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Language
Niseko ski facilities cater to the tourist market, having English-speaking instructors in many schools; also many signs are in English as well as Japanese, making life very easy for first time visitors..
Visa
Many countries have an arrangement with Japan whereby tourists do not need visas for visits of up to 90 days, as long as they are holding a valid passport.
Customs
Japan’s culture is built on custom and ritual, and the locals appreciate visitors honouring these. Customs include bowing on meeting each other, removing shoes when entering someone's home, and behaving quietly and pleasantly in public. It’s considered rude to eat and drink in shops, unless the food has been supplied specifically for tasting, and in mountain restaurants it’s considered polite to clear up after yourself, disposing of scraps carefully..
Special rules apply to hot springs (onsens) and can be found in that section of this guide. Visitors are asked to note rules on the mountain slopes, taking care not to ski in the streets or in areas that are out of bounds. Japanese people also welcome those who attempt some words in their language – Hello is "Konichiwa" and Thank you is "Arigato". Many people don’t speak English, so it’s a good idea to take a phrase book
Money
Most ATM machines only work with Japanese cards. Some post offices will accept foreign cards, but it is best to bring plenty of cash or travellers cheques. Likewise many shops do not accept credit cards. The currency in Japan is the yen, which has both coins and banknotes.
Earthquakes
Although a major earthquake during your visit is extremely unlikely, it is best to be prepared. All Japanese hotels have maps indicating emergency exits, and if an earthquake does occur, stay calm and follow the local people to a designated safe area. If indoors, head for a doorway or supporting pillar.
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