SWATCH NINES HEADS TO JAPAN IN 2026
Hokkaido’s Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU will host the long-awaited Asian debut of Swatch Nines Snow
INNSBRUCK, AT (October 16, 2025) — It’s official: Swatch Nines is going to Japan! After almost two decades, 22 snow events and an unparalleled legacy in action sports, the unconventional event series will make its highly anticipated debut in Asia. In the spring of 2026, an invited group of elite skiers and snowboarders will come together to push the limits of action sports in a playground built for progression at an exciting new destination.
Here’s all you need to know about this extraordinary edition of Swatch Nines:
QUICK FACTS:
WHY: To provide a unique stage for athletes to express their talent & creativity
WHAT: Swatch Nines Snow 2026
WHO: Top invited skiers, snowboarders & skateboarders
WHEN: April 6–11, 2026 (Public Day on Saturday, April 11)
WHERE: Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU, Hokkaido, Japan
NISEKO TOKYU GRAND HIRAFU: A POWDER MECCA BECOMES A FREESTYLE PARADISE
Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU on the island of Hokkaido is a mecca for snow enthusiasts worldwide, thanks in large part to its legendary powder. In 2026, this storied winter sports destination will show off its freestyle side as it hosts the first-ever Japanese edition of Swatch Nines. Known for its heavy snowfall during the winter months, the scenic mountain resort will put its excellent spring conditions and spectacular backdrops on full display as the Nines come to town. Niseko receives crazy amounts of snow each winter—just imagine what Swatch Nines will be able to do with it!
“It’s really special that Swatch Nines is coming to Japan, my home country. I’m excited and super curious how it’s all going to turn out with the different culture and different kind of snow. I can’t wait!” – Anri Kawamura (SKI, JP)
BY RIDERS, FOR RIDERS
As usual, an international field of elite skiers, snowboarders and skateboarders are expected to attend Swatch Nines Snow 2026. Japanese athletes will play a central role alongside other global talent as the Nines makes its first visit to their country, with riders such as Kaishu Hirano, Cool Wakushima and Takeru Otsuka participating in a workshop in October to help design the setup. The goal is to create a venue that caters to the needs of the world’s top freestyle talent with both big air and halfpipe elements, while showcasing creativity with a flowy, transition-rich course.
“Hiroto Ogiwara (SNB, JP) told us that if we come to Japan, it’s obvious what we need to build – a setup that brings together the best big air and pipe for the athletes. That’s our mission, and we’re excited to try and make it happen.”
– Nico Zacek, founder of the Nines
SKATEBOARDING MEETS SNOW, AGAIN
Of course, Swatch Nines wouldn’t be Swatch Nines without a cross-disciplinary element. For its Japanese debut, the Nines venue will feature an integrated skatepark, providing space for a select crew of skateboarders to showcase their talent alongside their winter sports peers. Keeping with the Swatch Nines’ tradition of uniting athletes from across action sports, this unique constellation allows skiers, snowboarders and skaters to ride side by side, encouraging an exchange of inspiration and creativity across disciplines.
April 6–11, 2026 — Swatch Nines in Niseko, Japan. Mark it down. This is going to be one for the books.
