What It Is Really Like Doing a Winter Season in Japan
If you have ever pictured yourself waking up to fresh snow, meeting travellers from all over the world and spending your days in one of the most magical winter destinations on Earth, a season in Japan delivers exactly that feeling. It is a mix of adventure, culture, new friendships and unforgettable moments you will talk about for years.
Here is what life really looks like when you pack your bags and head off to a Japanese ski resort.
In this article:
The Arrival: Passport stamps, neon lights and the first taste of adventure
Landing in Japan feels like stepping into a movie. After walking through immigration, you receive your Residence Card, which becomes your everyday ID.
Most Winter Work Japan travellers then head to the AIFS arrival accommodation in Tokyo. It is located on the 18th and 19th floors of a skyscraper, and the views are unreal. You drop your bags, settle into your bunk and start meeting other travellers who are about to begin the same journey. That is the moment it feels real.
Orientation Week: Settle in, make friends and discover the city
Your first few days focus on getting comfortable with life in Japan. Orientation covers the essentials such as:
- Public transport
- Suica or Pasmo cards
- National Health Insurance
- What to expect once you reach your resort
There are also optional group outings that help you meet new people right away. By the time everyone heads out to their different resort towns, you already feel connected and supported.
It is the perfect balance of exploring Tokyo and preparing for work before the snow season begins.
Life at the Resort: Simple living, big friendships and snow everywhere
Most participants live in shared staff accommodation. Rooms are warm, simple and practical, with shared kitchens, bathrooms and laundry. You quickly get used to skis drying near the door or a housemate cooking noodles at midnight after a long shift.
Your roommates often become your closest friends. You cook together, learn the basics of Japanese life together and head out for night skiing whenever the mood strikes. You also pick up the small cultural habits such as quiet hallways and leaving your shoes at the entrance.
Work Life: Busy shifts, big snowfalls and unbeatable views
Working at a Japanese ski resort is busy but incredibly rewarding. Depending on your role, your days might include:
- Greeting guests
- Serving food and drinks
- Operating ski lifts
- Helping with rental equipment
- Shovelling fresh snow
Japanese work culture values teamwork and attention to detail. Everyone contributes, and once you find your rhythm the days begin to flow naturally. Even when things get hectic, stepping outside into fresh mountain air reminds you why you came.
Days Off: Powder mornings, onsen evenings and exploring Japan
Your days off are an adventure in themselves. You can wake up early to chase powder, explore nearby towns or relax in a steaming onsen while snow falls around you. It feels like a little holiday every week.
Once the season wraps up, most participants travel around Japan. AIFS recommends routes such as:
- Tokyo to Kyoto
- The Japanese Alps
- Nara’s deer park
- Okinawa for warm weather and beaches
After months of working hard, it is an amazing reward.
What You Learn: Confidence, independence and skills that stay with you
A winter season in Japan is much more than a job. You learn how to:
- Adapt to new environments
- Communicate with people from different cultures
- Handle unexpected challenges
- Trust yourself in new situations
You also pick up handy Japanese phrases like:
- Konnichiwa
- Arigatou gozaimasu
- Sumimasen
By the end of the season, you walk away with new skills, a stronger sense of independence and a group of friends from around the world. These experiences stay with you long after the snow melts.
A winter season in Japan is fun, challenging, eye opening and full of moments you will never forget. You get to live in a place most people only visit on holiday, work alongside other travellers and immerse yourself in the culture, food and landscapes that make Japan so special.
If you want an adventure that blends work, travel and personal growth, this is your sign to go.
Need help with something?
Frequently Asked Questions
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01Will my age limit the type of jobs I can do?
Many resorts have strict age requirements. If you’re aged 18-19, your placement opportunities can increase if you speak some Japanese and can show current or prior work experience (working casually on weekends or school holidays).
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02Can I choose my location?
We place in many of the most popular winter resort areas of Japan. You are welcome to nominate an area where you would like to work, however we are unfortunately unable to guarantee that location.
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03Will I have to pay tax in Japan?
Yes. As a working holiday visa holder, you will pay a flat rate of 20%. You will also have a deduction out of your monthly pay for the Japanese pension, as well as a contribution to the national health insurance.
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04What will be my working hours?
Most jobs will require you to work evening and weekends. Hospitality workers are normally rostered on 5-6 times a week at 8 hours per shift. Work hours can vary and can start as early as 5:30am. Evening shifts may run until 23:00. Food and beverage roles may mean split shifts – breakfast and lunch or lunch and dinner.
A ski instructor will generally work between 8am to 5pm, including weekends and public holidays. In total you should expect 6-8 days off per month with no days off during peak season (Christmas/New Year).
Flexibility is required when it comes to working hours and shifts. Some smaller resorts may relocate you to other areas of the resort to work during quieter days or weeks. Overtime is common in Japan.
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05Is accommodation included?
Yes, staff housing is included for duration of your contract. You will be required to pay the costs of your housing. Monthly rent is deducted from the salary and ranges between ¥5,000-35,000. Accommodation is normally in a shared house, and you can expect to share a room with 1-3 other people. Japanese bedding may either be a western style bed or a Japanese 'futon' on the floor. WIFI is normally in all accommodation although at the start of the season it may be 1-2 weeks before it is active.
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06Is it easy to make friends?
The jobs that are offered as part of Winter Work Japan are primarily filled by travellers just like you! They are travelling alone and will be wanting to find friends as well. You will find that you will naturally find friends among those with whom you work and live. You will also have the chance to meet and connect with others at our arrival orientations in Tokyo.
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