If you’re thinking about working in Resorts in Japan, there are some important details about the jobs that you should definitely take into consideration before you apply. This article details everything you need to know about the jobs:
1. Hours / Salary
Most Resort work staff in Japan have a 44-48hr/week schedule (about 190 hours per month). Basic working hours are 8 hours daily between 8am – 5pm, however depending on the work it could be 1 hour either side of these times as well. As Japanese companies pay on a monthly basis, you’ll receive a salary of approx. ¥90,000 after tax per month (Before meal deductions – approx. 300yen per meal per day). Overtime work (10pm – 5am) is paid at 125% of hourly wages (and is expected during busy periods). All Resort work staff are covered by Japanese “Rousai” Work Insurance while on the job.
NOTE: monthly income varies depending on your working hours.
2. Benefits
Accommodation is provided completely FREE by the Resorts. Ski Resort staff also receive FREE Season ski-passes, to give you free reign on the slopes! Plus, Resort work in Japan is a perfect opportunity to learn Japanese. Regardless of which position you work in, you’ll be surrounded by Japanese friends / co-workers every day, so you’ll have A LOT of time to improve. If you make a little effort, you’ll easily reach a conversational level while you’re there.
3. Busy Periods
During the busiest times of year at Resorts (Xmas / New Year’s Break for Ski Resorts, Jul-Aug University Vacation for Summer Resorts), you’ll be expected to work overtime. During this period, please accept that you may not have much free time (in some cases, staff have to work around 10 days in a row!). After the busy period though, things quieten down a lot, and you’ll have around 6-7 days-off a month. Rest assured – by the end of your Resort work in Japan, you’ll have enough great memories to last a lifetime!
Try to look at the busy period on the positive side – it’s a fantastic opportunity to: a) Learn Japanese, speaking with your co-workers all day on the job, b) Make new friends at work and afterwards, relaxing and chatting in your dorms, and c) After the busy period ends, you’ll have a sizeable paycheck, so you can go out and live it up a little!
4. Uniforms
Uniforms will be organised by Resorts for all staff. You may be required to bring your own shoes, stockings, skirt/pants or white shirt.
5. Qualifications
Besides a First-Aid certificate for Ski Patrol, no qualifications are required for Resort work in Japan. Ski Instructors without any experience may be restricted to teaching beginner and intermediate lessons. Of course, any qualifications you may have will be advantageous when applying for a position.
