14 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Rusutsu! Enjoy Rusutsu Like a Local

Rusutsu is a village spread at the foot of Mount Yotei, affectionately known as the "Ezo Fuji" due to its resemblance to Mount Fuji. This region, known for its extreme temperature differences, boasts top-class production of potatoes and daikon radishes in Hokkaido. It is also famous for its delicious pork. Moreover, Rusutsu is a popular tourist destination offering activities such as amusement parks, golf, and skiing, especially at "Rusutsu Resort." As a region where you can enjoy Hokkaido's vast natural beauty, entertainment, gourmet cuisine, and sightseeing, it attracts attention not only from within Japan but also from overseas visitors. This time, we will highlight local-based tourism in Rusutsu.

1. Mt. Sori-Oi

You might not immediately recognize the name “Mt. Sori-Oi,” but if we mention “West Mountain at Rusutsu Ski Resort” or “Rusutsu’s Bell of Happiness,” it might ring a bell.

Located in Rusutsu Village, this 715-meter-high mountain is accessible by car or via the “Yotei Gondola” at Rusutsu Resort’s amusement park. At the summit, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Yotei, the Niseko mountain range, Lake Toya, and even the Pacific Ocean. On a lucky day, you may witness the mystical sea of clouds gently flowing between Rusutsu’s mountains, making it an unforgettable tourist destination.

Mt. Sori-Oi is also known as a spiritual power spot believed to offer “energy for vitality” and “social status elevation.” Don’t miss the famous “Bell of Happiness,” where visitors shout “Be happy!!” toward Mt. Yotei and ring the bell for a dose of good fortune. A visit to this site is a must when in Rusutsu.

2. Michi-no-Eki “230 Rusutsu” (Roadside Station)

Stopping by roadside stations is always fun no matter where you travel, and Rusutsu is no exception! Michi-no-Eki “230 Rusutsu” offers fresh vegetables harvested that very morning in Rusutsu, sold at reasonable prices. For visitors unfamiliar with Rusutsu’s unique produce brands, even browsing through these vegetables can be an exciting part of the trip.

The station’s eatery serves dishes like the local specialty “Rusutsu Pork Bowl” and crispy, buttery “Croquettes.” Processed foods and souvenirs are also available, making this a perfect spot for shopping. Combining sightseeing and gourmet delights, Michi-no-Eki “230 Rusutsu” is an ideal stop for travelers looking to make the most of their visit.

3. Rusutsu Furusato Park

Adjacent to Michi-no-Eki “230 Rusutsu,” Rusutsu Furusato Park is a must-visit spot for travelers. This spacious park features attractions like “Wanpaku Plaza,” equipped with playground equipment for kids, a “Day Camping Area,” and a “Mountain Bike Course” for outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors can also enjoy seasonal flowers at the “Flower Garden” and experience farming activities at the “Citizen Farm.” There’s even a dog run where you can create memories with your furry family members. Takeout some food from the roadside station and enjoy a relaxing time immersed in Rusutsu’s natural beauty at the park.

4. Akai Kutsu Furusato Park

Located next to Michi-no-Eki “230 Rusutsu,” Akai Kutsu Furusato Park features a statue of Tokujirō Namikoshi, the founder of Shiatsu Therapy. Namikoshi spent his childhood in Rusutsu. His desire to ease his mother’s pain from rheumatism by massaging her body with his hands led to the origin of Shiatsu. Recognizing the pain-relieving effects of pressing with fingers, he named this massage method “Shiatsu” and even established schools to teach it.

Namikoshi’s techniques gained widespread recognition after treating figures like former Prime Minister Shigeru Yoshida and Marilyn Monroe. His iconic poses and numerous famous quotes brought him to fame. Taking a photo with Namikoshi’s distinctive statue is a fun way to commemorate your visit to Rusutsu.

5. Akai Kutsu Park

Another tourist spot in Rusutsu featuring a significant statue is Akai Kutsu Park. The "Red Shoes" in its name refers to the famous nursery rhyme "Akai Kutsu". Within the park, there is a statue called "Mother’s Thought Statue," inspired by the girl mentioned in the song’s lyrics.

The model for the girl in "Akai Kutsu", Kimi Iwasaki, was born in Shizuoka Prefecture. Her mother and stepfather came to Rusutsu as pioneers. Due to her frail health and the harsh cold of Rusutsu, Kimi was adopted by an American missionary couple, and she never reunited with her parents. The nursery rhyme "Akai Kutsu", written by Ujō Noguchi, is said to be based on this story, as Noguchi was acquainted with Kimi’s parents.

Winters in Rusutsu during that time were even harsher than today, and pioneering life was extremely difficult. Visiting the "Mother’s Thought Statue" in the park offers an opportunity to reflect on Rusutsu’s history and natural beauty. It’s a unique way to deepen your understanding of the area while creating special travel memories. Notably, while this park features a statue of Kimi, the nearby Rusutsu Furusato Park includes a statue inspired by Kimi’s mother, Kayo Iwasaki, and other women of the pioneering era.

6. Mt. Yotei

Visible from anywhere in Rusutsu, Mt. Yotei is a majestic peak often referred to as the “Ezo Fuji” due to its resemblance to Mt. Fuji. Its grandeur and beauty are awe-inspiring, and the lush greenery of Rusutsu or the snow-covered slopes make for stunning photographs with Mt. Yotei as the backdrop. It’s undoubtedly one of the top recommended sightseeing spots in Rusutsu.

The mountain offers four climbing routes. Beginners can opt for the Hirafu or Makkari routes, while the Kyōgoku and Kimobetsu routes, with their steeper inclines, are suited for advanced climbers. Reaching the summit and seeing the crater of Mt. Yotei up close is a deeply moving experience, showcasing the mysteries and power of nature.　Recognized as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, Mt. Yotei stands at approximately 1,898 meters. If you’re confident in your physical ability, climbing to the summit promises unforgettable memories and spectacular views.

7. Mt. Shiribetsu

Compared to Mt. Yotei, Mt. Shiribetsu offers a more relaxed hiking experience. As one of Rusutsu’s representative mountains, it is accessible via two routes: the Kimobetsu and Rusutsu courses, with the latter being the primary route from Rusutsu. The trailhead features a sign marking the entrance to the Shiribetsu Mountain Trail. While the initial section passes through dense bamboo grass, the path soon opens up to reveal breathtaking scenery that makes the hike even more enjoyable.

Though Rusutsu experiences harsh winters, the summer months transform Mt. Shiribetsu with blooming flowers and a refreshing breeze. Once you reach the summit, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a packed lunch. The trail takes less than two hours one way at a leisurely pace, making it a relatively safe and beginner-friendly mountain for sightseeing and hiking. From the summit, you can take in unique views of Rusutsu’s mountains, offering a completely different perspective compared to viewing them from below.

8. Geopark Sannohara

Sannohara in Rusutsu Village is a place where you can truly appreciate the grand scale of Hokkaido. A geopark, combining the words “geo” (earth) and “park,” refers to a “park of the earth” where visitors can learn about and enjoy the planet’s geological features. In 2009, Rusutsu, along with neighboring areas such as Date City, Toyoura Town, Sobetsu Town, and Toyako Town, was recognized by UNESCO as part of the “Toya-Usu Global Geopark.”

Sannohara is included in this geopark area and features vast agricultural and pasturelands that take advantage of the flat terrain created by pyroclastic flows. The serene landscapes are complemented by striking features such as exposed pyroclastic flow deposits, showcasing the immense power and magnificence of nature.

9. Lake Toya

Take a short trip from Rusutsu to visit Lake Toya, another area designated as part of the geopark. Formed from a massive volcanic eruption around 110,000 years ago, Lake Toya and its surrounding caldera landscape are renowned for their beauty, earning recognition as one of Japan’s Top 100 Scenic Spots, the New Japan Travel Destination 100, and the 500 Beautiful Roads of Japan.

Visitors can enjoy the lake through various activities, such as riding sightseeing boats or ferries for an up-close view, or observing the entire caldera from the Silo Observatory. Guided tours for tourists are also available.

Since 2007, the area has hosted the “Illumination Tunnel,” a winter-only event that features 400,000 LED lights, bringing life and charm to the hot spring town during the colder months. The sparkling illumination against Hokkaido’s crisp winter air creates a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for your travel itinerary.

10. Jūbei Marsh

Jūbei Marsh is a hidden gem in Rusutsu, even among locals who may know the name but have never visited. Located at an altitude of approximately 830 meters on the slopes of Mt. Nukibetsu, one of Japan’s 1003 famous mountains, the marsh is accessible by following the Kuroda Forest Road for about 3 kilometers. At the trailhead, marked by a sign for “Jūbei Marsh,” a well-maintained path leads visitors on a 15-minute walk to the serene marsh.

During certain seasons, the marsh comes alive with dragonflies, and the surrounding trees burst into vibrant shades of red and yellow. These colors are beautifully reflected on the mirror-like surface of the marsh, creating an indescribably stunning scene.

11. Zam Sky Sports Club

Experience Rusutsu’s stunning nature from the sky with paragliding! This unique activity is only possible because of the expansive natural beauty of Rusutsu. Paragliding requires ample open space and gentle slopes, and while Rusutsu is best known for its winter skiing, the area’s slopes become ideal for paragliding from spring to autumn, making it a popular spot among enthusiasts.

Zam Sky Sports Club is an active group dedicated to sharing the joy of sky sports. They participate in various events and even travel abroad to soar through the skies. The club offers a range of classes, from one-day experiences to full-fledged training programs.

For tourists, the “tandem course” is recommended. Accompanied by an experienced pilot who manages all the controls, participants can relax and enjoy breathtaking views of Rusutsu’s vast natural landscape from the sky. This activity is perfect for those seeking a unique way to experience Rusutsu’s beauty.

12. Rusutsu Resort Horse Country

Why not explore Rusutsu from a higher vantage point—on horseback? At Rusutsu Resort, a prominent spot in the area, visitors can enjoy various activities, including horseback riding.

The dream of riding through Hokkaido’s vast natural scenery is something many hold dear. At Horse Country, even beginners are welcome to participate. Families with young children can opt for “pony rides,” while adventurous visitors with confidence in their stamina can enjoy a one-hour trail ride through untouched forest paths. The horses are gentle yet full of personality, ensuring a delightful and memorable experience.

Rides are reservation-only, and while same-day bookings are possible if space is available, pre-booking is highly recommended during peak seasons like summer vacations.

13. Rusutsu Onsen

After a day of exploring Rusutsu, refresh yourself at “Rusutsu Onsen,” a small but highly recommended hot spring. With one indoor bath for men and one for women, this cozy facility offers the luxury of natural hot spring water directly from the source. The slightly yellowish, smooth water is said to help with neuralgia, joint pain, and muscle aches—perfect for soothing tired feet after a day of sightseeing. Visitors also rave about how silky and smooth their skin feels after a bath.

Surprisingly, the only cost for tourists is a small cleaning fee. The interior is simple, featuring wooden floors and tiled baths, but it’s well-maintained and functional. Most bathers are locals, so you’ll leave feeling not only refreshed but also warmly welcomed by the community.

14. Mt. Bakemono

Legend has it that compasses go haywire on Mt. Bakemono. Why not visit and see if it’s true? With its gentle slopes, this hill-like mountain is perfect for a leisurely hike.

Mt. Bakemono features a large broadcasting parabolic antenna visible from the mountain. The trail to the antenna is a wide gravel path that takes about 10 minutes to walk, and from there, a continuation of the trail leads to the summit. The round trip takes less than 30 minutes, making it a casual and easy outing. At the summit, bring out your compass to test the legend for yourself. A hike here offers a unique and slightly mysterious sightseeing experience.

◎Conclusion

Rusutsu Village, home to Hokkaido’s top amusement facility, “Rusutsu Resort,” may be best known for its theme parks and ski areas. However, beyond these attractions lies a treasure trove of unique and fascinating experiences. From scenic spots to outdoor activities and interactive experiences like farming and cooking classes, Rusutsu offers something for everyone. Of course, there’s also no shortage of delicious local specialties and souvenirs unique to Hokkaido.

While the village isn’t large, renting a bicycle or car allows you to explore Rusutsu at your own pace. With so much to offer, Rusutsu guarantees a personalized and memorable travel experience. Enjoy discovering Rusutsu in your own way.