Kawaba in Gunma has announced a large update for the 2026-2027 winter season. The changes cover the slopes, the main building, and a new place to stay. Kawaba has not announced its opening date yet.
The biggest change is a new snow park, about 1,500 metres long. Pro snowboarder Reira Iwabuchi is designing it. The park uses waves, banks and jumps along the natural shape of the slope. The resort says it is for all levels, from beginners to experts.
Kawaba's tree and powder zones, called OFF THE PISTE, grow to seven areas. One new area is for experts. The other new area has more space between the trees, so it is easier for a first try at tree skiing. To use these zones, you need to take a safety course and wear a special armband.
For family members who do not ski, there is now a snowshoe trail near the top of the mountain. The walk takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. You can rent snowshoes and poles at the resort.
Inside the Kawaba City centre house, the rental area on the 8th floor has a new layout to cut waiting time. A new American-style diner opens on the 7th floor.
A new low-cost lodge, SWITCH LODGE, opens about 25 minutes by car from the resort. Prices start from 7,500 yen per person per night. Guests can use a free shuttle bus to the slopes.
Kawaba sits about 2 hours 30 minutes from Tokyo. A free shuttle bus runs from Jomo-Kogen Station (Joetsu Shinkansen) and JR Numata Station. It runs in the morning and evening only, and you need to reserve a seat.
Most resorts near Tokyo announce their dates between September and November. We track every confirmed 2026-2027 date, and explain how season timing works, in one place: When Do Honshu Ski Resorts Open?
Source: Kawaba Ski Resort press release (Nippon Ski Resort Development). Translated and summarised by Japow Guides.
