are excellent, and there's a carpet slope right outside for beginner skiers.

My kids absolutely loved running around exploring all the nooks and crannies of this massive hotel.

Wake up, grab breakfast, and literally walk straight to the ski lifts. No trudging through snow with equipment. Located directly at West Mountain slopes with ski school right there. Perfect for families when kids suddenly need bathroom breaks or snacks!

Let's be honest - nothing modern about the decor here. Very 80s Japan but clean and functional. The mattresses are firm (typical Japanese style) and the pillows might feel like rocks if you're used to plush Western ones.

Have some cheap options, but when you factor in the convenience and all the included amenities, it's worth every yen for families.

From fast food to fancy buffets and specialty restaurants. The famous Hokkaido cream puffs are available right in the hotel! Breakfast can get crowded though - be prepared for queues during peak season.

Almost non-existent. There's a kettle in your room and that's about it.

2. The Westin Rusutsu Resort

The Westin opened in December 2018 as the luxury option at Rusutsu, connected to the main building via indoor walkway. Rooms are modern with Westin's signature Heavenly Beds and typically cost 30-40% more than equivalent rooms in the main building. It's a 5-minute indoor walk to the slopes and features its own restaurants separate from the main hotel.

The luxury option that won "#1 Ski Hotel in Japan" (World Ski Award 2017).

Nice duplex rooms with master bedroom upstairs and children's room downstairs. The setup is great for families with older kids but requires supervision for younger ones because of the stairs. Quieter environment compared to the Rusutsu Resort Hotel. 

You'll need to take the monorail to get to the main resort facilities. Not as convenient as stepping out directly to slopes, but still manageable.

Much more modern feel than the Rusutsu Resort Hotel. Comfortable beds, quality linens, and upscale bathroom amenities. The forest views from the rooms are stunning!

You're paying for the Westin brand and quality. Definitely pricier but you get what you pay for in terms of comfort and service.

Good quality but fewer choices compared to Rusutsu Resort Hotel. The restaurants tend to be higher-end with prices to match.

Small kitchenette with kettle, but no real cooking facilities. Better than nothing but don't expect to prepare meals.

3. The Vale Rusutsu

The Vale offers apartment-style accommodations with full kitchens and separate bedrooms, located next to The Westin. Units range from studios to 3-bedroom apartments, all with modern facilities and washer/dryers included. It's the furthest from the slopes (about 10-minute walk) but has a on demand shuttle bus service to the ski center.

The new kid on the block - modern and fresh.

Great for families who want their space. Modern apartments with room to spread out. Not as many built-in entertainment options as Rusutsu Resort, but the accommodations themselves are family-friendly.

Let's be honest - it's a bit of a walk (5-20 minutes depending on your pace and kids' cooperation).There is a ski out path which is pretty flat. More suitable for advanced beginners snowboards. Skiiers have no issue.

There's a mid-way ski-back option. They do offer a shuttle service which helps.

The newest and most up-to-date option. Everything feels fresh and contemporary. Smart layouts and quality fixtures. Super spacious 1 Bedroom. Comes with washer and dryer. My friends from Westin hotel pop by to wash and dry their clothes.

Reasonable pricing compared to other luxury options in the area. You get modern comforts without the premium luxury pricing of The Westin. I think perhaps we got a good deal or because Rusutsu Resort Hotel is full.

Limited on-site dining. There's a café with sandwiches that tend to sell out quickly. You'll need to venture out or cook your own meals. The 2nd nearest decent restaurant is at Rusutsu Resort Hotel area.

This is where The Vale shines! Fully-equipped kitchens let you prepare your own meals. Great for families with picky eaters or those wanting to save on restaurant costs. Having a rental car makes grocery runs easy.

So, What's The Verdict?

The convenience factor at Rusutsu Resort Hotel cannot be beaten when you're managing ski equipment, tired children, and last-minute needs.

The old-style decor not so important when you consider how much easier your holiday will be when everything is just there.

For families with older children or adult travellers, consider The Westin for more quiet, luxurious stay with nice forest views.

No matter which hotel you choose, the real value of Rusutsu is the time spent together making snow angels, learning to ski, and drinking hot drinks after full day in the snow. The best hotel is simply the one that makes your holiday least stressful and most enjoyable!

If you ask me, I would still choose The Vale for their kitchen amenities.

DIY-ing your meals in Japan is an enjoyable thing.

If cooking is not your thing, then Rusutsu Resort Hotel & Convention is your top choice.