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 issue an invoice with a secure payment link that will take you directly 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. Please note that 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 booking amount is required, usually within 7 days, to confirm your reservation (unless otherwise specified).
Please note that failure to make this deposit may result in the automatic cancellation of your booking.
What is your cancellation policy?
- For cancellations made more than 60 days prior to your check-in date, a cancellation fee of 20% of the total invoice (equivalent to the deposit) or the applicable supplier deposit will be non-refundable.
- For cancellations made within 60 days or less of check-in, a 100% cancellation fee will apply without exception.
Please note that cancellation fees for other services such as lift passes and transfers may vary. In most cases, cancellations made 30 days or less will incur a 100% cancellation fee. Kindly confirm details 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 costs incurred as a result.
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 cancelled transfers are subject to a 100% fee under supplier conditions, and you may be required to pay for a new or rescheduled transfer. In most cases, these costs are recoverable through your travel insurance.
While SkiJapan.com cannot cover cancellation or amendment fees, we will gladly assist in arranging new transfers and provide any necessary documentation to support your insurance claim.
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 obtaining Japanese Yen in cash before departing your home country, as many businesses in resort areas like Niseko still do not accept credit cards.
Currency exchange machines are available at Seicomart and Hirafu188.
International ATMs can also be found in Hirafu Niseko at Lawson convenience store (available until 10:00pm and accepting all major credit cards as well as WISE cards) and Seicomart (available until 11:00pm). There are also available at the main Post Office and all 7-Eleven convenience stores.
Are there any other essential items I should be bringing with me?
Are there any other essential items I should bring with me?
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- Paracetamol, cold & flu tablets and anti-inflammatories (as strong medication can be difficult to obtain in Japan)
- International power adapter for Japan Region Type “A” outlets. Please ensure your appliances have a switching power supply that states “Input/100v–240v” to use them safely in Japan. Note that 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 connecting to Chitose Airport, please check your flight itinerary to confirm which terminal you will need to transfer to.
For detailed guidance on moving between terminals, please refer to the official Haneda Airport website:
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 ensure you have read and printed the travel itinerary we sent, as it includes detailed instructions and information about your confirmed transfer arrangements.
If you’ve booked your accommodation with us, we can assist in arranging bus or taxi transfers to the ski resorts we support. Please contact us in advance to confirm the availability, bus routes, and pricing.
If you prefer to travel by train (including the Shinkansen), bookings must be made directly via the official websites below:
- JR East Fares & Timetables (Tokyo – Nagano): https://www.jreast.co.jp/en/multi/index.html/
- JR East Pass (Tohoku area) – For foreign visitors: https://www.jreast.co.jp/en/multi/pass/eastpass_t.html
Please note: You must exchange your E-ticket at a JR Service Desk during their operating hours.
What do I do if the airport is closed and my flight is delayed or cancelled?
In the event of an airport closure caused by extreme weather, we recommend that you remain where you are and speak directly with your airline. They will provide updates and assist with rebooking on rescheduled or additional flights.
Please note that making alternative arrangements—such as flying into a different airport—may significantly extend your travel time. 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?
Transit time between Narita and Haneda airports can vary depending on traffic, so it’s important to consider this when booking connecting flights. Generally, it takes around 65 to 85 minutes by bus. The Airport Limousine is the main company operating this route, and you can find fares and timetables on their website: https://www.limousinebus.co.jp/en/.
You can also travel by train, with details available in the relevant sections above for Haneda and Narita airports. Taxis—both fixed fare and standard—are also available at both airports, but please note that this option tends to be more expensive than using the bus or train.
What happens when I arrive at Chitose Airport (CTS) in Hokkaido?
If you have arranged your transfer through SkiJapan, please refer to the directions provided in your itinerary for detailed instructions on where to go upon arrival.
If you have arranged your own transfer, please follow the instructions provided by your chosen transport company.
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.
How can I get to my SkiJapan accommodation?
*Note: Schedule will be updated by September 2025
2025/26 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.
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).
Bus Transfer (One Way):
JPY 6,000 per adult (12+ years)
JPY 5,000 per child (3-11 years)
Infant 0-2 years can travel free of charge (no seat provided)
Taxi Transfer (One Way):
JPY 41,000 for 2 people
JPY 56,250 for 3-9 people
*Additional charges may apply depending on vehicle availability or other circumstances.
Please email your desired transport service and arrival/departure flight details to holidays@skijapan.com
Ski lessons with NBS Japan Snowsports Specialists
SkiJapan.com can arrange ski and snowboard rentals and lessons with our affiliated Snowsports school NBS.
All services must be pre-booked at least 7 days prior to service date (subject to availability).
Please check their Price List and send your rental and lesson requests to holidays@skijapan.com
What happens when I arrive to Niseko?
Check-in documentation is required for all accommodations. Most properties will also request credit card details or a security deposit at check-in.
In accordance with Japanese law, copies of all guest passports must be provided.
If you are arriving in Niseko by bus to the Hirafu Welcome Centre, a SkiJapan representative will meet you upon arrival and take you to your accommodation in time for the 3:00 PM check-in.
I have booked services through NBS, how can I find some answers to my questions?
You can find detailed FAQ sections on the regular lesson and rental pages of the NBS website: https://nbsjapan.com/
If you have any questions that aren’t answered there, please feel free to email: bookings@nbsjapan.com or call +81 (0) 136215050
What do I do when leaving Niseko?
Please check your itinerary for details of your pick-up location. You will also receive a reminder to review your information before your departure date.
Upon check-in, we recommend confirming your booked departure transfer mode and time at a SkiJapan.com service desk (e.g. SkiJapan.com, Shinka Niseko) at least 4 days prior to departure. Transfer amendments will incur cancellation fees on existing bookings and charges will vary depending on the supplier’s terms.
IMPORTANT: Please be ready at your accommodation with your luggage 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Transport companies cannot wait for late guests. If you miss your scheduled transfer, you will need to arrange alternative transport (public bus or private taxi) to the airport at your own expense.
What time does the earliest bus get to the airport?
The earliest bus from Niseko departs at 7:50am from the Hirafu Welcome Centre and arrives at New Chitose Domestic Airport around 10:40am (weather permitting). If your flight departs before 12:00pm, we strongly recommend booking a private taxi transfer to avoid the risk of missing your flight.
What do I do when leaving Hakuba?
Taxi – If you have pre-booked a private taxi service to Narita/Haneda Airport or to Nagano Station through SkiJapan.com, your driver will pick you up directly from your accommodation.
Bus – If you have pre-booked through SkiJapan.com for a bus transfer to Narita/Haneda Airport or Nagano Station, please refer to your itinerary for detailed pick-up locations and schedule.
Train – If you are travelling to the airport by train, upon arrival at Tokyo Station, exit the Shinkansen ticket gates and follow the signs for the Narita Express (N’EX). Take the escalators down to the Sobu Line, where the train departs from platform 3 or 4. Please arrange your train tickets directly with the train company.
What options are in Hakuba for ski lessons and rentals?
SNOWSPORTS SCHOOL
English speaking ski and snowboard lessons are available through NBS Hakuba: https://nbsjapan.com
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?
Please 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 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 taxi transfers, your driver will take you directly to your accommodation in Rusutsu.
In accordance with Japanese law, copies of all guest passports must be provided.
What do I do when leaving Rusutsu?
Please check your itinerary for details of your pick-up location. If you are staying at the Rusutsu Resort Hotel, please proceed to the bus counter located in the North Wing at least 20 minutes prior to departure. If you are staying at the Westin Rusutsu Resort, note that there is no bus counter; instead, please be ready in the lobby 20 minutes prior to departure, where bus staff will meet you.
What time does the earliest bus get to the airport?
The earliest bus from Rusutsu departs between 8:35–8:40am and arrives at New Chitose Domestic Airport around 10:40am (weather permitting). If your flight departs before 12:00pm, we strongly recommend booking a private taxi transfer to avoid the risk of missing your flight.
What happens when I arrive to Furano?
If you have pre-booked transfers through SkiJapan.com, please check your itinerary for your designated drop-off location. Bus schedules are not yet available; they will be updated closer to the start of the winter season, or you can contact us for the latest information.
If you have booked private taxi transfers, your driver will take you directly to your accommodation in Furano.
Guests who have arranged their own transfers should refer to their supplier’s information for transportation details.
To help us prepare for your arrival, please provide your transportation method and schedule at least 7 days before your check-in date.
Please note that, in accordance with Japanese law, copies of all guest passports must be provided.
What do I do when leaving Furano?
Please check your itinerary for details of your pick-up location and arrive at the boarding location or counter with your luggage at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Currently, bus schedules are not yet available; they will be updated closer to the start of the winter season, or you can contact us for the latest updates.
If you have booked private taxi transfers, please be ready at your accommodation 20 minutes before your scheduled departure.
What time does the earliest bus get to the airport?
Bus schedules are not yet finalized; they will be updated closer to the start of the winter season, or you can contact us for the latest information.
My transfer was only to Nagano or Iiyama Stations, how can I access Nozawa Onsen?
We can assist with booking your bus transfer to and from Iiyama Station. Please note that if you arrive after 5:30pm, you may need to arrange an alternative transportation option.
For guests coming from Nagano Station, you may need to book directly with Nagaden Express Bus. Bus schedules for this season have not yet been confirmed, with updates expected around November.
What do I do when leaving Nozawa Onsen?
Taxi – If you have pre-booked a private taxi service to Narita/Haneda Airport or to Nagano Station through SkiJapan.com, your driver will pick you up directly from your accommodation. Should you need to change your schedule, please contact us no later than 5 days prior to departure so we can coordinate with the transport company.
Bus – If you have pre-booked a bus transfer to Narita/Haneda Airport or Iiyama Station through SkiJapan.com, please refer to your itinerary for detailed pick-up locations and schedules. Be at the bus stop at least 15 minutes before departure.
For Nagano Station, you may need to book directly with the Nagaden Express Bus. As noted above, bus schedules are not yet finalized, and updates are expected around November.
Train – If you are travelling to the airport by train, upon arrival at Tokyo Station, exit the Shinkansen ticket gates and follow the signs for the Narita Express (N’EX). Take the escalators down to the Sobu Line, where the train departs from platform 3 or 4. Please arrange your train tickets directly with the train company.
If you have not yet booked your transfer, hotel staff will be able to assist with making the arrangements for your departure. Please confirm with them whether payment is required prior to travel or upon boarding the bus service.
What happens when I arrive to Kiroro?
Check-in documentation is required for all accommodations. Most properties will also request credit card details or a security deposit at check-in.
In accordance with Japanese law, copies of all guest passports must be provided.
What do I do when leaving Kiroro?
Please check your itinerary for details of your pick-up location.
If you have arranged private taxi transfers, please be ready 20 minutes before your appointed time in the accommodation lobby.
What time does the earliest bus get to the airport?
SkiJapan.com currently offers private taxi transfers only to and from Kiroro Resorts. Please refer to your itinerary for details once booked.
What happens when I arrive to Tomamu?
Please check your itinerary for your drop-off location and full instructions.
If you are travelling by bus, you will be dropped either at Tomamu The Tower or Risonare Tomamu.
If you have booked private taxi transfers, your driver will take you directly to your accommodation in Tomamu.
What do I do when leaving Tomamu?
Please check your itinerary for details of your pick-up location.
If you have arranged bus or private taxi transfers, please be ready in the accommodation lobby 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time and confirm your details at the reception.
What time does the earliest bus get to the airport?
The earliest bus from Tomamu departs between 8:30–8:40am and arrives at New Chitose Domestic Airport around 10:50am (weather permitting). If your flight departs before 12:00pm, we strongly recommend booking a private taxi transfer to avoid the risk of missing your flight.
What do I do when leaving Myoko Kogen?
Taxi – If you have pre-booked a private taxi service to Narita/Haneda Airport or to Nagano Station through SkiJapan.com, your driver will pick you up directly from your accommodation. Should you need to change your schedule, please contact us no later than 5 days prior to departure so we can coordinate with the transport company.
Bus – If you have pre-booked a bus transfer to Tokyo/Narita/Haneda Airport through SkiJapan.com, please refer to your itinerary for detailed pick-up locations and schedules. Please ensure you are at the bus stop at least 15 minutes before departure.
We can also arrange transfers to other ski resorts we support in the Honshu region. Please contact us in advance to confirm availability, bus routes, and pricing.
Train – If you are travelling to the airport by train, upon arrival at Tokyo Station, exit the Shinkansen ticket gates and follow the signs for the Narita Express (N’EX). Take the escalators down to the Sobu Line, where the train departs from platform 3 or 4. Please arrange your train tickets directly with the train company.
What options are in Myoko Kogen for ski lessons and rentals?
We can assist with booking your ski lessons and rentals. English-speaking ski and snowboard lessons are available for both group and private sessions, including programs for children from 3 years old. Pre-booking through your SkiJapan.com consultant is recommended to ensure availability.
What do I do when leaving Shiga Kogen?
Taxi – If you have pre-booked a private taxi service to Narita/Haneda Airport through SkiJapan.com, your driver will pick you up directly from your accommodation. Should you need to change your schedule, please contact us no later than 5 days prior to departure so we can coordinate with the transport company.
Bus – If you have pre-booked a bus transfer to Tokyo/Narita/Haneda Airport through SkiJapan.com, please refer to your itinerary for detailed pick-up locations and schedules. Please ensure you are at the bus stop at least 15 minutes before departure.
We can also arrange transfers to selected ski resorts we support in the Honshu region. Please contact us in advance to confirm availability, bus routes, and pricing.
Train – If you are travelling to the airport by train, upon arrival at Tokyo Station, exit the Shinkansen ticket gates and follow the signs for the Narita Express (N’EX). Take the escalators down to the Sobu Line, where the train departs from platform 3 or 4. Please arrange your train tickets directly with the train company.
No specific FAQs for Madarao Resort as of now.
What options are in Appi Kogen for ski lessons and rentals?
Information about lessons and rentals can be found on this website: http://www.appi-japan.com/winter/
It is recommended to arrange your rentals and lessons in advance. English-speaking instructors are available, but lesson availability is limited during peak times.