Private Ski & Snowboard Lessons in English at Shiga Kogen

Your Own Private Snow Lesson in Shiga Kogen

These lessons are run by Canyons, a school that has been teaching skiing and snowboarding in Japan for more than 20 years. Certified instructors who teach in English will support you according to your level and goals, whether you are standing on snow for the first time or are already an experienced rider.

Lessons are private, for 1 to 6 people. You can take a lesson on your own for focused attention, or practice together with family or friends of a similar level.

"I want to try skiing for the first time." "I'd like to fix a turn I struggle with." Against the snowy backdrop of Shiga Kogen, spend your time working toward your own goals.

First, Choose a 3-Hour or 6-Hour Lesson

Start by thinking about how you want to spend your time on the mountain. Do you want to learn the basics in a short session, or build up practice and refine your technique? You can choose according to your itinerary, stamina and goals.

Here is how the two plans differ.

■ 3-Hour Lesson A good fit if you want to fit lessons into a half-day schedule, or focus on a few specific points you want to practice.

■ 6-Hour Lesson A good fit if you want plenty of time for repeated practice, or want an instructor to watch your skiing or riding closely.

If you're booking as a group, everyone should do the same activity, either all skiing or all snowboarding, and should be of a similar ability level.

Next, Set Your Goals with Your Instructor and Start Practicing

When you meet your instructor, share your previous experience and what you'd like to work on that day. If you're a beginner, you'll start with the basics; if you're experienced, you can begin by checking the movements that concern you. Because the lesson is private, you can talk through exactly what you need.

Listen to the explanation, watch a demonstration, then try it yourself. You can ask questions on the spot as you practice. Since lessons are conducted in English, they're easy to join even if you're not used to Japanese.

When you practice with friends who share the same goals, you'll enjoy noticing each other's progress. Build your confidence little by little and enjoy your time on the snow.

Once You're Comfortable, Enjoy Slopes That Suit Your Level and the Snowy Views

Shiga Kogen is a vast snow resort made up of 18 ski areas. The terrain and character of the runs differ from area to area, and the views of snow-covered forests and mountains are part of the fun.

During your lesson, you'll practice in places that suit the day's conditions and your level. Rather than covering as many areas as possible, enjoy skiing or riding on slopes that suit you while putting what you've learned into practice.

As your movements become more relaxed, take a moment to look at the scenery around you. Enjoying the sense of achievement from practice alongside the openness of the snowy mountains is part of the charm of spending time in Shiga Kogen.

FAQ

■ Can beginners join? Yes. Lessons are available for everyone from first-timers to experienced skiers and snowboarders, tailored to your level. When booking, let them know your experience and which activity you'd like to do.

■ Can skiers and snowboarders learn in the same group? Everyone in the group must choose either skiing or snowboarding. Participants should also be of a similar ability level. Adults and children learn at different paces, so if there is an age gap in your group, please consult the school in advance.

■ How old do children need to be to take part? The school's basic requirements are age 3 or older for skiing and age 6 or older for snowboarding. Please check the age requirements of the plan you're booking and your child's eligibility.

■ Are lift tickets and rental equipment included in the price? No. You'll need to arrange lift tickets and rental equipment separately. Accident insurance is not included either, so please check that you have insurance that covers snow sports.

■ Is hotel pick-up available? Some plans offer pick-up from accommodation in the Shiga Kogen area. Please check the plan you're booking for whether pick-up is offered, which accommodations are covered, and how to meet.

■ Does the 6-hour plan run 6 hours from meeting to finish? The 6 hours refers to lesson time. The total time, including breaks, will be longer, so please check the start and end times and break times when booking.

What to Check Before Booking

• Your preferred activity, number of people, ages and ability levels
• Start and end times, meeting point and pick-up eligibility
• Preparation and cost of lift tickets, equipment and clothing
• Cancellation deadline and insurance covering snow sports

Please check the latest information on the booking page before you reserve.

Summary

Whether you're sliding on snow for the first time or returning to the slopes after a long break, having someone to teach you opens up new possibilities. In Shiga Kogen, you can practice with an English-speaking instructor, tailored to your own goals.

Encourage each other, learn a new movement, and between runs, take in the white forests and mountain ranges. Why not add a day like that to your winter trip?

For details and availability, visit Private Ski & Snowboard Lessons in Shiga Kogen.