You don't need Duolingo. You just need 'Sumimasen,' 'Arigatou,' and 'Daijoubu.' Here is how to use them.
The Magic Words Japanese is a hard language. But in a ski town, context is everything. You can survive your entire trip with just three words. --- 1. Sumimasen (Excuse me / Sorry) This is the Swiss Army Knife of Japanese. Use it when: You bump into someone. You want to order food. You need to get past someone on the bus. You want to ask a question.
The Vibe:: It shows humility. It says "I acknowledge I am taking your time/space." 2. Arigatou Gozaimasu (Thank you) Use it when: The liftie brushes snow off your chair. The waiter brings your beer. The bus driver opens the door. Pro-Tip:: Add "Gozaimasu" (Go-zai-mass) to make it polite. Just saying "Arigatou" to a stranger can sound a bit rude/casual. 3. Daijoubu (It's okay / I'm fine / No thanks) Use it when: You fall and someone asks if you are hurt.
The clerk tries to give you a plastic bag you don't need. Someone offers you help you don't want. The Gesture:: Wave your hand in front of your face (like you are wafting a smell) while saying it. That is the universal sign for "No thank you, I'm good." Bonus: Nama Biiru (Draft Beer) The Phrase: "Nama Biiru, hitotsu, kudasai" (One draft beer, please). Result:: Happiness. --- Don't be afraid to mispronounce them. The locals appreciate the effort more than the accuracy.