What is the snow like?
The snow is powder snow, which is made from the cold winds that are blown from Siberia across the Sea of Japan. There is virtually no wind and the skiing conditions are very pleasant.

How do we I there and back?
The captain can arrange for a personal direct taxi from Narita Airport direct to Villa Alpen for 12.000yen\ per person (5 hours) or you can take an express train (Shinkansen – 7800yen\) from Tokyo Station to Nagano City for 1hr 10mins and connect with a bus to Sun Valley from Nagano City for 1 hour (1600yen\ pp)

How much are lift tickets?
Daily pass is approx 4800\ pp or is cheaper if you purchase a 3 to 10 day pass.

What if I don’t use all my days on the tickets
If you don’t use all your day tickets due to bad weather or illness, don’t worry as the lodge will purchase all unused tickets from you.

What if I am a vegetarian or have special dietary needs?
Please let the Captain know ahead of your stay and he will arrange for your special needs. There are a lot of vegetarian dishes in Japanese cuisine.

Can I use my credit card?
Yes you can use your credit card. Please bring enough cash for purchases around the ski resort like meals and bus fares, etc. Unfortunately there are not many ATMs here and it is advisable to bring cash in yen.

Is the place kid friendly?
Yes kids are welcome and you can watch them play safely outside from the bar. Cars are not allowed in the village square outside Villa Alpen. 

Are there English speaking ski lessons?
Yes, the Captain ,his wife Hiroko and his son, Ken, are qualified ski instructors and are fluent English speakers. They can teach all levels from beginners to advanced.

Is there ski hire?
Yes there is in house ski hire.  The staff will be very pleased if you tell them about you beforehand, such as the size of your foot.

Can the hotel arrange sightseeing?
Yes the Captain and his family can arrange taxis or direct you to the best sights and restaurants in the area.
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