We had wonderful 2.5 days with the school. Itâs my 7-year-old girlâs first time and so I sent her to group lessons starting from level 1. She left Hakuba finishing level 2, learnt how to get on and off the chair lift on her own and could slide down the Iimori slope (without poles). Her instructors (Sho, Josh, Tim) were all very patient with the kids, and they went in groups of no more than 6. She joined full day lessons which included lunch, I checked on them at the restaurant and the kids were happy and the lunch went well.
I took adult group lesson level 2 on our first afternoon here with Matthew (Australian coach), we went in a group of 5, although our skills varied the coach handled us quite ok and I managed to pick up toe side downhill which was great. The next 2 days my friend and I went on private lessons with Matt (British coach) who was very good as well, he explained the techniques very clearly and changed methodology when I couldnât do things in one approach. Smart coach. I left Hakuba mastering my heel side turn and started on toe side turn.
If you sign up for private lesson, your coach will use company car to pick you up from hotel which was a very helpful service. After class, the school also offers free shuttle buses to various locations (eg Escal Plaza) which is convenient and less crowded than the free public bus. Doug at the school office was very friendly and helpful, we found out a lot of information from him.
Things to note: 1) better to bring cash, there is service charge to pay by credit cards, 2) you need to buy your own lift tickets, come with tickets before the class, 3) there is family lift tickets which is better deal, 4) even if you book online, arrive early to sign in with the school office, 5) coach may decide to upgrade or downgrade you according to your...
   Read moreHighly Recommend Hakuba Snow Sports School â Professional, Structured, and Fun!
We had an amazing experience at Hakuba Snow Sports School, and I can't recommend them enough! After a disappointing experience at another ski school, we enrolled our 6-year-old son at Hakuba Snow Sports, and the difference was night and day.
From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this school is well-organized and professional. The staff is attentive, friendly, and incredibly experienced. They took the time to assess my son's skill level and placed him in a group with other kids of similar ability, which made a huge difference. He was challenged, engaged, and had a blast learning new skills.
The structure of the lessons was spot-on. My son felt safe, supported, and excited every day. The instructors were not only skilled at teaching but also great with the kids, ensuring they had fun while improving their skiing. They made the learning process enjoyable, and my son even looked forward to each lesson!
One thing that stood out was the attention to detail, especially with safety. Unlike our previous experience, we never had to worry about things like ski equipment being improperly fastened. Everything was checked thoroughly, and it was clear that the well-being of the children was the top priority.
We will definitely be returning to Hakuba Snow Sports School in the future. It was a wonderful experience, and my son left with a big smile on his face, excited to ski again. If youâre looking for a professional, structured, and enjoyable ski school, look no further â Hakuba Snow Sports is...
   Read moreThe first day my boys joined a group class with the skiing instructor, Matt J., I noticed my younger one (5 years old) was struggling. It was his first time skiing, and it was clear he was more interested in playing with the snow than participating in the class. Being in a group class with different age groups, I understand itâs not easy for the instructor to manage. However, Matt J. showed great patience, consistently checking on my son and making a strong effort to help him stay focused on the class.
On the second day, my older son Tristan had a private class with Matt J. I was amazed that it was his first time skiing. Under Matt Jâs guidance, he was able to confidently ski down the mountain. Each time he skied down the mountain, I could see that he improved compared to the previous run and learned different techniques each time. After returning to the hotel, my son couldn't stop talking about his lessons and all the little moments he experienced in class. He was reluctant to leave Hakuba and even said goodbye to Matt J with great sadness. Before going to sleep, he cried for a long time.
Thank you, Matt J., for your heartfelt teaching. You were truly marvelousâalways wearing a big smile, giving clear instructions, and showing patience with the kids. My boys are so lucky to have had you as their instructor for their first ski class. I believe that a child's first experience is crucial, as it sets the tone for their future interest and confidence in trying new things.
Thank you Hakuba Snow Board School,thank you Matt J, see you at...
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