FAQ · LESSON PREPARATION · POLICIES
Clear answers.
A smoother snow trip.
Find the essentials before booking, from lesson times and equipment to weather, changes and cancellation.
01 / GOOD TO KNOW
Booking & lessons
Can I join with no experience?
Absolutely. We welcome complete beginners, with guidance on equipment, basic movements and mountain safety.
Should I choose skiing or snowboarding?
Tell us your preferences, sporting background and goals. Skiing uses two separate skis and a forward-facing stance; snowboarding uses one board and a sideways stance. We can help you choose before booking. Each lesson teaches one discipline, not a mixture of both.
How many people can share a lesson?
The current standard private lesson plans allow up to six guests per instructor. Groups of seven or more need additional instructors. Similar abilities work best together; where levels differ, the instructor prioritises those who need the most help.
Can young children join?
For children under six, arrange a one-to-one lesson with us. Tell us each child’s age and experience before booking. Any accompanying parent must be able to glide, turn and stop safely; family lesson arrangements depend on the child’s needs.
Can I request an instructor or teaching language?
Yes. Request your preferred instructor and language when you enquire. Mandarin, Cantonese and English are available across the team; individual instructors’ languages differ. Requests depend on availability and may incur additional fees.
When will I hear back?
We usually reply within one to two working days. Replies may take longer during busy booking periods. Book early once your travel dates are confirmed, especially for popular dates.
How is my booking confirmed?
Send your dates, resort, group size and experience. We check availability and provide a quotation. Your instructor and lesson time are reserved after the agreed payment is complete. Refer to the payment deadline in your quotation.
Can I change the booking?
Contact us as early as possible. Changes depend on instructor availability, resort arrangements and available times. If the new arrangement has a different price, the difference is charged or refunded accordingly.
02 / GOOD TO KNOW
Getting ready
What time do lessons run?
A full-day lesson normally runs 09:00–15:00 or 10:00–16:00 and includes five hours of instruction plus a one-hour lunch break. Half-day lessons normally run 09:00–12:00 or 13:00–16:00. Night lessons normally run 17:00–19:00. Your confirmed booking determines the actual time.
Where and when do we meet?
We provide the meeting point before the lesson, based on the resort, ability and day’s arrangements. Arrive at least ten minutes early, with equipment, clothing and lift-pass arrangements ready. If you are late for personal reasons, the lesson still ends at the scheduled time.
Are equipment, lift passes and lunch included?
Equipment and lunch are not included in lesson fees. Confirm lift-pass needs and any other inclusions in your quotation. Beginners may not need a lift pass immediately; your instructor will advise according to progress and the teaching area.
What should I wear?
Prepare warm layers, waterproof outerwear and gloves, snow socks, goggles and a helmet. Tell us which rental items you need in advance.
Can you arrange hotel transfers?
Transfers may be available within the designated Niseko service area, subject to confirmation. Fees depend on the accommodation and group size; request a quotation when booking.
Can the instructor take photos?
We are happy to help with souvenir photos when this does not interfere with safety or teaching. Professional photo and video services can be discussed separately.
Do I need my own insurance?
Arrange travel insurance and check whether it covers skiing or snowboarding, overseas medical treatment, emergency rescue and third-party liability. SnowZone’s relevant teaching liability insurance is subject to its policy terms and does not replace your personal travel or accident insurance.
03 / GOOD TO KNOW
Weather, changes & cancellation
Will snow or wind cancel my lesson?
Decisions depend on official resort operations, lift availability and safe conditions on site. If the resort is operating and suitable lifts and terrain remain available, lessons generally proceed with adjusted teaching areas and content. Full closure, major lift stoppages or conditions officially judged unsafe will be handled according to the situation and the applicable change and refund policy.
What are the standard cancellation charges?
For cancellations more than 30 days before the lesson start date, a 5% administration fee applies to the total order value. Within 30 days but before the 14-day cutoff, the cancellation fee is 30%. Within 14 days, bookings are generally non-refundable. Exceptional serious circumstances are assessed individually. Contact customer service to confirm the applicable cutoff for your booking.
What if I am sick or injured before the lesson?
For a sudden serious acute illness or injury supported by medical documentation, SnowZone assesses the case individually. Options may include rescheduling, lesson credit, a partial refund or a full refund. Ordinary colds, fatigue or general discomfort normally follow the standard cancellation rules.
What if I stop the lesson early?
If you voluntarily stop or finish early because of fatigue, discomfort, equipment fit, personal injury or other personal reasons, there is generally no replacement lesson, extension or refund. Safety comes first, and we will assist according to the situation in a medical emergency.
What if my flight or transport is disrupted?
Personal transport difficulties and flight delays generally do not qualify for refunds. If a weather-related flight cancellation prevents travel, we prioritise rescheduling. If no suitable alternative date can be arranged, you may apply for a refund.
Are payment fees deducted from refunds?
For refunds arising from a guest’s personal circumstances, necessary bank, international transfer, payment-platform and processing fees, and exchange-rate differences may be deducted. This deduction principle does not apply where the cancellation is attributable to SnowZone.
04 / GOOD TO KNOW
Equipment rental
How early should I book?
Book as soon as your itinerary is confirmed. Provide complete measurements for all renters at least three days before use. Peak-season stock and delivery slots are limited.
Can you deliver and collect at my accommodation?
Delivery and collection are available in designated Niseko and Rusutsu areas. The accommodation address, exact time and any additional charges must be confirmed with customer service.
Can I change equipment that does not fit?
Check quantities, sizes and condition promptly on delivery. Contact us immediately for issues. Exchanges depend on stock, delivery time and staffing, using equivalent or similar equipment where possible. Specific brands, models, colours and years cannot be guaranteed.
What if an item is damaged, lost or stolen?
Normal light wear is generally not charged. Misuse or other human-caused damage may incur reasonable repair or compensation costs. Report loss or theft immediately and assist with reasonable searches; a police report may be requested. Compensation considers condition, age, value and replacement costs.
Can I change the return time or place?
Contact us in advance and obtain confirmation. Late returns, unconfirmed location changes or missed handovers may incur additional handling, delivery or rental charges.
Still have a question?
Tell us about your booking or plans so we can confirm the details that apply.
Contact SnowZone ↗READY FOR THE MOUNTAIN
A little preparation goes a long way.

Check your equipment
Confirm your rental items and sizes before the day.

Meet ready to learn
Allow time for clothing, equipment and the meeting point.

Plan for mountain conditions
Check your confirmed arrangements and follow your instructor’s guidance.
