Rusutsu Resort is one of the best-known destinations for JAPOW (Japan’s legendary powder snow). Each winter it attracts many international visitors. Because the resort sits some distance from Sapporo city and New Chitose Airport, choosing the right transfer method matters: a wrong choice can cost time and money. This guide explains the optimal ways to get to Rusutsu from both Sapporo Station and New Chitose Airport.
1. Where Rusutsu Resort is & approximate travel time
Rusutsu Resort lies in southwest Hokkaido near Lake Tōya (Tōyako). It’s roughly 75 km from central Sapporo and about 90 km from New Chitose Airport. In winter driving conditions, expect about 2–3 hours by car or coach. Day trips from Sapporo or the airport are possible but consider overnighting near the resort for a more relaxed schedule.
2. From Sapporo Station to Rusutsu
(1) Free shuttle bus — “Rusutsu-go” (recommended & popular)
The easiest and most-used option is the free direct shuttle run by the resort operator (Kamori Kanko). It departs from near Sapporo Station. Advance reservation is required (see details), and the operator adds services according to demand so full bookings are uncommon.
- Travel time: ~120 minutes
- Operating period: 2025/11/25 – 2026/3/31
- Reservation: Online booking required by 15:00 the day before
- Fare: Free
- Typical departure times: Sapporo → Rusutsu: 08:00, Rusutsu → Sapporo: 17:00
- Departure point (Sapporo): Kita 4 Jonishi 4-1 (about 3–5 minutes on foot from Sapporo Station south exit)
(2) Paid highway buses
Several Hokkaido bus companies operate highway services to the region. These run more frequently and at different times (including daytime and evening departures). They can also serve nearby destinations such as Toyako Onsen.
- Travel time: ~2 hours 45 minutes
- Runs: Daily (frequency varies)
- Boarding (Sapporo): Sapporo Station Bus Terminal — platform 7 (example)
- Reservation: Online (often fully reserved seating)
- Fare (example): about ¥3,700 one way
(3) Rental car — for people who want flexibility
Renting a car from Sapporo is a good choice if you want to explore en route (e.g., Jōzankei Onsen or Nakayama Pass). However, winter driving requires care.
- Route (typical): Sapporo IC → Kitahiroshima IC → Route 230 via Nakayama Pass
- Travel time: about 2 hours (depends on conditions)
- Winter precautions: Studless tires required; watch for heavy snowfall, black ice and reduced visibility on passes
- Pros: freedom to stop and sightsee
- Cons: challenging if you’re not comfortable with snowy mountain roads
(4) JR + bus (budget option)
For budget-minded travelers you can take JR to either Kutchan (Kutchan Station) or Dōya (Tōya/Dōya) then transfer to a local bus to Rusutsu. This tends to be slower and involves transfers, so it’s less popular with luggage or large groups.
- Example: JR Sapporo → Kutchan: ~2h20m (fare ~¥2,240). Kutchan → Rusutsu bus: ~1h (fare ~¥1,100).
- Note: If you have a Japan Rail Pass, JR legs may be covered.
(5) Taxi
If budget is not an issue, door-to-door taxi service is the most comfortable option.
- Travel time: approx. 2 hours
- Cost: roughly ¥30,000–¥40,000 (estimate — confirm locally)
3. From New Chitose Airport to Rusutsu
(1) Paid airport shuttle — “Big Run” (recommended)
Kamori Kanko also operates the airport shuttle designed for flight arrivals. The service runs multiple times a day during the winter season and is convenient for international arrivals.
- Travel time: ~120 minutes
- Operating period: 2025/11/29 – 2026/3/30
- Reservation: Online booking required at least 7 days in advance
- Fare: One-way ¥5,500 (online early rate ¥5,000)
- Frequency: 4–7 runs per day during peak season
- Pickup locations: Domestic terminal arrival lobby (south arrival exit #5) and international terminal information desk (1F)
(2) Other highway buses
If the Big Run bookings are full or you missed the 7-day window, other bus companies operate similar routes between the airport / Sapporo and the Rusutsu/Tōyako area. Timings and fares are comparable.
(3) Rental car from the airport
Renting at New Chitose is popular for groups or travelers who want stopovers at scenic spots like Lake Shikotsu or Lake Tōya.
- Travel time: ~2 hours
- Route: Dōō Expressway (Chitose IC) → Kitahiroshima IC → Route 230
- Winter tips: whiteout conditions and strong winds can occur; plan fueling and rest stops in advance
(4) JR + bus (cheapest if you have a JR Pass)
It is possible to use JR from the airport (transfer at Sapporo) toward Kutchan, then local bus. This is the lowest-cost option but slower and less convenient with luggage.
- Example: New Chitose → JR to Kutchan: ~3h10m (fare ~¥3,940). Kutchan → Rusutsu bus: ~1h (¥1,100).
(5) Taxi
Taxis provide door-to-door service from the airport but are expensive.
- Travel time: ~2 hours
- Cost: approx. ¥30,000–¥40,000 (confirm with the company)
4. Which departure point is more convenient?
If you are arriving by air and want the simplest route to Rusutsu, the airport shuttle (Big Run) is the most convenient: you board directly from the arrivals area and ride straight to the resort. If you’re staying in Sapporo first, the free Rusutsu shuttle from Sapporo Station is the best value. If bus schedules don’t match your flight or you need total flexibility, taxis or rental cars are alternatives.
5. Accommodation & planning tips
Accommodation close to Rusutsu can be costly during peak season. Staying in Sapporo often offers cheaper options, but traveling daily increases time on the road. For multi-day stays, staying near the resort is recommended to maximize time on the slopes.
6. Winter travel tips
- Allow extra travel time during snow events — delays of 30–60 minutes (or more) are common in heavy snow.
- Prefer daytime travel when roads are clearer; night travel carries higher risk of black ice.
- Reserve shuttle buses in advance when possible (especially airport shuttles that require booking 7 days ahead).
- If driving, use studless tires and check weather & road condition reports before departure.
7. Summary
Accessing Rusutsu Resort from Sapporo Station or New Chitose Airport is straightforward if you choose the transfer that matches your travel style: free shuttle or paid highway buses for simplicity, rental car for freedom, JR+bus for a budget-conscious plan (especially with a JR Pass), and taxis for convenience if cost is no object. With some preparation and booking in advance, you’ll be on the slopes enjoying Hokkaido’s famous powder in no time.
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