Living the Dream in Niseko: Toby’s Path to Becoming a Ski Instructor in Japan with EA Ski and Snowboard Training
Toby Jacobs is currently managing an instructor course for EA Ski and Snowboard Training in Niseko. Last year he completed his ski instructor training in Japan with EA Ski and Snowboard Training. Hear about his story in the Q&A below.
What's it like being a ski instructor in Japan?
My names Toby I’m a ski instructor who completed the EA Ski and Snowboard Training internship course in the 2023/24 Japan season in Niseko. My first season was spent chasing powder in Hokkaido with mates. Life in Niseko is pretty awesome as an instructor, even if you work all day there’s always incredible night skiing to be had when the crowds head home. The powder is endless and you won’t be able to wipe the smile from your face when you experience it for yourself. I’m now in my second season and loving it as much as ever and now more experienced have been able to guide people in off piste areas as part of my job and show them the amazing powder Japan has to offer! I'm living the dream!
Why do an EA Ski and Snowboard Training instructor course?
EA Ski and Snowboard Training makes things easy to get going into the ski industry with a job offer post Level 1 exam if you pass. They sort transport and accommodation plus organising all training and exams with people on the ground to help ensure things run smoothly.
Where do you plan on taking your career in the ski industry?
I plan on continuing to pursue ski instruction in countries throughout the world with seasons lined up in Australia and Canada. I really enjoy the guiding side of instructing and want to do more of it in the future but the EA Ski and Snowboard Training internship course is a great stepping stone to get you where you to go.
Toby gets to ski everyday in consistent and profoundly deep snow. The snow defies gravity, hanging in the air before delicately making its way back to earth. It’s otherworldly; like skiing on Mars rather than Earth. Shredding bottomless waist deep pow in the mountains of Hokkaido is what Toby does everyday. If interested in Japan for the 2025/26 winter ski season, download our instructor guide HERE
