Planning a trip to Club Med Japan? So whether you’re heading to Club Med Tomamu, Club Med Sahoro, Club Med Kiroro Grand, or Club Med Kiroro Peak, this guide is packed with helpful Club Med Japan arrival information to get you from the airport to the resort without any confusion.
Japan is one of those places that runs smoothly… most of the time. But when you’re fresh off a long-haul flight, the last thing you want is to be googling train platforms or fumbling for missing documents. So here’s a practical, no-fuss guide filled with Club Med Japan arrival information to help you get from airport to resort with as little hassle as possible.
1. Make Sure Your Passport and Travel Insurance is Ready
Japan requires your passport to be valid for the duration of your stay. That’s it. No six-month rule here, but it’s always smart to have a bit of a buffer just in case.
Also, check if you need a visa. Most travellers from countries like Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, UK, and the US can enter visa-free for up to 90 days, but it’s always best to double-check based on your nationality.
If your trip includes a stop in another country like Taiwan, South Korea, or Thailand, some of those places do require your passport to be valid for at least six months. So check their rules too, just to be safe.
And one more thing, travel insurance. It’s highly recommended. Medical care in Japan is excellent but can be expensive if you’re not covered. If you’re a Malaysian resident, you can reach out to Travelution Holidays to arrange comprehensive travel insurance before you go.
Better to be overprepared than stuck overseas with a problem and no backup.
2. Fill Out Visit Japan Web (Optional, But Worth It)
Japan used to require forms on arrival, but now things are digital and optional. You can register via Visit Japan Web before you fly. It’s not mandatory, but it can speed up immigration.
Once you register and upload your details, you’ll get a QR code to show when arriving. If you’re travelling during peak season or want a faster immigration line, it’s worth doing it.
3. Download a Few Handy Apps Before You Go
Your phone will be your best travel buddy in Japan. Before you leave, download these:
- Google Translate (with Japanese offline pack)
- Google Maps or NAVITIME Japan Travel for train routes
- Club Med App to check activity schedules and resort details
- Japan Official Travel App for transport, toilets, ATMs, and emergency info
Wi-Fi is available in most places, but having offline options helps.
4. Pack the Right Things (Especially for Ski Season)
If you’re going in winter, don’t leave packing to the last minute. Japan’s snow is legendary, and cold. Here’s what you’ll actually need:
- Thermal layers – Uniqlo Heattech is magic
- Good ski gloves and snow boots
- Beanie
- Neck warmer or scarf
- Ski goggles or sunglasses
- Sunscreen – the sun reflects off the snow and can catch you off guard
- Moisturiser and lip balm – dry mountain air is no joke
- Adapters – Japan uses Type A plugs (same as the US) and 100V
- Toiletries and medications – pharmacies are great but mostly in Japanese
- Snow socks or crampons if you’re walking in snowy streets outside the resort
- Cash
If you’re renting ski gear from Club Med, you can pack lighter. But do bring base layers and goggles as they are not included in the rental package.
5. Arriving in Japan: What to Expect at the Airport
You’ll likely land at New Chitose Airport (CTS) in Hokkaido if you’re heading to Club Med Kiroro, Tomamu, or Sahoro.
At immigration, you’ll need:
- Your passport
- Return flight info
- Club Med booking confirmation
- The QR code from Visit Japan Web (optional)
The process is generally efficient, but depending on the time of day, there can be queues. Just be patient, and follow the signs. This is one of the most important parts of your Club Med Japan arrival information checklist.
6. Collecting Your Bags and Heading Out
Once you’re through immigration and customs, head over to baggage claim. Just follow the signs and check the screens for your flight number. Japan’s airports are known for being smooth and well-organised, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding your luggage.
After collecting your bags, you’ll make your way into the arrival hall. If you’ve booked Club Med transfers, proceed to the transfer desk for registration in the domestic or international terminal, depending on which flight you arrived on.
One important thing to know, the Club Med transfers run on a fixed schedule. So if your flight arrives much earlier or later than the designated times, you might have to arrange your own transport. Once you meet the staff, they’ll guide you to the right coach. From this point on, you can just sit back, relax, and start shifting into holiday mode.
If you’ve booked a private transfer, your driver will be waiting in the arrival hall, holding a sign with your name on it, so you won’t miss them.
7. What Happens When You Arrive at the Resort
The moment you step into the resort, things get easier.
Here’s what happens next:
- A friendly Club Med GO will greet you and help you with check-in
- You’ll get your Club Med wristband that works like a room key and ID
- There’s usually a short orientation or resort walkthrough
- You can arrange your ski or snowboard rentals and get fitted for your gear
- Don’t forget to register your group ski or snowboard lessons
Your luggage will be sent straight to your room. You won’t need to carry it around.
8. A Few Things That Might Surprise You in Japan
- Cash is still king. Some convenience stores and places accept cards, but not all. Withdraw cash at the airport or use 7-Eleven ATMs
- Tipping is not expected. It can actually confuse or embarrass staff
- Recycling bins are everywhere, and people follow the rules
- People are quiet on public transport. Keep phone calls and chatting to a minimum
- Language barrier is real, especially outside major cities. But most people will try their best to help
9. Final Tips for a Smooth Trip
Here’s a quick checklist to keep handy:
- Keep your passport and booking info easily accessible
- Bring a small coin purse or wallet for change
- Don’t rely too much on Google Translate for menus — pictures help more
- Onsen rules (no swimwear, no tattoos, clean before entering) apply at Club Med hot springs too
- If you’re arriving at night, pack a change of clothes and toothbrush in your carry-on
Final Thoughts
Having the right Club Med Japan arrival information means you can go from the airport to the mountains without second-guessing anything.
From the efficient airports to the smooth Club Med transfers, everything is designed to get you into holiday mode as fast as possible. Just sort out your documents, pack smart, and give yourself a bit of buffer time. Once you arrive, the warm welcome, snowy slopes, and all-inclusive comfort will take care of the rest.
Whether it’s your first ski trip or a return to Japan’s powdery magic, Club Med makes the whole journey feel easy.
Now all that’s left? Zip up that suitcase and start counting the days. 🗓️
