Yes. Japanese resorts have wide, gentle beginner areas and soft snow that is forgiving when you fall. The main hurdle is language, so most international beginners book an English-speaking lesson for their first day.

GALA Yuzawa is the easiest: it has its own shinkansen station less than 90 minutes from central Tokyo, the slopes start at the station, and about 35% of its runs are beginner level. NASPA Ski Garden in Yuzawa is a calm, skiers-only alternative.

Prices vary by school. Canyons private lessons are priced per instructor for up to 6 people: from ¥34,000 for 2 hours at GALA Yuzawa, and from ¥36,000 for a 3-hour afternoon lesson in Myoko or Shiga Kogen. Lift tickets, rentals and insurance are extra.

Skiing is usually easier on the first day, while snowboarding takes longer to start but progresses quickly once you can link turns. Canyons ski lessons start from age 3 and snowboard lessons from age 6.

No. Skis, snowboards, boots, poles and helmets can all be rented at or near the resort, and many shops also rent outerwear. Bring warm layers, waterproof gloves and goggles if you have them.