If it’s your first time travelling to Japan for a ski holiday then you are in for a treat. Japan has some of the best ski and snowboard conditions the world has to offer and is very popular with people from all over the world.
If you have never been on a ski holiday before it can be hard to know what you need to pack to take with you. Don’t forget, a Japanese winter is much colder than an Australian winter so it pays to be prepared.
1. Pack Warm
Winters in Japan can be extremely cold. The temperature in some areas can get down to -6 and lower so you need to pack warm. Being prepared will ensure you have a good time out on the slopes, not stuck inside huddling around a heater. Do some research before you leave on ski gear that is good for very cold climates. There are lots of brands out there that you will be able to choose from that provide a great selection of ski gear made for colder climates.
2. Don’t forget your Nighttime Clothes
It can be easy to forget evening clothes when you are so focused on your snow outfits. Don’t forget to pack warm clothes that you can wear to any restaurants or bars that you go to in the evening.
3. Ski or Snowboard Gear
If you have your own ski or snowboard gear you may want to bring it with you, depending on which resort you visit. The primary resorts incl. Niseko, Hakuba have excellent rental equipment but the others may not be up to your standard. If you have a large foot and were hoping to hire boots you may be out of luck in the lesser known resorts again Niseko and Hakuba you will be fine, so check with your agent first, about the quality of the resort you are visiting.
4. Bring Double Lens Goggles
Goggles are a must in Japan, it is not a sunglass riding country, and good quality double lens goggles with a rose-tone are best suited to the conditions.
5. The All Important, Passport
This one is probably pretty obvious. You can’t go anywhere without your passport so it pays to make sure you pack it somewhere safe before you head off to the airport. There is nothing worse than realising you have forgotten it when you are already at the airport. A good idea before you leave is to always photocopy your passport and keep a copy in your luggage and another copy at home with a family member or friend. These copies can come in extremely helpful if you happen to lose your passport while in Japan.
6. Cash Instead of Cards
Although Japan is one of the most advanced countries in the world you will quickly find they aren’t so accepting of credit or debit cards in the country areas and some of the lesser known resorts, the primary resorts are OK with credit cards. Before you leave Australia, make sure you invest in some Japanese Yen. Cash is accepted everywhere you travel in Japan however it can be hard to find an ATM when you need one. Budget your cash carefully so you have enough on hand when you need it and top up when you can access and ATM.
7. Your Japan Rail Pass
If you're travelling to different locations across Japan, then a 7 day, 14 day or 21 day Japan rail pass will definitely come in handy. Purchasing a pass in Australia and having it home-delivered will save you a great deal of money, compared to purchasing a pass while in Japan.
8 . Japanese Phone & Computer Adaptors
Don’t forget your adaptor! Japan power outlets are different to Australian power points. You can easily buy an adaptor before you leave Australia. Without it, you won't be able to charge any electrical devices or use any electrics such as a hair dryer.
Packing at least a week in advance will ensure you have time to remember everything you need to bring on your Japan ski holiday. Writing a list is one of the easiest ways to make sure you have packed all of your essentials items, just tick them off and you’re ready to go!
If you are interested in a Japan Ski or Snowboarding holiday, Deep Powder Snow Holidays can help you find accommodation and book your holiday. Contact us today for a quote or to book!
