Japan Ski Jobs: Work a Winter Season as a Ski Instructor with Canyons
Are you dreaming of fresh powder, majestic mountains, and a season of adventure? Japan's snowy mountains create unique ski conditions that attract winter sports enthusiasts from around the world. Whether you’re an experienced ski or snowboard instructor or looking to work in a winter resort for the first time, Canyons Japan is now hiring for the 2025 winter season!
Japan's ski season is divided into distinct phases: the early season with quieter slopes and building snow cover, the peak powder season in January known for world-class powder and vibrant crowds, and the festive holiday period around Christmas and New Year, each offering unique experiences, snow quality, and opportunities for ski jobs across Japan's ski areas.
Join our team at some of Japan’s most popular ski resorts—Nozawa Onsen, Myoko Kogen, and Yuzawa—and experience an unforgettable winter working in Japan's ski areas while sharing your passion for the snow.
Why Work in Japan with Canyons?
Canyons is Japan’s leading outdoor adventure company, offering professional, personalised ski and snowboard instruction in English, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Thai. We are an official international ski school at multiple major resorts in Japan and take pride in providing top-quality instruction to guests from around the world. Canyons operates ski schools at several resorts, offering both group and private lessons for all ages and abilities to ensure a tailored experience for every guest.
Here’s what sets Canyons apart:
Official ski school at major resorts in Japan, with group and private lessons available
Diverse locations: Nozawa, Myoko, Yuzawa and Minakami
Multilingual and international team
Roles for certified instructors, backcountry guides, guest services + more!
Supportive and inclusive working environment
Staff accommodation in prime locations
Opportunities for training, growth, and progression
When to Ski in Japan
The Japan ski season typically kicks off in early to mid December, with the first snowfalls blanketing the mountains and setting the stage for a long winter of skiing and snowboarding. If you’re chasing the legendary abundant snowfall and the deepest powder, the peak season runs from early January to mid-February. During this period, the snow is at its best light, dry, and plentiful making it a dream for anyone looking to ski in Japan.
For those who prefer quieter slopes, spring skiing in Japan, from early March to early April, offers softer snow, fewer crowds, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for soaking up the last of the winter sun. No matter when you visit, you’ll find great snow and a unique blend of Japanese hospitality and world-class skiing.
Winter Jobs Available in Japan
Looking for ski season jobs at ski resorts in Japan for the winter season? Here are the types of roles we recruit for each season:
Ski Instructors (Level 1–3 and above)
Snowboard Instructors (Level 1–3 and above)
Backcountry Guides
Kids Program & Snowsports School Support Staff
Guest Services and Front Desk Roles
Snowsports Trainers
Snowsports Supervisors
As a seasonal team member, you'll enjoy a range of employee benefits including subsidised accommodation, heavily discounted AST courses, team social events, and a season ski pass—helping you make the most of your winter in Japan both on and off the slopes.
Whether you hold international certifications (NZSIA, CSIA, BASI, APSI, etc.) or have strong customer service skills and a love of winter sports, there’s likely a role for you. 
Live and Work in Japan’s Top Ski Resorts
Before diving into the details, it’s worth noting that while Hokkaido Japan’s northernmost island is famous for its legendary powder and early-season snowfall, our instructor positions are based in some of Honshu’s top resorts. If you're looking to work in Japan, resorts like Nozawa Onsen and Myoko Kogen in Nagano Prefecture offer incredible snowfall, diverse terrain, and a vibrant community atmosphere perfect for seasonal staff looking for both adventure and connection.
Each of our resorts offers a distinct experience.
Nozawa Onsen
A traditional Japanese hot spring town with a lively village atmosphere and incredible terrain. Nozawa Onsen is renowned for its great snow, abundant snowfall, and an impressive average snowfall each season, making it a top destination for ski enthusiasts.
Myoko Kogen
Myoko Kogen is one of Japan’s fastest-growing international ski destinations, known for its deep powder (over 15 metres annually), excellent off-piste terrain, and fewer crowds than busier resorts. Located in the traditional town of Akakura, it offers authentic Japanese charm with direct access to Tokyo in under three hours. A great choice for seasoned instructors.
Yuzawa
Just 70 minutes from Tokyo by bullet train, Yuzawa is a popular choice for a day trip from Tokyo due to its proximity and easy access. Yuzawa is great for shorter seasons, high guest traffic, and a more urban atmosphere. Yuzawa is also known for its affordable lift tickets and lift pass options, making it a budget-friendly choice for skiers. The resort offers excellent spring skiing opportunities into early April, allowing visitors to enjoy softer snow conditions and extended skiing alongside cultural experiences. Yuzawa's wide runs and gentle terrain make it especially suitable for beginner and intermediate skiers.
Accommodation and Transportation at Canyons Japan
Planning your winter season in Japan? Whether you’re joining us as a ski or snowboard instructor, or in a guest services role, Canyons offers staff accommodation at several of our resort locations—making your winter work experience seamless and stress-free.
Staff Accommodation
At Canyons, we provide shared staff accommodation at our Nozawa, Myoko, and Yuzawa locations. Each resort has slightly different facilities, but all are within walking distance to the lifts, town centre, and your workplace. Staying with fellow team members helps build strong connections and a sense of community throughout the season.
Here’s what to expect:
Affordable seasonal rent, with heating, Wi-Fi, and shared utilities included
Single or Shared rooms
Access to communal kitchens and common areas
Some accommodations include access to onsen baths or ski storage
Accommodation is pre-arranged before your arrival, and we take care to match you with suitable housing based on availability and team composition. While space is limited, we do our best to ensure everyone has comfortable and convenient living arrangements.
Transportation in Japan’s Snowy Regions
Getting to and around our ski resorts is simple thanks to Japan’s efficient transportation systems. Most of our resort locations—Yuzawa, Myoko, and Nozawa Onsen—are accessible via the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo, with travel times ranging from just 70 minutes to around 3 hours.
Once in resort:
Yuzawa is directly connected to the station—no shuttle needed!
Myoko and Nozawa are serviced by public buses.
While most staff rely on walking or public transport, some roles may require a valid international driver’s license and driving experience in winter conditions.
Après Ski and Cultural Immersion in Japan
Your Japan ski season isn’t just about riding incredible powder—it’s also about the unique cultural experiences that happen after the lifts stop turning. As a seasonal worker, you’ll have the chance to unwind like a local: soaking in traditional hot springs (onsen), enjoying hearty bowls of ramen or a meal at a cozy izakaya, and exploring vibrant resort towns full of charm.
Working at a Japanese ski resort means being part of a welcoming, tight-knit community. From team dinners to staff socials, you’ll build friendships while experiencing the hospitality and rich traditions that make Japan special. During peak season, resorts are buzzing with international visitors, offering a great opportunity to meet people from around the world and often practice new languages.
With English-friendly environments and cultural exchange at the heart of the experience, a ski season in Japan offers more than just work—it’s a lifestyle full of adventure, growth, and unforgettable moments both on and off the slopes.
What We’re Looking For
We’re hiring English, Thai and Chinese-speaking instructors, guest service legends, and enthusiastic team members who are:
Passionate about the snow
Great with people and communication
Reliable, adaptable, and team-oriented
Available between mid-December to late March
Eligible for a working holiday visa or sponsored visa
While language barriers can sometimes be a challenge for international staff, Japanese language lessons are available to help team members integrate and communicate effectively.
How to Apply for a Ski Job in Japan
Want to join our team this winter? Visit our Canyons Winter Recruitment page to:
Read full job descriptions
Learn about visa options
Submit your application
Get tips on living and working in Japan via our FAQS
Working holidays are a popular way for foreigners to secure ski season jobs in Japan.
If you have questions or want to chat about what role suits you best, we’d love to hear from you.
Ready to Work a Ski Season in Japan?
The Japan ski season runs from early December to early April, with peak powder season in early January and early February. Throughout the season, you’ll find excellent skiing and snowboarding destinations, opportunities for the deepest powder, and great spring skiing in late February, early March, and mid March.
Experience the thrill of getting first tracks on fresh snow—be among the first to carve through untouched powder and enjoy the exclusivity of pristine slopes as part of your winter adventure.
Start your winter adventure with Canyons. From powder days and onsens to lifelong friendships and career development, this is your chance to work, ride, and live in Japan’s best ski resorts.
Apply now for 2025 ski jobs in Japan and make this your snowiest season yet!