Tell me about Shiga Kogen

EA Ski & Snowboard partner with Shiga International Ski School who operate at Shiga Kogen, Japan's largest ski area. Shiga Kogen itself is made up of 19 interconnected ski resorts, and Shiga International Ski School is an English speaking, international ski school based out of Okushiga Kogen Ski Resort, located at the north end of Shiga Kogen. Okushiga itself is one of the highest resorts in the area, and due to that, it sees around 12 metres of snow annually. 

There is also a terrain park, very few lift lines, few crowds and some of the best off-piste skiing you can find in Japan. Back in 1998, when Japan held the Nagano Olympics, Shiga Kogen was home to the giant slalom, and slalom course and this remains there to this day. Because of its size, there are many trails to explore there. The only challenge is whether you can fit every single one in.

Becoming a ski instructor at Shiga Kogen

We offer our ski instructor internship program at Shiga Kogen which is perfect for getting you on the path to becoming a ski instructor. Check out some of the inclusions and benefits! 

Living and working at Shiga Kogen

On an instructor internship here, program participants train with world-class trainers in and around the Shiga Kogen wider ski area to prepare for the Level One NZSIA (New Zealand Ski Instructors Association) exam. Accommodation and lift pass, as well as orientation activities, are provided during this time.

After the Level One exam, you will be working for the Shiga International Ski School who will ensure you receive the necessary staff training and induction processes. This will help establish everyone within the company before the work begins.

Shiga International Ski School is the only operating international, English speaking ski school in Shiga Kogen. The team there at Okushiga are from all around the world and operate closely with each other, with the goal of making sure guests enjoy their time out on the mountain as much as possible (while learning a few skiing tips and tricks along the way). As an employee at Shiga International, you will receive locals discounts on shop items and free lunch every work day. The level one teaching wage is 2000 yen per hour (subject to increase with further qualifications).

There is the 1,000-year-old hot springs town of Shibu Onsen located next to the Snow Monkey Park and the city of Nagano is not too far away from the very historical Zenkoji Temple. There are great festivals to see nearby as well as many other ski areas to explore.

What about accommodation?

Accommodation during the training portion of this course will be covered for you. You will be housed in staff accommodation so even while you're training, you'll soon get to know not only your fellow EA interns but also the fellow instructors that will work with you this season.

Once you begin work, your accommodation cost will be automatically taken out of your wage. The cost of this is about 33000 yen (Approx. $300 USD) per month. One benefit to living here is that whilst the chef is available during the season, you'll also get your breakfast and dinner included at no extra cost, so you'll likely end up saving money compared to similar resorts. Due to the early start of our program, you may have a period self catering at the start of the program before meals are being provided by the chalet chef alongside the majority of school staff arriving.

Example Photos

STAFF ACCOMMODATION DETAILS:

• Double occupancy rooms (Couples rooms available on request)
• Limited single rooms also available 
• Fully equipped kitchen and dining room*
• Laundry facilities
• Wax room
• Common area/lounge with views of the ski area
• Sheets and blankets provided 
• Bonus: Most breakfasts and dinners catered for

Certification overview

Our Ski and Snowboard Instructor Course in Shiga Kogen, Japan allows you to obtain a globally recognised qualification with the NZSIA (New Zealand Ski Instructors Alliance).

The NZSIA is a well-established, educational body that is internationally renowned for producing professional, knowledgeable instructors, who have the capability to teach and ski at very high standards. They are internationally recognised as a well-established, professional provider and have a reputation for high-quality and knowledge. This means that NZSIA instructors are able to competently perform and teach on snow in many cultures and conditions. This qualification can truly take you anywhere.

Program manager

EA Ski & Snowboard want you to have the best season possible at Shiga Kogen. We have a program manager on the ground, who is easily contacted and there to offer advice and support at all times. Not only are they familiar with Shiga Kogen itself, they will also be a familiar face to make your gap year and first winter season that much easier.