Snowboarding in Japan is an activity on the bucket list of almost every intermediate to advanced level snowboarder around the world.
Japan is home to mountainous regions, dense, thriving cities, architecturally stunning imperial palaces and cultural treasures. This country boasts its technological feats to the rest of the world with structures such as the bullet trains connecting Honshu from Hokkaido. Hokkaido itself is most famous for skiing, snowboarding and resorts like Niseko, near Sapporo. Riders flock here from around the world every year to hone in on their skills, experience the legendary Japow for themselves and ride the wider Niseko-Annupuri area.
In our opinion however, the best way to go snowboarding in Japan is to head to Niseko for a full winter season. Japan may skip people’s minds as a gap year destination. Upon first thought, they consider Canada or Switzerland or even Australia as the places to go. Yes, these are all great places when it comes to travelling, and if you have the time, why not travel there to! However, we encourage you to put some serious thought into Japan as a winter season destination.
Not only is there legendary powder to enjoy, whilst living in Japan who will become familiar with the local’s secrets and favourite bars and restaurants. You will enjoy visiting thermal hot springs or Onsens, trying the hottest devil ramen in the town and visiting Seiko-mart on the daily for all your snacking needs. What we’re saying is that the longer you live in a place, the more you get to know its quirks and intricacies. That’s why we encourage anyone wanting to go snowboarding in Japan to consider heading there for a full winter season so that you can get the most out of, and experience all that Japan has to offer.
Sign up for the with EA Ski & Snowboard Training internship today for the chance to not only become a snowboard instructor but EARN back more than half of your program costs, save on your flights and live in an epic Japanese ski resort. You'll be gaining vital instructing experience and being rewarded for it. This is the cheapest way to earn instructor qualifications and begin your career in the snowsports industry! For more information on the instructor internship course in Japan and how you can set yourself up for the winter gap year of a lifetime in Japan, click here!
