FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What payment methods do you accept?
Payments to SkiJapan.com can be made via Flywire in your local currency using either an international credit card or direct deposit. The exchange rate is set by Flywire. Our consultants will provide you with an invoice that includes a secure payment link, which will direct you to the Flywire website to complete your transaction.
Alternatively, if you prefer to pay in Japanese Yen (JPY), we can accept payment to our local Hokuyo Bank account. All bank fees must be paid by the sender. Hokuyo Bank charges a receiving fee of ¥4,000 plus sender and intermediary bank fees.
What currencies do you accept?
We accept payments in Japanese Yen (JPY) or in your local currency through our payment processor, Flywire.
Do I need to make a deposit to secure my booking?
Yes, a non-refundable deposit of 20% of the (remove total) booking amount is required within 7 days to confirm your reservation. Failure to make the deposit may result in the automatic cancellation of your booking.
What is your cancellation policy?
In the event of cancellation, more than 60 days prior to your arrival date, a cancellation fee of 20% of total invoice (equivalent to the deposit) or the applicable supplier deposit will be non-refundable. Cancellations within (or less than) 60 days prior to arrival, a 100% cancellation fee will apply without exception.
Please note that cancellation fees for other services such as lift passes and transfers vary; cancellations made 30 days or less will generally incur 100% cancellation fees. We recommend confirming the terms with your consultant.
Once travel has commenced, no refunds or credits will be issued for unused package components. If one or more individuals cancel from a SkiJapan booking, both the cancelling and remaining parties will be responsible for any additional accommodation costs incurred as a result.
How can I get to my SkiJapan accommodation?
*Note: Schedule will be updated by September 2025
2024/25 Airport Bus Schedule
Required Connection Time – the bus company does not accept bookings with short connection times.
For arrival bus transfers, a minimum connection time of 45 minutes is required for domestic flights, and 90 minutes for international flights between the flight arrival and the bus departure.
For departure bus transfers, a minimum of 60 minutes is required for domestic flights (90 minutes for LCC such as Jetstar or Peach Aviation), and 120 minutes for international flights between the bus arrival and flight departure.
If your flight does not meet the bus schedule, a taxi can be booked at an additional cost. We highly recommend arranging a taxi as soon as possible, as bookings are subject to availability.
Please provide your flight schedule, including flight number, when requesting a bus or taxi. Bookings cannot be processed without this information.
What documentation should I bring with me?
- A valid passport
- Flight E-ticket & itinerary
- Travel itinerary outlining accommodation, transfers & lift passes
- Any vouchers for services e.g. Lessons/Rental or other Services
- Travel insurance documents
My flight is delayed or I’m going to arrive at a different time, what do I do?
What happens if I miss my transfer due to flight delays?
Please note that 100% fees apply for cancelled transfers due to supplier conditions. You may be required to pay for a new or rescheduled transfer. In most cases, these costs are covered by Travel insurance.
While SkiJapan.com will not cover any cancellation or amendment fees for transfers, we will gladly assist in arranging new transfers and providing any necessary documentation [to support your insurance claims —if you wish to include].
Can I buy things using cash or credit card and how can I get money out?
Although credit cards are widely accepted in major cities such as Tokyo and Sapporo, we strongly recommend that you obtain Japanese Yen in cash before departing your home country. In resort areas like Niseko, there are still many businesses who do not accept credit cards.
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Lawson convenience store (available up to 10:00pm. All major credit cards accepted. WISE cards are also accepted.)
Seicomart is available up to 11:00pm
Are there any other essential items I should be bringing with me?
- Paracetamol, cold & flu tablets, anti-inflammatories (good or strong medication can be difficult to get hold of in Japan)
- International power adapter for Japan Region Type “A” output. Ensure that your appliances have switching power supply and states: “Input/100v-240v” to be able to use your appliance in Japan. Appliances such as foreign hairdryers will not work in Japan.
I am travelling via Haneda, what do I need to know?
If you are arriving at Haneda International Airport and taking a connecting flight to Chitose Airport, please refer to your flight itinerary to confirm which terminal you need to transfer to.
For detailed information on navigating between terminals, you may refer to the official Haneda Airport website below
https://tokyo-haneda.com/en/access/moving_between_terminals/index.html
I am travelling via Narita, what do I need to know?
If you are arriving at Narita International Airport and taking a connecting flight to Chitose Airport, please refer to your flight itinerary to confirm which terminal you need to transfer to.
For detailed information on navigating between terminals, you may refer to the official Narita Airport website below.
I am arriving via a Tokyo airport, where do I go for my transfer to the resort?
Please see the following links for information which could help with your own transfer, should you have any questions:
- Fares and timetables for Japan Railway Company (Shinkansen, Tokyo – Nagano): http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/
- Information regarding the JR East Pass (Tohoku area) available to foreigners outside of Japan: http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/eastpass_t/index.html#locations
Please note: to exchange your E-ticket for the JR East Pass at the JR service desk, check the each operation hours. https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/ticketwindow/?selectPass=eastT - Fares and timetables for Nagano Snow Shuttle (Tokyo – Nagano): https://www.naganosnowshuttle.com/
- Fares and timetables for Alpico Express Shuttle (Nagano – Hakuba):
https://www.alpico.co.jp/en/
Please note: to exchange your E-ticket for the JR East Pass at the JR service desk, check the operation hours.
What do I do if the airport is closed and my flight is delayed or cancelled?
In the event the Airport closes due to extreme weather we recommend that you stay where you are and talk directly with the airline. They will advise and book you on rescheduled and/or extra flights. Making alternative arrangements (flying into a different airport) can make your trip longer. There is a possibility that surrounding roads and train lines are also closed.
My flight arrives at Narita but I need to get to Haneda or vice versa, how can I do this?
The transit time between the two airports can vary depending on traffic so it is best to be wary of this when booking flights, generally speaking however, it can take around 65 – 85 minutes if travelling by bus. Airport Limousine is the main company that operates this route and its fares plus timetables can be found via this link https://www.limousinebus.co.jp/en/.
You can also travel by train, with this information available on the above sections links for the two different airports, Haneda and Narita.
There are also fixed fare and standard taxis available at both airports but you can expect to pay higher fees than catching the bus.
What happens when I arrive at Chitose Airport (CTS) in Hokkaido?
With arranged transfers booked under SkiJapan, please refer to the directions provided in your itinerary for details on where to go for your transfer.
If you have arranged your own transfer, please refer to your supplier’s information about what you need to do.
Can we send our baggage to accommodation in resort?
Yes, you can. There are 2 major delivery companies in Japan. Delivery service should be available at airport, some hotels, convenience stores, and SkiJapan.com office in Niseko.
Please contact SkiJapan for address or details BEFORE delivering your items
Black Cat: https://www.global-yamato.com/en/about/
Are there any year round positions available?
Please refer to the list of Open Positions on the Employment page. We will only accept online applications for jobs via the Positions Vacant page. Direct applications or resumes sent to any email address will be ignored.
Are there any year seasonal positions available?
Yes, you can check this page out.
When will employment applications for 2025/2026 winter open?
Applications will open on June 1st, 2025. All seasonal positions will be posted on this Employment page.
When do applications close?
Applications close on the 31st of July, 2025
I am a native English speaker. Is it a problem if I don't speak Japanese?
All staff need to have the ability to communicate in written and spoken English as our guests are mostly from English speaking countries. Japanese language skills are a must for some positions. Cantonese/ Mandarin skills are also highly regarded.
What type of staff accommodation is available?
We have shared houses with rooms that can accommodate single up to quad beds at subsidized rent for seasonal staff.
What type of visa do I need to arrange?
Working Holiday Visa is all that is required for most positions. It is up to you to arrange it before employment application or arrange it later. Sponsored Visas may be arranged for highly skilled positions depending on experience. If you are a Japanese passport holder, possess a Japanese spouse visa or Japanese permanent residency then you do not require any additional visas.
When do I know if I get position?
First interview will be around mid-July to mid-August, and offers likely be sent to you on late August – September.
Do I get notice if I did not make it to interview?
Unfortunately, we cannot contact all of you. If you did not get contact from us by end of August, please proceed to alternative plan you have.
Can I get seasonal lift pass?
We offer a seasonal lift pass as a benefit for all staff, which will be refunded as a monetary amount upon completion of your contract.
When do seasonal positions usually start and finish?
Generally winter employment dates start late November and finish mid/end of March.
What do seasonal positions usually pay?
Salary and pay will depend on position.
SkiJapan.com Airport Transfers
SkiJapan.com can arrange airport transfers for customers who have pre-booked accommodation.
Airport transfers must be pre-booked at least 14 days prior to service date (subject to availability).
One way bus transfer cost:
JPY 5,500 per adult (12+ years)
JPY 4,500 per child (3-11 years)
Infant 0-2 years can travel free of charge (no seat provided)
One way taxi transfers cost:
JPY 38,600 for 2 people
JPY 51,700 for 3-9 people
Please email your desired transport service and arrival/departure flight details to JP@skijapan.com
Ski lessons with Niseko Base Snowsports
SkiJapan.com can arrange ski and snowboard rentals and lessons with our affiliated ski school NBS.
All services must be pre-booked at least 14 days prior to service date (subject to availability).
Please check their Price List and send your rental and lesson requests to JP@skijapan.com
What happens when I arrive to Niseko?
Check in documentation is required to be filled in for all accommodations. Most accommodations will also require credit card details or bond for accommodation security. All guest passport copies are required to be provided, by Japanese Law.
If you are arriving to Niseko by bus to the Hirafu Welcome Centre, you will be met on arrival by a resort representative who will take you to your accommodation.
I have booked services through NBS, how can I find some answers to my questions?
You can find extremely comprehensive FAQ sections under the regular lesson and rental pages on the Niseko Base Snowsports (NBS) website http://www.nisekobase.com
For any questions you have that couldn’t be answered through the website, feel free to send an email to info@nisekobase.com or give them a call on +81 (0) 136215050
What do I do when leaving Niseko?
Check your itinerary for details of your pick up location. You will receive a reminder to check your information prior to departure date. Please remember to check and confirm your booked departure transfer mode and time at a SkiJapan.com service desk (e.g. SkiJapan.com, Alpen Ridge) preferably on your arrival at least 4 days before you are due to leave. Transfer amendments will incur cancellation fees on existing bookings and charges will depend on the supplier’s terms.
IMPORTANT: It is very important that you are ready at your accommodation with your luggage 20 minutes prior to your departure time as the transfer is unable to wait for you if you are running late. If you miss this transfer, you will have to arrange for a public bus/private taxi service to the Airport at your own expense.
What time does the earliest bus get to the airport?
The earliest bus departure from Niseko can be arranged from 7:50am from the Hirafu Welcome Centre and will arrive at Chitose Domestic Airport by approximately 10:40am (weather dependent). If you have a flight before 12:00pm, we strongly recommend you use a private taxi transfer to avoid missing flights.
What do I do when leaving Hakuba?
Taxi – If you have pre-booked through SkiJapan.com for a shared taxi service to Narita/Haneda Airport or a private taxi service to Nagano Station, your driver will collect you from your accommodation. For shared taxi, a representative will contact you 3 days prior to your departure to confirm your pickup time.
Bus – If you have pre-booked through SkiJapan.com for any bus to Narita/Haneda Airport and Nagano Station, Please check your itinerary for details on pick-up locations and times.
Rail – If you are travelling to the airport by rail, when you arrive at Tokyo Station, exit the Shinkansen ticket gates and follow the signs to the Narita Express. Take the escalators down to the Sobu Line where the train departs from platform 4.
What options are in Hakuba for ski lessons and rentals?
SKI SCHOOL
English speaking ski and snowboard lessons are available through Hakuba Snow Sports School and Evergreen International Ski School. They offer both group and private lessons and a kid’s program.
SKI RENTAL
Equipment rental is available with NBS Gateway and booked through SkiJapan.com. Whether you are a beginner or advanced snow rider – their expert rental technicians can put you on the skis/board most suited to your ability and preferred style of riding. A free pick up service from your accommodation is also available.
What happens when I arrive to Rusutsu?
Check your itinerary for your drop off location and full instructions. If you are travelling by bus, you will be dropped either at Rusutsu Resort Hotel or Westin Rusutsu Resort. If you have booked accommodation other than these two hotels with us, please refer to your itinerary on how to reach your accommodation. If you have arranged your own accommodation, you will need to contact your accommodation provider to find the best way to make it to the accommodation.
If you have booked private transfers via taxi, your driver will take you directly to your accommodation in Rusutsu. All guest passport copies are required to be provided, by Japanese Law.
What do I do when leaving Rusutsu?
Check your itinerary for details of your pick up location.
For the Resortliner bus, where staying at the Rusutsu Resort Hotel, please make your way to the Resort Liner Counter located at the North Wing, 20 minutes before your departure. If staying at the Westin Rusutsu Resort, there is no Resort Liner Counter, however ensure you are ready in the lobby 20 minutes before your departure where the Resort Liner staff can find you.
What time does the earliest bus get to the airport?
The earliest bus departure from Rusutsu can be arranged between 08:35-8:40am and will arrive at Chitose Domestic Airport by approximately 10:40am (weather dependent). If you have a flight before 12:00pm, we strongly recommend you use a private taxi transfer to avoid missing flights.
When do seasonal positions usually start and finish?
Generally winter employment dates start late November and finish mid/end of March.
What do seasonal positions usually pay?
Salary and pay will depend on position. Generally you can expect a monthly wage of approximately 180,000-250,000 JPY.
What happens when I arrive to Furano?
If you have pre-booked transfers through SkiJapan.com, please check your itinerary for your drop off location.
The Resort liner bus from Chitose Airport will stop at the following Furano accommodations; Shin Furano Prince Hotel, North Country Inn, Furano Prince Hotel, Hotel Naturwald, Hotel Bell Hills (this is the recommended stop for guests staying in Lodge B&B Furano) ,Hotel Edel Warme and FURANO NATULUX HOTEL(Infront of Furano Station ).
If you have booked private transfers via taxi, your driver will take you directly to your accommodation in Furano.
What do I do when leaving Furano?
Check your itinerary for details of your pick up location. Shin Furano Prince Hotel has a Resortliner counter in the hotel. Please make your way there, 20 minutes prior. For all other accommodations please ensure that you are at the pick-up location on your itinerary with your luggage, 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time. https://www.access-n.jp/winter2023/en/information/
For transfer via taxi, please ensure that you are at the pick-up location (refer to your itinerary) with your luggage 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
What time does the earliest bus get to the airport?
The earliest bus departure from Furano can be arranged between 7:45am-8:30am and will arrive at Chitose Domestic Airport by approximately 10:50am (weather dependent). If you have a flight before 12:00pm, we strongly recommend you use a private taxi transfer to avoid missing flights.
My transfer was only to Nagano or Iiyama Stations, how can I access Nozawa Onsen?
From Nagano Station: Nagaden Express bus runs direct to Nozawa, from bus stop 24 outside East “Higashi” exit of Nagano station.
Timetable: http://www.nagadenbus.co.jp.e.aaf.hp.transer.com/express/winter/nozawa/
Platform guidance: http://www.nagadenbus.co.jp.e.aaf.hp.transer.com/stop-info/2020/05/jbn.php
* Please Note the last bus departs approximately 2:25pm.
From Iyama Station: Please refer to the URL for timetable of the Nozawa Onsen Liner. https://nozawaonsen.info/en/nozawa-onsen-liner/
If arriving after 21:45pm you will need to take a taxi.
What do I do when leaving Nozawa Onsen?
Taxi – If you have pre-booked a shared taxi service to Narita/Haneda Airport or a private taxi service to Nagano Station, your driver will collect you from your accommodation. A representative will contact you 72 hours prior to your departure to confirm your pick up time. If you wish to amend your pre-booked pick-up time, you will need to contact Chuo taxi a minimum of 4 days prior to the scheduled service.
Bus – If you have pre-booked a bus transfer service to Tokyo/Haneda/Narita with Nagano Snow Shuttle through SkiJapan.com, you will need to make your way to the Chuo Bus Terminal. Otherwise, there are some buses from Nozawa to Haneda, Narita Tokyo;
https://naganosnowshuttle.com/Route_Nozawa.aspx. Your itinerary will show your bus departure time. Please be at the bus stop 15 minutes before the departure time.
Rail – If you are travelling by rail to the airport, when you arrive at Tokyo Station, exit the Shinkansen ticket gates and follow the signs to the Narita Express. Take the escalators down to the Sobu Line where the train departs from platform 4. If not already organised with your SkiJapan.com consultant, the hotel staff will be able to assist you in arranging a transfer for your date of departure. Please be sure to confirm with them if payment is required prior to, or upon boarding the bus or shuttle service.
What happens when I arrive to Kiroro?
Check in documentation is required to be filled in for all accommodations. Most accommodations will also require credit card details or bond for accommodation security. All guest passport copies are required to be provided, by Japanese Law.
What do I do when leaving Kiroro?
Please check your itinerary for details regarding your pick-up location. If you plan to travel by taxi, kindly ensure you are ready at least 20 minutes before your appointed time in the accommodation lobby.
What time does the earliest bus get to the airport?
Ski Japan currently offers taxi transportation only to and from Kiroro/Yu Kiroro Resorts. Please refer to your itinerary accordingly.
What happens when I arrive to Tomamu?
Check your itinerary for your drop off location and full instructions. Resortliner buses from Chitose Airport will drop guests at both Tomamu The Tower and Risonare Tomamu.
If travelling via taxi, your driver will bring you directly to Tomamu Resort and drop you at your accommodation.
What do I do when leaving Tomamu?
Check your itinerary for details of your pick up location. Resortliner buses to Chitose Airport depart from both Tomamu The Tower and Risonare Tomamu hotels. For both Resortliner and Taxi’s please make your way to the accommodations lobby 20 minutes before your scheduled departure and confirm your details at the reception.
What time does the earliest bus get to the airport?
The earliest bus departure from Tomamu can be arranged for 8:30am – 8:40am and will arrive to Chitose Airport by approximately 10:50am (weather dependent). If you have a morning or early afternoon flight (before 12:00pm), we strongly recommend you use a private taxi transfer to avoid missing flights.
What do I do when leaving Myoko Kogen?
Taxi – If you have pre-booked through SkiJapan.com for a shared taxi service to Narita/Haneda Airport or a private taxi service to Nagano Station, your driver will collect you from your accommodation. For shared taxi, a representative will contact you 3 days prior to your departure to confirm your pickup time.
Bus – If you have pre-booked through SkiJapan.com for any bus to Tokyo/Narita/Haneda Airport, Please check your itinerary for details on pick-up locations and times.
Rail – If you are travelling by rail to Narita airport, when you arrive at Tokyo Station, exit the Shinkansen ticket gates and follow the signs to the Narita Express. Take the escalators down to the Sobu Line where the train departs from platform 4.
What options are in Myoko Kogen for ski lessons and rentals?
English speaking ski and snowboard lessons are available through Myoko Snowsports. They offer both group and private lessons and have several programs catering to kids from 3 years. Pre booking is recommended and can be done through your SkiJapan.com consultant prior to departure.
Myoko Snowsports also offer the latest international and Japanese brands in equipment hire and cater for 3 year olds and upwards. Pre booking of rental equipment is recommended.
What do I do when leaving Shiga Kogen?
Taxi – If you have pre-booked through SkiJapan.com for a shared taxi service to Narita/Haneda Airport or a private taxi service to Nagano Station, your driver will collect you from your accommodation. For shared taxi, a representative will contact you 3 days prior to your departure to confirm your pickup time.
Bus – If you have pre-booked through SkiJapan.com for any bus to Tokyo/Narita/Haneda Airport, Please check your itinerary for details on pick-up locations and times.
Rail – If you are travelling by rail to the airport, when you arrive at Tokyo Station, exit the Shinkansen ticket gates and follow the signs to the Narita Express. Take the escalators down to the Sobu Line where the train departs from platform 4.
No specific FAQs for Madarao Resort as of now.
What options are in Appi Kogen for ski lessons and rentals?
Information regarding lessons and rentals can be found through this website; http://www.appi-japan.com/winter/
The same as other resorts in Japan, it is best arrange your rentals and lessons in advance. English speaking instructors are available, however lesson availability is limited during peak times, so to avoid disappointment we recommend that you pre-book before you leave home.