At La Colina, we can’t wait for the season to start, so we’ve compiled the list of ski resorts that look set to open early for the 2026–27 season — including the opening dates already confirmed by the resorts themselves. Of course, exact days always depend on the weather forecast, which can shift schedules by a few days or weeks, and this winter the strong El Niño outlook means a later, warmer start than usual is on the cards (see our 2026–27 snow forecast).
Resorts that tend to open first are usually those at higher elevations, with excellent snowmaking systems, or geography that encourages early snowfall. Below are the resorts to watch for 2026–27, with their confirmed or expected opening dates and what you can expect early in the season.
Shiga Kogen Mountain Resort (Nagano)
Confirmed opening: ~ November 14, 2026 (Kumanoyu area).
Shiga Kogen’s high elevation makes it one of the first major areas to open, usually with good natural snow coverage. For 2026–27, Kumanoyu has confirmed an opening date of November 14 — an unusually early and aggressive target, and one that will be very weather-dependent given the El Niño winter forecast. Typically Kumanoyu, Yokoteyama and Takamagahara each run one chairlift first, taking advantage of their snow-rich canyons; Yokoteyama usually spins its lifts from around mid-November. About a week later, Ichinose and Yakebitaiyama usually bring a chair online by early December. Each early slope is only about 600–800 m, but being able to ski across different areas adds variety. Full-area access generally doesn’t happen until mid-December, depending on snow. Don’t miss the early-season weekend festival, complete with opening ceremonies and raffles. See the official Shigakogen site for the latest.
Nozawa Onsen (Nagano)
Confirmed opening: November 28, 2026.
Snowmaking at Yamabiko’s upper slopes ensures an early opening of the Nagasaka Gondola and one Yamabiko lift, offering around 1,250 m of skiable terrain. For 2026–27, Nozawa has confirmed its opening for Saturday, November 28. As soon as natural snow arrives, the resort expands operations on weekends, often adding the second Yamabiko lift and the long Uenotaira beginner slope. It’s a dependable early-season choice — and just a short drive from our own backyard in the Five Mountains of Northern Shinshu.
Hakuba Valley Resorts (Nagano)
Expected opening: ~ November 29, 2026.
Early openings in the Hakuba Valley include Happo-One, Tsugaike Mountain Resort, Hakuba 47 and Goryu, which take advantage of their gondolas to access upper lifts. Usually only one slope at high altitude and reched by the gondola is open at first, but the tranquil atmosphere and the stunning snow-covered Northern Alps make it worthwhile. Challenging terrain and base-area beginner runs generally don’t open until mid to late December. Head to the Hakuba Valley site for each resort’s confirmed opener as the season approaches.
Niseko United (Hokkaido)
Confirmed opening: November 28, 2026 (Grand Hirafu, HANAZONO, Annupuri & Niseko Village).
Among Hokkaido’s big names, Niseko is often first to spin lifts, and for 2026–27 all four connected areas — Grand Hirafu, HANAZONO, Annupuri and Niseko Village — have confirmed a November 28 opener. Early terrain usually includes lower snowmaking slopes or well-shaded areas. Accommodation and ski instructors can be in high demand before all businesses are fully operational, so expect some crowding or limited lift options. By mid-December the resort typically runs at full capacity.
Sapporo Kokusai (Hokkaido)
Confirmed opening: November 20, 2026.
Sapporo Kokusai frequently beats other Hokkaido resorts to opening day — and, despite lacking snowmaking, it often offers several runs for a surprisingly good early-season experience. For 2026–27 it has announced a November 20 opener. It’s a great option for getting Hokkaido turns in a week or so ahead of most of the island.
Kagura Snow Resort (Niigata)
Expected opening: ~ November 22, 2026.
Known for one of Japan’s longest seasons, Kagura reliably opens its gondola and upper lift, providing over 1,500 m of challenging terrain. Snowmaking equipment helps ensure solid conditions. Beginners can check nearby Naeba, which uses snowmaking to prep its base slope. Kagura usually lands in the third week of November.
Other Early-Opening Options
- Snow Park Yeti (Shizuoka): Japan’s earliest opener for 27 consecutive years, using its 650-ton/day ice-crusher system. It usually opens in late October with a single slope and a lively, televised cosplay descent. Great for a first fix, but the run is short.
- Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort (Nagano): A close rival to Yeti, generally opening in early November with two lifts serving 400 m slopes. It feels more authentic but still relies heavily on snowmaking.
- GranSnow Okuibuki (Shiga): This Kansai-area favorite now uses ice-crusher snowmaking and has confirmed a November 13 opener, drawing local Kansai skiers eager to sample fresh snow and its upgraded base area.
Things to consider before planning an early season ski trip
- Only partial terrain and lifts may be open, both due to snow depth and limited staffing in the early season.
- Base snow can be thin — watch for rocks or exposed ground.
- Powder snow and off-piste or backcountry is not available, unless you travel to Tateyama by the end of November.
- Accommodation and lift tickets are cheaper, but English ski lessons can be scarce because of the lack of English-speaking staff — reserve ahead.
- Public transportation is still very limited, so if you need to rely on bus transportation to reach the resort or connect with others resorts, check in advance availability.
- Keep an eye on our multi-resort ski pass guide to see which early-openers are covered by a single pass.
Madarao won’t open until December 12, 2026, but we can help with everything from guided day tours and ski packages to gear — so the short early-season terrain never leaves you stuck. Get in touch or email outdoor@lacolinaretreat.jp and we’ll help you line up your first turns of the 2026–27 season.