This month I visited two places in Japan.
One north and the other nearby the sea side town.
They were both jobs related.
This post is about Rusutsu, Hokkaido.
It was my first time visiting there, this ski resort is known in all over the world, I was told.
Considering the resort is 2 hours bus drive distance from the nearest big city, Sapporo, nice surprise to see so many foreign guests enjoying winter sports.
As for my work wise, it was a three-day business conference event we had to hold and run, inviting notable guests from various fields from political and business circles, academics and media moguls.
But putting work aside…
Rusutsu is a small ski town located on the western side of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island.
With its powdery snow, stunning scenery, and delicious food, Rusutsu is a perfect winter getaway for anyone looking to experience Japan’s unique winter culture.
Everywhere you look, there were breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Sadly I’m not much of a skier myself so it was wasted on me but Hokkaido is known for having some of the best powder snow in the world, and Rusutsu is no exception.
And lest we forget, let’s dive into Hokkaido gourmet.
On the way back I stopped at Sapporo and enjoyed the gourmet as usual.
Wow, what a city, Sapporo.
Make every effort to go if you are new to Japan.
If you are not new to Japan, I don’t have to remind you for you already know it.
Let’s start with Mongolian mutton barbecue. Lamb meat. 🐑
Then one dish you cannot miss is Ramen.
This time, I also managed to visit one of the most famous sauna spas in Hokkaido.
That is, Nicoh Refre situated in Susukino district of Sapporo, right at the center of Sapporo City.
The photographs are from the Nicoh Refre Sauna.
Notice how large and cozy the sauna space is.
I particularly liked that spacious cold-water bath is at the center of sauna.
Seriously well-designed for sauna lovers.
(Photo from Nicoh Refre. https://www.nikoh.info/)
All in all, Hokkaido, was a winter wonderland experience.
Looking for an unforgettable winter getaway in Japan?
Now you know where to go.
