So much is lost in translation in Japan. From tipping to eating, drinking and skiing, we went straight to two of our favourite ex-pats who have spent combined decades calling the mountain regions of Hokkaido and Honshu home.
Cameron Black is the name behind the cult classic B3 coffee den in Otaru, Hokkaido. His under the radar coffee service is coveted by international ski and snowboard pros, locals and Aussie snow lovers who know the good stuff.
Fellow Aussie, Mark Baumann, has been skiing in Nozawa Onsen on the main island of Honshu for 33 years; first as a ski patroller before founding Nozawa Holidays accommodation service in 2005.
“Remain polite and humble,” advises Mark to visiting skiers. “We can learn a lot from the Japanese way of conducting themselves. Rarely loud in public spaces, often think of others, leave a low social impact.”
These are Cam and Mark’s do’s and don’ts as originally published in our 56 page FREE Japan Issue emag.
DO
Pay the money and get a good guide from a reputable local guide operator based here in Japan that have ticked all the regulatory boxes. Do your research because there some excellent companies and equally dodgy ones out there. Get the good stuff and make it back safely. CB.
Be aware, Japan doesn’t do pain relief (not even Panadol) and ambulances are shockingly slow so if you do get hurt, be aware of the consequences, ride to your ability and have some good insurance. CB.
Learn some of the language. Makes a huge difference to your experience in Japan. MB.
Be careful of overdoing the mythical cans of strong. You’ve paid too much money to be over here to then find yourself nursing a dumb hangover and making shitty turns on a POW day. CB.
Carry cash, Japanese businesses don’t really do card transactions. CB.
Bring your international drivers license in hard copy, not just digital, because a rental car can make a huge difference. CB.
Always show gratitude. Arigatou Gozaimasu is a great phrase to learn and use as much as can. MB
Zero alcohol and driving– the long arm of the law here in Japan doesn’t care what your laws say at home. Plus you’ll always have to tick that box on your entry card that asks about criminal convictions….. CB.
Be friendly – Japanese can often be shy but if you start up a conversation even say Konnichiwa most will love it. It only takes a little effort and the rewards will be many. MB.
Know your onsen etiquette – There is an art to ‘onsenning’ in a country where culture and respect are imperative. So brush up on onsen etiquette before you dip your toe in.
DON’T
Walkie-talkies. If it’s not a Japanese licensed one they’re considered illegal and you can find yourself in some bother if you’re caught with one from home. CB.
Avi barriers – A big no no to ski/ride if you’re caught. It’s illegal and the police might just create havoc on your holiday. Many are actually attached to the mountainside via a steel cable that can cause horrific injuries. CB.
Passing food from one to another with chopsticks is considered really bad form. CB.
Ski or snowboard in shrines or graveyards at your own peril, no matter how pretty it will look on the gram, you’re messing with the universe. CB.
Toilet slippers are not for outside of the toilet. CB.
Tipping will only cause confusion, give the money to charity boxes (usually in convenience stores) from the various natural disasters we have. CB.
