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 nothing like life back home, in the best possible way. With support before you go and support when you arrive, you'll settle into your new lifestyle quickly and confidently. You don't need to speak Japanese to apply, but even a few basics can unlock more opportunities. If you speak Mandarin or Cantonese, you're already in high demand, so make sure you tell us!
Depending on your age and experience, our roles include Guest Services, Drivers, Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Front Desk and Instructor roles. Expect full-time hours, the chance to pick up seasonal overtime, and pay ranging from ¥1,100–1,500 per hour. But the best part? The lifestyle. You'll work hard, but you'll find activities happening across the area, so you'll quickly build friends. In between your shifts, some of the best snow fields are waiting just a stone’s throw from you. Whether it is your first time seeing snow, or you are an experienced hand, Winter Work Japan is one of the best working holidays you can do!
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 job offer
Guaranteed housing for the duration of your contract
Free or heavily discounted lift pass
3 nights arrival accommodation in either Tokyo or Sapporo
Tokyo or Sapporo airport pickup (times and dates apply)
Arrival Orientation delivered by one of the AIFS’ Winter Work team including:
Winter Work Prep. Session; Tokyo or Sapporo Walking Tour; Winter Work lunch valued at ¥2,500; ¥2,000 travel card
¥1,000 to use at any of the big 3 “Kombini”, AIFS only discount at our preferred ski stores in Tokyo or Sapporo
Detailed support with you Japan Working Holiday Visa application
Iconic Winter Work Japan T-shirt and tote
24/7 in-country AIFS support
Pre-departure orientation
Dedicated Winter Work Japan WhatsApp group
$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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02Is a lift pass included?
Depending on the resort, lift passes will either be free or heavily discounted. For discounted passes, you should expect to pay a fee upfront plus a security deposit.
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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.
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09Will I have to pay tax in Japan?
Yes. As a working holiday visa holder, you will pay a flat rate of 20%. You will also have a deduction out of your monthly pay for the Japanese pension, as well as a contribution to the national health insurance.
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.
