Japan Ski and Culture for Beginners and Novices

What is your perfect idea of a ski trip to Japan this coming season? Well, read on we may have the perfect solution for you.

Janice Thean and Family (Beginner Skiers) - Australia - Dec 2023

“We are a family of 4 with two teen boys (16,18 yo). We are all essentially fresh beginners and wanted the young ones to experience a proper introduction to skiing. Jase has this covered to the hilt.

He and his team are incredibly patient, reassuring and very knowledgable with clients. We got fitted out completely with all ski gear (included in package) in a very non-rushed manner which is the first thing I appreciated and was very different from what you'd experience with other ski shops / schools. It felt very much like we were the only ones on tour with him and crew most of the time which is an absolute luxury. Even the proper method of carrying skis and walking in boots was covered at length.

Although my eldest boy started off not keen with the idea of skiing at all, Harry, Oscar and George were all extremely patient and supportive of him and he now has returned with a sense of accomplishment that he can actually ski at the end of the tour.

We stayed at the Omodaka which provided a mixed Western - Japanese style room. All the in-house breakfast and dinner meals were so sumptuous and attention to detail quite amazing. Onsen (natural hot spa) post-skiing was also very enjoyable. The hotel is very clean, staff professional and very welcoming.

The daily tours to the mountains with the crew and several other guests were always well run, on time and stress-free. Early mornings in the subzero temps can be a little difficult to wake up to so early nights for those who need a little more sleep than others would be a good idea, since you'd want to enjoy the provided breakfast without rushing.

The ski lessons were wonderful, just enough theory and the crew were very gentle and patient with everyone on tour. As the days went on, everyone progressed at their own pace and it was good to see the crew cater to the individuals without any fuss and without pushing anyone outside their comfort zone.

I had a knee injury on the slopes on day 2 which was a bummer but Jase looked after me really well all the way through. I have to say that being "rescued" by the Japanese crew in a "sleigh" was the most fun ride I had in ages! Jase and his team checked in regularly just to see how my knee was progressing and supplied ski poles and also snow shoe spikes to make sure I didn't lose my footing.

The cultural component of the package consisting of a magic show, Geisha and karate / taiko drums / lion dance were very enjoyable too and a must see. They were the icing on the cake and a very nice complimentary touch to the day's skiing. Harry's impromptu saxophone performance on the bus was a pleasant surprise from a multitalented bunch!

On days where there was no in house dinner provided, Jase was able to point out good local small restaurants which were both delicious and of great value.

Thank you Jase, George, Harry, Oscar and Gus. We all had an amazing time with you lot and will highly recommend this experience to friends and family.”

Tour info

Learning a new sport can be intimidating—especially without the right support and guidance. Traditional ski schools often prioritize volume, leading to large group sizes, crowded slopes, and a reduced chance of personalized attention or fast progress.

We offer a better alternative.

Our beginner and novice tours focus on small-group learning in quiet, well-chosen resorts where you can progress at your own pace. Classes are led by skilled, English-speaking instructors who turn your first steps on the snow into the foundation of a lifelong passion.

·       Minimum 2 guests per tour

·       Maximum 6 guests per instructor

This intimate setting means more direct coaching, safer learning conditions, and a more relaxed environment for building confidence.

Why Learn with Us?

While certified instruction is the baseline you’d expect from any ski school, our point of difference lies in what traditional teaching often overlooks: the practical, personalized, and experience-driven elements that truly elevate your learning.

Here’s how we do things differently:

Precision Equipment Fit 

Rental shops often hand out gear based on generic measurements. We take this further by personally measuring your feet, fitting your boots to eliminate pressure points, and mounting your skis with proper binding settings to ensure safety and performance.

Fundamentals Beyond the Snow 

We start by teaching how to walk in ski boots across varying terrain and snow conditions — a foundational skill often missed. You’ll also learn efficient techniques for carrying gear to reduce strain and increase balance.

Personalized Learning Pace 

Everyone learns differently. We give quicker learners added tasks while providing focused support to those who need more time. Our goal is group harmony, where all participants progress together — no one gets left behind.

Instruction That Actually Watches You 

Instead of teaching from the front and hoping everyone follows correctly, we instruct from behind or ski backwards. This allows us to observe form in real time and offer precise corrections — reinforcing key movements through guided repetition.

Whole-Skill Framework 

Rather than drip-feeding skills to encourage return visits, we give you the full picture from the outset. We teach the five essential movements of skiing and snowboarding, then break each one down so you gain a clear path from beginner to intermediate.

Terrain Awareness & Snow Literacy 

We don’t just teach how to ride — we teach how to read the mountain. From slope pitch to snow texture and weather shifts, we equip you with the knowledge to navigate terrain safely and confidently on your own.

These are just a few of the common-sense methods we use to accelerate your learning in a safe, thoughtful, and genuinely enjoyable environment. It's this holistic, hands-on approach that turns first-time skiers into lifelong snow lovers.

Skier/Boarder Ability

For those new to snow sports, our program begins with skiing rather than snowboarding — and it’s an intentional choice based on safety and learning progression.

Injuries are significantly more common among first-time snowboarders. Falls during toe-side turns often result in wrist, elbow, or shoulder damage, while heel-side crashes can lead to painful tailbone bruising. Skiing, by contrast, allows for more controlled falls and generally presents fewer risks for beginners — especially those with limited previous athletic experience.

Skiing also offers a gentler learning curve. Most newcomers progress quickly, gaining confidence and accessing varied terrain across the resort in a short time. Once the basics are mastered, transitioning to snowboarding becomes smoother and more intuitive.

For guests truly committed to trying snowboarding, we encourage giving it a go toward the end of the tour — once you’ve developed your base skills and are more comfortable on the mountain.

We also welcome novice skiers and snowboarders who are looking to level up. Our instructors will help you build on what you already know and guide your development toward greater confidence and control.

Rates and Inclusions

Transfers 

·      Pickup and drop-off from Yudanaka Train Station or snow shuttle drop-off point (available for Yumoto and Omodaka guests only)

Accommodation 

·      7 nights in Twin, triple, or quad-share rooms (Japanese or Western style)

·      Single supplement available

·      Deluxe room upgrades offered at Hotel Omodaka

Meals & Dining 

·      Daily breakfasts

·      2 in-house dinners

Skiing & Instruction 

·      5 full days of Skiing or Snowboarding

·      Qualified ski instructor (maximum 1:6 guest-to-instructor ratio)

·      5 Daily lift passes

·      Rental gear hire and fitting assistance (includes skis/boots/poles or board/boots, jacket, pants, helmet, goggles, and gloves) Please bring your own thermals and ski socks

On-Mountain Support 

·      Daily transport to the best snow conditions based on weather and terrain

·      Early-access transport to the Snow Monkey Park (available for Yumoto and Omodaka guests)

·      Guided walk through historic Shibu Onsen town (over 1,300 years old)

·      Daily onsen access (Hotel Omodaka includes sauna)

·      Plus: many hidden local experiences revealed throughout your stay

Optional Add-Ons (Available at Extra Cost)

·      Extra nights and guiding – please inquire for tailored pricing

Option to take a rest day and explore one of our curated self-guided cultural experiences:

• Snow Monkey Park & Shibu Onsen

• Obuse Town & Hokusai Gallery

• Zenkoji Temple & the 1998 Winter Olympic Museum.

What’s Not Included

·      Flights

·      Travel to/from Yudanaka

·      Travel insurance (recommended)

·      Lunches, snacks, and alcohol

·      Dinners except those specifically listed

Accommodation

Ryokan Yumoto (Deluxe)

We’re incredibly honoured to work with Ryokan Yumoto, the oldest inn in the region, with a heritage stretching back over 300 years. Now passed down to the 13th generation of family ownership, the ryokan’s story is woven into the rich history of Yudanaka Onsen itself—an area that’s been welcoming visitors for over 1,300 years. This is where samurai once came to bathe after battle, and where pilgrims, priests, and artists would pause on their journey toward Nagano.

Yumoto is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience. Guests are instantly charmed by Yasuyo, your gracious host, whose warmth and gentle presence elevate every stay. The property radiates character, with spacious Japanese-style guest rooms that overlook a serene garden beside the hot springs. While not extravagantly built, the ryokan’s simplicity and craftsmanship speak for themselves.

Room Types

Yumoto offers just five rooms, keeping the atmosphere intimate and quiet:

Japanese-Western Room: 2 Western beds + 8 tatami mats

Standard Japanese Rooms: 14.5 tatami mats

Family Japanese Room: 18 tatami mats

Each room includes a private toilet, with bathing enjoyed in the traditional shared onsen house. Amenities include a flat-screen TV, mini fridge, kettle, and Wi-Fi throughout. You’ll also find a traditional yukata robe in your wardrobe—optional, but perfect for relaxing after a powder day.

Dining

Evenings at Yumoto are a highlight. You'll enjoy a multi-course traditional Japanese dinner, thoughtfully prepared and served in the ryokan’s dining room by your private waiter. Breakfasts, also included, are equally memorable—difficult to describe, but impossible to forget.

Location & Extras

Yumoto is within walking distance of quality restaurants, the local Lawson convenience store, and Yudanaka Station. The ryokan provides:

·      Free pickup and drop-off at the train station

·      Early shuttle service to the Snow Monkey Park

Hotel Omodaka (Premium)

Perched in the heart of Yudanaka Onsen, Hotel Omodaka has long been cherished for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning views of the Five Mountains of Hokushin, and genuine hospitality. Run by a wonderful local family, the hotel offers guests an authentic, relaxing Japanese hot spring experience that feels like home.

Rooms & Amenities

The rooms at Omodaka are more spacious than most in the area and lean toward traditional Japanese style. Twin, triple, and quad-share rooms feature tatami flooring, futon bedding, and a private ensuite bathroom. Single supplement rooms include a private toilet, with bathing available in the shared onsen facilities. All rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, mini fridge, and kettle, as well as a traditional yukata robe—not required, but perfect for lounging after a day in the snow.

Looking for extra space? The Deluxe Western Rooms are nearly double the size of our standard rooms, featuring two Western beds plus two futons to comfortably accommodate up to four people (available at an additional cost).

Hot Springs & Facilities

The hotel boasts both an indoor Japanese bathhouse (onsen) and a scenic outdoor hot spring (rotenburo), plus an on-site sauna—a rare luxury in Yudanaka. While there are no laundry facilities on-site, a public laundromat is conveniently located just a short walk away.

Dining

Dinner is a highlight at Omodaka, with a multi-course traditional Japanese meal served in the dining room. Breakfast is also included and features a buffet-style spread with a mix of Western and Japanese options.

Extras

·      Free Wi-Fi throughout the property

·      Massage services nearby

·      Karaoke bar and a table tennis room for evening entertainment

·      River Cafe serving what many call the best burgers in Japan—ideal if you’re craving a break from Japanese cuisine

·      Vending machines and a souvenir shop on-site

Getting Around

Hotel Omodaka provides complimentary pickup and drop-off at Yudanaka Station. They also offer early-morning shuttle service to the Snow Monkey Park—a 20-minute head start on the crowds, giving you a quieter, more immersive experience before the rush begins.

Snow Monkey Lodge (Economy)

Just 200 metres from Yudanaka Station, Snow Monkey Lodge has become something of a local icon. With its vibrant murals and eclectic artwork adorning the walls, the lodge radiates personality and creativity, offering travellers a unique, budget-friendly base without compromising on atmosphere or comfort.

Recently renovated, the property blends traditional ryokan-style accommodation with modern conveniences. Rooms feature tatami mat flooring, Western-style beds, and traditional yukata robes—perfect for throwing on after a day in the snow.

 Facilities & Experience

·      Separate gendered onsens for men and women offer a classic Japanese bathing experience

·      Downstairs Bar (The Bunker)

·      For something more private, book our outdoor onsen and sauna retreat, located just 50 metres from the main building—great for couples or small groups. Enquire at reception.

·      A fully equipped communal kitchen and dining space for those who prefer to self-cater

·      Continental breakfast included daily (cereals, fresh fruit, toast, hot and cold drinks)

 Dining

The included dinners are hosted at Hotel Omodaka, where you’ll enjoy an elegant multi-course Japanese meal, served in the hotel’s dining room. Breakfast is continental style, toast, cereal, coffee and tea.

 Additional Perks

·      Free Wi-Fi throughout the lodge

·      Access to nearby massage services

·      Close to restaurants, convenience stores, and public laundry

 While we don’t offer a pickup service, the lodge is just a short walk from the station and we’re happy to help arrange a taxi if needed

 Snow Monkey Lodge isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s a place to connect, unwind, and immerse yourself in the quirky, welcoming energy of Yudanaka.

Yudanaka Township and Restaurants

Sitting 600 metres above sea level, Yudanaka is a central hub for exploring many of Nagano’s surrounding ski resorts. But this mountain town offers much more than just snow access—it’s steeped in centuries of culture and wellness.

With a history stretching back over 1,300 years, Yudanaka is famous for its healing onsen (natural hot springs). Legend has it that a monk first discovered the therapeutic waters here, drawing samurai warriors to the region to recover after battle. That spirit of restoration still lives on in the town’s steaming baths and peaceful atmosphere.

One of Yudanaka’s most iconic residents? The world-famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani, who have learned to soak in the warm onsen pools through the cold winter months. While the monkeys draw crowds by day, the evenings are quiet—many visitors come just for a day trip, so when the sun sets, you’ll often have the town’s restaurants and streets largely to yourself.

Food lovers are in for a treat. Yudanaka boasts a broad selection of traditional eateries serving local and seasonal produce. In recent years, the dining scene has expanded to include more variety, with new spots blending Japanese and Western flavours to suit every palate.

Just a short stroll away is historic Shibu Onsen, a beautifully preserved district said to have inspired the setting for Spirited Away. With its narrow alleys, quaint shops, temples, foot baths, and authentic wooden architecture, a walk through this timeless village is like stepping into a different era.

Flexible Itinerary

This itinerary is a guide. Each day is shaped by snow conditions and weather, allowing your instructor to choose the resort that offers the best experience. Because we’re independent from resort affiliations, we’re free to follow the storm and deliver exceptional powder every time.

Evening performances—including the Geisha, Taiko Drums, Karate, and Magic Show—may vary depending on scheduling and group availability. We’ll confirm which night each occurs closer to your tour date.

Day 1 – Arrival in Yudanaka

Travel to Yudanaka, home to the famous snow monkeys, via Japan’s exceptional rail system or shuttle from Narita/Haneda. We kindly ask for arrival times at least 24 hours in advance to coordinate pickup from the train station or shuttle drop-off.

Yudanaka is a historic hot spring town with over 1,300 years of tradition and played host to the 1998 Nagano Olympic Winter Games. At your ryokan, you'll be welcomed like royalty—with impeccable hospitality, peaceful surroundings, and food worth writing home about.

Tonight’s dinner isn’t provided due to varied arrival times, but we’ll head out together to a local sushi train or one of the excellent eateries in town.

Day 2 – Shiga Kogen & Geisha Evening

Kick off the tour at Shiga Kogen, Japan’s largest ski area and the birthplace of Japanese skiing. With 18 interconnected resorts and lift access to 2,307 meters, fresh tracks linger thanks to its elevation and modest crowds. Plus, off-piste riding remains surprisingly untouched.

After skiing, soak in the onsen, relax with a local drink, and enjoy an in-house dinner followed by an interactive Geisha performance led by a second-generation performer from the region.

Day 3 – Nozawa Onsen Adventure

Today we chase powder to Nozawa Onsen (conditions permitting), a vibrant resort with 300 hectares and 50 km of terrain. We time our visit to avoid crowds and long lift lines for a more relaxed experience.

Post-ride, stroll through Nozawa’s charming township, sampling local treats and exploring its unique storefronts. For those feeling fatigued, consider taking a light day tomorrow—our itinerary is flexible and built around your comfort.

Day 4 – Rest & Culture Day

If your legs are asking for mercy, today’s the perfect time to recharge. For those opting out of skiing, we offer a variety of self-guided cultural excursions: explore Shibu Onsen, visit the Hokusai Gallery in Obuse, or discover Zenkoji Temple and the 1998 Olympic Museum. Full details are available at the end of your welcome packet.

Day 5 – Return to Shiga & Magic Night

We return to “Old Faithful” Shiga Kogen for another shot at powder perfection. After dining out in Yudanaka, we gather for a whimsical and hilarious magic and comedy show by Fred—an expat magician with over 30 years of global performance experience.

Expect clever illusions, interactive skits, and belly laughs worthy of a well-earned ski break.

Day 6 – Togakushi & Shrine Walk

Next up is Togakushi Ski Resort, a hidden gem rich in natural beauty and spiritual significance. After skiing, we take a cultural walk to Okusha Shrine, tucked behind towering cedar trees—a truly magical setting.

Dinner is at your leisure, and it’s a great chance to bond with your fellow snow seekers.

Day 7 – Summit Views & Cultural Finale

We head to Yokoteyama, the highest lift-access point in Japan. If skies are clear, expect 360-degree views of Nagano—and on rare perfect days, a sighting of Mt. Fuji, standing proudly at 3,776 meters.

Tonight, enjoy a final in-house dinner followed by a Karate showcase and lesson from a Japanese Grand Master, then revel in our Taiko drumming, Shamisen guitar, and Lion Dance performance—a world-class cultural celebration to close the week.

Day 8 – Snow Monkeys & Farewell

Before departure, we make a sunrise visit to the Snow Monkey Park for crowd-free views of Japan’s famous macaques soaking in natural hot springs—a fitting final chapter to your mountain adventure.

Self-Guided Cultural Excursions

 Whether you’ve got a scheduled rest day or your legs are telling you it’s time to take it easy, there’s no shortage of meaningful ways to explore our region beyond the slopes. The Yudanaka area is steeped in culture, history, and charm—offering a side of Japan that’s as enriching as the snow is deep.

At Japan Powder Culture Tours, we believe these experiences are one-of-a-kind and can’t be replicated at other ski destinations. We’ll provide you with maps, train timetables, and guidance to make these adventures easy and stress-free. Each option below is a full-day outing, but you’re welcome to mix and match the timing to suit your pace.

Option 1: Snow Monkeys – Shibu Onsen – Obuse Town

8:30 AM – Depart from accommodation via complimentary shuttle to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. Take a serene forest walk to the viewing area, then stop at Enza Café for a warm drink and snack.

Stroll downhill through Shibu Onsen, a 1,300-year-old hot spring town once visited by samurai for post-battle healing. Explore its narrow lanes, the Sake Museum, and the nearby world’s tallest bronze Buddha statue.

12:31 PM – Catch the local train to Obuse (arrives 12:53), then take a short walk into the historic town centre. Visit the renowned Hokusai Museum and enjoy the peaceful, artistic vibe of this beautifully preserved town.

5:11 PM – Return to Yudanaka Station via train (arrive 5:33 PM).

Option 2: Snow Monkeys – Obuse Town – Zenkoji Temple (Nagano)

8:30 AM – Shuttle from accommodation to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. After your visit, enjoy a coffee break at Enza Café.

10:20 AM – Pickup from the park trailhead and transfer to the station. 10:50 AM – Take the train to Obuse (arrive 11:12 AM), explore the town, visit the Hokusai Museum, and enjoy lunch at one of its many excellent restaurants.

1:55 PM – Take the train to Nagano Station (arrive 2:30 PM). From the west exit, catch the Zenkoji bus to the iconic Zenkoji Temple—one of Japan’s most sacred sites. Do the underground chamber walk to find the "gate to eternity" and reflect in the mirror as part of the spiritual tradition.

Walk back toward the station through streets lined with charming shops and cafés.

Choose your return:

6:00 PM express train to Yudanaka

Or stay for dinner in Nagano and return on the 7:40 PM train

Option 3: Obuse Town – Zenkoji Temple & Olympic Museum (Nagano)

8:39 AM – Depart Yudanaka by train, arriving in Obuse at 9:14 AM. Visit the Hokusai Museum, stroll through the old streets, and enjoy the morning at your own pace.

11:12 AM or 11:56 AM – Take the express train to Nagano (arrive either 11:36 AM or 12:30 PM). Lunch options include the Midori food complex inside the station or nearby local restaurants.

From the west exit, catch the bus to Zenkoji Temple. Explore the grounds, tour the underground chamber, and visit the Zenkoji Museum tucked behind the main temple.

If time allows, grab a taxi to M-Wave Arena, home of the 1998 Winter Olympic speed skating venue. The Olympic Museum inside is a must for sports history fans—and the arena’s suspended timber ceiling is the largest of its kind in the world.

Return options:

6:00 PM express train to Yudanaka

Or have dinner in Nagano and return on the 7:40 PM train (arrives 8:29 PM)

7 night 5 day ski fully instructed and culture tours

beginner and Novice skiers

5% Off tours booked before 31st July 2025

guided Tour Cost

Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto

¥429,000 pp twin share

¥419,000 pp triple/quad share 

Premium Hotel Omodaka

¥379,000 pp twin share

¥369,000 pp triple/quad share

(Single occupancy upgrade ¥42,000. Upgrade to single deluxe western room ¥63,000 per person)

Economy Snow Monkey Lodge

¥319,000 pp twin share

¥309,000 pp triple/quad share

(Single occupancy upgrade ¥21,000)

guided Tour Dates

11th to 18th Dec 2025 AVAILABLE

19th to 26th Dec 2025 AVAILABLE

27th to 3rd Jan 2026 AVAILABLE

4th to 11th Jan 2026 (holiday rates apply) AVAILABLE

14th to 21st Jan 2026 AVAILABLE

24th to 31st Jan 2026 AVAILABLE

3rd to 10th Feb 2026 AVAILABLE

13th to 20th Feb 2026 AVAILABLE

23rd Feb to 2nd March 2026 AVAILABLE

5th to 12th March 2026 AVAILABLE

(please enquire for tours between 13th March and 15th April 2025 and over this period the cultural evenings are based around a minimum of 8 guests so if we do not attain that number the events do not proceed and the cost is refunded to guests). 

Click here for a full pdf pack which includes tour details, FAQ's, pre trip information, reviews, terms and conditions and customer information spreadsheet.

Old Faithful POW Day

From a guest perspective