Buckle Up: Swatch Nines Snow Makes Its Asian Debut At Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu

Think of Swatch Nines Snow as a mischievous playground dreamed up by the athletes themselves—not a competition but a mash-up of wild ideas turned into one signature Nines course. Skateboarding isn’t new to the Nines family, but for its 2026 debut in Niseko, Japan, the event’s big flex is a fully integrated, rideable skate pavilion built right into the snow layout. Skateboards, skis, and snowboards all share the same lines alongside a 50‑metre rail, a big‑air jump, and winding flow sections—a hybrid, creativity-first platform made for progression, playful lines, and maximum stoke. People holding a Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU lift ticket on 11 April 2026 are invited to watch the antics.

The event invites 50 of the world’s best skiers, snowboarders, and skateboarders including medalists from the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics plus creative film crews to showcase the groundbreaking tricks. The result is a fusion of sport, art, and media that generates billions of views across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

By choosing Niseko, known worldwide for its legendary “Japow” snow, Swatch Nines Snow is set to amplify the region’s international reputation while inspiring the next generation of snow and board enthusiasts.

Tokyu Group, through its Value Up Niseko 2030 initiative, is working to strengthen Niseko’s global profile. Hosting Swatch Nines Snow aligns perfectly with this goal, positioning Niseko alongside elite resorts in Europe where the event has its roots. The collaboration is expected to attract younger audiences (Gen Z and Millennials), elevate Niseko’s international branding, and further establish its status as Asia’s number one mountain resort.

The event will also feature a public viewing day and community exchanges between local residents and athletes, ensuring the cultural impact is felt beyond the slopes.

For property investors, events like Swatch Nines Snow underscore Niseko’s growing global visibility and year-round appeal. International events bring a surge of visitors, raise the area’s profile across key markets, and ultimately support higher rental demand and property values. This is another example of how Niseko’s unique blend of snow culture, lifestyle, and international attention drives long-term investment appeal.

The first Niseko edition of Swatch Nines Snow is scheduled for April 2026, with the second in 2028. Further details, including athlete line-ups, will be announced closer to the event.

What: Swatch Nines Snow

When: April 6–11, 2026
             Public Day: Saturday, April 11, 2026 (On Public Day, anyone holding a Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU lift ticket can attend and watch.)

Where: Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu