Over the past 20 years, Japan has become known around the world as a dream destination for skiers and snowboarders. Yet the country has had an on-and-off love affair with snow sports. 

As domestic interest in skiing and snowboarding has waned, resorts have become increasingly reliant on international visitors. So when the pandemic hit, and Japan's borders were shut, many of them were plunged into crisis. 

Japan Times contributor Francesco Basetti joins Deep Dive to discuss the rise and fall of the Japanese ski industry, and how resorts are faring with so few people able to enjoy them.

With international tourists still absent, Japan’s ski resorts dig deep (Francesco Bassetti and Oscar Boyd)

Today’s episode is sponsored by RGF Professional Recruitment Japan, the bilingual arm of Recruit, Japan and Asia's largest recruiting and information service company. Visit RGF Professional Recruitment Japan to register your resume and unleash your potential today.

Francesco Bassetti: Articles | Twitter

Oscar Boyd: Twitter | Articles | Instagram

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Photo: Hakuba Valley received fewer than half its usual number of visitors in the 2020-21 season. | Courtesy of Evergreen Outdoor Center