Lesson FAQs

What is the difference between skiing and snowboarding?

Skiers stand on two skis, one on each foot, and use ski poles to help with balance. They face forward while moving downhill and control their speed using turns or a snowplough.

Snowboarders secure both feet to a single board and ride sideways down the slope. They control their speed and direction by turning the snowboard.

Is skiing easier than snowboarding?

If you have experience with surfing, wakeboarding, skateboarding or riding a scooter, snowboarding may feel easier. If you have experience with ice skating or rollerblading, skiing may be easier. If you are unsure, we recommend skiing because balancing is generally easier at the beginning.

Can we learn skiing and snowboarding in the same lesson?

Everyone in a lesson must choose either skiing or snowboarding, as an instructor can teach only one discipline at a time. Anyone wishing to try both will need to book separate lessons.

Can people of different ability levels join the same lesson?

We recommend that everyone in a lesson be at a similar ability level. In a private lesson, participants of different levels may ski or snowboard together if spending time together is the priority. However, the lesson will progress at the pace of the least experienced participant, so more advanced participants may receive less benefit.

What ages do you teach?

We can teach skiing to children from approximately three years old and snowboarding from around six years old. Children can begin once they can comfortably fit suitable boots, skis or a snowboard. Please check with the rental shop beforehand to ensure that appropriately sized equipment is available.

We recommend that young children try skiing first because it is easier to balance and they can begin moving independently sooner than on a snowboard. Young children can learn to snowboard, but it requires several hours of patient, one-to-one support from a parent or instructor. We strongly recommend private one-to-one lessons for skiers under five and snowboarders under eight.

There is no maximum age for learning to ski—our oldest guest so far was 82! Anyone who remains active and healthy can give it a try, although learning may take a little longer. Our instructors can adjust the pace to keep your lesson relaxed and comfortable.

Can our family ski together?

Children and adults learn at different speeds and in different ways. If everyone wants to make the most progress, we recommend separate lessons for children and adults. If spending time together as a family is your priority, we also offer private family lessons. Please note that these lessons will focus primarily on the children.

Do I need a lift pass?

We recommend purchasing a full-day lift pass so that you can use the lifts during your lesson. Please ask your instructor on the day for more information, as complete beginners may not require a lift pass in some situations.

What should I bring?

We recommend wearing waterproof outerwear for skiing or snowboarding. This can usually be rented together with your equipment. Underneath, wear warm base layers, including a long-sleeved top and leggings. If you do not have these, women can wear leggings or tights, while men may prefer sports shorts. Several light layers are better than one heavy layer because they make it easier to regulate your temperature.

What equipment should I rent?

For skiing or snowboarding, you will need the appropriate equipment: skis or a snowboard, boots and ski poles where required. You will also need waterproof clothing, gloves and goggles, or sunglasses in good weather. Please note that everyone under the age of 20 must wear a helmet, and helmets are strongly recommended for adults.

Booking FAQs

What is included in the lesson price?

The price includes a ski or snowboard lesson with a professional English-speaking or bilingual Chinese and English-speaking instructor to help you improve your skills.

What is not included in the lesson price?

Lift passes and rental equipment are not included. You will need to arrange your ski or snowboard equipment and lift pass before meeting your instructor.

Please wear waterproof clothing, a hat or helmet, gloves and goggles. All equipment can be rented when you arrive at the resort or from a local rental shop. If you need help making arrangements, please let us know in advance.

Do I need to book in advance?

We recommend booking in advance because instructor availability is limited. The earlier you book, the better, especially during busy holidays and weekends.

Although same-day availability is sometimes possible, advance booking is necessary to secure an instructor. Please email us or complete the booking form to confirm availability.

Can I extend my lesson on the day?

If an instructor is available, we will be happy to extend your lesson on the day. To extend a half-day lesson to a full day, you will need to pay the difference in price. Additional one-hour extensions are charged at the applicable hourly rate.

What if I need to cancel?

The following cancellation fees apply:
15–7 days before the lesson: 20%
6–2 days before the lesson: 30%
The day before the lesson: 50%
Within 24 hours of the lesson start time: 100%

What happens if the weather is bad?

Lessons will continue as long as the resort remains open. If severe weather forces the resort to close, we may move your lesson to another nearby resort that is open, reschedule it for another date, or refund the lesson booked for that day.

If conditions indicate that a resort may close, we will contact everyone booked for lessons that day. Please check the email account used for your booking regularly during the days before your lesson.

Weather conditions are unpredictable, and resorts may sometimes close at short notice.

How can I contact you?

Our office hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Japan time.

You can submit an inquiry through our website at any time. We aim to respond within 48 hours. Once your booking is confirmed, you will also receive a contact number for the day of your lesson.