If you are thinking of working in Resorts in Japan, there are some important details about the jobs that you should definitely be aware of before applying. This article details everything you need to know about jobs:
1. Hours / Salary
Most Resort staff work in Japan on a schedule of 44-48 hours per week (about 190 hours per month). Basic work hours are 8 hours a day between 8am and 5pm, however, depending on the job, it could also be 1 hour on either side of these hours. Since Japanese companies pay monthly, you will receive a salary of approx. ¥90,000 after tax per month (before meal deductions: approximately 300 yen per meal per day). Overtime work (10 pm – 5 am) is paid at 125% of hourly wage (and is expected during busy periods). All working staff at the Resort are covered by Japanese “Rousai” labor insurance while at work.
NOTE: Monthly earnings vary based on your work hours.
2.Benefits
Accommodation is provided completely FREE by the Resorts. Ski resort staff also receive FREE seasonal ski passes, so you can hit the slopes! Also, working at a resort in Japan is a perfect opportunity to learn Japanese. No matter what position you work in, you’ll be surrounded by Japanese friends/coworkers every day, so you’ll have PLENTY of time to improve. If you put in a little effort, you’ll easily reach a conversational level while you’re there.
3. Busy periods
During the busiest times of the year at resorts (Christmas/New Year’s holidays for ski resorts, college vacations from July to August for summer resorts), you are expected to work overtime. During this period, accept that you may not have much free time (in some cases, staff have to work around 10 days in a row!). However, after the busy period things calm down a lot and you will have around 6-7 days off per month. Rest assured that at the end of your work at the Resort in Japan, you will have enough great memories to last a lifetime!
Try to see the positive side of the busy period: it is a fantastic opportunity to: a) learn Japanese, talk to your co-workers all day at work, b) make new friends at work, and afterward, relax and chat in your bedrooms, and c) After the busy period is over, you’ll have a hefty paycheck, so you can go out and live a little!
4. Uniforms
Uniforms will be arranged by Resorts for all staff. You may need to bring your own shoes, socks, skirt/pants, or white shirt.
5. Qualifications
Other than a Ski Patrol First Aid certificate, no qualifications are required to work at Resorts in Japan. Inexperienced ski instructors may be restricted to teaching beginner and intermediate lessons. Of course, any qualifications you may have will be advantageous when applying for a position.
