#Japan #Action Sports #Niseko #Swatch Nines #Niseko Tokyu

Swatch Nines SNOW: A New Era in Action Sports

The world-renowned action sports competition, Swatch Nines SNOW, is poised to make its grand debut in Asia, specifically at the Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu in Hokkaido, Japan, in 2026 and 2028. This monumental event, organized by The Small Things and Machi no Mirai in collaboration with Tokyu Land Corporation and Tokyu Resorts & Stay, marks a significant milestone as it is the first time this high-profile event will take place in Asia.

What is Swatch Nines?

Swatch Nines is not just an ordinary sports competition; it brings together the crème de la crème of skiers, snowboarders, and creative visual storytellers to showcase groundbreaking tricks and mesmerizing audiovisual presentations. This unique event emphasizes creativity over competition, allowing athletes to push the boundaries of their skills on specially designed snow features. The tricks performed are captured utilizing cutting-edge videography techniques, creating a seamless blend of sport, art, and media that captivates audiences globally. Swatch Nines has garnered tens of billions of views across top social media platforms, resonating strongly, particularly with the younger generations of Z and Millennial demographics.

The Significance of Hosting in Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu

Hosting the Swatch Nines SNOW at Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu is expected to amplify the international branding of the Niseko area, aiming to elevate it to Asia's premier international resort status by 2030. The stunning visuals created by the collaboration of the iconic Mt. Yotei and the dynamic atmosphere of Swatch Nines will attract worldwide media attention and audiences. The event is not only a spectacle but serves as a catalyst for boosting civic pride among local residents and fostering a vibrant snow culture.

There are plans to hold a public day during the event, allowing local communities and spectators to engage with the athletes. This interaction will provide an opportunity for both sides to connect, thereby deepening local engagement with the event.

Community and Cultural Impact

The collaboration between athletes and locals is expected to strengthen the snow culture and enhance civic pride among the residents. Local spectators will have the chance to witness world-class performances up close, fostering a sense of ownership and connection to this prestigious event. By promoting local heritage and cultural pride, the Swatch Nines SNOW will contribute positively to the sustainability and global recognition of Niseko as a resort destination.

Nico Zacek, the CEO of The Nines AG, expressed his enthusiasm about the event: “I couldn’t be more excited that Swatch Nines SNOW is coming to Asia for the first time — especially to a place as iconic as NISEKO TOKYU Grand HIRAFU. Japan’s deep snow history, rich culture, and incredible natural beauty make it the perfect setting for a new chapter in the Nines story.”

Looking Ahead: Value Up Niseko 2030 Project

In line with the goal of sustainable development, the Tokyu Group is proactively working on the 'Value Up Niseko 2030' project. This initiative aims to collaborate with local government and businesses to enhance Niseko's profile as a world-class resort. The project encompasses various efforts, including smart resort promotions and upgrading the ski area’s infrastructure while also exploring season-long attractions. Recent initiatives include testing the first domestic ski NFT, the Niseko Powder Token 2.0, and implementing snow-powered energy generation projects.

Sponsorship Opportunities

We are currently seeking sponsor companies to join us in this venture. Participants will experience numerous advantages, including direct access to dynamic social media content shared by top athletes, extensive brand exposure through international media coverage, and enhanced engagement with the younger demographic. Early sponsorship commitments will receive myriad opportunities for brand visibility and participation in the development of an unforgettable event.

Future Event Timeline

• - Summer to Fall 2025: Finalization of sponsors and contract signing
• - Winter 2025: Announcement of participating athletes and pre-launch promotions
• - April 2026: Swatch Nines SNOW event at Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu
• - 2028: Another edition of Swatch Nines SNOW at Niseko, with details to follow

This unprecedented event promises to be a transformative experience for athletes, spectators, and the local community alike, connecting a global audience to the beauty and pioneering spirit of Niseko.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on the event and sponsorship opportunities as we gear up for this monumental occasion in the world of action sports.