Snow School

Ski Lessons

Ski Lessons and Snowboard Lessons at resorts in Minakami and Gala Yuzawa
Private Lessons in English with qualified and enthusiastic instructors to help you get the most out of your skiing and snowboarding experience
Complimentary Shuttle from the lodge or Minakami Station to Hodaigi Ski Resort and Tenjindaira Ski Resort
10% discount on rentals for Ski School clients on the day of the lesson
Full day private lessons are ¥45,000 and conducted from 10am – 3:30pm with 1 hour for lunch
Half day private lessons are ¥35000 and run from 10am – 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 4pm
Private Lessons are for up to four people though an additional 2 people may join for Y5000 per person
Lessons are available for ages 3 years and above

Lift Passes

Your ski lesson does not include a lift pass and prices vary depending on the resort as detailed on our Ski Resort page. For clients skiing or snowboarding for the first time it can sometimes be advantageous to buy single lift passes a few at a time. For example, a single lift pass at Hodaigi is ¥400 and the length of their beginner run means you might only need to buy a few passes during a half day lesson. Its best to speak to your instructor on the day of your lesson. They will help you figure out the best pass for you.

What To Bring For Your Lesson

Hat, Goggles (Sunglasses are okay if the weather is clear), Gloves
Waterproof Ski Jacket and Pants
Skis, Boots, Poles or Snowboard and Boots
The Tenjin Lodge Rental Shop stocks all of the above at discounted rates compared to resorts with an extra 10% discount for our clients on the day of a Lesson

Preferred Resorts

Hodaigi is our favored resort for beginners due to the 1km long green run which is wide with a gentle gradient. The intermediate level terrain is also well suited to sharpening skills and Hodaigi is far less crowded than the Yuzawa area resorts which makes learning easier. We shuttle guests to Hodaigi
Gala Yuzawa is recommended for clients that are not staying at the lodge and want the easiest possible commute from Tokyo. At Gala Yuzawa we conduct beginner to advanced classes. The resort is never our first choice as the slopes are usually crowded but it still makes for a great experience. We meet clients at Gala Yuzawa
Tenjindaira with its steep terrain and massive snowfalls, is where we conduct advanced and powder riding lessons and is right by Tenjin Lodge. We offer shuttles
Kagura and Naeba are two quality resorts in the Yuzawa area where we conduct beginner to advanced classes. We meet clients at these resorts