Pickleball

Pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in the world — and with it, an entirely new reason to choose a destination. Rusutsu Resort made the case early: Hokkaido's first dedicated pickleball facility with eight outdoor courts, open from late April through late October.

When do the pickleball courts in Rusutsu open? Do I need to bring my own gear?
Season: Late April – late October | Hours: 8:30 – sunset

Courts are open from 8:30 to sunset. Paddles and balls are available to rent on-site, so there's nothing to pack. Rusutsu is the only resort in Hokkaido with a facility at this scale. Whether you’ve played before or never held a paddle, it’s worth an hour.

Why is pickleball so popular? 
The court is smaller than tennis, the paddle lighter, the ball slower — which means rallies happen faster and first-timers are usually holding their own within the hour. It’s one of those sports that works across every generation at the table. Children love the pace, adults love the competition, and everyone appreciates that it doesn't take days or weeks of practice to feel good at it.

Why play pickleball in Rusutsu?
Pickleball is better with a mountain backdrop. There’s also something about Hokkaido’s cool summer air that makes outdoor sport feel more alive. The setting makes even a warm-up rally worth turning up for. Crisp, breezy, with rolling green hills on every side. The Pickleball Japan Federation (PJF) certification means the courts are built to a professional standard; seasoned players will feel the difference, first-timers will simply enjoy it.

Where should I stay to play pickleball in Rusutsu?
For those looking to base themselves close to the action, we recommend The Vale Rusutsu. The condo hotel sits at the heart of Rusutsu Resort, putting the pickleball courts — along with the rest of the resort's summer facilities — within easy reach. 

Rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with the kind of resort infrastructure that makes a multi-day stay effortless: concierge support, on-site dining, and direct access to the gondola for guests who want to mix a morning on the courts with an afternoon in the mountains.