Winter Work Japan
What to Expect
Program Length
November - April
Age Requirement
Aged 18-30
Registration Deadline
Applications close September 30th
Remuneration
Earn ¥1,300-1,500 per hour
Accommodation
Staff housing
What is Winter Work Japan?
The ultimate ski season
Winter Work Japan is your ticket to one of the world’s best winter destinations. Whether you’re stepping onto skis for the first time or shredding like a pro, you could land a job at top resorts like Hakuba, Niseko, Rusutsu, Nozawa Onsen or Joetsu.
Finding winter work in Japan isn't easy, but this is where we come in. We make the process simple by securing both your job and accommodation with reputable and screened employers before you even leave home. All you need is availability from November/December through to March/April and the excitement to start your adventure.
The Experience
Life on the slopes
Working in Japan is unlike anything at home. With orientations before and after arrival, you’ll be ready to adjust quickly to your new lifestyle. No Japanese is required, but even basic language skills can open more opportunities. Mandarin or Cantonese speakers are also highly sought after, so if that's a skill you have – tell us about it!
Roles range from hotel, resort and restaurant work to ski-lift operators and assistant instructors. Expect full-time hours, seasonal overtime, and pay between ¥1,300–1,500 per hour – around $13–15 AUD. Alongside activities happening at the resort every single day, you’re certain to make plenty of friends from all over the world while you’re working. When you're done, there’s a whole country and culture just waiting for you to explore.
Eligibility
Who can apply?
To join Winter Work Japan, you’ll need to be 18–30 years old (you can apply until the day you turn 31) and eligible for a Japanese Working Holiday Visa. Applicants must be in good health, of good character, and secondary school graduates or equivalent.
You’ll also need at least $2,500 AUD in available funds plus a return or onward ticket, be available from late November, and meet appearance requirements – tattoos must be coverable by clothing. With these essentials, your journey to Japan is ready to begin.
Winter Work Japan
What’s included:
Pre-arranged work in iconic ski locations
Accommodation for the first 3 nights upon arrival
Detailed support with you Japan Working Holiday Visa application
24/7 in country support while on program
Pre-departure orientation before you leave
Arrival orientation in Tokyo
Social events to connect with fellow travellers
$100 AUD rebate if you opt for the Winter Work Japan & Camp America ‘combo’ (terms apply)
Have Questions?
Take a look at our frequently asked questions below or if you've still not found the answers you need, get in touch. We're always happy to chat to you.
Need help with something?
Frequently Asked Questions
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01Will 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).
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02Will I have to pay tax?
Working Holiday Makers who have resided in Japan for less than 12 months have to pay 20% tax. This is the ‘non-resident tax rate’ and cannot be claimed back at the end of your stay.
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03Can 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.
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04What type of work can I do and is a job guaranteed?
We are unable to guarantee your placement as this will depend on your age, experience and flexibility, however in 2025 all applicants were placed. Our team will interview prior to formally accepting your application to discuss the positions and then work with you to ensure the likelihood of your placement. Typically we place in the following positions:
- Concierge/ guest relations
- Drivers (must be aged 21 or older)
- Kitchenhands and chefs
- Housekeeping
- Skiing/snowboarding instructors
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05What 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.
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06How much will I be paid?
You will be paid the minimum wage which varies by prefecture. In Nagano it is ¥908, ¥854 in Iwate, ¥920 in Hokkaido. Hourly rates can increase up to ¥1500 depending on experience.
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07Is 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.
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08Is 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.
AIFS Australia
Our Mission & Values
Our Values
Committed to care, respect and honesty
Our mission can only be achieved through exceptional support and care for our program participants to ensure their safety and wellbeing. We always provide honest, equitable and non-discriminatory treatment of program participants, our partners and employees, safeguarding teamwork and collaboration both within our organisation and with our partners.
Our Mission
Leading cultural exchange opportunities since 1964
The American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) provides the highest quality educational and cultural exchange programs to enrich the lives of young people throughout the world. Since 1964 we have been the leading provider of such opportunities, helping more than 1.8 million young people increase their global understanding in our diverse world.
Our Support
24/7 emergency support for all participants
Our support starts from the moment you apply. Our experienced Australian team will help you through the application process and work with you to help you find the right job at the right resort and your accommodation to boot. Once you start your adventure, you’ll also have peace of mind knowing there’s onshore support there for you if you need it.
