Starwood Signs Second Ski Resort in Japan

Starwood has signed a management agreement for its second ski resort in Japan.

The Westin Rusutsu Resort, a conversion property owned by Kamori Kanko Co., Ltd., is located in the famed Rusutsu region of Hokkaido.

“We are excited to partner with Kamori Kanko to debut Westin in Rusutsu and are eager to introduce the region to the brand’s signature wellness programs and amenities, which are perfect for this famed ski location,” said Rajit Sukumaran, Senior Vice President, Acquisition & Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Asia Pacific. “This signing demonstrates the success of our conversion-strategy that is helping to fuel the growth momentum of Starwood in the region.”

Scheduled to open in December 2015, the Westin Rusutsu Resort will feature 210 guestrooms, including suites that offer up to seven beds for large groups or families.

Rooms will come equipped with signature Westin services and amenities, such as the Heavenly Bed and the reviving Heavenly Bath experience. The hotel will also consist of extensive leisure facilities, including a WestinWorkout studio, a hot spring, a sauna, outdoor baths, and tennis courts.

The resort feature three unique dining venues that will provide a variety of culinary options alongside the brand’s SuperFoodsRx menus.

Located in the northernmost region of Japan’s main islands, Rusutsu serves as one of country’s most popular year-round resorts and specifically offers a wealth of winter recreational activities. The Westin Rusutsu Resort - which will be situated near a number of mountain ranges, slopes and ski operations - is set to welcome an abundance of skiers and snowboarders amid the colder months.

The resort is less than a 90-minute drive from Sapporo’s Chitose International Airport. Hokkaido is also connected to the island of Honshu by the underwater railway Seikan Tunnel.