Train & Work in Hakuba

If there’s one place known for its magical powder snow and rich skiing culture, it’s Japan. It’s no surprise that skiers from all over the globe dream of experiencing the unique JaPOW and now you have the opportunity to dive into the powder with a level 3 ski internship in Hakuba!

We are thrilled to offer a distinctive winter season where you can combine work and play through our English-spoken Level 3 ski instructor training program in Hakuba. You will live in Hakuba, nestled in the heart of Japan’s Northern Alps, renowned for its deep powder, diverse terrain, and stunning landscapes. This is a chance to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, savor delicious cuisine, and explore the enchanting traditions that make Japan so special.

Join us in Hakuba for an unforgettable experience, where you will refine your skiing skills, work with fellow enthusiasts, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Training & Instructor life in Hakuba

This Level 3 ski internship is designed to get your skiing to the next level, while also letting you work and enjoy what Japan has to offer. We have designed this programme for level 2 ski instructors to train for their CSIA level 3 certification. You will be employed at Evergreen in Hakuba, a remarkable ski school with amazing trainers and work ethic. The internship starts with a working period at the ski school, allowing you to get to know the area, your fellow participants and of course the ski school. Then the training for your Level 3 starts, where you will be training and preparing with trainers from the ski school. You get 10 training days with the instructors before the certification starts. Therefore you will be well prepared to rock the exam!

There is a good reason Japan is on the bucket list of most skiers. The powder, the culture, the people and the food, there really is a lot to explore. Japan’s unique cultural appeal and diverse clientele make it an ideal location to learn from expert instructors and to take your ski instructor career to the next level. Certified instructors with experience can expect competitive compensation, often higher than in many other locations. If you’re aiming to build a career in skiing, Hakuba offers a prime opportunity.

What do you get from Snowminds?

We’ve created a holistic winter experience from December to March, where you will train towards your level 3 certificate with the opportunity to work in Hakuba, Japan.

Benefits of the level 3 ski training course package:

• A full winter season in Hakuba
• Staff accommodation from the Ski School*
• Season lift pass for the resort
• Snowminds Team Leader during the entire season
• 10 training days
• 7 days of official CSIA level 3 training
• Level 3 ski instructor exam (4 days)
• Employment at a local ski school in Hakuba
• Pre-season fitness program
• Pro-deals on Snowminds Store
• Kick-off event in September with group team building etc.
• Preparation guidance and tips regarding packing, insurance, visa, etc., before, during, and after the season
• Travel protection with Snowminds Money Back Guarantee

What is not included?

• Transportation to/from Hakuba, Japan**
• Cancellation & travel insurance and any permit fees, health insurance or tourist tax
• All meals and anything else not mentioned above

As a Snowminds trademark, we take care of all the practicalities and coordinate with our professional partners to provide you with a life-long experience that we are known for!

*Snowminds offers arranged accommodation at the ski school for the entire season, allowing you to avoid the hassle of finding it on your own and giving you the opportunity to live together with other Snowminders. 

**We are happy to assist with recommendations to booking airline tickets and airport transfers to your final destination. Please reach out to us ANYTIME if you are interested.

TRAVEL ITINERARY 

Our Hakuba level 3 ski instructor training program is perfectly designed for those looking to take a gap year, a career break/change as well as those wanting professional training to improve their skiing and take it to the next level in Japan. Hakuba is simply a ‘must visit’ when it comes to ski resorts.

The internship will most likely start on the 13th of December and finish on the 16th of March. *

Below is an example of how the season could look like:

December

• Resort orientation
• Early season getting ski legs back 
• Work at local ski school **

January 

• Work at local ski school
• Level 3 training days (ca. 6 days)

February

• Work at local ski school
• Level 3 training days (ca. 4 days)
• Beginning of CSIA level 3 training course

March 

• CSIA level 3 training course
• Work at local ski school
• CSIA Level 3 ski instructor certification exam

* Dates are subject to change

** The working schedule depends on business levels, weather and snow conditions.

Who can apply ?

At Snowminds we pride ourselves in selecting the right people for our team of ski- and snowboard instructors. We are renowned amongst the ski schools for educating competent, energetic and top motivated instructors.  The most important thing for you is to be positive, outgoing, adventurous, and ready to work hard to get the memory of a lifetime as a part of the Snowminds team.

What we expect from you:

• You have obtained your CSIA level 2 or higher qualification (or similar that can be converted)
• You are positive, outgoing, and adventurous
• You are serious, responsible, and top motivated
• You enjoy teaching and love being challenged
• You are driven to become a higher qualified instructor
• You speak English at a conversational level
• You are 18 years or above
• Eligible for a Working Holiday Visa *

When you have sent your application, we will give you a call to discuss your course choice and hear more about your motivation and skiing background. You will then be invited to an interview where we will evaluate your candidacy. This also give you the opportunity to get more information about our courses and the experience as a ski instructor in Japan. After the interview, we will call you and let you know whether or not we can offer you a spot on our team.

We receive a lot of applications for our courses and the spots fill up quickly. Therefore we have a “first come, first serve” principle with an application deadline each month. This means that the earlier you apply, the greater your chances are of joining the team and getting a spot at your dream destination.

Further information about course dates and prices can be found below, where you can also hit the button to apply now.

* Eligibility for Working Holiday visa depends on different factors such as which passport you hold and your age. Ask us if you are unsure.