From Sheffield to Niseko: What It's Like to Do a Working Holiday in Japan

In winter 2023, Samuel Hart left Sheffield to spend a season in Niseko as a Guest Experience Ambassador, splitting his time between The Maples Niseko and Tsubasa Chalet. The then 19-year-old had never lived abroad. Beyond a reinforced love for the slopes (and ramen), he left with something that's hard to put on a CV: a different understanding of what he was capable of.

Today, he's studying Aerospace Engineering at the University of Sheffield and organising annual ski trips to the French Alps for over 300 students as Holiday Secretary of SheffSnow. We caught up with him on what the season actually gave him — and what he'd tell anyone thinking about doing the same.

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I worked for The Luxe Nomad during the 2023/24 winter season in Niseko, Japan, splitting my time between The Maples Hotel and Tsubasa Chalet. At The Maples, I worked as a Guest Experience Ambassador, driving guests around the resort, to restaurants and transfer pick-up points, while helping with luggage and ensuring they had a smooth stay. At Tsubasa Chalet, I worked as a Driver and Chalet Host, helping the team with day-to-day operations and making sure everything ran smoothly for our guests.

One memory that really stands out is waking up to around 98cm of fresh snow overnight. Spending the day skiing on some of the best powder I've ever experienced, then heading out for ramen with friends that evening, perfectly captured what made a season in Niseko so special. It wasn't only about the skiing — it was the atmosphere, the people, and the experience of living in Japan that made it unforgettable.

My season in Japan had a huge impact on me. It gave me confidence, helped me become much more independent, and prepared me well for university life. Living and working abroad — while meeting people from all over the world — taught me how to adapt to new situations, become more self-reliant, and make the most of every opportunity.

More than anything, my season changed the way I looked at myself. Living independently in Japan, experiencing a completely different culture, and working in a new environment taught me that I was capable of far more than I realised. I made friends I'll stay in touch with for life, discovered a real love for skiing, and experienced a way of life that has stayed with me ever since. It's an experience I'll always be grateful for, and one that has shaped who I am today.

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Just go for it! Japan is an incredible country with amazing skiing, a fascinating culture, and some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet. A season there is so much more than just a job — it's an opportunity to challenge yourself, make lifelong friends, create memories that you'll carry with you long after the season ends, and ski some of the best powder in the world.

I'm currently studying Aerospace Engineering at the University of Sheffield. Alongside my degree, I've recently been elected Holiday Secretary for SheffSnow, the university's official snowsports club.

As Holiday Secretary, I'm responsible for organising our annual ski trips to the French Alps for over 300 members. This includes working with travel providers and sponsors, planning logistics, and coordinating the trips. Throughout the year I also help run club events, attend national university ski races, and represent SheffSnow both in the UK and out in resort.

Thinking about a career with us in Japan? Reach out to [email protected].