FAQ

Clear answers for first-time guests

Beginner Preparation Guide

What equipment do I need?

Most resorts rent large items such as jacket, pants, boots, helmet, skis, and snowboard.
Bring personal items yourself: long thick socks, base layers, waterproof gloves, face cover, goggles, and protectors. Snowboard beginners should prepare knee pads and impact shorts.

Where can I rent gear?

Most ski resorts have rental counters, and some hotels also rent gear. Town rental shops near Yuzawa Station may offer better support or transfer service, but reserve early during busy dates.

Where can I buy gear in Taiwan?

Decathlon is a practical budget option in Taiwan. You can also check ski and outdoor shops such as Prince Outdoor, Snow Selection, and ALL RIDE. For outerwear, choose waterproof ratings around 10K or higher.

What is a lift ticket?

Entering a resort is often free, but you need a lift ticket to use lifts, gondolas, or magic carpets. Lessons usually require a lift ticket unless the coach tells you otherwise.

Where can I buy lift tickets?

Buy lift tickets on the resort website, travel platforms such as Klook, or at the ticket counter. Online early-bird tickets may be cheaper.

Snowboard or ski for beginners?

Ski is usually easier for first-timers and families. Snowboard looks stylish but takes more balance practice at the start. Choose by interest, fitness, and how much falling you are comfortable with.

Do I need an instructor?

Not strictly, but beginners should take at least a short lesson to learn braking, safe falling, turning basics, and resort etiquette.

Should I worry about injury?

Falls are normal, but proper gear and coaching reduce risk. Wear a helmet and protectors, learn how to fall safely, and stay on beginner terrain.

Which is easier to get injured on?

Snowboard beginners usually fall more often at first. Ski beginners often stand and move sooner, but both sports can be risky if speed is not controlled.

Is Echigo-Yuzawa easy to reach?

Yes. From Tokyo or Ueno, the Joetsu Shinkansen can reach Echigo-Yuzawa in about one hour. JR passes may help if your itinerary includes several train rides.

What if I lose something?

Close every zipper before riding lifts. If something falls, remember the lift tower number and nearby landmarks, then ask resort staff or your coach for help.

What if there is an accident?

If you have a coach, stay with the group and follow instructions. Without a coach, one person should stay with the injured guest while another contacts resort staff or the nearest lift station.

Will skiing be tiring?

Skiing uses balance and leg strength, so it can be tiring. Beginners can still join; rest when needed and tell the coach if you feel unwell.

Is skiing dangerous?

Skiing has risk because speed and slopes are involved. Learn braking, stay within your level, follow resort rules, and take a lesson if you are new.

Lesson Questions

Common lesson questions

How do I book a lesson?

Use the booking page or contact SnowGame through LINE, Instagram, Facebook, or WeChat. Share your date, resort, level, ski or snowboard choice, and group size.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes. Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially on weekends, holidays, and peak snow season.

Can I book on the same day?

Same-day booking is not recommended because coaches and rental timing may not be available. Contact SnowGame first if your schedule is urgent.

How many lesson days should beginners take?

One day is good for trying snow sports. For steadier progress, beginners should consider two to three days.

When can I ski without a coach?

It depends on fitness, confidence, and practice time. Many guests need several days before they can control speed and direction safely without a coach.

Should I arrive early?

Yes. If renting at the resort, arrive 30-60 minutes early. For town rental shops, arrive at least one hour early plus travel time.

What if I am late?

Please arrive on time. Late arrival usually cannot be made up or refunded unless there is a confirmed force majeure situation.

Lesson notes

Lesson fees do not include lift tickets, rentals, or insurance. Buy suitable travel or snow-sports insurance, wear a helmet, and follow coach instructions.

Can complete beginners join?

Yes. Complete beginners are welcome. The coach will adjust the lesson pace to your level and help you build basic balance, braking, and turning.

Do I need a lift ticket for class?

Yes. Lift tickets are not included in lesson fees and should be ready before class starts.

Can one coach teach ski and snowboard together?

No. Ski and snowboard use different equipment and teaching flow, so they must be booked separately.

Can mixed-level friends share one coach?

It is possible, but the coach must teach at the safer, slower pace. If levels differ a lot, separate coaches are recommended.

What if the weather is bad?

Light rain or snow usually does not stop class. If lifts close due to strong wind or severe weather, the coach may suggest another nearby resort when possible.

Resort Questions

Questions that come up at the resort

International Skiing Safety Code

Respect others, control speed, choose a safe route, give way to people ahead, look uphill before entering a run, avoid stopping in blind spots, follow signs, and help in accidents.

Are lockers available?

Most resorts have lockers. Bring only essentials on snow, such as phone, small cash, snacks, and valuables that fit securely in pockets.

What if the lift slows or stops?

Stay calm and hold the safety bar. Lifts may slow or stop briefly so staff can help other guests board safely.

Are avalanches a concern at resorts?

Managed resort runs are groomed and monitored. Stay inside open courses and do not enter closed or off-piste areas.

Other Questions

If you cannot find the answer above

Should I buy my own gear?

Renting is best until you know what you like. If you want to buy, boots are usually the first useful purchase; boards and skis are bulky to travel with.

Still have questions?

Contact SnowGame through LINE, Instagram, Facebook, or WeChat. We will help answer your snow trip questions.

Ready to go?

Learn More