Lodge Romulus Rusutsu Review 2026: Affordable Hokkaido Stay

Hokkaido Rusutsu Ski Resort boasts a total of 37 courses across three mountains (West Mt., East Mt., and Mt. Isola), with a total run distance of 42km. It's a must-experience resort for skiers and snowboarders eager to try tree runs and un-groomed powder snow.

Perhaps because of this popularity, resorts and nearby hotels at Hokkaido Rusutsu Ski Resort often charge ~$730 to ~$1,460 per night during winter. This is a review of Lodge Romulus, a value-for-money accommodation near Rusutsu Ski Resort that satisfied all our needs for affordability, friendliness, and comfort.

Lodge Romulus

Address: 36-190 Izumikawa, Aza, Rusutsu, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, Japan

Tel: 81-136-46-3881 Fax: 81-136-46-3888

Since I introduced it as a value-for-money accommodation, let's take a look at the price difference, shall we?

Lodge Romulus Price Check Link

Now, let's look at the prices of the two accommodations connected to the nearby ski resort that I mentioned earlier.

Rusutsu Resort Hotel & Convention: Prices for 3 nights (December 19-22)

The Westin Rusutsu Resort (Marriott Hotel Group)

YOUTEI has its 1st and 2nd branches located near Rusutsu Ski Resort.

This place has a similar price range to Lodge Romulus, but it's a guesthouse with bunk beds in dormitory rooms.

This is the kind of bed they use. You'll get a sense of it if you check out the ratings.

Even this place is often fully booked, making it hard to find a room.

Here's the price for Lodge Romulus for 3 nights, from December 19-22, around the Christmas season.

What do you think? Does it make sense why I said it offers great value for money?

Book Lodge Romulus Here​

Lodge Romulus Availability as of November 18, 2025

Starting December 22nd, all rooms are fully booked.

In January, there's only one day available.

In February, there's also only one day available.

In March, it's fully booked for 1-2 weeks.

This is because many people stay for extended periods to enjoy the ski resort. It really shows how popular both Rusutsu Ski Resort and Lodge Romulus are!

Before diving into the accommodation review, let me explain a few things: I took a bus from Sapporo and arrived at Rusutsu Resort in the morning. Lodge Romulus usually offers shuttle service from the resort to the accommodation, but since I needed to rent skis, I arranged to meet at a private ski shop across from the resort, and sent my luggage and suitcase there by car in advance.

While Lodge Romulus provides shuttle service from the resort to the accommodation around the time the day pass ends, my son and I had dinner and played around, so we walked back to the lodge. If the roads had been clear, we would've gotten there quickly, but it snowed so heavily that day, I think it took us more than 10 minutes.

When we arrived, the front desk was already closed. My name was written down with 'Room 210'. From the outside, it looks a bit like a castle, and the second floor is where the guest rooms are.

Head up the stairs, and you'll find the second floor stretching out in a long, inviting corridor.

Guest Rooms

I booked a double room, and I was pleasantly surprised by how spacious it was!

The room featured two comfy single beds, a cozy sofa, a practical small table with chairs, a refrigerator, and a heater – everything you need!

Here's a glimpse of the bathroom.

While it shows a few charming signs of its age, it was impeccably clean and well-maintained, complete with all the essential amenities.

The Corridor

I stepped out for a little exploration of the surroundings.

Mid-corridor, there was a neat area with fresh towels and amenities, plus a selection of books for guests to enjoy.

I noticed guests' suitcases and skis neatly stored in the corridor, a thoughtful touch for travelers with gear.

Breakfast and dinner are also available, but make sure to reserve in advance to secure your spot.

Breakfast was ~$7, and dinner was ~$16.

The Shared Kitchen

You'll find a well-equipped shared kitchen nestled about halfway down the corridor.

Equipped with an induction cooktop, a dining table, and various sauces and seasonings, this kitchen is perfect for preparing and enjoying your meals!

Shuttle Service Schedule

A convenient shuttle service runs between the accommodation and Rusutsu Resort, making transport a breeze!

It's more like a comfortable passenger van than a full-sized bus, and the ride to the ski resort takes less than 5 minutes.

Back in my room, I took another look around to discover all its features.

Inside the drawers, I found a hairdryer, fresh towels, and even sleepwear – they've thought of everything for a comfortable stay!

And for those snowy adventures, they've even thoughtfully provided a rack in front of the heater to dry your wet clothes!

A humidifier was also available, ensuring extra comfort.

I put the gloves and clothes I used today in front of the heater to dry them.

Here's the evening news from the day I arrived at Rusutsu Ski Resort.

"Disaster-level heavy snowfall" , "Strongest, longest cold wave"

"Unprecedented heavy snowfall in snowy Hokkaido"

It was a bit disappointing that only half of the Rusutsu Ski Resort lifts were operating on the first day due to the heavy snowfall and wind, but otherwise, getting around by bus and having such comfortable and pleasant accommodation made for a wonderful stay.

Here's the view from my room window the next day.

With all this fresh snow, my heart was pounding at the thought of enjoying some incredible powder skiing!

Dad of Two's Overall Review

While it might not boast the lavish facilities of a luxury resort, Lodge Romulus stands out as the best value-for-money accommodation you'll find near the pricey Rusutsu Ski Resort.

It's perfectly equipped with the considerate hospitality of its kind hosts, essential gear drying facilities for skiers, and even convenient shared kitchen amenities.

If you're a skier or snowboarder traveler finding resort accommodation fees a bit steep, I highly recommend you hurry and book Lodge Romulus.

Book Lodge Romulus

Stay tuned for more Hokkaido travel reviews!

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