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Forbes
23-04-2025
- Forbes
What It Means To Be Wealthy In Japan
Japan is a place travelers yearn to visit and return to—here's how far your money might go and what it means to be wealthy Japan is a fascinating destination for those seeking a blend of cultural heritage and modern innovation, and with the introduction of the digital nomad visa in 2024, Japan has become an attractive option for remote workers. From its lower cost of living to its world-renowned amenities, Japan is a destination where you can enjoy everything from bustling cities to tranquil onsens. Here's what it means to be wealthy in Japan and how far your money might go. Japan was the ninth most-searched-for country by Americans in 2024 for information on either moving or traveling there, and likewise, Japan's had a solid start to this tourist year. A record 3.7 million tourists visited in January 2025, and a favorable currency conversion made Japan more affordable than ever. What's more, with record snowfalls, many American tourists flocked to Japanese ski resorts in March, with some skiers from the U.S. reporting in The New York Times that it was cheaper to fly to Japan and ski than it was to spend the week in Aspen or Vail. For North American ski tour operators, this was their biggest Japanese ski season ever, with reporting that reservations for Japan for the 2024–2025 season were up 600% year-on-year. It seems like a good thing for the country, but Japan is one place that showcased the perils of overtourism in 2024. Fodor reported that the term' Kankō kōgai,' or 'tourism pollution,' entered popular culture to explain the unease over the unchecked rise of tourists to Japan, where numbers are at unprecedented levels, primarily due to tourists taking advantage of a weak yen. Kyoto and Tokyo were two of seven places identified on Fodor's No List 2025, where travel is ill-advised because of overcrowding and accompanying issues. There are 40 million visitors expected in Japan in 2025. That's because Japan consistently hits the mark for the best places to travel or the best cities in the world. In 2024, Japan came 2nd in Best Countries because it is one of the world's most literate and technically advanced nations, and it ranks highly in terms of heritage, cultural influence, entrepreneurship, and quality of life. Tokyo came 31st in Time Out's Top 50 Cities 2025, not just because it has everything a city on this list should have—impeccably clean public spaces and efficient public transport, but because of its thirst for reinvention, whether in terms of architecture or digital art. It also offers the biggie tourist lure of cherry blossoms in late March. Moreover, a recent study on the World's Smartest Places placed Tokyo in 4th place globally. The entire country made the list of Bloomberg's 25 places to go in 2025, although travelers should avoid August when it's simply too hot. There are new, very cool hotel offerings from the Four Seasons and the Waldorf Astroia in Osaka to the Capella in Kyoto to explore and new art complexes like Tadao Ando's Naoshima Island featuring all the big-name contemporary Asian artists. The BBC lists Naoshima Island on its 25 Places to See in 2025 list, citing the fact that what was once an area notorious for its highly polluting copper smelting industry is now known for its major museums and stunning site-specific artworks. CNTraveler's 2024 Readers' Choice Awards placed Japan as the number one country in the world for the food, the onsens, the public baths, and the high-speed trains running the most scenic global rail routes. There are stretches of the archipelago in the southwest, as well as the Jomon Prehistoric sites in the north that are filled with endangered species and zero humans. Plus, in 2024, UNESCO added a new world heritage site in Japan, the Sado Island Gold Mines. Bloomberg came up with a possible though unlikely solution. Considering the country appears to be suffering from a shortfall in government revenue, very high taxes for residents, and too many tourists, and with an expected 60 million visitors by the end of the decade to Japan each year, visitors could be charged a sort of tourist tax to plug the gap—through a combination of hotel taxes and a change in airport rebates that happen for tourists through duty-free shopping. As per the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development's (OECD) Better Life Index, Japan's average household net-adjusted disposable income per capita is $28,872 a year, which is a little lower than the OECD average of its 38 OECD member countries, $30,490 a year. As a comparison, this figure is $51,147 a year in the U.S. and $16,269 in Mexico. People in the U.S. earn $69,392 per year on average, which is the highest among OECD member states and higher than the OECD average of $49,165. In Japan, the average salary is $38,515. When taken globally, the cost of living in Japan is lower than it is in many other developed countries such as the U.S., the U.K., and France, where the cost for a single person per month, not including rent, is as follows: In comparison, the cost of living in Japan is almost 22% less than in France. When you factor in rent, it becomes clear that Japan offers more again for your dollar per square meter than in the U.S., for example. The cost of living in the U.S. is almost 30% higher than in Japan, not including rent, and including housing costs, it is 56% higher in the U.S. Restaurant prices are 112% higher in the U.S., and groceries are 19% higher than in Japan. The OECD Better Life Index reports that in Japan, the average household net wealth is estimated at $294,735, while the OECD average among its member countries, including many EU states, the U.K., Australia, Mexico, and the U.S., is $323,960. In the U.S., the average household net wealth is believed to be around $684,500, one of the highest among OECD countries. Japan launched its digital nomad visa program in 2024, allowing residents of the EU, U.S., U.K., Australia, Singapore and South Korea to apply, as well as other countries on the borders of Europe, such as Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Moldova, Monaco, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, Switzerland and Turkey. Applicants must have a fixed annual income above 10 million Yen (roughly $63,000) plus their own private health insurance. Anyone meeting these conditions can stay in Japan on this visa for up to six months. Lonely Planet offers 38 ways to avoid missteps and errors while visiting Japan. Most of them are advice that wouldn't be out of place anywhere else—don't jump the line, do wear a mask if you're sick, don't litter on the street—while others are a little more nuanced. Advice such as covering up tattoos while visiting bathhouses might not be as obvious; they are sometimes synonymous with gangs, so they could be viewed unfavorably. Smokers beware—some cities have also completely banned smoking in public spaces. Osaka brought in a smoking ban in January in preparation for Expo 2025, which will include six months of exhibitions and festivals centered around the theme of sustainability. The World Health Organisation states that the number of Japanese smokers has almost halved over the past 20 years, and in 2022, just under 15% of adults smoked, and the government has a target of 12%. In contrast, in 2022, almost 20% of U.S. adults used tobacco products. You can instead smoke throughout Japan by seeking out dedicated smoking rooms and areas. CNTraveler has other useful titbits to make life easier, such as arriving early for everything, using inside voices and keeping noise to a minimum when in public spaces such as railway cars, buses, or restaurants. It also advises that tipping is not customary and that shoes are mostly removed when in indoor spaces, so it's a good idea to carry around a pair of clean socks. If you're looking for a hotel away from the masses, AFAR showcases some hidden gems far away from the megacities and more crowded sites, and there are always ways to ensure your money goes further. So, if you're considering visiting or relocating to Japan, the country offers a high standard of living combined with rich cultural experiences. The digital nomad visa has opened doors for remote workers, and Japan is more accessible than ever for those seeking a balance of affordability and luxury.
Observer
24-03-2025
- Business
- Observer
If You Want to Ski Affordably Next Season, Buy Now
While the slopes may still be open across much of North America, it's time to think about next season. The major passes, including Epic and Ikon, as well as the smaller Mountain Collective, have recently announced sales for the 2025-26 season. The Indy Pass has already completed its early sales, although opportunities to purchase it will likely resurface later. Though ski website SnowBrains found that most prices went up between 6% and 7%, spring sales are when passes are cheapest. 'Now is the time to save and go skiing for under $100 a day,' said Dan Sherman, chief marketing officer at which offers ski packages. The term 'passes' has evolved to encompass prepurchased products that start with one-day tickets and aim to wean skiers off the walk-up window. Vail Resorts said three-quarters of its visitors last season used one of its Epic Passes, saving up to 65% on window prices. The strategy, said Sherman, 'is to get people locked in early and reward them with discounted pricing.' Here's a look at next season's offerings. Epic Pass Despite a rough 2024-25 season in which patrollers at Vail's Park City Mountain Resort waged a strike over the holiday season, Vail Resorts broke the introductory-price $1,000 threshold for its 2025-26 Epic Pass, now on sale for $1,051. (Last year the pass started at $982 and ended at $1,107). The pass offers unlimited access to Vail's 42 resorts, including Vail Mountain and Breckenridge in Colorado, Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, and Stowe in Vermont. Next season, Epic Pass will include five days at Verbier 4 Vallées in Switzerland, with more than 250 miles of runs across six ski resorts. Those purchasing the Epic Pass also get discounts on lift tickets for friends. Pass holders, including those with day passes, receive 20% off on-mountain food, lodging, gear rental and lessons. At Sherman counted more than 50 Epic configurations across variables like age and location. The Epic Local Pass (now $783) offers more restricted access to the Vail portfolio but unlimited access to 29 resorts, including Breckenridge, Crested Butte and Keystone in Colorado. Epic Day Passes, which can be purchased for intervals between one and seven days, start from $47 to $100 a day, depending on the resort. Vail won't say when prices will increase, but they tend to rise until going off sale; last year Epic passes were available until Dec. 2. Ikon Pass Sales of the Ikon Pass, offered by Alterra Mountain Co., begin Thursday. The $1,329 pass offers unlimited access to 18 destinations, including Steamboat and Copper Mountain in Colorado; Mammoth Mountain and Palisades Tahoe in California; and Crystal Mountain in Washington. Passholders get up to seven days each at 41 resorts, including Aspen Snowmass in Colorado, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Wyoming and Killington in Vermont. The pass also covers resorts abroad, including SkiBig3 in Alberta; Kitzbühel, Austria; and — new this year — Ischgl in Austria; Zermatt and St. Moritz in Switzerland; Niseko United in Japan; and Valle Nevado in Chile. Ikon also has different subscription levels, including the cheaper Ikon Base Pass for $909, with unlimited access at 14 North American destinations and up to five days at 39 destinations worldwide, with blackout dates. Also subject to blackouts, the Ikon Session Pass is available in increments of two, three or four days at one or more of 43 destinations. A two-day pass starts at $259. Depending on the pass, perks this year include spring skiing, 25% off the window rate for friends or family, and discounts on food at several resorts. The Ikon Pass is typically available through early to mid-December. Mountain Collective The Mountain Collective offers two days each at 26 ski areas — many overlap with Ikon resorts — without blackout dates. Currently on sale, the 2025-26 adult pass costs $639 and includes Alta Ski Area and Snowbird in Utah, Aspen Snowmass, Jackson Hole and Sun Valley. Abroad, it includes resorts in Australia, Canada, Chile, France, Japan and New Zealand. Pass holders can get extra days at half off the window rate at most resorts. Friends and family get a 25% discount on one-day lift tickets, limited to eight tickets. Indy Pass The Indy Pass offers access to two days each at independently owned resorts, mostly in North America. For the next season, Indy made a guarantee of no fewer than 250 resorts and has added new-to-Indy resorts, including Burke Mountain in Vermont and Corralco Mountain & Ski Resort in Chile. Sales of the $369 pass closed Monday, but the company suggests joining the waiting list to learn about new offers. In October, for example, it reopened sales for a few weeks, closing Nov. 10. With just two days at each resort, Indy Pass best serves skiers interested in trying several resorts. —NYT
USA Today
20-03-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Snowboarder tumbles like a rag doll down extremely steep slope
Snowboarder tumbles like a rag doll down extremely steep slope The most famous ski run at Big Sky Resort in Montana is called The Big Couloir, and requires those daring to take the plunge to check in with ski patrol before descending. Plus, they are required to wear an avalanche beacon and go with an experienced partner before dropping into the triple black diamond with the 1,400-vertical-foot drop and 50-degree pitch, according to The Inertia said it is 'one of the gnarliest inbounds runs you're going to find,' and described it as 'roller coaster steep.' Needless to say, wipeouts can be nasty. PeakRankings posted an Instagram video of 'How not to send it down The Big Couloir,' and it is a bit painful, as a snowboarder loses it near the top and tumbles down the slope like a rag doll. The commentary on the video prompted snarky comments, mostly about the snowboarder losing his goggles. Fortunately, the snowboarder didn't lose consciousness, and appeared to be okay, though the rider's condition was not known. Undoubtedly, the ski patrol attended to the rider soon after the spill, as it monitors those taking runs down 'The Big Couloir.' Photo courtesy of PeakRankings.
New York Times
11-03-2025
- Business
- New York Times
If You Want to Ski Affordably Next Season, Buy Now
While the slopes may still be open across much of North America, it's time to think about next season. The major passes, including Epic and Ikon, as well as the smaller Mountain Collective, have recently announced sales for the 2025-26 season. The Indy Pass has already completed its early sales, although opportunities to purchase it will likely resurface later. Though the ski website SnowBrains found that most prices went up between 6 and 7 percent, spring sales are when passes are cheapest. 'Now is the time to save and go skiing for under $100 a day,' said Dan Sherman, chief marketing officer at which offers ski packages. The term 'passes' has evolved to encompass prepurchased products that start with one-day tickets and aim to wean skiers off the walk-up window. Vail Resorts said three-quarters of its visitors last season used one of its Epic Passes, saving up to 65 percent on window prices. The strategy, said Mr. Sherman, 'is to get people locked in early and reward them with discounted pricing.' Here's a look at next season's offerings. Epic Pass Despite a rough 2024-25 season in which patrollers at Vail's Park City Mountain Resort waged a strike over the holiday season, Vail Resorts broke the introductory-price $1,000 threshold for its 2025-26 Epic Pass, now on sale for $1,051. (Last year the pass started at $982 and ended at $1,107). The pass offers unlimited access to Vail's 42 resorts, including Vail Mountain and Breckenridge in Colorado, Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, and Stowe in Vermont. Next season, Epic Pass will include five days at Verbier 4 Vallées in Switzerland, with more than 250 miles of runs across six ski resorts. Those purchasing the Epic Pass also get discounts on lift tickets for friends. Pass holders, including those with day passes, receive 20 percent off on-mountain food, lodging, gear rental and lessons. At Mr. Sherman counted more than 50 Epic configurations across variables like age and location. The Epic Local Pass (now $783) offers more restricted access to the Vail portfolio, but unlimited access to 29 resorts, including Breckenridge, Crested Butte and Keystone in Colorado. Epic Day Passes, which can be purchased for intervals between one and seven days, start from $47 to $100 a day, depending on the resort. Vail won't say when prices will increase, but they tend to rise until going off sale; last year Epic passes were available until Dec. 2. Ikon Pass Sales of the Ikon Pass, offered by Alterra Mountain Company, begin March 13. The $1,329 pass offers unlimited access to 18 destinations, including Steamboat and Copper Mountain in Colorado; Mammoth Mountain and Palisades Tahoe in Calif.; and Crystal Mountain in Washington. Passholders get up to seven days each at 41 resorts, including Aspen Snowmass in Colorado; Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Wyoming, and Killington in Vermont. The pass also covers resorts abroad, including SkiBig3 in Alberta; Kitzbühel; and — new this year — Ischgl in Austria; Zermatt and St. Moritz in Switzerland; Niseko United in Japan; and Valle Nevado in Chile. Ikon also has different subscription levels, including the cheaper Ikon Base Pass for $909, with unlimited access at 14 North American destinations and up to five days at 39 destinations worldwide, with blackout dates. Also subject to blackouts, the Ikon Session Pass is available in increments of two, three or four days at one or more of 43 destinations. A two-day pass starts at $259. Depending on the pass, perks this year include spring skiing, 25 percent off the window rate for friends or family, and discounts on food at several resorts. The Ikon Pass is typically available through early to mid-December. Mountain Collective The Mountain Collective offers two days each at 26 ski areas — many overlap with Ikon resorts — without blackout dates. Currently on sale, the 2025-26 adult pass costs $639 and includes Alta Ski Area and Snowbird in Utah, Aspen Snowmass, Jackson Hole and Sun Valley. Abroad, it includes resorts in Australia, Canada, Chile, France, Japan and New Zealand. Pass holders can get extra days at half off the window rate at most resorts. Friends and family get a 25 percent discount on one-day lift tickets, limited to eight tickets. Indy Pass The Indy Pass offers access to two days each at independently owned resorts, mostly in North America. For the next season, Indy made a guarantee of no fewer than 250 resorts and has added new-to-Indy resorts, including Burke Mountain in Vermont and Corralco Mountain & Ski Resort in Chile. Sales of the $369 pass closed on March 10, but the company suggests joining the waiting list to learn about new offers. Last October, for example, it reopened sales for a few weeks, closing Nov. 10. With just two days at each resort, Indy Pass best serves skiers interested in trying several resorts.
