Phase one of development will include a luxury hotel complete with onsen and spa called The Vale Rusutsu. Additional phases planned for 2018 will include retail and entertainment developments and additional facilities.
Kamori Kanko, one of Hokkaido's leading private tourism companies, has partnered with Niseko Alpine Developments (NISADE) to develop Rusutsu Resort.
Phase one of development will include a luxury hotel complete with onsen and spa called The Vale Rusutsu. Additional phases planned for 2018 will include retail and entertainment developments and additional facilities.
"Unlike the structure of other Hokkaido resorts, we own Rusutsu in its entirety, including the resort, ski lifts, golf courses and theme park," said Kamori Kanko President, Kimihito Kamori. "Subsequently, Rusutsu's redevelopment requires a highly strategic approach and we found the perfect partner in NISADE, who have been instrumental in identifying the path to executing Rusutsu's long-term growth plan.
"The plan includes a strong bid platform for one of the upcoming Integrated Resort Licenses for Japan - possibly one of the first casinos in the country," said Jonathan Martin, chairman, NISADE. "We're also excited to offer private ownership within Rusutsu Resort; a new way for property owners to partner directly with the resort operator."
Rusutsu Resort will also have four golf courses, a theme park and extensive ski areas.
Supported by Hokkaido's growing popularity as a travel destination and Prime Minister Abe's focus on inbound tourism, Rusutsu represents a significant year-round opportunity in the Japanese leisure industry.
It is hoped that the combined ski resorts of Niseko, Kiroro and the new-look Rusutsu will become the most desirable ski region in Asia and will rival the multi-resort destinations of North America.