If you’re thinking about starting skiing, you may be wondering:
“Can I learn on my own?”
“Should I take a lesson?”
“Will a lesson really help me ski?”
The conclusion is simple: If you’re a beginner, ski lessons are highly recommended.
By learning the basics properly, you’ll be able to ski safely and enjoyably, while also improving much faster.
In this article, as a ski and snowboard school based in Rusutsu, Hokkaido, we’ll explain the benefits of ski lessons for beginners, the typical costs, what lessons actually cover, the flow of a beginner lesson, and the most popular ski resorts for first-timers.
The Risks of Teaching Yourself to Ski
Some people think, “It’ll be fine if my friend shows me” or “I can probably figure it out by watching videos.”
However, from an instructor’s perspective, we don’t recommend beginners learning on their own.
Here are the main risks of self-teaching:
Higher Risk of Injury
Without knowing how to fall or stop correctly, you may experience serious falls or collisions. Beginners are especially prone to knee and wrist injuries. Getting hurt on your trip can ruin the fun and leave you with bad memories.
Developing Bad Habits
Self-taught skiing often leads to mistakes in balance and weight distribution. Once bad habits form, they are difficult to fix and can slow down your future progress.
Trouble Getting On and Off the Lift
For beginners, riding the ski lift is often the most confusing part. If you can’t get on or off smoothly, you may inconvenience others—or even cause an accident.
Slower Progress
Things that could be mastered in just a few hours with lessons may take days—or even several seasons—when learning on your own. It would be a shame if your trip ended with, “I never really got the hang of it.”
The Benefits of Ski Lessons
Safety and Peace of Mind
Beginners often worry about falling, getting back up, or riding the lift. In lessons, you’ll learn these basics step by step. Instructors are there to support you, ensuring you stay safe while gaining confidence.
Faster Improvement
On your own, it can take a long time to learn to ski. With a lesson, many people are able to confidently ski down the slope in just a few hours.
Learning the Correct Form
It’s hard to correct mistakes once bad habits set in. Lessons teach you the right posture and turning techniques from the beginning, so you can progress smoothly.
More Fun on the Slopes
Once you master the basics, skiing becomes much more enjoyable. You’ll feel secure knowing you can stop and turn, and you’ll naturally want to challenge yourself more. This leads to a fulfilling experience that makes you want to come back for more.
Types of Ski Lessons and Typical Prices
Beginner ski lessons usually fall into three main categories:
Group Lessons
Price: ¥5,000–¥10,000 for a half-day
Learn with others at your level for reassurance
Great for those who want to keep costs low
Private Lessons
Price: ¥20,000–¥40,000 for a half-day
One-on-one instruction means faster progress and greater safety
Perfect if you want to learn at your own pace or prioritize safety
Children’s Lessons
Price: ¥10,000–¥40,000 for a half-day (varies depending on group vs. private)
Programs often incorporate play, making it fun and engaging
Ideal for a first snow experience
What You’ll Learn in a Beginner Lesson
A typical beginner ski lesson covers:
How to put on and take off ski boots and skis
Safe ways to fall and get back up
Practicing ski lift boarding and exiting
Basic snowplow (pizza wedge) technique for stopping
Gentle slope turns
Even in just a few hours, many beginners reach the point where they can stop and turn safely, enabling them to practice independently afterward.
Flow of a Half-Day Ski Lesson
Here’s what a typical half-day beginner lesson looks like:
Meet & Equipment Check
Ensure boots, skis, poles, and helmets are properly fitted.
Safety Briefing & Warm-Up
Instructors explain safety rules and demonstrate proper precautions before stretching.
Flat-Ground Basics
Practice putting skis on and off, balancing on one ski, walking, and skating movements.
First Slope Practice
On a gentle slope, learn snowplow (pizza wedge) stopping and gain confidence in controlling speed.
Lift Training
Learn how to get on and off the lift, then try it with the instructor by your side.
Turning Practice
Use the snowplow to practice turning left and right. This skill lets you ski a beginner slope on your own.
Wrap-Up & Advice
Review the day’s progress and get tips for your next steps.
With just a half-day, many beginners can already stop and turn—opening up the fun of skiing.
Best Ski Resorts for Beginners
Choosing a resort with beginner-friendly slopes and dedicated practice areas is key.
Rusutsu Resort, Hokkaido
Known for its wide slopes and dedicated beginner areas, plus English-speaking instructors—making it popular with international visitors. Rusutsu is also famous for powder snow, perfect to enjoy once you improve.
👉 Samurai Snow Concierge Ski & Snowboard School
Hakuba, Nagano
A world-class resort area with plenty of beginner slopes and schools. The beautiful scenery makes it a popular destination for couples.
Naeba Ski Resort, Niigata
Popular with families thanks to strong kids’ and beginner programs. Easily accessible from Tokyo, making it a convenient choice for short trips.
Tips for Taking Beginner Ski Lessons
To make the most of your lesson, keep these points in mind:
Prepare Proper Gear
Warm, waterproof clothing, gloves, and goggles are essential. Without them, you’ll be too cold or uncomfortable to focus.
Reserve Rentals in Advance
During peak season, rentals sell out quickly—especially kids’ sizes. Book online ahead of time.
Pace Yourself
A “half-day lesson + free skiing” plan works well for your first day. If you want more flexibility, private lessons let you learn at your own pace.
Take Breaks Often
Skiing uses muscles you don’t normally use, and beginners get tired faster than expected. Don’t hesitate to tell your instructor if you need a break.
(As one of our instructors, Fumina, notes: “In group lessons, it’s sometimes hard to speak up about needing a rest. Private lessons make it easier to take breaks when you need them, so you can learn comfortably.”)
Conclusion
For beginners, taking lessons means skiing more safely, efficiently, and enjoyably.
Whether you choose a group or private lesson depends on your goals and budget—but either way, learning the basics properly will make your skiing life much more rewarding.
At Samurai Snow Concierge, we specialize in private ski and snowboard lessons in Rusutsu, Hokkaido. Our mission is to provide safe, personalized, and high-quality instruction tailored to each guest.
If you have any questions or concerns about skiing or lessons, feel free to reach out to us—we’d be happy to help.
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