Trip Style: Ski + culture with a major focus on food and learning from locals.
Itinerary: 2 nights Tokyo → 5 ski days at/around Lotte Arai Resort (Myoko area) → 1 night Tokyo.
Flights / Routing
- International arrival to Tokyo: HND (Haneda) preferred for proximity; NRT (Narita) also works.
- Tokyo → Myoko: Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Jōetsumyōkō Station (~2–2.5 hrs), then resort shuttle/taxi (≈30–40 min) to Lotte Arai Resort.
- Return: Shuttle/taxi back to Jōetsumyōkō → Shinkansen to Tokyo → Depart HND/NRT.
- Alternate: Domestic flight to Toyama (TOY) or Niigata (KIJ) + regional train/transfer.
Visa Info (as of 2025)
- Many nationalities (e.g., US/EU/Argentina) visa‑exempt for up to 90 days for tourism.
- Requirements vary by passport; always confirm through Japan MOFA before booking. Passport should be valid for the full stay (6+ months validity recommended by airlines).
Cultural Tips
- Onsen etiquette: Wash before soaking; no swimsuits; cover tattoos if required; keep towels out of the water.
- Cash still useful in rural areas; ATMs at 7‑Eleven and post offices.
- Quiet trains, punctuality, no tipping; remove shoes in homes/ryokan.
- Bring a small gift (omiyage‑style) when meeting local hosts/collaborators.
Typical Food
- Tokyo: sushi/omakase, ramen, tempura, yakitori, izakaya small plates.
- Niigata/Myoko area: premium koshihikari rice, local sake, hegi soba, mountain vegetables, seafood from the Sea of Japan.
- Après options at the resort + local izakaya runs in nearby towns.
Packing List (Japan / Myoko)
- Powder‑friendly setup (105–120mm skis or powder board), helmet, low‑light goggle lens, face mask/neck gaiter, spare gloves.
- Safety: Bring avalanche kit (beacon, shovel, probe) for off‑piste days in deep powder.
- Lifestyle: Onsen kit (small towel), easy slip‑on lodge shoes, swimwear not needed for onsens.
- Electronics: Power adapter Type A, 100V; portable Wi‑Fi/eSIM; JR/East Rail app access.
- Winter wear: Waterproof boots, warm layers, hand warmers.
Once your spot is confirmed, we’ll send destination‑specific info with exact transport links, recommendations, and local contacts.
