Hi SJ,
1. Yes, definitely. Starts at 50-55 depending on the resort. You'll need to show proof - bring your passport. Ask for shi-ni-ya ticketo
2. It varies - I am slowly working my way through the lift ticket prices for this season. One of my many jobs I don't seem to have time for at present. If you go to each resort page, click on the ski lifts link, then look for "*
*" (this is the Japanese writing - may not show up on some browsers), it will give you the price. Seniors normally pay the same price as high school students.
E.G. Go to
http://myokokogen.net/resorts/suginohara.htm and click on "Download discount ski lift coupons" (about half way down the page). I've put a google translate link to help out. As an example you get a lift ticket, a free drink, and some other discounts for 3,400
3. Sorry those are the best maps that I know of at the moment. The resorts are a bit slow on the uptake in English. What I'd suggest is printing those off to take with you. Then when you get here just pick yourself up the Japanese versions (which are more comprehensive) and compare them with the English guide.
Hope this helps.
Cheers, MG
