News, deals, gear, POV videos

Gentemstick 26-27 Barracuda

A 158.6cm all-round fish from Gentemstick, built on what the Niseko brand learned from a decade of very short boards. Little taper and a shallow swallowtail; wide enough for bigger boot sizes. ¥150,700, on pre-order.

Ogasaka: 2026 season-opening ski camp at Shiga Kogen

Ogasaka's season-opening camp runs on 5 and 6 December at Ichinose Family, Shiga Kogen, with two days of group lessons from its demo team. ¥13,000 (juniors ¥11,000), lift tickets and lodging not included. Adult courses are full; only the junior course has places.

Gentemstick 26-27 Mantaray 142

A 142cm version of Gentemstick's Mantaray for lighter riders, with minimal camber and a soft flex for easier carving and tighter lines in the trees. Aimed at older children and women who find standard boards too much. ¥123,200, on pre-order.

Masahiro Yamaki talks on his Caucasus ski expedition in Tokyo and Osaka

Skier Masahiro Yamaki speaks about his climbing and skiing expedition in Georgia's Caucasus Mountains at Ishii Sports Yodobashi Ikebukuro on Saturday 31 October, with photographer Takuya Mitoro, and alone at Links Umeda on Sunday 8 November. Free, but booking is required.

The 26-27 snow helmets pro shop staff are picking

Pro shop staff pick their standout 26-27 snow helmets, including POC's hockey-inspired Arcus (¥50,600) and Fornix MIPS (¥37,400), the Japanese-made Swans HSF-241 MIPS (¥30,800), sized for Japanese heads, and the OUTOF Liner (¥19,800).

Salomon DÉPART.02: the second ski in its new freestyle line

Salomon follows last year's limited DÉPART.01, its first new freestyle ski in more than ten years, with a second model. Both were developed with the Départ Crew, a Swiss-led group of riders and filmmakers. The DÉPART.01 gets a new design and shape for next season.

Ani: winter lift and gondola staff wanted

NPO Moriyoshizan, which runs Ani, is hiring a small number of lift and gondola staff for the winter season, December to the end of March. Details from Hello Work Takanosu or the resort.

How to Choose Snow Gloves 26-27 | Understanding Materials and Construction to Know How to Choose

Gloves get less attention than skis or boots, but cold hands spoil a day on the snow. A guide to choosing ski and snowboard gloves for 2026-27, explaining the materials and construction to look for.

Iwate Kogen Resort Guide | Iwate | Japan

MTNhacks' video guide to Iwate Kogen in Tohoku: deep snow, views of Mt Iwate, quiet slopes and well-groomed runs that suit beginners and intermediates.

Karuizawa Prince Snow Resort: West area opens on 19 December

The West area at Karuizawa Prince Snow Resort is due to open on Saturday 19 December 2026 and run until Monday 22 March 2027, a public holiday. Dates may change with snow and slope conditions.

Moiwa Ski Resort: 2026-27 opening plans

Niseko Moiwa plans to open on 28 November, with early-season running until 18 December and the quad lift starting on 12 December. Early-bird lift tickets and season passes are sold from 1 November to 20 November. Opening depends on snow.

Naeba: 2026-27 winter events and experiences

Naeba Prince Hotel's 2026-27 winter programme: fireworks over the slopes after night skiing on ten dates from 25 December, early First Track sessions (¥2,000), a ¥30,000 snowmobile ride to the 1,789 m Takenoko-yama summit for first tracks, piste basher rides, and children's activities.

2026-27 season: Niseko lift ticket prices

A Niseko-based writer looks at lift ticket prices for 2026-27, compares them with earlier seasons and points out how much more a Rusutsu ticket costs at the window than online.

Ani: early-bird season passes and advance day tickets on sale

Ani has raised its 2026-27 winter lift and gondola prices because of rising costs, but early-bird season passes and advance one-day tickets stay at last season's prices. Applications and payment close at the end of November; from December full prices apply.

How to choose a backcountry backpack for 26-27

A guide to picking a backcountry ski backpack: why a day tour needs one, what it has to carry (avalanche safety gear, skins, water, food and spare layers) and which features matter when climbing and skiing.

Kagura Resort Guide | Niigata | Japan

MTNhacks' video guide to Kagura in Niigata: over 1,200 m of vertical, a long season thanks to its height, quieter weekends than the bigger resorts and runs for every level from beginner to advanced.

26-27 ROCKET FISH

One of the widest, most buoyant noses in its range, in an ultra-short, ultra-fat outline for deep carving; bamboo stringers give strong rebound, with a flexible, deep-slit fishtail.

¥148,500

Super Fish Cloud Liner 176

Gentemstick's Super Fish Cloud Liner, a powder-specific snowboard, is listed in the 176 cm size for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 seasons on Snowline's gear page.

MMD 52 2027

Moss Snowstick snowboard: Round/Square, Snowsurf Camber. Length 1520 mm, nose width 320 mm, waist width 264 mm.

¥105,000

ONJ98507 NO COLLAR STRETCH PUFF MID JK

A collarless padded inner jacket in stretch taffeta (86% polyester, 14% polyurethane) for easy movement. Thin but warm, designed to sit comfortably under ski or snowboard outerwear, with cutting that makes raising your arms easier. Sizes SS to XO.

Ryuoo Ski Park: terrain park areas change for 2026-27

Ryuoo Ski Park is moving its terrain parks for 2026-27: Wavy Lines goes on the Blue run, and a new beginner park (boxes, PVC rails, a tabletop) on the BASE run. The BASE run park is closed during night skiing; features to be confirmed.

Sapporo Kokusai: lift tickets now on sale at nearby Seicomart stores

Sapporo Kokusai is selling lift tickets at five nearby Seicomart stores, from opening day to 5 May 2027, letting skiers skip the ticket window. Covers standard day, lunch and onsen packs, and family passes; Kuru-Toku membership and other discounts aren't included.

Sapporo Teine: 2026-27 season early-bird pricing until 3 November

Sapporo Teine's early-bird season pass sale runs until 3 November 2026, saving up to ¥28,000 off the regular price on a Gold adult pass. Lockers are limited in number, so early booking is worth considering too.

A new interpretation of freedom. CANDIDE SKIS "BC 111" or K2 "RECKONER KF"? │ 26-27 New Model Comparison

STEEP compares two 110mm-class 26-27 freeride skis: Candide Thovex's versatile all-mountain carver, the BC 111, built for groomers, powder and backcountry; and Karl Fostvedt's RECKONER KF, built for playing on natural terrain with jumps, spins and butters.

26-27 XY 153

A scaled-down version of the Alex Yoder XY, combining groomer and powder feel in a shorter length, with a new Accel Camber for 3D terrain control and confident tracking at speed or in tight trees.

¥146,300

Super Fish Outline Core

Gentemstick's Super Fish Outline Core, a version of its Super Fish powder snowboard with Outline Core construction, is listed in the 176 cm size for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 seasons on Snowline's gear page.

MAHI 2027

Moss Snowstick snowboard: Flat 3D, Fishtail, Channel Bottom. Length 1530 mm, nose width 320 mm, waist width 270 mm.

¥140,000

Ogasaka Ski: third off-season conditioning session

Ogasaka Ski held the third of its five off-season conditioning sessions on Saturday 5 September, an indoor fitness programme to get skiers ready for the winter ahead.

Asahidake records Japan's first snow of the 2026-27 season

The Japan Meteorological Agency recorded Japan's first snowfall of the season on the summit of Asahidake, Hokkaido, on 2 October 2026. It detects first snow from radar, satellite and AMeDAS data rather than staff watching 44 peaks, so dates no longer compare with earlier years.

The "Tokyo Ski Night," a ski event for networking just before the start of the season, will be held again this year | @Daikanyama, Tokyo | November 7th (Sat)

Tokyo Ski Night returns on Saturday 7 November 2026 at Daikanyama B1FLAT, a one-day networking event ahead of the season with video screenings and music. Now in its second year, it brings together skiers and snowboarders in Tokyo's Daikanyama district to celebrate before winter begins.

Global Weekly Snow Roundup #335

Snow-Forecast's weekly global round-up for 8 October 2026 reports the first snow of the autumn on Japan's high peaks, lifts already turning in Finland and Sweden, Chile's season running on into November, more Alpine glaciers opening and US resorts holding early on-snow weekends.

Sapporo Kokusai: winter season staff wanted

Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is recruiting part-time winter staff for the 2026/27 season: lift and gondola operators, groomer drivers, ski patrol, rental and ticket desk staff. Free lift passes and gear rental on days off; live-in accommodation available. Applications by phone.

Sapporo Teine: 2026/27 winter holiday junior classes open for applications from 9 October

Applications for Teine Olympia Ski School's winter holiday junior classes open from 9 October, on a first-come or lottery basis. Reception periods vary by course, so check before applying; popular bus-transfer courses are partly lottery-based, with differing application windows.

Is Furano the Next Niseko?

A snowboarding vlog of a day riding in Furano: a convenience-store stop, first lap, tree runs and exploring the resort.

U6 SPLIT 2027

Maker: Moss Snowstick. Type: Round/Square, U, Snowsurf Camber, splitboard. Listed price: ¥151,800. Length 1620 mm, nose width 316 mm, waist width 270 mm.

¥151,800

Pippu Ski Hill: 2026-27 season pass early sale announced

Pippu Ski Hill has announced its early-bird window for 2026-27 season passes, promising discounts and extra benefits for anyone who buys during the promotional period. Applicants need a passport-style photo for the pass. Full pricing and dates are in the resort's own downloadable flyer.

Snow Cruise Onze: one-day early-bird season pass sale returns on 12 October

Snow Cruise Onze is reviving its early-bird season pass sale for one day only, 12 October, after requests from skiers who missed the original window. Passes are sold in person at the Center House, 9am to 4pm; pricing is on the resort's own page.

Hakuba Iwatake Resort Guide | Nagano | Japan

Discover why this scenic mid-size resort in Japan's Northern Alps suits beginners and powder hunters alike. The guide covers the best trails, transport tips, where to stay, and when to visit for the best snow and smallest crowds.

26-27 MANTARAY 156

Originally an export-only model, the Mantaray 156 has been sold in Japan too since the 23-24 season. Pressed with different materials from the original Mantaray 154, it rides more supple, suiting riders who enjoy carving on groomers.

¥146,300

How to Choose Ski Boots 26-27 | Basic Knowledge for Freeride Boots and Backcountry Skiing

Boots connect you to your skis more directly than the skis themselves, STEEP argues: even high spec skis will not transfer power properly if the boots do not fit. A guide to choosing freeride and backcountry ski boots for the 26-27 season.

U4 HALF 2027

Maker: Moss Snowstick. Type: Round/Square, U, Snowsurf Camber. Listed price: 156,000. Length 1540 mm, nose width 314 mm, waist width 268 mm.

¥156,000

Ogasaka: Season-opening training camp at Sapporo Kokusai

Ogasaka's regular season-opening training camp returns to Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort, with a course for entrants in the Masters technical championship.

Sapporo Bankei season passes go on sale from 1 October

Sapporo Bankei's limited-time super early-bird adult season pass goes on sale from 1 October. Passes for children up to middle-school age cost ¥25,300 this season including unlimited rides on the Bankei bus; that price is standard this year, not a limited offer.

26-27 XY 157

Alex Yoder wanted the XY to blend masculine power with feminine elegance: a waist for deep carving, a length suited to steep terrain and deep snow, and a sidecut that makes turn to turn flow feel natural.

¥146,300

For big mountain riding, you need a bike with a big scale. BLACKCROWS "ANIMA" or DYNASTAR "M-FREE 112 F-TEAM OPEN"? │ 26-27 New Model Comparison

Spec sheets alone cannot capture a ski's feel or character, STEEP argues. It compares two similar looking 26-27 skis, the Blackcrows Anima and the Dynastar M-Free 112 F-Team Open, based on its own test rides.

OYUKI: the Niseko brand behind Pep Fuss's 'big snow culture'

OYUKI, founded in Niseko in 2012 and now with ambassadors including Pep Fuss, Brandon Davis and Sammy Carlson, has grown from a local souvenir into a full apparel range of base layers, mid-layers, shells and accessories, with collaborations including ARMADA and SMITH.

Lift tickets free on Saturday 12 December - head to Nayoro Piyashiri for first turns

Nayoro Piyashiri Ski Area will offer free lift tickets on Saturday 12 December, encouraging skiers and snowboarders to make their first run of the season there. No further detail is given on the resort's own announcement page.

Aizu Kogen Takahata early-bird season pass applications open

Aizu Kogen Takahata opened early-bird season pass applications on 1 October. Orders can also go via 7-Eleven or Minamiaizu hometown tax donations, or in person at Azuki Onsen Kaboku-no-Yado (cash only). Child age brackets have changed from last season.

Asahi Shizenkan early-bird snow park tickets on sale from 1 October

Asahi Shizenkan's early-bird season and day tickets go on sale from 1 October to 30 November 2026. Adult season pass 30,000 yen (down from 35,000), student/senior 23,000 yen, child 8,000 yen; early-bird day ticket 2,900 yen (down from 3,800).

Inawashiro 2026-27 season pass early-bird sale begins

Inawashiro's early-bird 2026-27 season passes are on sale until 30 November 2026: Economy ¥20,000 adult/¥10,000 child, Priority Lane Passport ¥30,000 adult/¥20,000 child, before standard pricing from 1 December. The season runs 18 December 2026 to 22 March 2027.

Ryuoo Ski Park announces 2026-2027 season pass sales

Ryuoo Ski Park's early-bird season pass discount runs from 1 October to 30 November 2026. Nagano Prefecture residents also get a separate discount valid any time through the season, under the resort's own residents' scheme.

Sapporo Teine limited 'advance 25-hour lift ticket +10' on sale 15-31 October

As thanks to regular customers, Sapporo Teine ski resort is selling a limited, online-only 'advance 25-hour lift ticket +10' at the same price as its existing 25-hour and +5 lift tickets, usable on the slopes in one-hour blocks across different days through the season.

Sugadaira Kogen early-bird season and day tickets on sale

Sugadaira Kogen Snow Resort has started selling its early-bird season pass and early-bird one-day lift ticket for a limited time. All-area pricing is detailed on the resort's own announcement page.

Nayoro Piyashiri plans to open for 2026-27 season on Friday 11 December

Nayoro Piyashiri Ski Area expects to open for the 2026-27 season on Friday 11 December, according to a short announcement on its own news page, which gives no further detail.

Kamui Ski Links: 2026-27 season pass sales explained

Special discount passes go on sale 1 to 30 October (adult 51,000 yen); advance passes 1 to 30 November (adult 56,000 yen), plus an Asahikawa resident discount needing proof of residency. Online or registered mail only; no in-shop sales.

Nekoma's tree run zone expands to five areas for 2026/27

Nekoma's tree run zone has grown from three to five areas for 2026/27, covering about 27.5 hectares across three valleys: Frozen Tree A, B and C, Black Tree D and White Special E. Free with a lift ticket, no registration; helmets are compulsory.

2026-2027 season pass information

Naeba, Kagura and Muikamachi Hakkaisan season passes: early-bird sales run 1 October to 15 November 2026, before standard pricing from 16 November. A new My Number card discount is offered alongside the usual early-bird rate; bank transfer is no longer accepted.

How to Choose Skis | 10 Points to Check: Waist Width, Rocker, Shape, Flex, Radius…

Ski brand catalogs list a variety of information, such as waist width of 95mm, radius of 18m, rocker, and twin tip. Just looking at the specs doesn't really tell me much, but what if I understood how those detailed specs actually affect skiing? [...]

Rusutsu: 2026-27 winter season first-snow accommodation packages selling well

Rusutsu Resort's early-winter 2026-27 season starter accommodation packages are now on sale, with dates and pricing on the resort's own booking pages.

A free-riding showdown with unrestrained riding. ARMADA "WHITEWALKER 108" or RMU "APOSTLE 105"? │26-27 New Model Comparison

STEEP compares two similar-looking 26-27 freeride skis, the Armada Whitewalker 108 and the RMU Apostle 105, arguing spec sheets alone can't capture a ski's feel and character. The comparison is based on user test-ride reviews of both models.

2026-27 season pass sales open from 1 October

Naeba, Kagura and Muikamachi Hakkaisan season passes: early-bird sales run 1 October to 15 November 2026, before standard pricing from 16 November. A new My Number card discount is offered alongside the usual early-bird rate; bank transfer is no longer accepted.

26-27 GIANT MANTARAY 159

Gentemstick snowboard, ¥146,300. This big-square-nose, half-moon-tail shape is a snowboard design masterpiece, now popular worldwide. Wider than the original MANTARAY, it suits larger and big-footed riders, scaling up the 2004 MANTARAY. Its low-resistance rocker moves loosely through 3D terrain.

¥146,300

2026-27 season: early-bird season pass sale information

Aizu Kogen Takahata's early-bird season pass period runs 1 October to 30 November 2026, priced at ¥20,000 for adults and ¥10,000 for children, before standard pricing applies. Passes also cover affiliated resorts Inawashiro and Urabandai; apply online, at 7-Eleven, or on-site.

SW62 EX 2027

Moss Snowstick swallowtail snowsurf board, Snowsurf Camber, Channel Bottom, All Wood EX construction. Price 142,000 yen. Length 1620mm, waist width 262mm, sidecut radius 9800mm, stance width 540mm (500-580mm).

¥142,000

2026/27 Mountain Collective Passes Now on Sale

The 2026-27 Mountain Collective Pass returns, giving two days at each of 27 worldwide resorts (Niseko United for Japan) plus 50% off further days, no blackout dates. New this year: referral and friends/family perks. Adults $669 USD/$895 CAD; under-5s free.

Super-early-bird season passes on sale from 1 October 2026

Okunakayama Kogen's super-early-bird season passes go on sale 1 October 2026, from ¥10,000.

26-27 BABY STINGRAY 151

Gentemstick snowboard, ¥144,100. BABY STINGRAY adapts the Big Mountain Mantaray-based 'STINGRAY' shape for women and lightweight riders. Low taper and a gentle sidecut give big, open turns and confidence on steep slopes, with enough float to carve deep snow at high speed.

¥144,100

ONJ98301R EDGE SHELL OUTER JACKET

Onyone's Edge Shell three-layer stretch taffeta ski jacket, waterproof above 20,000mm and breathable to 10,000g/m²/24hr, with seam sealing, easy-movement cutting and a sleeve pass-case pocket. Supplied to Japan's national ski demonstrators; sizes SS-XO, pre-order from June.

Sweet Protection Switcher 2Vi Mips: a wider shell and a better fit

Sweet Protection has reshaped the Switcher for 26-27. The shell is wider than the outgoing Switcher Mips, taking pressure off the sides of the head, which the maker says addresses the fit problems riders with rounder heads had with the old shape. It also brings the brand's 2Vi impact technology down from its premium helmets, alongside Mips rotational protection. Four sizes, SM to XXL, in six colours.

57,200 yen

Appi Kogen: booking opens for the 2026-27 winter shuttle buses

Booking has opened for the 2026-27 winter shuttle buses to Appi Kogen, on a revised schedule from the one first planned. The buses are charter services for guests staying at Appi Kogen. Travel from 5 December 2026 to 31 January 2027 is open for booking now, 1 to 28 February 2027 has also opened, and 1 March to 4 April 2027 opens from 10am on 15 September 2026. Routes run between Appi Kogen and Iwate Hanamaki, Odate Noshiro, Sendai and Aomori airports, and Morioka Station. Times may change with flight schedules and JR timetable revisions.

SW58 EX 2027

Moss Snowstick swallowtail snowsurf board, Snowsurf Camber, Channel Bottom, All Wood EX construction. Price 140,000 yen. Length 1580mm, waist width 265mm, sidecut radius 9800mm, stance width 520mm (480-560mm).

¥140,000

Aomori Spring: a ski shuttle from Shin-Aomori Station and Aomori Airport for 2026-27

New for 2026-27: the Aomori Spring Liner, a once-daily shuttle between Shin-Aomori Station, Aomori Airport and the resort's Rockwood Hotel. One way ¥6,000, return ¥10,000; book ahead. Dates not yet published.

CAPiTA Matriarch Powder Test in Japan

Come Ride with us in Japan: https://bit.ly/JapanTour2027

Shizukuishi Resort Guide | Iwate | Japan

Discover a serene northern Japan resort where pristine powder, spectacular Mount Iwate views, and uncrowded slopes create the ultimate family or group ski getaway.

ONP98311R EDGE SHELL BIB PANTS

Onyone's Edge Shell three-layer stretch taffeta bib pants, waterproof above 20,000mm and breathable to 10,000g/m²/24hr, with seam sealing and side ventilation zippers. Supplied to Japan's national ski demonstrators; sizes SS-XO, pre-order from June.

Rossignol Super Virage VIII Tech or Ogasaka U-XX/BL: two 26-27 skis compared

Two 26-27 skis that look alike on the rack and are built for different days. The Rossignol Super Virage VIII Tech is the narrower and quicker of the pair: 68mm at the waist, a 13m radius in the 166cm length, on a KONECT plate, at 110,000 yen, in 158, 162 and 166cm. The Ogasaka U-XX/BL is a limited edition from the XX Collection with a sakura wood core, 77mm at the waist and a 17m radius in the 167cm length, at 265,100 yen, in 153, 160, 167 and 174cm. Testers put the Rossignol ahead for quick, rhythmic turns and the Ogasaka ahead for comfort and range across varied snow.

Appi Kogen: new gondola project launched

Appi Kogen has formally announced that it will replace its gondola, the lift that carries skiers to the 1,304m summit and feeds every part of the ski area's 21 courses and 282 hectares. The existing gondola has run for about 40 years and the operator, Iwate Hotel and Resort, says age has made replacement unavoidable. The replacement named on the page is an omega IV-si 10 built by CWA Constructions. Permissions are still in progress: the company says it is in consultation with the authorities over the ropeway operating licence and other statutory approvals, so no opening date is given. A crowdfunding campaign for the project ran in 2024.

Kamui Ski Links Resort Guide | Hokkaido | Japan

Escape the Hokkaido crowds and discover a welcoming powder sanctuary. Where uncrowded slopes, genuine local charm, and a perfect trail mix for every ability create a winter holiday that feels truly yours.

Naeba Resort Guide | Niigata | Japan

When your requirement is effortlessly fun Japan skiing, this is your destination. Beginners cruise gentle express-lift trails, intermediates rack up long blue laps, and families love the all-in-one base village.

26-27 MANTARAY 149

Maker: GENTEMSTICK. Type: snowboard. Listed price: 144,100. Originally made as an overseas model, the MANTARAY 149 has also been sold in Japan since the 23-24 season. Pressed with different materials and construction from the original BABY MANTARAY 148, it has a more supple ride. Worth trying for riders who want to enjoy carving on groomed runs.

26-27 MANTARAY 145

Maker: GENTEMSTICK. Type: snowboard. Listed price: 134,200. A softer flex makes it easier to control. Like the rest of the MANTARAY series it's designed for groomers through to powder, whatever the conditions or terrain, aimed mainly at low-to-mid-speed riding.

U4 HALF OVERHEAD 2027

Maker: Moss Snowstick. Type: Round / Square, U, Snowsurf Camber. Listed price: 166,000. Graphic by Eric Messier. Length 1540 mm, nose width 314 mm, waist width 268 mm.

PQ60 EX 2027

Maker: Moss Snowstick. Type: Fishtail, Snowsurf Camber, Channel Bottom, All Wood EX. Listed price: 153,000. Shape by Naoto Kotsugai. Length 1600 mm, nose width 302 mm, waist width 258 mm.

Ogasaka: Skiers' Support Caravan in Shizuoka

An autumn training session built around rhythm and coordination work, to improve body control and overall athletic performance.

Ogasaka: Ogasaka Fair announced

Ogasaka thanks customers for strong early-order bookings and announces a fair aimed at a wider range of skiers, not just gear enthusiasts.

Ikon Pass expands further into Japan and China for winter 26/27

Akan Lakeside: 2026-27 season opening date confirmed

The notice announces that the opening date is set; the date itself is not in the snippet, see the link.

Hachimantai Resort: 2026-27 early-bird season passes and advance lift-ticket sets on sale

Early-bird season passes valid at both Panorama and Shimokura ski areas are on sale for 2026-27. The early-bird price runs until Sunday 13 December.

Moriyoshizan Ani: early-bird season passes and advance one-day tickets on sale

Winter lift and gondola prices go up this year because of rising costs, but the notice says season passes and advance tickets are handled differently.

Miyagi Zao Shiroishi: super-early-bird lift tickets for 26-27 on sale

Sales run from Monday 14 September to Sunday 18 October 2026. The season pass is for ages 16 and over, students excluded.

Ryuoo: 2026-27 winter season opens Saturday 5 December

The 2026-27 winter season is scheduled to start on Saturday 5 December 2026. Green-season operations run until Sunday 8 November.

GALA Yuzawa: South Area closed for the 2026-27 winter season

GALA Yuzawa has decided to suspend operation of its South Area for the 2026-27 winter season.

Shiga Kogen: plan ahead, FAQ for winter season bookings

Shiga Kogen: 26-27 winter lift pass information

Sugadaira Kogen: early-bird season passes and one-day lift tickets on sale from 1 October

Early-bird season passes and one-day lift tickets go on sale from 1 October.

Sapporo Bankei: season passes on sale

The limited-period adult super-early-bird season pass goes on sale from 1 October. This year the season pass for junior-high age and under is 25,300 yen and includes unlimited Bankei bus rides. That junior price is not limited-period but a special price for this season.

Shizukuishi: 2026-27 super-early-bird tickets on sale until 31 October

Moss Snowstick LL66 2026

A dolphin-inspired pintail merging Moss's Jellyfish and Wing Pin outlines under a Step Back Rocker profile, built for tight back-foot cutbacks over straight-line speed.

¥146,300

Rice28 Edition

A full-camber directional freestyle deck with a restrained graphic and an exclusive Hasegawa graphite base, aimed at longtime riders past the trick-chasing years rather than the park crowd.

¥86,500 + tax

SP Peak

Not a Japanese brand, but sold and priced through SP's own Japan store: a lightweight all-mountain binding built for edge hold and stability at speed.

¥62,700

SP Team

Not a Japanese brand, but sold and priced through SP's own Japan store: an aluminium-base binding with a straight-flex highback, tuned by team riders for playful all-mountain days.

¥59,400

Limited offer 2026-27 Winter Season - Super Early Bird Plans Now on Sale!

2026-2027 season: Ski area operation changes

2026-2027 season: Ski areas not operating

Appi Kogen's 20% off packages close September 30

Book a hotel-and-lift-pass package for this winter by September 30 and the rate drops 20% at either the ANA Crowne Plaza or the InterContinental, with a daily lift voucher and breakfast included. Stays run December 19 to March 22; full payment is taken upfront and is not refundable.

Geto Kogen will sell you a season pass for ¥1,900, if you happen to be 19

Turn19 this seasonand a Geto Kogen season pass costs ¥1,900, against ¥96,000 for everyone else. For the rest of us, the real news is the Super Early Bird window: ¥70,000 for an adult pass if bought between September 1 and November 3, before it steps up to ¥84,000 and then full price in mid-December.

Shiga Kogen's all-mountain pass goes online November 1

The pass covering all 18 areas of Japan's largest linked ski network is ¥9,500 at the ticket counter or ¥8,500 bought online, and online sales for most of the 2026/27 all-mountain passes open on November 1.

Hakuba Jigatake: the beginner-friendly side of the valley

Seven wide, gentle runs on the southern edge of Hakuba Valley, mostly beginner terrain with a few quiet tree runs up top. A relaxed pick for families and first-timers away from the Happo crowds.

Niseko United's 2026/27 season opens November 28

All four areas open the same day, but close on different ones: Grand Hirafu and Annupuri run to May 5, Hanazono to April 11, Niseko Village to April 4. Night skiing runs December 12 to March 22 across all four.

A complete guide to Furano: trails, tips and POV runs

A longer Furano guide covering the trail map, practical tips and point-of-view runs down the mountain.

A guide to Hokkaido's best ski resorts

A rundown of the main Hokkaido resorts, what each one is known for, and how to pick between them for a trip.

Hakuba 47 and Goryu: two linked resorts on one ticket

How Hakuba 47 and Hakuba Goryu connect at the top, the terrain on each side, and who the combined area suits.

Myoko Suginohara: long, wide, quiet groomers

A guide to Suginohara in the Myoko area of Niigata, home to one of Japan's longest runs and rarely a lift queue.

A quiet Fukushima resort with deep snow: Aizu Takatsue

A guide to Aizu Takatsue, a low-key resort in Fukushima with reliable powder, empty groomers and short lift lines.

Hakuba Kashimayari: the family-friendly side of the valley

A guide to Kashimayari, a smaller Hakuba Valley resort built around families and beginners, with dedicated kids' zones and quiet slopes.

Gentemstick T.T

The board that defined Japanese snowsurfing: a directional powder shape hand-built in Hokkaido by the crew who named the category.

Moss Snowstick SW58

A swallowtail powder board with a near 40cm tail slit that releases through every turn. One of the most distinctive shapes made in Japan.

¥127,600

Ogasaka CT

Ogasaka's classic all-mountain board, hand-finished in Nagano at one of the oldest ski and snowboard factories anywhere.

Nozawa Onsen's early-bird season pass closes September 30

An adult all-season pass is ¥93,000 if the application is postmarked by September 30, against ¥103,000 after. It runs from opening day to May 5 and covers night skiing, daily parking and discounts at partner resorts.

FURANO JAPAN | Snowboarding with my Best Friends

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Furano resort guide

An overview of Furano in central Hokkaido: the two zones, the lifts, the snow and the town.

Rusutsu resort guide

A walk-through of Rusutsu: the layout across the highway, the lifts, the terrain and the tree skiing.

A powder day at Hakuba Cortina

Hakuba Cortina, the valley's snowiest corner and its most relaxed about tree riding.

Furano's "Super Early Bird" season pass window opens Sept 18

¥73,000 for adults (¥57,000 for 60+) if you buy between Sept 18-25, then ¥76,000 in October and ¥98,000 once regular season hits. No online purchases or cards accepted; it's cash, in person or by mail.

Powder snowboarding at Hakuba Happo-One

A powder day at Happo-One, the largest of Hakuba Valley's ski areas.

Skiing the slopes at Nozawa Onsen

A run through the Nozawa Onsen ski area, from the top of Yamabiko down to the village.

A big storm day snowboarding at Niseko

POV riding through a heavy Niseko storm cycle, with the resort refilling as fast as it gets tracked.

Planning a family snow trip to Shiga Kogen

Taking the kids to Shiga Kogen: what to expect skiing Japan's largest connected ski area, in Nagano, as a family.

Chasing deep powder in Hakuba

A powder-focused trip through Hakuba Valley's resorts in Nagano.

Backcountry snowboarding in Niseko

A day in the Niseko backcountry, hiking beyond the ropes for untracked lines.

Nozawa Onsen, Japan's coolest ski town

A look at Nozawa Onsen in Nagano: the old village, the public baths and the ski area above it.

Snowboarding Niseko's powder paradise in 4K

A cinematic 4K film shot around Niseko on Hokkaido: deep snow, tree runs and storm days.

An all-time powder day at Rusutsu

Rusutsu on a deep day, working the tree runs between West Mountain, East Mountain and Mount Isola.

The first Japanese ski areas of the season should open in late October

Don't expect real snow yet (early openers usually run on machine-made cover), but the annual opening-date watch has started, with daily updates through mid-December.

Sounkyo Kurodake's ropeway gets new cabins ahead of winter

The ropeway serving the ski area, which also runs outside winter, had its cabins replaced at the end of June, ready for the 2026/27 season.

Sannokura will run on one lift only this season

Kitakata City is only operating the upper No. 2 lift at Sannokura for 2026/27 while it weighs the ski area's long-term future and maintenance costs. The lower lift hasn't been removed, just paused.

A lift has quietly disappeared from Shiga Kogen's Takamagahara area

The Takamagahara Mammoth No. 3 pair lift was removed in August. The terrain it served is still skiable; it just won't have its own dedicated lift this season.

Six ski areas in Japan still don't allow snowboarding

Fujimi Kogen, Gozaisho, Katashina Kogen, Kiso Fukushima, NASPA Ski Garden and Zao Sarukura remain "skiers-only" for 2026/27, a holdout policy that's rare almost everywhere else in the world.

Manza Onsen returns to full operation this winter

Japan's highest hot-spring resort, at 1,800m in Gunma, is planning a full opening on December 19 after three seasons running at reduced capacity.

Two Japanese ski areas are changing their names for 2026/27

Ski Jam Katsuyama in Fukui becomes JAM Katsuyama Mountain Resort. In Nagano, Rewild Ninja Snow Highland goes back to Minenohara Kogen, the name it used until 2020.

Nagano 7 joint season pass adds an eighth resort for 2026/27

A multi-resort pass covering Nozawa Onsen and six others is expanding its lineup. Cupid of Romance, the Nagano ski area previously called Kijimadaira, is joining for the coming season.

Niseko United's lift network is getting a major upgrade

Both Niseko Village and Niseko Annupuri have lift work planned as part of the resort's ongoing expansion. Details are still light; worth checking back closer to season.

New direct flights make Niseko easier to reach from North America

New routes connecting the US and Canada are launching this winter, cutting out a leg for skiers who'd normally transit through Tokyo or Sapporo.

Hakuba Valley's 2026/27 season pass goes on sale July 14

Early-bird pricing returns for the all-mountain pass covering all 10 Hakuba resorts, with shuttle, dining and rental perks thrown in. Pricing wasn't listed in the announcement yet, worth checking before the early window closes.