Japan Ski Resort Job Program

Imagine spending your days off work gliding through Japan’s legendary powder at the country’s top ski destination. On our Japan Ski Resort Program, land a guaranteed ski resort job in Japan and enjoy JAPOW every day!

Start Dates

mid-November - April

Duration

6 months

Cost

CAD $1199

Program Overview

Our team of experts will find you a ski resort job in Japan, help you arrange your accommodation and apply for your work permit. We work with you every step of the way, from revising your resume to prepping you for the interview and setting up your medical coverage and residence permit.

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We'll guarantee you a Japan ski resort job at the #1 ski resort in Japan!

What’s Included

Pre-departure

  • Guaranteed paid job at a ski resort in Hokkaido
  • Resume review and revision
  • Subsidized staff accommodation
  • Interview preparation
  • Step-by-step support obtaining your Japan Working Holiday Visa
  • Help booking flights and travel insurance
  • Group pre-departure orientation to help you make friends

In Country

  • Pick up from the train station
  • Staff welcome party
  • Paid job training
  • Assistance with foreigner registration and government paperwork
  • Personal trip coordinator
  • Tax return assistance
  • As needed support from our team in Canada and Japan prior to and throughout your entire trip

The Fun Stuff!

  • Lift pass
  • Staff shuttle for getting to work
  • Gear rental and ski/snowboard lessons
  • Staff excursions around Hokkaido & cultural events
  • High-speed wi-fi
  • Holiday discounts for family and friends
  • Regular staff events, activities, and parties

What’s Not Included:

Flights, medical insurance, visa and/or work permit application fees, local transportation, food & rent.

Let's Get Started!

Apply now for our Japan Ski Working Holiday Program and book a call with a travel expert! Applications close June 1st as the Japan Ski Season recruitment period begins. Start planning now before it’s too late!

What Will I Do?

We work with reputable employers in Japan to find you the right ski resort job relevant to your skill set. Positions are limited so we recommend you apply early. In the event you do not land your first choice role, staying open to other jobs will ensure you get a spot in the upcoming season.

Possible Japan Ski Resort Jobs

  • Ski Instructor (must be certified CSIA/CASI Level 2)

     

  • Shuttle Bus Driver
  • Snow Clearing & Property Maintenance
  • Guest Services & Front desk
  • Housekeeping
  • Chefs & Cooks
  • Servers & Baristas

Want More?

Japan Kickstart Package

Start your Japan Working Holiday with two weeks in Tokyo, Kyoto, or Fukuoka! Take Japanese language lessons and uncover the city with fun social events before starting your ski resort job in Niseko.

Australia Working Holiday

Combine an epic ski season in Japan's pow with the white sandy beaches and laid-back vibes of Australia for the working holiday experience of a lifetime!

Travel Insurance

We know that travelling with a peace of mind is important to you. That’s why it’s a good idea to have travel insurance in case something unexpectedly goes wrong while you’re abroad.

FAQs

How does the program work?

We’ll review your resume and discuss your top three job preferences for Hokkaido, Japan. Upon acceptance, we’ll apply to ski resort partners on your behalf, prepare you for interviews, and assist with visa paperwork. Before your departure, we’ll host a group orientation and provide essential pre-departure information on taxes, registration, SIM cards, and more! We really do take care of everything so you can focus on the FUN stuff!

What kind of jobs are available?

There are a variety of positions on offer and we can work with you to find the best options based on your skills and experience. If you are a qualified ski instructor, there are teaching positions available. If you want to be snow-centric there are non-instructor options in equipment rental, snow clearing, transportation, and property maintenance. Not as pumped about working out in the snow? As a center for tourism, there are plenty of hospitality options for you in hotels, spas, cafes and restaurants. We guarantee you up to three interviews to find a great fit.

How good is skiing in Japan?

Amazing! Hokkaido gets a ton of snow thanks to the ocean air hitting the high mountains of this island nation, and it is especially famous for dry, fluffy powder. Typically the resorts see ten to 20 meters of snow each season.

What can I expect for accommodation?

We will arrange for subsidized employee accommodations for the duration of your job. Average rent typically ranges from $50-$650 CAD per month. Generally, you will share with between one and three other workers.

Can I do this program with a friend?

Yes! We have helped friends and couples travel together.

Does Japan offer Working Holiday Visa?

Under the working holiday visa, you can reside in Japan for one year starting from your initial entry. Changing your residency status or extending your stay beyond this period is not permitted.

How much money do you need for a working holiday in Japan?

The Japanese embassy requires you to have at least $3,500 CAD in your bank statement (or $4,500 if flying one-way to Japan). You will also need to have your flights booked for your visa appointment, which costs anywhere from $800-1500. There is no fee required for the visa application itself, but please expect small fees such as printing and passport photos.

Where is the best place to ski in Japan?

Niseko is widely regarded as one of Japan’s top skiing destinations, renowned for its abundant powder snow and international atmosphere. However, there are other fantastic resorts across Japan, such as Hakuba and Rusutsu, each offering unique experiences for winter sports enthusiasts. The best place to ski in Japan depends on individual preferences.

When should i sign up for this program?

Interviews start in early June, and jobs come on a first come first served basis. The earlier you apply, the higher the chances are to secure your first choice! We start preparing for your applications in May so that they are ready to be sent out.

Do i need to speak Japanese to participate in this program?

No, you do NOT need to speak any Japanese in order to work right at the heart of the legendary snow powder!