Why You Should Do a Working Holiday in Japan

A working holiday in Japan is more than just travel. It is your chance to work, explore and fully immerse yourself in a culture that blends tradition, adventure and everyday magic.

Japan is one of those places that feels familiar and completely different at the same time. Neon city streets, quiet temples, incredible food and some of the best winter conditions in the world all exist side by side. A Working Holiday in Japan gives you the chance to experience it properly, not just as a tourist, but as someone living and working there.

Here is why a working holiday in Japan is an experience worth saying yes to.

Live the culture, not just the highlights

Travelling through Japan is incredible, but living there is something else entirely. A working holiday allows you to experience daily life in Japan, from navigating public transport to ordering food in Japanese and learning the small cultural habits that make the country so unique.

You will quickly pick up useful phrases, understand local customs and gain confidence interacting with people from a completely different culture. It is immersive in the best way, without the pressure of being perfect.

Work while you explore

With AIFS Winter Work Japan, participants secure seasonal work before arriving. Roles are typically based in ski resorts and tourism hubs, including hotels, resorts, restaurants and mountain operations.

Working while travelling means you can support yourself, build savings and still have time to explore. Your days off become opportunities to discover nearby towns, relax in onsens or plan trips to places you have always wanted to see.

Make friends from all over the world

One of the biggest highlights of a working holiday in Japan is the people you meet. You will live and work alongside other travellers from different countries, as well as local Japanese colleagues.

Shared accommodation, group orientations and social activities make it easy to form friendships quickly. These are the kind of friendships that continue long after the season ends, often turning into future travel plans or visits across the world.

Experience Japan in every season

Japan changes dramatically with the seasons, and a working holiday lets you see more than just one side of the country. Winter brings deep snow, mountain views and ski culture, while spring, summer and autumn offer cherry blossoms, festivals, coastal escapes and vibrant cities.

Many participants choose to travel around Japan after their winter season ends, making the most of their visa and savings.

Build confidence and real life skills

Living overseas teaches you things no classroom or short holiday ever could. You learn independence, adaptability and problem solving, all while working in an international environment.

These experiences are valuable personally and professionally. Employers often value the maturity, cultural awareness and resilience that come from working abroad.

Support every step of the way

With AIFS, you are not doing it alone. From visa guidance to arrival orientation in Tokyo and ongoing in country support, everything is designed to help you settle in smoothly and focus on enjoying the experience.

Having a job and accommodation organised before you arrive removes much of the stress and allows you to start your adventure with confidence.

Is a Working Holiday in Japan right for you?

If you are curious about the world, open to new experiences and ready to step outside your comfort zone, a working holiday in Japan is an unforgettable way to do it. You do not need to speak Japanese fluently or be an expert skier. You just need a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.

Japan has a way of leaving a lasting impression. Many people arrive for a season and leave with stories, friendships and memories they will carry for life.

Need help with something?

Frequently Asked Questions

01
Will my age limit the type of jobs I can do?

Many resorts have strict age requirements. If you’re aged 18-19, your placement opportunities can increase if you speak some Japanese and can show current or prior work experience (working casually on weekends or school holidays).
02
Can I choose my location?

We place in many of the most popular winter resort areas of Japan. You are welcome to nominate an area where you would like to work, however we are unfortunately unable to guarantee that location.
03
What will be my working hours?

Most jobs will require you to work evening and weekends. Hospitality workers are normally rostered on 5-6 times a week at 8 hours per shift. Work hours can vary and can start as early as 5:30am. Evening shifts may run until 23:00. Food and beverage roles may mean split shifts – breakfast and lunch or lunch and dinner.
A ski instructor will generally work between 8am to 5pm, including weekends and public holidays. In total you should expect 6-8 days off per month with no days off during peak season (Christmas/New Year).
Flexibility is required when it comes to working hours and shifts. Some smaller resorts may relocate you to other areas of the resort to work during quieter days or weeks. Overtime is common in Japan.
04
Is accommodation included?

Yes, staff housing is included for duration of your contract. You will be required to pay the costs of your housing. Monthly rent is deducted from the salary and ranges between ¥5,000-35,000. Accommodation is normally in a shared house, and you can expect to share a room with 1-3 other people. Japanese bedding may either be a western style bed or a Japanese 'futon' on the floor. WIFI is normally in all accommodation although at the start of the season it may be 1-2 weeks before it is active.
05
Is it easy to make friends?

The jobs that are offered as part of Winter Work Japan are primarily filled by travellers just like you! They are travelling alone and will be wanting to find friends as well. You will find that you will naturally find friends among those with whom you work and live. You will also have the chance to meet and connect with others at our arrival orientations in Tokyo.